Last week, I was invited by another colleague to climb Siddru betta, a rocky mountain located about 100 km northeast of Bangalore, and about 30 km further north. The level is about the same as Mount Takao, making it a relatively easy mountain to climb, but there are some steep sections, so it requires a certain amount of physical strength. It was tough for someone like me who is not used to exercising.

There is a Hindu temple in the middle, and I was given a tour of the inside.
It is generally necessary to be barefoot from the entrance to the temple.




Inside the temple, which is like a cave, after being purified (?), I was having water poured over my head from a jar, and I was wondering what would happen next. Then, with a gesture that seemed like a prayer, three white lines were drawn on my forehead. I felt like I had finally done it.

The local people were soaking wet, even their clothes, and they were being showered with water from the pot.




This is a local temple, so it's different from the corrupt temples found in North India. I could have refused, but I thought I would try it as an experience.

I remember drawing three lines on my forehead; I think it was a symbol of Shiva. Perhaps this temple belongs to that sect.

After that, I climbed to the top of the rocky mountain.




It's a pretty good view.

It seems that there are many rocky mountains in this area, and this place is no exception.

India is quite amazing. You can't underestimate it.