10 Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore in 2025

2025-02-26

10 Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore: A Comprehensive Guide

Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is not just a hub for technology and innovation but also a gateway to numerous breathtaking tourist places near Bangalore. Whether you're seeking adventure, historical insights, or simply a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle, there are plenty of options for weekend getaways near Bangalore. This guide will delve into the top 10 places to visit near Bangalore, each offering a unique experience that caters to different interests and preferences. here are the list of 10 Best places to visit near Bangalore.

1. Nandi Hills

2. Skandagiri Hills

3. Lepakshi

4. Hogenakkal Falls

5. Shivasamudram Falls

6. Mysore

7. Coorg

8. Ramanagara

9. Anthargange

10. Kunigal Lake

1. Nandi Hills – The Best Sunrise Spot

Nandi Hills, also known as Nandi Betta, is the most popular place to visit near Bangalore for a weekend getaway. Located at an altitude of 1,478 meters, 60 km away and accessible within a 1.5-hour drive from Bangalore. It offers stunning views of the sunrise above the clouds and is rich in historical significance. The best time to visit Nandi Hills is during the early morning hours to witness the magical sunrise or between September and May for pleasant weather. The hills were once the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan and the British, who appreciated its pleasant climate and scenic beauty.

Why Visit Nandi Hills?

Breathtaking Sunrise Views: Nandi Hills is famous for its captivating sunrise. Visitors often wake up early to witness the sun rising above the clouds, creating a truly magical experience.

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Remains of Tipu Sultan's summer residence can be seen on top of the hills, offering insights into the region's historical past.

Paragliding & Cycling Trails: Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy paragliding and cycling in the scenic trails of Nandi Hills, providing an adrenaline rush amidst nature.

Things to Do in Nandi Hills

Paragliding: Experience the thrill of flying over Nandi Hills with a paragliding adventure.

Cycling Trails: Enjoy the scenic views while cycling through the hills.

Nature Camping: Spend a night under the stars with a camping experience.

Visit Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Trek to Chennagiri: Take a trek to nearby Chennagiri for more breathtaking views.

How to Reach Nandi Hills

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Chikkaballapur or Doddaballapur. Get down at Nandi Hill Cross and take a sharing auto to the top.

By Train: Reach Chikkaballapur Railway Station. Hire a cab or rent a car to Nandi Hills.

By Car/Cab: Drive via Bellary Road (1.5 hours). Park at the foothills and take transport to the top.

By Bike: Follow Bellary Road. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

2. Skandagiri Hills – Trekker’s Paradise

Skandagiri Hills, located about 60 km from Bangalore, is a trekker's paradise and one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. It offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with breathtaking views of the sunrise. The trek is moderately difficult and is best undertaken early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the sunrise. The best time to visit Skandagiri Hills is between November and March when the weather is ideal for trekking. The trek takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

Why Visit Skandagiri Hills?

Sunrise Trek: The trek to Skandagiri is famous for its sunrise views, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Historical Significance: The hills have historical importance as they were once a fortress built by Tipu Sultan.

Nature and Scenic Views: The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Things to Do in Skandagiri Hills

Trekking: Experience the thrill of trekking through the hills.

Camping: Spend a night under the stars with a camping experience.

Photography: Capture the stunning sunrise and scenic views.

How to Reach Skandagiri Hills

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Chikkaballapur. From there, hire a cab or auto to the base of the hills.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 44 (about 1 hour). Park at the base and begin the trek.

By Bike: Follow NH 44. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

3. Lepakshi – A Blend of History and Mystery

Lepakshi, located about 120 km from Bangalore, is a small village known for its historical and mystical significance. It is home to the famous Veerabhadra Temple and the hanging pillar, which is a marvel of ancient engineering. Lepakshi is one of the tourist places around Bangalore that offers a unique blend of history and mystery. The drive takes about 3 hours, and the best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is pleasant for exploration.

Why Visit Lepakshi?

Veerabhadra Temple: Explore this ancient temple known for its intricate carvings and the hanging pillar.

Hanging Pillar: Witness the engineering marvel of the hanging pillar, which does not touch the ground.

Nandi Statue: See the massive Nandi statue, one of the largest in India.

Things to Do in Lepakshi

Temple Visit: Explore the Veerabhadra Temple and learn about its history.

Photography: Capture the stunning architecture and the hanging pillar.

Local Shopping: Buy local handicrafts and souvenirs.

How to Reach Lepakshi

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Hindupur. From there, hire a cab or auto to Lepakshi.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 44 (about 2 hours). Park near the temple.

By Bike: Follow NH 44. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

4. Hogenakkal Falls – Nature’s Splendor

Hogenakkal Falls, located about 140 km from Bangalore, is a breathtaking waterfall on the Kaveri River. It is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for boating and relaxation. Hogenakkal is one of the places to visit from Bangalore that offers a serene escape from the city. It takes around 3.5 hours to reach, and the best time to visit is from October to March when the water levels are high, and the falls are at their most majestic.

Why Visit Hogenakkal Falls?

Boating: Enjoy a coracle ride in the waters of the Kaveri River.

Waterfall Views: Witness the stunning views of the waterfall.

Local Cuisine: Savor local delicacies like fish fry and other South Indian dishes.

Things to Do in Hogenakkal Falls

Boating: Take a coracle ride to explore the falls.

Swimming: Enjoy swimming in the designated areas.

Picnic: Have a picnic amidst nature.

How to Reach Hogenakkal Falls

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Dharmapuri. From there, hire a cab or auto to Hogenakkal.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 44 (about 3 hours). Park near the falls.

By Bike: Follow NH 44. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

5. Shivasamudram Falls – Twin Waterfalls

Shivasamudram Falls, located about 140 km from Bangalore, is a picturesque waterfall on the Kaveri River. It is known for its twin waterfalls, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, which offer breathtaking views. Shivasamudram is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore for nature lovers. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, and the best time to visit is between July and December, post-monsoon, when the waterfalls are in full flow.

Why Visit Shivasamudram Falls?

Twin Waterfalls: Witness the stunning views of the twin waterfalls.

Boating: Enjoy boating in the backwaters.

Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks amidst nature.

Things to Do in Shivasamudram Falls

Boating: Take a boat ride to explore the falls.

Photography: Capture the stunning views of the waterfalls.

Picnic: Have a picnic amidst nature.

How to Reach Shivasamudram Falls

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Kollegal. From there, hire a cab or auto to Shivasamudram.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 209 (about 3 hours). Park near the falls.

By Bike: Follow NH 209. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

6. Mysore – The Cultural Hub

Mysore, located about 150 km from Bangalore, is a cultural hub known for its rich history and heritage. It is home to the famous Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hills. Mysore is one of the places to visit around Bangalore that offers a blend of culture and history. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours by road, and the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool, and the city celebrates its grand Dussehra festival.

Why Visit Mysore?

Mysore Palace: Explore the grandeur of the Mysore Palace.

Chamundi Hills: Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy the views from the top.

Brindavan Gardens: Witness the beautiful Brindavan Gardens.

Things to Do in Mysore

Palace Visit: Explore the Mysore Palace and learn about its history.

Temple Visit: Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple.

Gardens: Enjoy the beauty of Brindavan Gardens.

How to Reach Mysore

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Mysore.

By Train: Take a train from Bangalore to Mysore Junction.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 275 (about 3 hours). Park near the palace.

By Bike: Follow NH 275. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

7. Coorg – The Scotland of India

Coorg, located about 260 km from Bangalore, is known as the Scotland of India due to its lush green landscapes and coffee plantations. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Coorg is one of the tourist places near Bangalore that offers a serene getaway. The drive takes around 5-6 hours, and the best time to visit is from October to April, with misty mornings and pleasant weather.

Why Visit Coorg?

Coffee Plantations: Explore the coffee plantations and learn about coffee production.

Abbey Falls: Witness the stunning views of Abbey Falls.

Trekking: Enjoy trekking in the lush forests of Coorg.

Things to Do in Coorg

Plantation Visit: Explore the coffee plantations.

Waterfall Visit: Visit Abbey Falls.

Trekking: Take a trek through the forests.

How to Reach Coorg

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Madikeri.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 275 (about 5 hours). Park near the plantations.

By Bike: Follow NH 275. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

8. Ramanagara – The Rocky Terrain

Ramanagara, located about 50 km from Bangalore, is known for its rocky terrain and is a popular spot for rock climbing. It was also the filming location for the famous Bollywood movie "Sholay." Ramanagara is one of the places to visit near Bangalore for adventure enthusiasts. The drive takes about 1 hour, and the best time to visit is from September to February when the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.

Why Visit Ramanagara?

Rock Climbing: Enjoy rock climbing in the rocky terrain.

Sholay Shooting Locations: Visit the locations where "Sholay" was filmed.

Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks amidst nature.

Things to Do in Ramanagara

Rock Climbing: Experience the thrill of rock climbing.

Movie Locations: Visit the famous shooting locations of "Sholay."

Photography: Capture the stunning views of the rocky terrain.

How to Reach Ramanagara

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Ramanagara.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 275 (about 1 hour). Park near the climbing spots.

By Bike: Follow NH 275. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

9. Anthargange – The Caves and Temples

Anthargange, located about 65 km from Bangalore, is known for its ancient caves and temples. It is a popular spot for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Anthargange is one of the nearby places to visit in Bangalore for those interested in history and nature. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach, and the best time to visit is between October and March, especially for night trekking and stargazing.

Why Visit Anthargange?

Caves: Explore the ancient caves and temples.

Trekking: Enjoy trekking through the hills.

Nature: Witness the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Things to Do in Anthargange

Cave Exploration: Explore the ancient caves.

Trekking: Take a trek through the hills.

Temple Visit: Visit the ancient temples.

How to Reach Anthargange

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Kolar. From there, hire a cab or auto to Anthargange.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 75 (about 1.5 hours). Park near the caves.

By Bike: Follow NH 75. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

10. Kunigal Lake – Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Kunigal Lake, located about 70 km from Bangalore, is a birdwatcher's paradise. It is home to numerous species of birds and offers a serene environment for relaxation. Kunigal Lake is one of the places to visit around Bangalore for nature enthusiasts. The drive takes around 1.5 hours, and the best time to visit is from October to February when migratory birds can be spotted in large numbers.

Why Visit Kunigal Lake?

Birdwatching: Witness the variety of bird species.

Boating: Enjoy boating in the lake.

Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks amidst nature.

Things to Do in Kunigal Lake

Birdwatching: Spot different bird species.

Boating: Take a boat ride on the lake.

Picnic: Have a picnic amidst nature.

How to Reach Kunigal Lake

By Bus: Take a bus from Bangalore to Kunigal. From there, hire a cab or auto to the lake.

By Car/Cab: Drive via NH 75 (about 1.5 hours). Park near the lake.

By Bike: Follow NH 75. Ensure safety gear and bike check.

Conclusion

Bangalore offers a diverse range of weekend getaways that cater to different interests and preferences. From adventure and nature to history and relaxation, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or just visiting, exploring these tourist places near Bangalore will enrich your travel experience and provide unforgettable memories.