Cavern Crimson Loop
Magadi
Overview
A short hike with a great sunset views across the lake from a hill. Includes a cool well that you can swim in too!
Trail description
There's some loose rock because of the manual stone quarrying activity so be careful of loose, sharp rock here. But the trail to the hilltop and the talus cave system is pretty straightforward. Follow the trail map provided.
There's a lot of insect and animal activity in the cave system, so just be cautious. Make some loud noises before entering when in doubt.
Atop the hill is also a great spot to view the sun set over the lake next to it.
Steep descent towards the lake
The rocky descent towards the lake is quite steep and can be challenging for first timers. Get down on your bum and all fours if needed. Better to be safe than shy.
Approaching the Lake shore
Once you finish the steep descent, depending on the season you might encounter some thick vegetation leading to the lake. Should not be a problem post the fire season.
Be careful of soft muddy spots on the trail, especially during the wet season.
I have marked a spot to chill by the lake. But based on season and sunlight, you might want to choose a different spot.
The well
The is not not far from the lake shore. Some years the well might get absorbed by the lake after a good monsoon season. [For location of the well check the trail map.]
The locals don't use the water here to drink, but it's pretty clean & they come here to jump in & swim.
⚠️ The well is quite deep. And only jump if you know how to swim. You can, of course, enjoy the water at one of the stone steps too. ⚠️ Also note that the there are several stairs underwater. So be super wary of them while jumping & swimming. ⚠️ Please don't use soap or detergent inside the well.
Sunset & Safety
Best to view the sunset atop the hill and exit.
If you plan to stay and watch the sunset. Make note of two things.
One. Carry a torch or a headlamp.
Two. Exit soon after sunset. (Local drinking spot)
🌦️ Season
Dry season. Nov-May. ⚠️ The steep descent on this trail will get very slippery in the wet season. Choose the easier variation of this trail in the wet season.
🎟️ Permit
Open Access. No permit required. This trail is part of village commons and not under the purview of the forest department. So it is unlikely that access to it will ever be restricted.
🐾 Wildlife
Porcupines are very active here. And leopards too. A lot of wildlife activity here.
There are swallow (type of bird) nests & bats in the cave too. Don't go into the narrow part of the cave system as you might startle a bat & it might accidentally run into you.
It's generally safe to visit in broad daylight and in a group. Don't venture into the talus cave system alone or at night.
Cleanliness
The cave system is a local drinking spot, so might be a bit of trash in caves. [Cleaned up most of the plastic trash recently. Broken glass bottles were difficult to clean up]. Rest of the trail is pretty clean. But be constantly wary of broken glass shards, especially if you're getting down on all fours in steep terrain.
Crowd
Not crowded, except the occasional local folk.
