Silicon Valley of India – Bangalore is known for its top minds in the IT Industry. But do you know that it is also known for being nearby to the best weekend getaways from Bangalore? After all, where will the stressed corporate minds find some solace and serenity! But then as my best friend who works in Bangalore says – we hardly get any time to chill out? But then his Instagram feed is full of scenic images in and around Bangalore. So with his help, I decided to bring you some of the best places to visit near Bangalore within 100 km and a little beyond for a weekend trip.
1. Shivagange:
Located just 50 km away from the city center of Bangalore, this place is a pilgrimage site as well as an adventure sports center. It derives its name from a Shiva temple and a nearby spring – Ganga. If it is a one-day trip near Bangalore, then Shivgange must not be missed for its scenic beauty with hills that offer ample trekking options. For those looking for weekend getaways near Bangalore within 100 kms, Shivgange is a perfect choice that blends spiritual charm with thrilling adventure.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February for pleasant weather
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate, approx. 2–3 hours trek to the top
- Distance from Bangalore: 50 Km
- Activities to do: Temple hopping, hiking, adventure sports
- Food & Stay: Limited eateries near the base; better to carry snacks. Stay options available in nearby towns.
- Safety Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; watch out for monkeys.
- How to Reach: Accessible via NH48; buses available from Majestic Bus Stand
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
2. Nandi Hills:
Again one of the offbeat weekend getaways from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is considered to be erstwhile ruler Tipu Sultan’s loving summer retreat. He even built the beautiful Nandidurga Fort in these scenic hills, which are just 60 km away from Bangalore. Tourists now trek up to this fort and have a picnic here. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Fort, his Secret Escape Route from the Britishers and also the Amruth Sarovar Lake are the few star attractions here.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but sunrises are magical in winter
- Distance from Bangalore: 57 Km
- Activities to do: Sunrise, Cycling, Trekking
- Trek Difficulty: Easy
- Food & Stay: Eateries available at the top; hotels nearby
- How to Reach: State-run buses from Bangalore; also accessible by car via NH7
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
3. Skandagiri Hills:
Just like those fairy tales from childhood, if you wish to walk amidst the clouds, then this is your place to be. Once you reach atop the Skandagiri hillock, you will be stunned to be surrounded by lofty mountains and puffy clouds – a cinematic view, a sight to behold! My best friend who lives in Bangalore has often invited me to Skandagiri asserting that this is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore within 100 km and we can relive the golden days here! On the way back, you can also hop across and have fun at the Nandi Hills.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: By road via NH7
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate; 5–6 km trek
- Food & Stay: Limited; carry water and snacks
- Distance from Bangalore: 62 Km
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
4. Kanakapura:
About an hour and a half drive from Bangalore, the Lovely green and stunning rough landscapes of Kanakapura. If you are planning a quick escape, it’s perfect for a weekend outing near Bangalore, offering a blend of nature and adventure. The Arkavati river and waterfalls gushing into it are the star attraction of these serene environs which call for a holiday any day! Impeccable forests surrounding various ancient temples as well as historic sites are great places to explore, especially on foot. Kanakpura is trek and water sports lovers one of the choicest places to visit near Bangalore.
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September–January)
- Distance from Bangalore: 62 Km
- How to Reach: NH948 route; KSRTC buses available
- Food & Stay: Resorts and camping sites available
- Activities to do: trekking, water sports
5. Chunchi Falls:
Close to Kanakpura, Chunchi Falls is one of the most scenic places to visit near Bangalore within 100 km, Chunchi falls are an ideal place for nature revelers. It’s also a hidden gem often featured in lists of offbeat weekend trips from Bangalore, making it perfect for those who want a less crowded escape into nature. A 100 feet multi-tiered fall that forms a sort of swimming pool beneath it – what else would you be looking for after a hectic week? When I was in Bangalore last time, a swim amid the stunning scenery, natural rocks and an overlooking deep gorge, was an experience that I can never forget.
- Best Time to Visit: Right after monsoon (August–November)
- How to Reach: Via Kanakapura
- Distance from Bangalore: 89 km
- Safety Tips: Avoid swimming in deep or high-flow season
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5
6. Mekedatu Falls:
Again close to Kanakpura near the Chunchi falls, you can also enjoy Mekedatu Falls. When you land here, just park the vehicle in parking slots and walk towards the stream near the shallow end of the Arkavati river and pick a pleasant concealed region close to the stream, spread the rug and have a decent cookout. Get into the shallow water and appreciate it. But beware, no diving, no more walking inside the river due to shallow sharp rocks inside along with numerous obscure whirlpools in the stream. Just enjoy the silence and gushing waters in the serenity.
- Best Time to Visit: October–January
- Distance from Bangalore: 98 Km
- Activities to do: Sighting
- How to Reach: Drive via Kanakapura–Sangama route
- Safety Tips: Strictly avoid deep water areas
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5
7. Anthargange:
One of the most spectacular & nearby places to visit Bangalore, the rarely explored Anthargange is a stunning range of hills that has mystic caves. An amazing sojourn for thrill-seekers who must visit this often for caving, trekking as well as rock climbing. Just 71 km away from Bangalore, this place is well known for its enchanting beauty so much so that people from other states also at times explore the caves here.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- Distance from Bangalore: 71 km
- Activities to do: watching caves, rock climbing and trekking
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate; 3 km
- How to Reach: Drive via NH75 towards Kolar
- Food & Stay: Limited; carry essentials
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5
8. Kodaikanal:
Who is not aware of this one of the most scenic tourist places near Bangalore? At an altitude of 7000 feet, Kodaikanal is a cozy hill station in Tamil Nadu, which is home to abundant pristine surroundings – lush green forests, misty mountains and gushing waterfalls. A quick trip here is a must for those from the Silicon Valley of India, who work under high-stress levels and need a quick break away from the crowd. The seven-hour road trip to this place is also an adventure in itself, which offers you ample birding opportunities. You must spend a day or two here to explore it well.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (April–June) and winter (November–January)
- How to Reach: Overnight bus or drive via NH44
- Distance from Bangalore: 449 km
- Food & Stay: Wide range of hotels, resorts, and homestays
- Activities to do: Bird watching, Sighting
9. Yelagiri Hills:
The cloudy, mystic hill station of Yelagiri is a famous vacationer location in Tamil Nadu. Situated some six hours away from Bangalore, in the midst of four mountains, Yelagiri is known for its lovely environment that remains captivating all around the year-round due to its zero-commotion environmental elements. No wonder it is among the top places to visit near Bangalore. The drive to this location takes you through 14 hairpin bends, which are an adventure trip in itself. The most mainstream site here is the Punganoor lake, which is halfway round and offers boating as an idyllic sport while languidly looking at the encompassing serene environs.
- Best Time to Visit: November–February for cool weather
- Distance from Bangalore: 162 km
- Activities to do: Boating, Paragliding, Trekking, Shopping
- How to Reach: Drive via Krishnagiri; buses also available from Bangalore
- Food & Stay: Resorts, homestays, and budget hotels available
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5
10. Kabbaladurga:
Some 84 km away from Bangalore, Kabbala Durga is settled among the dazzling stone flung slants of the Kanakapura mountain ranges. 2090 feet above sea level, Kabbaladurga is ideal for a one day trip near Bangalore. It is also counted among the popular weekend hangout places near Bangalore, attracting adventure seekers, trekkers, and nature lovers who want a quick escape from the city hustle. The slope got its name from Goddess Kabbalamma who has an abode at the hilltop inside the ruins of the then KabbalaDurga fortress. Now just the ruins remain as an intriguing exploration site for revellers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate; night trek possible
- Distance from Bangalore: 84 Km
- How to Reach: Drive via Kanakapura road; parking available
- Food & Stay: No facilities at the top; carry essentials
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
11. Horsley Hills:
One of those perfect weekend getaways from Bangalore – Horsley Hills is the top name. A tiny hamlet some 150 km away from Bangalore might sound a little far to you, but when you sit on the drive, the lush greens that surround you on both sides, rejuvenate your mind, body and soul, even before you land at Horsley. Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary, the Mallamma Temple, an environment park near it, the Gangotri Lake and Galiband View Point are some of the scenic places to enjoy at Horsley Hills.
- Best Time to Visit: March–May for pleasant weather
- Distance from Bangalore: 168 km
- Activities to do: Cycling, trekking, Sightseeing, romantic walks
- Food & Stay: Government guesthouses, resorts
- How to Reach: Drive via Chittoor road; parking available
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
12. Ramanagara or Ramanagaram:
The Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra starred Sholay suddenly made this silent, quaint little hamlet to the top of places to visit near Bangalore within 100 km. Having rocky terrain and solitude, Ramanagaram is an ideal place for adventure sports lovers as well – rappelling, caving and even camping are among the top favorites of the revellers who come here looking for the thrill beyond the movie shoot spot-sitting.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February
- How to Reach: Drive via Mysore road; parking available
- Distance from Bangalore: 47 Km
- Food & Stay: Resorts and campsites available nearby
- Activities to do: Trekking, Rock Climbing, Sightseeing
13. Jakkur:
Located just 17 km from Bangalore, Jakkur is famous for Microlight Flying. Who would not love a rush of adrenaline at the height of 40,000 ft above the ground and a gush of fresh air into the nostrils?! Now that’s Jakkur for you, thrill lovers, so what are you waiting for, pack up some snacks and dash to fly! You can even do an online booking for the same well in advance.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; mornings for calmer winds
- How to Reach: Located on NH44, easily accessible by cab or self-drive
- Food & Stay: Plenty of city options nearby
- Distance from Bangalore: 17 km
- Activities to do:
14. Hogenakkal Falls:
Hogenakkal Falls also touted as the Niagara of the East is located some 181 km from Bangalore and takes 3 to 4 hours of a drive. A small village in Tamil Nadu, Hogenakkal is situated at a junction where the Cauvery river splits into several streams due to the rocky terrain. And these create multiple gushing waterfalls, just like at Niagara. Several famous movies like the Abhishek Bachchan-Aishwarya Rai starrer Raavan have been shot here. If you are looking for weekend spots near Bangalore, Hogenakkal Falls is a must-visit. Its natural beauty, unique coracle rides, and peaceful surroundings make it a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. Nearby Melagiri hills just add stunning beauty to this otherwise quaint spot where the only sounds you can usually hear are the gushing water and chirping birds.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February
- How to Reach: Drive via Dharmapuri; buses available
- Distance from Bangalore: 127 km
- Activities to do: Coracle boat rides, Trekking, Medicinal baths
- Safety Tips: Avoid monsoon high flow season
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3/5
15. Gokarna:
Deriving its name from its landscape that resembles Gau – meaning cow and Karna meaning ear, this temple town is known to offer something to every kind of reveler. And the reason is its pristine beaches that often lend Gokarna the name of the more chilled-out version of Goa. Due to its temples (Murdeshwar Shiv Temple), the beaches are also a sought place for peace and have developed into international Yoga zones. If you are looking for a weekend getaway in solitude, and wish to do some birding too, then Gokarna is your place.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Overnight bus or drive via NH48
- Distance from Bangalore: 495 km
- Activities to do: Swimming, Beach Hopping, Dolphin Sightseeing, Yoga Classes
- Food & Stay: Beachside shacks, homestays, yoga retreats
- TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5
16. Belur & Halebidu:
These are the twin ancient marvels of the Dravidian dynasty and stunning remnants of the Hoysala architecture – each city and its majestic temples complete and complement each other in magnificence and beauty. Chennakeshava temple, Hoysaleshwara temple are the top favorites among those who have a knack for history and culture. Some 200 km from Bangalore, this weekend getaway is a trip down the memory lane of Indian pride.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February
- How to Reach: Drive via Hassan; trains available to Hassan
- Distance from Bangalore: 209 km
- Activities to do:
- TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5
17. Shivanasamudra Falls:
Shivanasamudra Falls may not be one of those places to visit near Bangalore within 100 km, that you might be looking for. But just drive some 25 km more and you will reach these stunning two multi-tiered waterfalls at the Kaveri river, the Gaganachukki and the Bharachukki. The lush green around these forms an ideal picnic and adventure sports spot, especially during the early monsoons. You can also stay here at various resorts for a day or two, but try to avoid the late monsoons.
- Best Time to Visit: July–October during monsoon for full flow
- Distance from Bangalore: 132 km
- Activities to Do: Trekking and nature walks
- How to Reach: Drive via Mysore Road; parking near viewpoints
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
18. Kunti Betta:
Legend has it that Pandas and their mother Kunti took abode at this scenic locale which has ancientness oozing out from every nook and corner of this stunning locale in the hills. A serene lake overlooking the lush green hills is the perfect place for Kayaking, swimming and rock climbing beyond the usual trekking and birding adventure at Kunti Betta which is 125 km away from Bangalore.
- Best Time to Visit: October–February
- Distance from Bangalore: 123 km
- How to Reach: Drive via Mandya; parking near base
- Activities to do: Relaxing at the lake, Trekking
- Trek Difficulty: Easy–moderate
Food & Stay: Carry your own refreshments - TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5
19. Lepakshi:
Known to be poetry carved in stone and one of the best tourist places near Bangalore about 120 km away. Lepakshi is a humble village renowned for its temples dating back to the Vijayanagara rulers. It is a rambling sanctuary and known for the biggest stone monument of the Nandi and furthermore the Nagalinga. The models in the sanctuary and artworks on the roofs add to the magnificence of this flawless sanctuary carved in stone – especially the monoliths.
- Best Time to Visit: November–February
- Distance from Bangalore: 124 km
- How to Reach: Drive via NH44 towards Andhra Pradesh
- Activities to do: Photography
- TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5
20. BR Hills:
One of the most nearby places to visit Bangalore – the Biligiriranga hills or the BR Hills is situated between the Eastern and the Western Ghats. No wonder nature has blessed it with rich flora and fauna in abundance. And thus the region has mostly been marked as the BRT wildlife sanctuary which is rich in some thousand-plus species of birds, animals and even insects and amphibians, due to the proximity of the oceans. When you visit the place don’t miss the Dodda Sampide Mara – a thousand-year-old Champak Tree! And if you really wish to thoroughly enjoy the place 178 km away from Bangalore, then you must plan to stay here for two days.
- Best Time to Visit: October–May
- How to Reach: Drive via Kanakapura–Chamarajanagar route
- Distance from Bangalore: 178 km
- Activities to do: Wildlife safari, Trekking, Bird Watching
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
21. Avalabetta Hilltop:
This place is actually an abode to the Avalabetta Fort at a hilltop 90 km away from Bangalore. But the star attraction here is an impressive cliff, where the adventure seeker loves to perch and feed their Instagram with adrenaline-rushing videos and images. For the mythology lovers, there is a small temple as well, inside the remains of the fort.
- Best Time to Visit: November–February
- How to Reach: Drive via Chikkaballapur; parking at hill base
- Safety Tips: Avoid the cliff edge during strong winds
- Distance from Bangalore: 93 km
- TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5
For your ease, I have elaborated on the 21 top places that form an ideal one-day trip near Bangalore. So that the next time you feel like throwing away that laptop to the wall, you actually don’t! Instead, just pick up the car keys and dash to these serene and cozy weekend getaways from the Silicon Valley of India.
Image Source: Commons.wikimedia
FAQs:
Most hill stations and waterfalls are best from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Monsoon (July–September) is also nice for waterfalls, but be careful due to slippery roads.
Yes, treks like Skandagiri, Savandurga, Kunti Betta, and Kabbaladurga are quite popular. Some are easy and some are moderate, so you can choose as per your fitness level.
Many popular spots have local eateries or small hotels nearby. For remote treks like Kabbaladurga or Kunti Betta, it’s better to carry your own snacks and water.
You can try paragliding in Yelagiri, microlight flying in Jakkur, rock climbing in Ramanagara, and wildlife safari in BR Hills.
Some spots like Shivanasamudra Falls and Belur–Halebidu temples have small entry fees. Many hill stations and trekking spots are free to visit.
Yes, most places are safe if you follow basic safety rules like avoiding cliff edges, not swimming in unsafe areas, and keeping children close during treks.
Avalabetta Hilltop, Lepakshi, and Mekedatu are relatively less crowded compared to popular ones like Nandi Hills. These are good if you want more peace and space.
Babu kaji Sitaula
September 20, 2023 at 4:40 pm
Great article. Thanks for information..
TheIndia
October 17, 2023 at 10:42 am
Thanks so much for your comment. We hope that you found it useful.