Hill Stations in Karnataka For A Summer Weekend Getaway

Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat

Coorg is one of the most popular hill stations in Karnataka. It is well known for its breathtakingly exotic scenery and lush greenery. Forest covered hills, spice and coffee plantations only add to the landscape.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

If you love the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the mornings, you are going to love Chikmagalur, which has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air. This hill station in Karnataka is very famously known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’. Famous for its tall mountains, lush green forests and its tranquil environment (apart from its coffee production), Chikmagalur is a very popular tourist destination and is a quaint getaway from the busy life of the city.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

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

Located around 60 kilometres away from Bangalore, this trendy hill station in Karnataka is one such tourist spot that has gradually been discovered by visitors over the years and has become a well-known holiday spot. Situated at 4851 feet above sea level, this ancient hill fortress is an idyllic escape from daily city life. Once used as the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, Nandi Hills is scattered with shrines and monuments and is surrounded by mesmerizing views, making this place no less than a hidden paradise.

Best Time: October to June

12 Nandi Hills Attractions

Known For : Hebbe Falls Kalahatti Falls Z Point

A hill station in Karnataka offering widespread views and scents of beautiful gardens, Kemmanagundi or KR hills, is home to the tallest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri. The area is quite popular for trekking, nature walks and picnics. The Rock garden, Z point, Hebbe falls, Kalahasti falls and the Shiva temple are a few must-see attractions here.

Best Time: September to May

9 Kemmanagundi Attractions

Known For : BRT Wildlife Sanctuary Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Adventure Activities

Around 175 kilometres away from Bangalore, BR Hills, also known as Billigiriranga Hills, is a hill range and one of the most popular hill stations in Karnataka and road trips from Bangalore. This range of hills is a deific conjuncture for the Eastern and the Western Ghats, thus opening myriad opportunities for forest adventures and sports.

Best Time: April to October

5 BR Hills 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. A one of a kind experience in perhaps one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, the Sita Nadi river rafting is an unparalleled experience.

There are many hill stations in Karnataka which are perfect for a getaway. Among them is a place named Sakleshpur, which is Karnataka’s best-kept secret. The hill station is wrapped with the aroma of coffee, tea, cardamom and cinnamon. It is also one of the 18 most diverse spots in the world.

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 among the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave exploration enthusiasts.

Best Time: October to March

2 Anthargange Attractions

Known For : Kudremukh Trek Kudremukh National Park Hanuman Gundi Falls

A popular hill town named after a mountainside that resembles a horse's face, Kudremukh is famous for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. A popular hill station in Karnataka, it is a paradise for trekkers and naturists alike, with its mountainous paths and floral and faunal diversity.

Best Time: October to May

10 Kudremukh 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 in Bollywood movies because it appears in the iconic movie Sholay. The old granite formation and boulders are where some of the film scenes were shot, thus immortalising these hills forever. The Ramadevarabetta and Savandurga hills are also favourite spots for rock climbers and trekkers since many trek routes start from here.

Best Time: November to February

7 Ramanagaram Attractions

Known For : Elk Falls Longwood Shola Trekking

Kotagiri is the smallest and oldest among the hill stations in Karnataka and is nestled in the lap of Nilgiri Hills. Steeped in vast expanses of greenery and rolling hills, Kotagiri offers plenty of trekking and hiking opportunities for adventure lovers. It is packed with European style houses and has a history dating back to British rule in India. The 8 kilometres long trek to the Catherine Falls is one of the many highlights of this hill station. With a jagged terrain backed by a peaceful setting, this region is ideal for rock climbing.

Best Time: December to May

7 Kotagiri Attractions

Known For : Kodachadri Jog Falls Agumbe

With nature in its full bloom, the town of Shimoga has been home to several great dynasties and kingdoms. Steeped in rich heritage and culture, this main city of Shimoga District derives its name from the words 'Shiv-Mukha' implying 'Face of Lord Shiva'. Kodachadri Trek is a must-do in this district. Packed with several marvels of nature in the form of picturesque landscape, gorgeous waterfalls, mystical temples and lush green surroundings, its raw beauty will leave you absolutely enchanted.

Best Time: July to December

37 Shimoga Attractions