All Bangalore birding spots

Sanctuary · Day trip · Ramanagara

Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary

One of the few places near Bengaluru to see wild vultures.

RaptorsRare birdsDay trip
From city centre
~50 km · 1 h 15–2 h
Best months
Nov–Mar
Best hours
Early morning when vultures start to ride thermals
Entry
Confirm at gate
Habitat
Sanctuary
Birds listed
5

How to get there

About 50 km south-west on the Bangalore–Mysuru highway to Ramanagara town; the hill with the temple is a few km from the town. A short climb leads to the cliff-top.

Open directions in Google Maps~50 km from the city centre; travel time depends on traffic.

Best time to visit

Best: November to March. Time of day: Early morning when vultures start to ride thermals.

Entry fee & timings

Entry
Confirm at gate
Fee
No ticket reported; the area is a protected sanctuary, so confirm rules with the forest office.
Timings
Daylight; confirm locally

As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.

Birds you can spot

5 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).

Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird

About Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary

A rocky hill and cliffs that shelter a small population of vultures. Long-billed vultures nest on the cliffs, and the sanctuary also protects Egyptian vultures and other raptors.

History

Karnataka's first vulture sanctuary, protecting nesting cliffs used by long-billed vultures. The hill is better known to filmgoers, as the location for the film Sholay.

Flora

Granite hill with dry scrub forest.

Fauna

Hares, mongooses and a few small mammals.

Nearby places

  • Ramadevara Betta treksame hillThe easy climb, with permit notes.
  • Ramanagara Rocks~3 kmRock-climbing and bouldering spot.
  • Janapada Loka~15 kmA folk-art museum on the highway.

Trek guide for this hill, with permit rules →

Tips

  • Keep a respectful distance from nesting sites.
  • Carry binoculars; the vultures are often high above.
  • Dress in earth tones and be quiet on the cliff.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary for birds?

November to March. Early morning when vultures start to ride thermals.

What is the entry fee for Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary?

No ticket reported; the area is a protected sanctuary, so confirm rules with the forest office. Timings: Daylight; confirm locally.

Which birds can I see at Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary?

Regularly reported birds include Long-billed vulture, Egyptian vulture, Indian peafowl, Yellow-wattled lapwing, Booted eagle. Sightings change with season and water levels.

How do I get to Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary?

About 50 km south-west on the Bangalore–Mysuru highway to Ramanagara town; the hill with the temple is a few km from the town. A short climb leads to the cliff-top. It is about 50 km from central Bengaluru (1 h 15–2 h depending on traffic).

More birding spots

Reviewed 2026-11-04. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.

Nov–Mar

Confirm at gate · ~50 km

Directions