Dodda Sampige Mara, BR Hills

If time permits, tourists can explore Dodda Sampige Mara on a trip to BR Hills. Its name stands for 'Big Champak Tree' in English; this tree stands at a height of approximately 34 m and is around 20 m broad.

As per local belief, this tree is more than 2000 years old. Dodda Sampige Mara stands inside a temple that is situated about 4 km from the BR Hills. Upon reaching the site, tourists will notice that there are numerous lingams placed nearby this tree. Dodda Sampige Mara is of great significance for Soliga tribes and other natives.

During the month of April, this tree bears reddish yellow coloured flowers. The tree has braid like stems, which is why it has been compared to Lord Shiva. For Soliga tribes, Dodda Sampige Mara is a god who performs the fire dance during the occasion of Maha Shivarathri. This tree in general represents Soliga tribals' lifestyle that includes their relation with Mother Nature.

Bhargavi River, a tributary of Cauvery River, flows from the trunk of this tree. As per the local belief, this stream is the personification of Renuka, who was the wife of renowned Hindu sage, Jamadagni.