Weekend Getaways: Best 2-Day Trips from Bangalore

Bangalore, otherwise known as the "Silicon Valley of India," is a cosmopolitan city with a reputation for quick life, booming information technology industry, and active culture. Although the city is well-equipped with chances and amenities, constant rush and flurry, long working hours, and road traffic jams tire one out. 

Weekend breaks: 5 Good 2-day Getaways near Bangalore. 

There is nowhere in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life to unwind, and therefore weekend vacations are a necessity for Bangaloreans who require a simple respite from the lacklustre monotonousness of life. Favoured with this feature, the city lies comfortably in the middle, and the city is easily reachable from the varied positions between the ranges of all kinds of tourists. One of the biggest pluses of living in Bangalore is that it is so well linked up with stunning natural beauty, historical places, adventure places, and tranquil retreats. It has the scope to find misty hill stations, forests, virgin beaches, and heritage towns within a few hours' drive. Whatever it is - something beautiful, a touch of history and heritage, or something serene into wildness - something to suit every taste to relish is but a stone's throw from the city.

Nature enthusiasts can choose Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Sakleshpur with rolling green meadows, beautiful coffee estates, and serene waterfalls. All these places are ideal getaways from the Bangalore city bustle and provide the travellers with an opportunity to be one with nature's tranquillity. The Western Ghats, which are a World Heritage site, offer various trekking routes, breathtaking scenery, and varied flora and fauna and thus are the heaven of adventure seekers as well as nature lovers. Adventure sports enthusiasts can visit Kasaragod, Vellore, or Kanatal for rock climbing, paragliding, and treks. It is not just an adventure, the scenery is worth it too. Water sports enthusiasts can visit Kabini, Bheemeshwari, and Dandeli for coracle rides, kayaking, and river rafting to add that sheen to the holiday. For the wheel-based history and culture buff, Hampi, Mysore, and Belur-Halebidu are the royal places that offer a flavour of Karnataka's rich heritage. They are composed of giant temples, giant palaces, and weathered remains that have volumes to say about the nation's great past. A visit to these places is an excellent blend of study and unwinding and thus the perfect pick for a fulfilling weekend getaway from bangalore.

Destination 1: Coorg (The Scotland of India)

• Bangalore to Kolkata: Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 265 km from Bangalore.

• Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours by road from Bangalore through Mysore or Channarayapatna.

Coorg, or Kodagu, is a great Bangalore weekend getaway, and the landscape might be seen on drive-through rolling hills. Private cars, buses, or taxis can be rented to travel to Coorg. The closest railway station is Mysore (118 km) and the closest airport is Mangalore (140 km).

Major Attractions

• Abbie Falls – A serene fall among coffee plantations, Abbey Falls is a place of an absolute must-see for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike. Fall water is an eye candy, particularly during monsoons.

• Raja's Seat – Raja's Seat has a Viewpoint that is famous for its unrivalled sunrise and sunset. It was the favoured viewpoint of Kodagu kings in the past, hence a major cultural place.

An extremely privileged experience where human beings can touch, feed, bathe, and even get involved in elephant training. Rides on the Kaveri River on coracles form part of the camp.

Activities

• Coffee Plantation Tours – Coorg boasts highly famous coffee plantations where tourists get a chance to observe how coffee is planted, processed, and even freshly enjoyed. It gives one an idea about where coffee was initially discovered in the region.

• Trekking (Tadiandamol Peak) – Coorg's peak, Tadiandamol provides a challenging trekking experience with bird's eye perspectives of the Western Ghats. It is a moderately challenging trek and perfect for adventure seekers.

• River Rafting – Barapole River in Coorg provides a good white-water rafting experience with rapids of grade 3 to 5, and therefore it becomes an excellent adventure for adventure seekers.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Perfect time for sightseeing, trekking, and adventure sports as the weather is warm and pleasant.

• June to September – Rain season transforms Coorg into a green paradise of waterfalls and misty hills, perfect for nature lovers.

Destination 2: Chikmagalur (Coffee Paradise)

• Distance & Travel Time from Bangalore

• Distance: Approximately 245 km from Bangalore.

• Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours by road.

Chikmagalur, or Karnataka's Coffee Land, is a picturesque hill resort for a weekend retreat.

Lying at the base of the Mullayanagiri hill ranges, Chikmagalur is a cool retreat from the pollution of cities. The destination is accessible by well-penetrated highways by private cars, public transport buses, and taxis. The nearest railway station to Chikmagalur is Kadur (40 km) and the nearest airport is Mangalore (150 km). The scenic drive through coffee plantations and curved roads makes the journey more beautiful.

 Main Attractions

• Mullayanagiri Peak – This is the state's highest peak and measures 1,930 meters in height, which offers fine panoramic views of the Western Ghats. A trekker's paradise, ascending to the top of the hill is an experience with a spine-chilling chill in the winds and a misty environment to cherish for the rest of one's life as an ever-lasting memory.

• Baba Budangiri – Saint Baba Budan is also credited with discovering coffee in India. It is a highly ancient mountain range named after Saint Baba Budan. It is a Hindu and Muslim pilgrim centre and consists of hill tracks of breathtaking beauty and caves. It is famous for rare Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom only once every 12 years.

• Hebbe Falls – It is a waterfall deep within Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, reachable by jeep drive and trek. The cascade bifurcates into Dodda Hebbe (Big Hebbe) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Hebbe) and thus is best for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Activities

• Coffee Estate Stays – Chikmagalur is a coffee country, and estate stay is the experience par excellence. The tourists can hike through huge plantations, go through coffee farming techniques, and taste fresh coffee in peaceful settings. Nature walks and expert tours are even arranged by some of these estates.

• Trekking – In addition to Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, Chikmagalur also boasts a vast network of trekking trails in forests, waterfalls, and grasslands. Kudremukh trek with its famous rolling grasslands and stunning peaks is a paradise for trekkers.

• Waterfall Discovery – In addition to Hebbe Falls, the other beautiful waterfalls such as Jhari Falls and Kalhatti Falls are accessible with ease. Jhari Falls or Buttermilk Falls is a hidden and scenic paradise, whereas Kalhatti Falls is surrounded by ancient temples and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

• September to March – The best time to visit Chikmagalur as the weather is warm and pleasant and favourable for sightseeing, trekking, and other sports. Greens post-monsoons enhance vistas of the landscape.

• June to August – Monsoon rains make the destination a green heaven. Waterfalls are in full swing, and coffee plantations look even more lovely. Trekking is not easy as trails are slippery.

Destination 3: Gokarna (Beach & Spiritual Bliss)

• Distance & Travel Time from Bangalore

• Distance: Approximately 485 km from Bangalore.

• Travel Time: Approximately 8-10 hours by road.

Gokarna is a serene coastal hamlet of Karnataka, a blend of spirituality and a laid-back beach holiday.

It is generally thought of as a laid-back Goa alternative, with pristine beaches and sacred temples. One can travel to Gokarna by private car, bus, or train. The nearest railway station is Gokarna Road station (10 km away) and the nearest airport is Goa's Dabolim Airport (140 km away). The trip to Gokarna is scenic because it traverses the hilly tracts of the Western Ghats and coast.

Attractions

• Om Beach – My personal favourite among all the beaches of Gokarna, Om Beach has been named so because it naturally occurs in the form of an Om (ॐ). It is famous for its peacefulness, sunrise, and water activities. The golden beach and the hills are a great place to relax as well as follow some adventure.

• Kudle Beach – Backpackers' and peace enthusiasts' haven, Kudle Beach is endowed with picturesque beaches, calming waves, and peaceful surroundings. It is lined by cafes and shacks on its beaches, which are just apt to spend hours over seafood, learning yoga, and walking over bonfires.

• Mahabaleshwar Temple – The popular pilgrim site is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses the holy Atmalinga. Worshippers from all over visit the old temple seeking blessings and appreciating its structure following Dravidian architecture.

Activities

• Beach Hopping – Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach in Gokarna, two of the most picturesque beaches, were walked or visited on boat rides. Both these beaches are unique in character, varying from isolated beaches to cafe life.

• Water Sports – Adventure sports lovers can indulge in adventure-guessing sports such as banana boat rides, parasailing, jet ski, and kayaking at Om Beach and Kudle Beach. The water sports add an adrenaline-touch to the otherwise serene town.

• Yoga Retreats – Gokarna is renowned for its yoga retreats and spas that they provide here. They conduct meditation classes, Ayurvedic massages, and beach yoga classes. The majority of the tourists visit this place to be connected with nature and aware.

Best Season to Visit

• October to March – October to March is the ideal time to visit Gokyna as it has good weather with cold winds, which is perfect for water sports and outdoor games.

• June to September – June to September is monsoon time when there is plenty of greenery and beautiful coastlines to see but too much rain limiting water sports and outdoor activities. But great time for nature lovers and those who want seclusion.

Destination 4: Wayanad (Nature & Wildlife Retreat)

• Bangalore to Wayanad Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 280 km from Bangalore.

• Road Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours.

Wayanad, Kerala's emerald paradise, is renowned for its stunning beauty, scenic forests, and fauna.

It suits nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife explorers the best. Bangalore to Wayanad is an eyesore with snaking roads, rolling hills, and misty valleys. Bangalore to Wayanad can be travelled by road via good network roads or take a train to Kozhikode (Calicut) Railway Station (90 km from Wayanad) and drive up to the hill station from there. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (100 km from Wayanad).

Main Attractions

• Edakkal Caves – A treasure trove of history and archaeology, Edakkal Caves are famous for containing prehistoric rock etchings dating back over 8,000 years. One has to cover a moderately long-distance boulder walk to reach these caves, whose views from the top are breathtaking.

• Banasura Sagar Dam – India's largest earthen dam, Banasura Sagar Dam is a wonder encircled by mist hills and serene water. It's an ideal destination for boating, picnics, and photography.

• Soochipara Falls – Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is also known by this name, and this three-tiered cascade flows through thick forests and is nature lovers' first preference. A relaxed stroll along scenic paths leads one to the waterfall, where a splashing dip in the natural pond is in store.

Activities

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife Safari – The sanctuary itself is a 344 sq km tract and boasts elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous birds staking their claim. A forest drive on roads is an experience one would never forget, both for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

• Trekking – There are some trekking trails available in Wayanad, and one of those is Chembra Peak, the highest peak in the district, and a heart-shaped lake. The trek provides visitors with great panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

• Boating – Wayanad's peaceful lakes and dams, such as Pookode Lake and Banasura Sagar Dam, offer peaceful boating trips in nature's fold. Pookode Lake, a natural freshwater lake, is the centre for pedal boating and avifaunal survey.

Best Time to Visit

• October to May – It is the best time to visit Wayanad with pleasant weather and ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting.

• June to September – Rains turn Wayanad into a green paradise of blooming waterfalls and misty hills surrounding an ethereal atmosphere. Heavy rain will, nevertheless, stop trekking and other adventure activities.

Destination 5: Sakleshpur (Western Ghats' Best-Kept Secret)

• Distance & Travel Time from Bangalore

• Distance: Approximately 220 km from Bangalore.

• Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours drive distance.

Sakleshpur is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, a jewel of the Western Ghats.

It is known for coffee plantations, natural scenery, and ancient ruins, giving a peaceful respite from urban life. The drive from Bangalore to Sakleshpur is a scenic drive, with rolling roads, misty hills, and green forests giving it a pleasant drive. Road transport facility from Sakleshpur to the visitors is available either by private vehicle, government transport or train to Sakleshpur Railway Station, well linked with other prime cities daily. The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport (138 km from the site).

Major Attractions

• Tipu Sultan's 18th-century star fort Manjarabad Fort is a stroll back in time and eyes treated with its breathtakingly beautiful vistas of the Western Ghats. Treks to the fort take around an hour providing a bird's-eye view, particularly during monsoon when the landscape looks greener.

• Bisle Ghat – Perhaps one of the most gorgeous places in Karnataka, Bisle Ghat is a charming destination to experience the majesty of the Western Ghats and is highly bio-diversified. This is the heaven of the wildlife enthusiast and nature enthusiast where one can see some scattered deer, elephants, and some activities of very rare birds.

• Waterfalls – Sakleshpur boasts some of India's most stunning waterfalls like Magajahalli (Hanbal) Waterfalls, Manjehalli Waterfalls, and Agani Gudda Falls. They are all situated in the midst of forests, and therefore they become perfect spots to unwind as well as click pictures. The best time to see them is either during or post-monsoon climatic conditions when they are in full operation.

Activities

• Trekking – Sakleshpur is a trekkers' paradise with treks of all kinds. Ombattu Gudda, a challenging forest and river trek, and Jenukal Gudda, the state's second-highest peak and the finest view, are the most sought-after treks by many. Railway Trekking, another adventure sport, is organized on the defunct railway track through tunnels and bridges.

• Coffee Plantation Stays – The region is renowned for coffee and spice plantations. Homestay at a plantation gives the visitors the aroma of coffee, the plantation environment, and nature walks between the green estates. Malnad cuisine is served in the majority of the homestays, which would be a culinary treat to the foodies.

• Nature Photography – Sakleshpur is a heaven for nature photographers due to the rolling hills, valley fog, and thick jungles. Picturesque scenery coupled with diversified flora and fauna provide unlimited chances to take out-of-the-world images. Nature enthusiasts can trek up to Bisle Ghat and surrounding jungles to explore bird and animal species.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March – The best time to visit Sakleshpur as the climate is comfortable and cool, making it suitable for plantation tours, trekking, and sightseeing.

• June to September – Monsoon months turn Sakleshpur into a green paradise with waterfalls and misty hills. Although the trek trails are slippery, it is a heaven for rain enthusiasts.

Travel Tips & Essentials

• Self-Drive – For people who enjoy freedom and a road drive, self-driving is the best choice. It provides independence to discover the unseen, get lost, and experience nature's charm at your leisure. Road travelling is best for places such as Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and Wayanad, where highways provide a good travel experience.

• Buses – Government buses and private buses are budget-friendly and comfortable for backpackers. Book sleeper and semi-sleeper buses for journeys to places like Wayanad and Gokarna.

• Trains – Choose train journeys like Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and Gokarna, when the journey is scenic and relaxing. Booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during the peak season.

• Fights – In other than Bangalore places like Wayanad and Gokarna, the nearest airports (Calicut and Goa airport at Dabolim) provide quick connectivity, and then road trips.

Packing Essentials By Destinations

• Hill Stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, Wayanad)

• Warm clothes (especially for the winter season)

• Trek shoes to hike on footpaths

• Raincoat and umbrella during rainy days

• Sunscreen and glasses during sunlight

• Forest Trek mosquito repellent

Beach Destinations (Gokarna)

• Swimwear and light clothing

• Sun hat, sun lotion, and sunglasses

• Waterproof pouches for valuables

• Beach footwear or flip-flops

• Snorkeling equipment and beach towels

Wildlife & Trekking Adventures (Wayanad, Sakleshpur, Chikmagalur)

• Trekking gear and trekking shoes

• Binoculars for bird watching and wildlife viewing

• Insect repellents and first-aid kit

• Hydration packs and energy bars for treks

• Flashlights and extra batteries for night safaris

Accommodation Suggestions (Budget to Luxury Accommodation)

Budget Stays (Backpacker Hostels & Homestays)

• Coorg: Zostel Coorg, The Coorg Hostel

• Chikmagalur: The Serai Dorms, Chikmagalur Homestays

• Gokarna: Zostel Gokarna, Namaste Yoga Farm

• Wayanad: The Lost Hostel, Wild Stay Wayanad

• Sakleshpur: Coffee Estate Camps, Homestays near Bisle Ghat

Comfortable Resorts & Boutique Hotels

• Coorg: Heritage Resort Coorg, Club Mahindra Madikeri

• Chikmagalur: Java Rain Resorts, Honeydew Exotica

• Gokarna: Kudle Beach View Resort, Sanskruti Resort

• Wayanad: Vythiri Village Resort, Banasura Hill Resort

• Sakleshpur: Eka Resort, Mugilu Farmstay

Luxury Stays (Private Villas & Premium Resorts)

• Coorg: The Tamara Coorg, Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa

• Chikmagalur: The Serai Chikmagalur, Trivik Hotels & Resorts

• Gokarna: Kahani Paradise, SwaSwara CGH Earth

• Wayanad: Pepper Trail, CGH Earth Wayanad Wild

• Sakleshpur: The Hills Resort, Machaan Plantation Resort