Last time I was at Mandharagiri (popularly known as Basadi betta or Basti Betta), it was an overcast day. It looked as if the sky was ready to open up any time. But this time it was a clear blue sky with scattered clouds here and there. Sun was still mild, waking up from the previous day’s sleep. Reaching the place early in the morning was an added advantage for us. Sitting in the open space on top of the hillock, with winter breeze, staring at the countless number of small hills beyond the Maidala lake was refreshing. Read about the place and how to get there here.

Temple gopuras peeking above the walls

View from the top is a variety – small scattered hillocks everywhere, Maidala lake on the rear, busy NH4, railway lane running parallel to highway, fields, cattle..

A short climb of 20-30 mins takes us to the top of the hillock

Another small hillock hides behind a group of clouds