Road Trips From Bangalore To Add To Your Travel List

Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Chikmagalur, the Coffee Land of Karnataka, is situated in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range. Other than coffee plantations, Chikmagalur is known for its tall mountains and lush greenery. Chikmagalur is also a great place for adventure seekers as there are some incredible trekking trails like Mullayangiri, Kemmanagundi Baba Budangiri.

Distance from Bangalore: 244 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

Hogenakkal Falls is a scintillating waterfall that is located on river Kaveri in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The place gets its name from Hogenakkal, which means 'smoking rocks', owing to the unique rock arrangement that exists around it. The gushing beauty of this cascade is one of a kind and is often quoted as being the "Niagara Falls of India". 

Entry Fee: Free.
Boating charges: INR 500

Distance from Bangalore: 123 km

Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat

Considered by many as the best hill station in South India, Coorg is an ideal place for road trips from Bangalore. Also known by its ancient name Kodagu, it is located in a beautiful hilly setting surrounded by the forest slopes of the Western Ghats. Indulge in adventure sports activities like river rafting and trekking while here. Bangalore to Coorg Road Condition: The roads are very good, much to a driver's delight. To reach there, one can get on the Mysore highway and take a deviation post Srirangapatana, bypassing Mysore city on the way.

Distance from Bangalore: 268 km

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a top-rated tourist destination and is one of the most popular road trips from Bangalore. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company, the Queen of the hills is a picturesque getaway.

Distance from Bangalore: 265 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called ‘Ooty of the Poor’, this region has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses of coffee plantations and great weather.

Yercaud lake is the main point of attraction of the region. One of the many highlights is the summer festival that takes place in May. It is dedicated to Lord Servarayan, the supreme god of the ranges and gives visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of this region.

Distance from Bangalore: 230 km

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

Known For : Tipu's Drop Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple Tipu's Summer Residence

Lying 60 km from Bangalore, lies Nandi Hills, a popular destination among not just car and bike enthusiasts, but also among cyclists. One of the most popular road trips from Bangalore, it is one such tourist spot that has gradually been discovered by visitors over the years and has now become a well-known weekend getaway. 

Featuring beautifully carved arches and majestic pillars with intricately painted walls and ceilings, Nandi Hills is scattered with shrines and monuments and is surrounded by mesmerizing views. Situated at a height of 4851 feet above sea level, you can see a convoy of weekenders from Bangalore during early hours catching the glimpse of sunrise.

Distance from Bangalore: 57 km

Best Time: October to June

12 Nandi Hills Attractions

Known For : BRT Wildlife Sanctuary Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Adventure Activities

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is a great trekking destination. It is one of the highest hills in the neighbouring area with an elevation of 3780 feet and houses a temple devoted to Lord Rangaswamy that is constructed under a large white granite monolith. One of the most striking features of the hill is the drawing of its name Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta on the rock.

Popular as a trekking excursion, it is gradually becoming popular among tourists but hasn’t been heavily commercialised yet and is perfect if you are seeking to explore the hills at your own pace and unwind over the weekend away from the crowds. The pinnacle offers the best views of the neighbouring hills.

Distance from Bangalore: 168 km

Best Time: April to October

5 BR Hills Attractions

Also known as the Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is an ancient hill fortress located about 70 km from Bangalore and is perfect for a one-day road trip. Particularly famous for night trekking it is also known as Kalavara Durga or Kalavara Betta and is at an elevation of 1450 meters surrounded by the Nandi Hills. The hill has a ruined fort on the way which makes the night trek even more interesting by adding the element of horror. And the best part is that you can spend the night at the hilltop under the star. Not to forget the bonfire that is specially requested by the campers and trekkers to sit around and enjoy the warmth at night.

Distance from Bangalore: 59 km

Manchanabele Dam is built on the water of the tranquil Arkavati River. Located in the state of Karnataka, this place is visited by a lot of people because it is ideal to get away from the pell-mell of the city and enjoy some serenity in the lap of nature. The dam is replete with cool and clear water and is also surrounded by lush green trees on small hills. The panoramic views of the landscape can be best observed during sunrise or sunset.

Distance from Bangalore: 36 km

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

Called the Forgotten Empire by several historians, Hampi is located in the ruins of the once-magnificent Vijayanagar kingdom. Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this place is a historical delight for travellers. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, bustling street markets, bastions, treasury building and captivating remains of Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi is a backpacker's delight. Hampi is an open museum with 100+ locations to explore and a favourite way to see the city from the perspective of its history.

Distance from Bangalore: 345 km

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

About 90 kms from Bangalore lies a small hillock called Avalabetta, ideal for road trips from Bangalore. The views from the top are extremely stunning, with rockiness and greenery around. Don't forget to pay a visit to the temples when you're there.

Distance from Bangalore: 92 km

Known For : Cauvery Fishing Camp Doddamakali Nature Camp Boat Rides in Bheemeshwari

Bheemeshwari, a small town in Karnataka's Mandya district, is popular as a paradise for fishing enthusiasts as it is home to the Mahseer fishes - one of the finest game fish in the world. This town is tranquil and is the perfect getaway for a short trip from Bangalore. Due to its proximity to the Cauvery River and its extensive forest cover with a variety of flora and fauna, Bheemeshwari is visited by adventure lovers and bird watchers for boating, adventure camps, trekking up the hills and its varied species of birds present here.  

Distance from Bangalore: 102 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

8 Bheemeshwari Attractions

Situated 60 km to the west of Bangalore, Savandurga is considered the monolithic rock formation in Asia. It comprises two hills, Billigudda (white hill) and Karigudda (black hill), and has a temple situated at the foothill and a pond nearby. Most trekkers choose Billigudda due to its gentler slopes. The weekend travellers from Bangalore frequent it for trekking, camping, and rock climbing.

It's one of the top places for slab climbing in the world and a lot of climbers and adventure seekers visit here often. Another popular activity here is bird watching. The avifauna here is magnificent and enthusiasts can spot the endangered yellow-throated bulbuls. Leopards and sloth bears are also spotted here.

Distance from Bangalore: 48 km

Best Time: November to May

3 Savandurga Attractions

Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini

Located around 245 km from Bangalore, Kabini is primarily known for its handful of luxury resorts around the Kabini River and Nagarhole National Park in the vicinity.  Please note that there are not many budget-friendly accommodations near the Kabini River. It is a popular weekend getaway from Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.

The Kabini Forest Reserve (which comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarhole National Park) is famous for its amazing wildlife and birdlife. Kabini is also home to the world's most famous living black panther - Saya. Boat and Jeep safaris in the Kabini jungle are the ideal way to spot a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, guars, elephants and other majestic species.

Distance from Bangalore: 164 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Kabini Attractions

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

An Ex-French Colony, the culture and ambience at Pondicherry still reflect the remnants of its French Colonial ancestors. The food, the architecture, everything offers you a glimpse into the French Colony it was back in the 17th and 18th centuries. It is a popular tourist destination in South India owing to its colonial-era buildings, churches, and temples. Pondicherry is also well-known for its beaches. All these factors make it one of the best road trips from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 312 km

Best Time: October to March

48 Pondicherry Attractions

Go on a long drive from Bangalore to see the Grand Canyon of India! This site of natural beauty is a gorge formed by the Penna River and Erammala Hills, making for stunning Instagram worthy pictures. Other than that, don’t miss the equally magnificent Gandikota Fort located at the top of the gorge. The history of the Gandikota fort dates back to the 12th century AD. Add Belum caves to the itinerary. Here you would see spectacular formations made of stalagmite and stalactite. The Belum Caves are also the largest cave system open to the public in the Indian Subcontinent.

Distance from Bangalore: 282 km

Best Time: November to February

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

Mysuru (name recently changed from Mysore) is the third-largest city in Karnataka. Because of the magnificent buildings and palaces of historical and cultural significance, Mysuru has been given the tag of the Cultural Capital of South Karnataka. The Mysore Palace, a World Heritage Site, is one of the premier attractions here. It is also a popular spot for a long ride from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 143 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Mysore Attractions

Known For : Manjarabad Fort Sakleshwara Temple Bisle Reserve Forest

Sakleshpur is a small hill station located in the Hassan district of Karnataka and is one of the best places to go for weekend road trips form Bangalore. It's a very lush and green place, owing to the fact that it is situated in the Western Ghats. It is famous for its coffee plantations. With plenty of scenic beauty, Sakleshpur is a perfect spot for trekking and adventure activities. Add to it the perfect year-round weather and that makes it an ideal road trip destination from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 221 km

Best Time: October to March, May-June

14 Sakleshpur Attractions

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

Known for its tea plantations, Coonoor is the 2nd largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills and is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the South. The weather here remains cool and pleasant throughout the year. Taking a ride on the Toy Train line and birdwatching are some of the main things to do while here. Coonoor is among the most popular destinations for road trips from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 290 km

Distance from Bangalore: 284 km

Best Time: October to March

17 Coonoor Attractions

Slightly off the Mysore highway and situated by the River Kaveri, Shivanasamudram Falls is a scenic waterfall around 140 kms from Bangalore making it ideal for a long drive from Bangalore. Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is primarily a hydropower project location but has gotten massive attention for its stunning waterfalls: Gaganachukki and Barachukki. Travellers enjoy the view of waterfalls from the benches, and there are steps that take visitors to many levels of vantage points.

The Barachukki Falls cascades down from 250 feet with a U section resembling the Niagara Falls. The Gaganachukki falls is a brilliant sight especially after the rains when the River Kaveri is full.

Distance from Bangalore: 125 km

Best Time: August to February

3 Shivanasamudra Attractions

The fall is more popularly known as TK Falls and locally as the Swarna Mukhi falls. The word Swarna Mukhi translates to ‘Golden Face.’ The area is excellent for trekking or picnics with friends and family. Located only 35 km away from Bangalore, Thottikallu Falls is an ideal picnic spot for a half-day trip. Since this place is relatively close to Bangalore, college students and others often pay a visit to this place on weekends.

Distance from Bangalore: 33 km

Known For : Belur Hoysaleswara Temple Yagachi Dam

Nestled on the banks of River Yagachi in Hassan District of Karnataka, the town of Belur along with its twin town of Halebid located 16 km away, houses exquisite temples reflecting the exemplary artistic taste and technique of builders of the yore. This small town was the capital of the mighty Hoysala empire and their engineering genius can still be witnessed in the structures that stand here today. Some of the important shrines that are housed here include Chennakesava Temple and Kappe Chennigaray, both of which are exemplary Dravidian pieces of architecture. Non-Hindus are allowed in the temples of Belur.

Timings : Temple timings: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Inner sanctum of main deity stay closed between 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee: Free entrance, Government approved guides cost between INR 125 - INR 250

Dress Code: No strict dress code as such but modest clothing for both men and women.

Distance from Bangalore: 211 km

Best Time: October to March

9 Halebidu Attractions

Known For : Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple Nimishambha Temple Dariya Daulat Bagh

Srirangapatna is a small island town in the Cauvery river in Karnataka. Located 18 km from Mysore, the town is an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles evident in its monuments. The Ranganathaswamy temple is the major attraction of the town and it draws thousands of tourists every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the largest of its kind

Distance from Bangalore: 125 km

Best Time: July to March

16 Srirangapatna Attractions

Known For : Veerabhadra Temple Lepakshi Temple Nandi Bull and Paintings

An important heritage and archaeological site, Lepakshi is a small village located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. It is famous for its Hanging Pillar, the monolithic statue of Nandi, and its architecture which resembles that of the Vijayanagar State. History buffs and people interested in learning about India's ancient heritage should include this amazing place in their travel list.

Distance from Bangalore: 123 km

Best Time: September to February

4 Lepakshi Attractions

Located at the confluence of the two rivers Arkavathy and Cauvery, Sangam is one of the ideal road trips from Bangalore. The rivers rushing and gushing through the smooth granite rocks make a very picturesque sight. Arkavathy Dam and other picnic spots are located quite close to this place and are popular among tourists.

Distance from Bangalore: 127 km

Known For : Chembra Peak Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Stay in a Treehouse

Replete with waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts, and homestays, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Walking through the sprawling spice plantations, trekking to the pre-historic caves, and experiencing a resort holiday is one of the many things you can do to get a taste of Wayanad.

Wayanad is best known for the wildlife reserves - Wayanad wildlife reserve which is home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna. The reserve is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve peacefully located amidst the serene hills of Western Ghats. Wayanad homes a wide variety of wildlife like elephants, leopards, and bears.

Distance from Bangalore: 276 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

41 Wayanad Attractions

Known For : Gopalaswamy Hills Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

Considered to be one of the best road trips from Bangalore, Bandipur is a paradise for all nature lovers and adventurers. As you step into the green, untamed wilderness of this place, you'll be enchanted by it. The Bandipur National Park is famous for housing the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger, but you'll also come across plenty of other flora and fauna species, such as elephants, and plenty of rare birds and plants.

Distance from Bangalore: 217 km

Best Time: October to May

2 Bandipur Attractions

Known For : Ramadevara Betta Ramnagara Hills Ramdevara Temple

Set amidst the tall granite hills and lush green surroundings, Ramnagaram is a popular weekend getaway for the people in Bengaluru. The landscape surrounding Ramnagaram will seem familiar to anyone who is into Bollywood movies because it appears so frequently in the iconic movie Sholay. The old granite formation and boulders are where most of this movie was shot thus immortalizing these hills forever.

Distance from Bangalore: 47 km

Best Time: November to February

7 Ramanagaram Attractions

Anthargange is situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka in the Shathashrunga range, about 70 km from Bangalore. The mountains at an altitude of 1712 meters from sea level with rocky boulders, small caves, and dense plantations are some of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing, and cave exploration enthusiasts.

Distance from Bangalore: 67 km

Best Time: October to March

2 Anthargange Attractions

Located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe is a small village often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of South India". This biodiversity-rich region has the highest rainfall in south India and the second-highest annual rainfall in India. Agumbe is an enriching experience as this hill station is blessed with picturesque beauty and trekking trails. It is one of the last surviving lowland rainforests. Agumbe served as the setting for India's very famous fictional town Malgudi in the TV serial Malgudi Days.

Distance from Bangalore: 349 km

Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamudra is primarily a hydropower project location but has gotten massive attention for its stunning waterfalls. Literally translating to 'Shiva's Sea', Shuvanasamudra is a picturesque town with rocky terrain and gushing waterfalls and is a popular tourist destination with Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls being the ones you don't want to miss.

Distance from Bangalore: 126 km

Best Time: August to February

3 Shivanasamudra Attractions

In the state of Karnataka, a beautiful city is nestled amongst trees and rivers, which is excellent for a road trip from Bangalore. This place is a hidden gem bountiful in greenery and waterfalls. Kanakapura is home to abundant flora and fauna. Some of the most common animals that can be easily spotted are wild boars, pigs, wild dogs, and spotted deer. A lot of colorful birds can be seen perched on the trees filling the emptiness with their melodious chirpings.

Distance from Bangalore: 62 km

Perched at an elevation of 3664 feet, Makalidurga Fort is situated around 60 km from Bangalore. Nestled between green hills, and graced with picturesque surroundings, the fort can be reached after a small trek. There is also a Lord Shiva temple in the vicinity of the fort that is visited by the local people frequently.

Distance from Bangalore: 57 km

Chunchi falls, is an almost 50 feet high cascade of falls, which is fed by the river Arkavati. Located at a distance of 83km from Bangalore, Chunchi Falls lies en route to Mekedatu and Sangama in Karnataka. Mekedatu is a rocky valley, while Sangama is the meeting point of three rivers. This spot is extremely popular as a picnic spot. It derived its name from a tribal couple, Chuncha and Chunchi. These falls are a perfect way to escape the grind, as they are tucked away from the commercialization and are usually deserted.

Distance from Bangalore: 89 km

Muthyala Maduvu, popularly known as Pearl Valley is located around 40 kilometers away from Bengaluru and around 5 kilometres from Anekal. This beautiful picnic spot is located within a valley that is nestled amidst the hills. Pearl Valley is rich in flora and fauna, and houses many exotic species of birds, owning to the waterfall. The main attraction of Pearl Valley is a mesmerizing waterfall and drops of water falling from the rock surfaces create an illusion of a pearl-like appearance, hence the name ‘pearl valley’. This is a great option for trekkers as the dense forest through the mountains offers a great adrenaline rush. The only thing to beware of is the monkeys in this area.

Distance from Bangalore: 39 km