Bengaluru-the capital of Karnataka and one of India's most vibrant metros-prevails in the sunshine of fame as the Silicon Valley of India as it is the country's foremost IT hub, one of the most cherished entrepreneurial havens, and headquartering several tech giants. Because of this, in a way, the city is a sweet disarray of tradition and innovation-modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage. Sitting at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level, it enjoys a mild climate throughout the year inviting factor for most to consider it among ideal living cities in the world. The avenues shaded with trees lead to parks like Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden, besides many more green initiatives; therefore, it goes by the name of "Garden City of India." Nothing stays still in such rapid urbanization, and efforts are being made to have space for green.
Bangalore is just a mosaic of diasporas of South India, drawn from all over the world and all over India. Culture is in the melting pot, causing South Indian ethnic foods to mingle with international cuisines, so much so that today, the city bears a plethora of languages. The official language in Bangalore is Kannada; nevertheless, the other most spoken languages are English and Hindi, especially in business and schooling. The Bangalore culture is soaked in art and music, thus endowed with theatres, galleries, and venues for live music. From Carnatic to Rock, all the events regarding music find their place in Bangalore's cultural calendar. And for those who managed to stay awake, an active nightlife and famous cafes make headlines all over, especially in areas like Indiranagar, Koramangala, and MG Road.
Nandi Hills is a lovely hill station that is about 60 kilometres from Bengaluru. The destination is at an altitude of 1,478 meters above sea level and has great views, refreshing winds, and a peaceful environment, making it a favourite for early morning drives, weekend getaways, and sun risers. Nandi Hills is of great historical importance; Tipu Sultan and the British used to spend their summer at Nandi Hills in the 18th and 19th centuries. Nandi Hills is studded with ancient temples, colonial buildings, and stone-laid roads that add beauty to Nandi Hills. Nandi Hills is for anyone and everyone who has a love for nature in them, the attraction to take shots and the urge for adventure.
Skandagiri: Skandagiri locks one of the most mesmerizing views of the sky and earth that meet at sunrise with clouds at an eye-level height, urging you not to leave
Chikballapur: Famous as the birthplace of the eminent engineer Sir Visvesvaravya, Chikballapur is one of the most scenic places to visit near Nandi Hills. Just 56 km away from Bangalore, it is surrounded by five picturesque hills: Nandhi, Chandra, Giri, Brama, and Skanda.
Ghati Subramanya: One of the oldest holy places to visit near Nandi Hills, Ghati Subramanya Temple captivates the hearts of devotees with its classic architecture and religious significance. Its Dravidian-style architecture and beautiful wall carvings make it stand out from the rest of the temples near Bangalore.
Anthargange: A beautiful hill nestled in the Kolar district of Karnataka, Anthargange is a part of the Shathashrunga ranges. The mountain hill is 1712 meters above sea level and forms an excellent spot for trekking, cave exploration, and rock climbing. The small caves and lush green plantations around the hills add to the irresistible charm of this touristy spot. Anthargange Hill is also home to the iconic Kashi Vishweshwara Temple, attracting many devotees yearly.
By Road: Driving down to Nandi Hills takes about an hour and a half to two hours from Bengaluru. The drive is scenic and well-maintained, passing through quaint little towns and farmlands. Early morning is a big draw for bikers and road-trippers.
By Bus: Get onto a KSRTC bus from Bengaluru to Chikkaballapur or Nandi Cross. Here you can hire an auto or cab to reach the hilltop.
By Train: Chikkaballapur is the nearest railway station about 9 km away from Nandi Hills. Autotaxis are available from here for reaching the hill.
By Airport: Kempegowda International Airport is around 40 km away from Nandi Hills. A straight drive from the airport leads to Nandi Hills, which is a short drive, making it a convenient option for travellers flying in from different cities.
September-February Perfect Weather For Sightseeing: This is one of the best seasons to visit Nandi Hills. The weather is cool, misty, and pleasant-just perfect for sightseeing, nature walks, and trekking. Mostly skies are clear and the sight of mist-covered valleys is a wow experience.
Early Mornings-For Beautiful Sunrise View: Irrespective of the season, early mornings are the most rewarding time to visit Nandi Hills. The hilltop commands a full panoramic view of the surrounding valleys, usually covered by a sheet of clouds.
Skandagiri Trek or Kalavara Durga is one of the most popular trekking destinations near Bangalore that offers an experience to be remembered by adventure sports lovers. Ascending around 70 km away from Bangalore in the Chikkaballapur district, the trek is famous for the night trek experience, breathtaking sunrise views, and ancient ruins. Stretching a height of about 1,450 meters (4,757 feet) above sea level, Skandagiri is a tough but well-worth trekking adventure at the top of the list among nature lovers and trekking professionals. The charm of the Skandagiri Trek is night trekking where the trekkers begin trekking early morning to experience a glorious sunrise on the summit. The 4–5 hours are traversed by a moderate-grade trail of about 8 km (round trip). The trek starts from Papagni Temple, a temple but a small one at the base of the hill, and passes through hard trials, dense forests, and boulder-studded trails. The trekkers pass through the ruins of an old fort, Tipu Sultan's, on their way. The ruins provide a sense of history to the hike, and thus it gets more thrilling.
Nandi Hills: Nandi Hills is one of the most popular hill stations near Bangalore and is just 15 km from Skandagiri. Tipu Sultan's summer palace, an ancient hill fort, has sunrise views, cool weather, and extensive greenery. Tipu's Drop, a 600-meter cliff, is a place to be visited so that one has a bird's eye view of the plains below.
Avalabetta: For the person looking for a unique trekking experience, Avalabetta is an unconventional hill station 30 km from Skandagiri. It contains strange rock formations and the well-known Hanging Cliff Viewpoint, offering great views of the location. The trek up to the top is relatively easier than Skandagiri and will be ideal for a last-minute weekend getaway.
Chikkaballapur: The town of Chikkaballapur, 15 km from Skandagiri, is a trekking and adventure sports destination. Apart from its natural beauty, the town is famous for grape as well as silk industries.
Devanahalli Fort: Situated approximately 40 km from Skandagiri, Devanahalli Fort is an ancient monument that is famous as the birthplace of Tipu Sultan. The massive 16th-century fort has stood the test of time and contains many ancient temples in its complex, such as the Venugopalaswamy Temple.
Lepakshi: Closer still, some 60 km from Skandagiri, is the Andhra Pradesh village Lepakshi, renowned for the Veerabhadra Temple. The temple is worth it for its attractive Vijayanagara-style architecture, intricate frescoes, and mythological suspension pillar that inexplicably doesn't quite reach the ground. Lepakshi is also renowned for its gigantic monolithic Nandi (bull) statue, one of India's largest.
Makalidurga: If the trekking experience at Skandagiri excites you, then there is Makalidurga, 20 km from here. This lesser-known trekking site has a fort on a hill and stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
By Road: You can drive from Bangalore. You can drive by taxi or self. It is 1.5 to 2 hours drive. Trekking starts from a village called Kalavara Halli, which is 3 km from Chikkaballapur.
By Bus: There are limited KSRTC buses between the Majestic Bus Stand of Bangalore and Chikkaballapur. Take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw from there to Kalavara Halli base point.
By Train: There is a small station called Chikkaballapur railway station, which is well-linked to Bangalore by local passenger trains. It's about a 3-km trek from the base point, and you can get dropped there by an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
By Airport: The closest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, about 40 km from Skandagiri. You can hire a taxi from the airport to the base.
Winter (Nov–Feb): Ideal trekking season as mornings will be chilly and ideal to see clouds forming beneath you.
Monsoon (June–Sept): The path will be slippery and dangerous, and hence not a good idea to trek during heavy rains.
Summer (April–June): Could be hot and tiresome during the day but morning hikes are still feasible.
Ramanagara is hidden among Karnataka's mountainous terrain and lush flora and is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and history buffs alike. This charming village, located only 50 kilometres from Bangalore, provides a delicious combination. It boasts scenic beauty, cultural history, and thrilling activities, making it an ideal destination for a variety of people. Ramanagara, often known as the "Silk City" Karnataka, has a rich history and is an important sericulture hub in India. The town's stunning rock formations and steep terrain have earned it a reputation as one of the state's finest trekking and rock-climbing destinations. Adventurers gather here to overcome the challenging terrain, while nature lovers are drawn to the tranquil surroundings and colourful wildlife. It rose to prominence as the setting for the renowned Bollywood film "Sholay," and its rugged landscape, Ramadevara Betta has become a must-see for the film. Every type of traveller will find Something to appreciate, from learning about the skill of Channapatna toy making to sampling traditional Karnataka food. Whether you're planning a day vacation from Bangalore, a weekend retreat, or a longer investigation, Ramanagara promises unforgettable moments.
Ramadevara Betta (Sholay Hills): The beautiful hill gained fame as the location of the Bollywood blockbuster film Sholay. It is ideal for hikers, climbers, and moviegoers. The tour involves trekking, rock climbing, photography, and visits to Lord Rama's temple, which is located on the mountain.
Savandurga Hills: Savandurga, Asia, has the largest monolithic rock and is a famous trekking destination near Ramanagara. The hill is made up of two summits, Karigudda (Black Hill) and Biligudda (White Hill), which provide spectacular trekking chances.
Revanna Siddeshwara Betta (SRS Hills): This hill is home to the Revanna Siddeshwara Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva. The hill is also a popular trekking destination that offers a combination of adventure and spirituality.
Mekedatu and Sangama: Located in Sangama, near Ramanagara, is the confluence of the Arkavathi and Cauvery rivers, with Mekedatu, a magnificent gorge below. The natural splendour of the surroundings is unrivalled.
By Road: Ramanagara is 50 kilometres southwest of Bengaluru, making it conveniently accessible by road from the state capital and surrounding cities.
By Rail: Ramanagara has a railway station, making it easily accessible by train across India. The Ramanagara Railway Station (RMM) The distance from Bengaluru is 50 kilometres (1 hour by train). Ramanagara is accessible via express and passenger trains to Bengaluru, Mysuru, and other nearby towns.
By Airport: Ramanagara Although the city lacks an airport, it is easily accessible via Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), which is around 50 kilometres away. The distance from Ramanagara is 50 kilometres (1.5-2 hours driving
October to February – The best time to visit Ramanagara is during the winter and post-monsoon months from October to February. The weather during this period is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Trekkers and adventure seekers will especially enjoy this time, as the skies are usually clear, the trails are dry, and the landscape is vibrant.
June to September – The monsoon season, stretching from June to September transforms Ramanagara into a lush green paradise. The hills and forests come alive with greenery, and the overall ambience becomes fresh and scenic
March to May – The summer months from March to May can be quite hot in Ramanagara, with daytime temperatures often rising above 35°C. The heat can make trekking and outdoor activities uncomfortable, especially in the afternoons.
Sawandurga is a lovely little rural Bangalore hill station located in the state of Karnataka in India. Standing 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level, this is the biggest monolith in Asia. Related to an old citadel found on the hill and originating from two Kannada terms Savan, meaning & quot; a mountain of the dead & quot; and Durga, meaning " fortress s" the name Savandur Durga. Because of their gorgeous landscapes, varied flora and fauna, and great history, Sawandurga is a much-visited location among tourists, nature enthusiasts, and pilgrims. The hill features two main peaks, Biligudda (white peak) and Karigudda (black peak), that afford wide views of the neighbouring countryside and hills. With thick forests, unusual animal species, and many bird species, the region is a favourite spot for hikers and photographers as it hosts a rich biodiversity.
Manchanabele Dam (Approx. 10 km): A scenic reservoir perfect for picnics, kayaking, and birdwatching. The serene surroundings make it a great spot for a quick escape from the city.
Ramanagara (Approx. 25 km): Famous for its rocky terrain, Ramanagara is a paradise for rock climbers. It's also known as the "Silk City" and was the filming location for the Bollywood classic Sholay.
Dodda Alada Mara (Big Banyan Tree) (Approx. 20 km): A 400-year-old massive banyan tree sprawling over 3 acres, offers a great picnic spot with shade and a peaceful environment.
Sri Revana Siddeshwara Betta (SRS Hills) (Approx. 30 km): A trekking and pilgrimage site with a temple dedicated to Sri Revana Siddeshwara, offering breathtaking views from the top.
By Car: The best way to reach Savandurga from Bangalore is by car. The Bangalore-Hyderabad Highway (NH 44) and Magadi Road (SH 57) are the two main roads leading to the hill. Duration: 1 to 1.5 hr drive depending on traffic. The road is well-marked and tourists may look forward to scenic views of the countryside during the drive.
By Bus: KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) operates buses from Bangalore to Magadi. From Magadi, you can take an auto-rickshaw or local transport to reach Savandurga.
Trains: Magadi Railway Station is the closest one, lying approximately 15 km from the Savandurga peak. You can board a train from Bangalore City Railway Station heading to Magadi and from there hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to carry you to Savandurga.
By Two Wheeler: An adventurous and pragmatic option for reaching Savandurga is to rent a two-wheeler. This makes for great freedom and offers possibilities for stopping at picturesque spots on the way. Two-wheeler rentals are available in Bangalore.
Winter (October-February): Best time for trekking: The winter season provides quite a comfortable environment for trekking to the summit of Savandurga, as the temperature remains very cold. The average temperature stays between 15° and 25°C and makes for great conditions for outdoor activities.
The Monsoon (June-September): Monsoons bring fresh greens and a revived atmosphere, but trekking is somewhat of a hassle due to the muddy trails that might be purposely slippery from the heavy rains. If you're planning to visit this season, make sure to check on the weather and tread lightly on the trail.
Spring and Summer (March-May): Summer months are generally hot and dry, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C. Trekking is still possible but rather draining because of the heat. If you're heading to Savandurga in the summer, it would be best to leave early in the morning to avoid the scorching midday sun.
Chunchi Falls is a picturesque 50-foot drop on the Arkavathi River, 90 km from Bangalore. It's a tranquil and less-hoarded weekend retreat, perfectly appropriate for family picnics, photography walks, and trekking. Patchy with boulder terrain and forest paths, this falls provides a soothing escape from concrete enclosures. Although not the ideal place for a swim because of safety issues, the cascade water beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an apt place to relax and unwind.
Sangama and Mekedatu – Further down the road about 15–20 km; ideal for river views and short treks.
Galibore Nature Camp – Peaceful jungle lodge stay along the river for those looking to make a day trip a longer stay.
Kanakapura Town – Favourite for local restaurants and the possibility of detours, ideal for lunch or snack breaks.
By Car: Around 2.5 to 3 hours' drive (90 km) from Bangalore along Kanakapura Road. The route is scenic and a great drive.
By Public Transport: Catch a bus from Bangalore to Kanakapura, and then an auto or local taxi to Chunchi Falls (around 25 km from Kanakapura).
August to February – Winter and post-monsoon months are the best when the waterfall is in full flow and the weather is nice.
Avoid summer (March to May) – The water levels fall considerably and it gets too hot during the day.
June–July, monsoon months – Even though the waterfall is forceful, do not go during heavy rains because slippery rocks and safety issues prevail.
The Manchanabele Dam built across the much sought-after and pristine locations in the state of Karnataka, offers all that can be needed by all nature lovers and peace-seeking individuals-the best of nature, and relaxation. This stunning dam, built across the almost bounty-laden Arkavathi River, is both a great place to store water and a place for visitors to watch as tourists throng in the area to take pleasure from the dam, a very useful and much-needed resource. A perfect retreat laden with achingly green lawns and undulating hills, Manchanabele Dam is perfect for any of the nature lovers, adventurists, and picnickers who come to visit.
Savandurga Hill: The most popular trekking destination close to Manchanabele Dam is Savandurga Hill. This hill is wide and massive in size, and the place offers a great view of the surrounding landscape, with panoramic views for panoramic captures.
Big Banyan Tree: Big Banyan Tree is situated around 20 kilometres from Manchanabele. It is an old, gigantic tree that covers a large area.
Bheemeshwari: Bheemeshwari is about 45 km from Manchanabele, a good spot to visit with friends for fishing, adventure activities, and nature walks.
Nandi Hills: Nandi Hills is located about 45 kilometres from Manchanabele and is a very popular hill station known for its breathtaking sunrise views and rich history.
Devarayanadurga: Devarayanadurga is about 50 km from Manchanabele and is famous for its temples and scenic landscapes.
By Car: The most convenient way to reach Manchanabele Dam is by car. It is located about 40 kilometres from Bangalore, making it a perfect day trip from the city.
Bus: You can take a bus from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) in Bangalore to Magadi Town. From there, you’ll need to hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the dam, as public transport directly to the dam is limited.
Train: The nearest railway station is Magadi Railway Station, about 15 km away from the dam. From here, you can hire a cab or auto-rickshaw to reach the dam.
Post-Monsoon (September to February) – Best Time for Nature Lovers. The months right after the monsoon offers lush greenery, cool weather, and a refreshing atmosphere. The water levels in the dam are at their highest, making the surroundings picturesque. This is the perfect time for photography, picnics, and enjoying the tranquillity of nature.
Winter (December to February) – Ideal for Adventure & Outdoor Activities. Winters at Manchanabele are pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C. This makes it the best time for outdoor activities like kayaking, birdwatching, and trekking. The mornings and evenings are especially cool and comfortable for exploration.
Early Summer (March to May) – Suitable for Short Morning Visits. Though summer can get warm, early mornings remain pleasant. If you plan a visit during this season, it’s best to arrive before noon to avoid the heat. Sunsets by the dam are also beautiful during this time.
Monsoon (June to August) – Risky but Scenic. While the dam looks stunning with the fresh monsoon showers, heavy rainfall can make the roads slippery and unsafe. Water currents may also be strong, making water activities risky. If visiting during monsoon, exercise caution and avoid venturing too close to the water.
Shivagange is known as the "Dakshina Kashi" or the "Hill of Shiva" in Karnataka state, which translates to the equivalent of "Kashi of the South" or. It is a popular hill resort and pilgrimage centre as well as a major tourist spot. The location makes the adventurous trekker, the spiritual pilgrim, and the nature lover its compulsory visitor. Shivagange is located north of Bangalore in Tumkur, some 50 kilometres and brushes against approximately 4,400 feet of elevation above sea level to look over a beautiful view of the surrounding areas. The sacred hill is respected by Hindus of high significance in the cultural and religious identity of the place.
Devarayanadurga: Devarayanadurga, a lovely hill station known for its spiritual value as well as its magnificent natural beauty, entices many hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Nandi Hills (40 km from Shivagange): Nandi Hills, near Bangalore, is one of the most desired hill stations since it provides magnificent vistas of the nearby valleys and flatlands.
Tumkur (12 km from Shivagange): Tumkur is a city rich in historical and cultural significance. Don't miss the Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve, located a bit further in Tumkur, where you can see blackbucks in their natural habitat.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple (20 km from Shivagange): This temple is one of the oldest dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at the foothills of Nandi Hills. The architectural style of this temple is remarkable and reflects the rich heritage of the region.
Manchanabele Dam (20 km from Shivagange): Manchanabele Dam offers stunning views of the hills and the reservoir along the Arkavathy River. The area around the dam is perfect for a peaceful day trip, with picnic spots to relax and enjoy the serene water.
By road from Bangalore: Seventy kilometres from Bangalore, the road is the easiest way to get to Shivagange. The major roads proceed in the following sequence:
NH48 (National Highway 48): On leaving Bangalore, drive on the Tumkur Highway (NH48). Proceed along the highway after traversing the Peenya Industrial Area towards Tumkur. Shivagange is at 13 km from Tumkur. Take the directions or follow the signs.
By Bus: You can drive yourself from Bangalore or take a bus or taxi. There are numerous bus services in the city for a day outing to Shivagange. You can take a KSRTC bus from Bangalore to Tumkur and then a local bus or an autorickshaw from Tumkur to Shivagange. There are 24/7 buses between Bangalore and Dumkur. From Tumkur, you can take an autorickshaw to the northern side of Shivagange.
Monsoon (June to September): The serenity of the rainy season offers a scenic look to this hill, and hence the destination becomes appealing with greenery all around. Alternatively, trekking might not be suggested because of rain and traffic danger.
Winter (October to February): Winter is the peak season for trekking; it is sunny and cold, making the trek pleasant.
Summer (March to May): Although treks become challenging in summer, they can still be undertaken early in the morning or evening when it is cooler.
Anthargange is a beautiful resort in Karnataka's Kolar district, which is about 70 kilometres outside Bengaluru. This area of the Shatha Shrunga hills is interesting in that it consists of a distinctive stony topography. verdant vegetation and an intriguing set of tunnels developed by volcanic rock. The "Anthargange" name describes "Ganges from within" and refers to a perennial spring that arises within the depths of the mountain. This spring of supposed divine provenance has long been a destination for pilgrims as well as trekkers. The place has an elevation of around 1,226 meters (4,022 feet) above sea level and provides a pleasant climate as well as great panoramic views.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: This ancient temple is located in the foothills of the Nandi Hills and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is well-known for its magnificent architecture, historical value and peaceful surroundings.
Nandi Hills: Nandi Hills is a popular tourist destination in Bangalore and is known for its breathtaking morning vistas, mild environment, and serene atmosphere. Nandi Hills is good for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic hiking trails and beautiful vistas. The Nandi Temple, located on the mountain, celebrates Lord Shiva's mount, Nandi.
Skandagiri (Kalavara Durga): Skandagiri is a popular trekking destination near Anthargange. The hill is recognized for its hard trek. provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area and daybreak.
Bheemeshwari: Bheemeshwari, located on the banks of the Cauvery River, is a well-known tranquil place for outdoor sports and natural beauty. Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary supports a varied spectrum of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and birds Popular adventure activities in the area include zip line, kayaking, and trekking.
Devarayanadurga: Devarayanadurga is a hill fortress recognized for its picturesque splendour. and historic significance.
By Bus: Several KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses connect Bangalore with Kolar. To go to Kolar, board a bus from the Kempegowda Bus Station in Bangalore. (Majestic) After arriving in Kolar, take a cab or drive to Anthargange.
By Train: Anthargange's nearest railway station is Kolar Railway Station, which is around 7 kilometres away. Regular trains travel between Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) and Kolar. The walk takes roughly 1.2-2 hours. Upon arrival in Kolar, take a taxi or auto rickshaw to Anthargange.
By Airport: The nearest major airport to Anthargange is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore (BLR), which is around 70 kilometres away. To travel to Anthargange use a taxi or private transport from the airport. The trip usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic
October to March: During these months, the range of temperature is between 15 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius, suiting cooling and pleasant conditions. Hence, trekking on the hills and exploring caves becomes an enjoyable experience and not an exhausting one.
Post-Monsoon: Post-monsoon rain makes the land green. Apart from adding to the beauty, the rejuvenating trekking experience is a delight for a photographer.
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Unleash adventure near Bangalore! From hills to caves, immerse in nature's thrill. Unforgettable memories await!
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