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21 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Bangalore for Quick & Memorable Escapes

Mahima Sharma
Weekend Getaways from Bangalore

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.

Weekend Getaways from Bangalore

1. Shivagange:

Shivagange
Image Source: psrenthrals

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.

2. Nandi Hills:

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.

3. Skandagiri Hills:

Skandagiri Hills
Image source: thrillophilia

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.

4. Kanakapura:

Ka-2

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.

5. Chunchi Falls:

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.

6. Mekedatu Falls:

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.

7. Anthargange:

Anthargange Caves & Trekking Experience in Kolar | The Complete Guide | Places Around Bangalore

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.

8. Kodaikanal:

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.

9. Yelagiri Hills:

Yelagiri Hill

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.

10. Kabbaladurga:

Kabbaladurga Trek | Hidden Gem Near Bangalore | Adventure, Views & Vibes!

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.

11. Horsley Hills:

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.

12. Ramanagara or Ramanagaram:

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.

13. Jakkur:

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.

14. Hogenakkal Falls:

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.

15. Gokarna:

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.

16. Belur & Halebidu:

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.

17. Shivanasamudra Falls:

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.

18. Kunti Betta:

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.

19. Lepakshi:

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.

20. BR Hills:

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.

21. Avalabetta Hilltop:

Avalabetta Vlog|Travel Diaries|Akankskha Dubey

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.

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:

Which season is best for visiting places around Bangalore?

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.

Are there any good trekking spots near Bangalore?

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.

Can I find good food near these tourist places?

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.

Which places near Bangalore are good for adventure activities?

You can try paragliding in Yelagiri, microlight flying in Jakkur, rock climbing in Ramanagara, and wildlife safari in BR Hills.

Do I need to pay entry fees for these places?

Some spots like Shivanasamudra Falls and Belur–Halebidu temples have small entry fees. Many hill stations and trekking spots are free to visit.

Are these tourist spots safe for families and kids?

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.

What are some hidden or less crowded places near Bangalore?

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.

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