We depart from Bengaluru late in the evening and settle in for a comfortable overnight drive towards Savandurga. As the journey begins, we break the ice with a few light games and easy conversations, helping everyone get to know each other and ease into the trip. With music, laughs, and a relaxed travel vibe, the night passes smoothly as we head closer to the base, ready for an early morning start to the trek.

We begin the trek early in the morning, around 5:15 AM, while the surroundings are still quiet and the air is pleasantly cool. Starting near the base of Savandurga, the trail eases us in before quickly opening up onto massive granite slabs — the signature of this monolith trek. The climb is steady and exposed, with wide rocky stretches rather than dense forest. As daylight slowly breaks, the granite beneath your feet glows, and every pause gives you a reason to turn around and admire how quickly the landscape unfolds below. The trail alternates between gentle slopes and slightly steeper sections, making it engaging without being overwhelming. After a continuous ascent, we reach the summit just as the morning settles in. From here, you’re rewarded with expansive views of Manchanabele Reservoir, Thippagondanahalli Reservoir, the plains of Magadi, and the Arkavathi River winding quietly through the valley. It’s an open, breezy summit — perfect for pausing, hydrating, and soaking in the views. After spending some time at the top, we begin our descent along the same trail. Going down needs attention, as the smooth rock can be slippery, but the changing angle offers a fresh perspective of the terrain you just conquered. Once we reach the base, we head to a nearby local spot for a self-sponsored breakfast — the perfect way to wrap up the trek, swap stories, and relax after the climb. A short, rewarding monolith trek that’s all about big views, early starts, and a satisfying finish — the Unplanned way.