Bengaluru offers idyllic destinations close to the city for those wanting to take a break from city chaos.
This city is surrounded by hazy hills, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, and various other spots to appreciate nature.
In the following sections, I will provide a balanced discussion concerning the Best Weekend Trip Destinations Near Bengaluru.
A weekend break is balanced, invigorating, and memorable, so one can appreciate the diversity offered by the wildlife sanctuaries and the heritage sites.
The following writes provide various suggestions for weekend heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and hill stations.
Key Points & Best Weekend Trip Destinations Near Bengaluru
| Destination | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Nandi Hills | Scenic sunrise views, Tipu’s Drop, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple |
| Coorg | Coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp |
| Chikmagalur | Serene hill station, Mullayanagiri Peak, coffee estates |
| Kabini | Wildlife safaris, riverfront resorts, Nagarhole National Park |
| Mysuru (Mysore) | Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, cultural heritage |
| Hampi | UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient ruins, boulder landscapes |
| Sakleshpur | Western Ghats trekking, Manjarabad Fort, lush greenery |
| Yelagiri | Boating, nature walks, Jalagamparai Falls |
| Wayanad | Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, wildlife sanctuaries |
| Horsley Hills | Cool climate, panoramic views, nature trails |
10 Best Weekend Trip Destinations Near Bengalur
1. Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is a peaceful hill station representing a lovely quick weekend escape at only 60 kilometers from Bengaluru. It is popular for its amazing sunrises, mild weather, and beautiful green hills.
For those escaping the hurry of the city, Nandi Hills is a lovely destination. Nandi Hills also offers adventures like paragliding, hilltop trekking, and quad biking.
For the history lovers, there is the Nandi temple, the Amrita Sarovar, and the Tipu’s Drop viewpoint.
Nandi Hills is also a photographers paradise representing beautiful greenery and lovely weather throughout the year. It is a lovely destination for couples or nature lovers close to Bengaluru
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sunrise Viewpoint | One of the best sunrise spots near Bengaluru |
| Tipu’s Drop | Historic cliff with panoramic valley views |
| Nandi Temple | Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi |
| Paragliding | Thrilling aerial experience over the hills |
| Cycling & Trekking | Popular for early morning rides and hikes |
2. Coorg
Around 270 kilometers from Bengaluru is Coorg (Kodagu), a lovely weekend getaway hill station.
Known for its warm hospitality, vibrant Kodava culture, coffee plantations, and beautiful misty hills, Coorg is also known for the lovely homestays around coffee plantations.
For those who love the Adrenaline, Coorg offers river rafting in the Barapole and lovely trek through the beautiful forests.
People coming to Coorg also love visiting the Abbey Falls, and Raja’s seat. In BYlakuppe, the Namdroling monastery pulls a lot of visitors.
The lovely aroma of coffee also makes the getaway even better. It is a lovely destination for weekend getaways catered for those escaping the aches of the city.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Coffee Plantations | Scenic estates producing world-famous Coorg coffee |
| Abbey Falls | Majestic waterfall surrounded by spice plantations |
| Raja’s Seat | Sunset viewpoint with valley vistas |
| Dubare Elephant Camp | Interaction and bathing experience with elephants |
| Namdroling Monastery | Stunning Tibetan monastery at Bylakuppe |
3. Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is around 250 kilometers from Bengaluru and is a heaven for trekkers & coffee lovers.
It is at the foot hills of the Mullayanagiri ranges which is the highest peak in Karnataka. It has coffee plantations & waterfalls like Hebbe & Jhari.
It has beautiful historical temples like Horanadu & Sringeri. It has coffee estate stays which are peaceful.
This region is great for adventure, photography or relaxation. It has a mixture of greenery and tranquility, and is one of the best weekend destinations around Bengaluru.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Mullayanagiri Peak | Highest peak in Karnataka with trekking trails |
| Coffee Estates | Serene stays amidst lush plantations |
| Hebbe & Jhari Falls | Picturesque waterfalls amidst dense forests |
| Baba Budangiri Hills | Sacred mountain range with caves and viewpoints |
| Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary | Home to elephants, tigers, and scenic backwaters |
4. Kabini
Kabini is around 210 kilometers from Bengaluru, and is a wildlife lover’s heaven. Kabini is located at the banks of the Kabini river & is a part of the Nagarhole National Park.
Kabini used to be a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Mysore, and now has thrilling safaris for tourists where they can see elephants, leopards, and tigers. It has scenic backwaters
which provide great boat rides and beautiful sunset views. It has jungle lodges and eco resorts for an immersive experience. It has the perfect mixture of relaxation and wildlife exploration.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary | Jungle safaris with chances to spot tigers and elephants |
| Kabini River Backwaters | Boating and birdwatching at sunset |
| Nagarhole National Park | UNESCO-recognized forest rich in flora and fauna |
| Luxury Jungle Lodges | Eco-resorts offering immersive forest stays |
| Nature Photography | One of India’s top spots for wildlife photography |
5. Mysuru (Mysore)
Mysuru is just 145 kilometers from Bengaluru. Known for royal history and grand architecture, Mysuru is also called the “City of Palaces.”
Crowned as the proud city of Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and the gorgeous Brindavan Gardens, Mysuru is simply proud of its the royalty.
The Dasara festival is a global attraction and is a riot of rich cultural charm. The city is also known for its silk sarees, sandalwood, and the traditional Mysore Pak sweet.
Mysuru beautifully blends history, art and spirituality and is a cultural oasis for a weekend trip for those who appreciate the refinement of culture.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Mysore Palace | Grand Indo-Saracenic royal palace |
| Chamundi Hills | Temple and panoramic view of Mysuru city |
| Brindavan Gardens | Musical fountain and scenic evening strolls |
| Mysore Silk Sarees | Traditional and luxurious handwoven textiles |
| Dasara Festival | Ten-day cultural celebration of royal heritage |
6. Hampi
Situated 340 kilometers from Bengaluru, Hampi is a boulder-specked ancient wonderland bursting with world heritage temples and ruins.
This city was formerly the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is the proud possessor of grand architectural works like the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple as well as the famed Stone Chariot.
One can either ride a bicycle or walk through the ruins and appreciate the charm of ancient Hampi.
The surreal boulder-specked landscape along with the ancient cultural heritage of Hampi makes the city a sweet zone for photographic history lovers and adventure lovers who enjoy the thrill of stepping back in time.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Vijayanagara Ruins | UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture |
| Virupaksha Temple | Ancient temple still in use today |
| Vittala Temple | Famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars |
| Tungabhadra River | Coracle rides offering serene views of ruins |
| Hippie Island | Relaxed vibe with cafes and boulder landscapes |
7. Sakleshpur
Around 220 km from Bengaluru, Sakleshpur is a hill station with beautiful coffee and spice plantations. Located in the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur combines beauty and adventure.
Tourists can trek to Bisle Viewpoint and Jenukal Gudda, visit Manjarabad Fort and enjoy the peace of the plantations.
With a beautiful and protective climate, plantations, and waterfalls, Sakleshpur is a heaven and blessing for trekkers and nature lovers.
Because Sakleshpur is less populated as compared to the other hill stations, it is best for people who want a quiet and pleasant weekend in nature to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Coffee & Spice Plantations | Fragrant estates ideal for homestay experiences |
| Manjarabad Fort | Star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan |
| Jenukal Gudda | Scenic trek offering breathtaking mountain views |
| Bisle Ghat Viewpoint | Overlooks the Western Ghats and wildlife |
| Waterfalls | Hidden gems like Magajahalli and Hanbal Falls |
8. Yelagiri
Situated about 160 km from Bengaluru, Yelagiri is a quiet hill station in Tamil Nadu. With lovely orchards and a beautiful climate, Yelagiri also has a Thanging, and a very simple charm.
Yelagiri has one of the best trekking experiences in the region and the Swamimalai Hill trek is popular as it has beautiful panoramic views.
Visitors can enjoy boating at Punganoor Lake or visit Jalagamparai Waterfalls for a relaxing day out.
The region’s orchards, rose gardens, and local markets add to its appeal. With affordable stays and unspoiled natural beauty, Yelagiri is a great weekend getaway for families and adventure seekers from Bengaluru.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Punganoor Lake | Boating and peaceful picnic spot |
| Swamimalai Hill | Popular trekking destination |
| Jalagamparai Waterfalls | Scenic falls accessible via a short hike |
| Nature Park | Ideal for evening walks and musical fountain show |
| Paragliding | Seasonal adventure activity attracting thrill-seekers |
9. Wayanad
About 280 kilometers from Bengaluru is Wayanad, Kerala’s nature lovers’ paradise. Wayanad is the perfect escape, with its misty hills, deep forests, and calm pristine lakes.
Wayanad is filled with attractions to satisfy many visitors, including the Edakkal Caves, the Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Falls, and Pookode Lake. Wildlife lovers can see the elephants and other exotic birds in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
There is also the Chembra Peak trek for those who seek thrills. With a combination of scenic Kerala hospitality and Wayanad’s hospitality, Wayanad is perfect for a short vacation from Bengaluru.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Edakkal Caves | Prehistoric carvings and scenic hike |
| Banasura Sagar Dam | India’s largest earthen dam with boating |
| Chembra Peak | Trek to the heart-shaped lake at the summit |
| Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary | Home to elephants, deer, and exotic birds |
| Soochipara Falls | Popular waterfall for swimming and photography |
10. Horsley Hills
About 160 kilometers from Bengaluru, Horsley Hills is a hidden gem in Andhra Pradesh offering peace and panoramic views. It is a nature lover’s paradise with calm forests and hills.
Horsley Hill’s scenic drives with twisting roads and cool winds are also relaxing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and ziplining, or they can spend the entire day relaxing at the famous viewpoint, Gali Bandalu.
With calm surroundings, beautiful weather, and fewer people, Horsley Hills is perfect for people trying to escape from Bengaluru’s busy atmosphere.
| Famous For | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Gali Bandalu Viewpoint | Breathtaking sunrise and sunset views |
| Horsley Hills Zoo | Small but charming wildlife park |
| Environmental Park | Perfect for nature walks and picnics |
| Adventure Sports | Ziplining, rappelling, and trekking |
| Tranquil Climate | Cool weather ideal for a peaceful weekend getaway |
Cocnlsuion
In cocnlsuion From misty hilltops to ancient ruins and wildlife sanctuaries, the weekend destinations near Bengaluru offer something for every traveler.
Whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, places like Coorg, Chikmagalur, Hampi, and Kabini promise unforgettable escapes.
Just a few hours’ drive away, these getaways perfectly blend nature, heritage, and serenity for rejuvenating weekends.
FAQ
What are the best hill stations near Bengaluru for a weekend trip?
Nandi Hills, Chikmagalur, Coorg, and Sakleshpur are the top hill stations near Bengaluru.
Which is the nearest weekend getaway from Bengaluru?
Nandi Hills is the closest, just about 60 km from Bengaluru.
What are the best wildlife destinations near Bengaluru?
Kabini and Wayanad are perfect for wildlife safaris and nature stays.
Which places near Bengaluru are good for trekking?
Mullayanagiri, Skandagiri, and Yelagiri offer popular trekking trails.
What is the best heritage site near Bengaluru?
Hampi is the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bengaluru.