Known For : Hoysala Temples at Mosale Shettihalli Church Bhagwan Bahubali Statue
Hassan is located 187kms from Bangalore, lying in the Malnad and Maidan districts of Karnataka and is often referred to as the temple -architecture capital of Karnataka.
Distance from Bangalore: 182 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Tipu's Drop Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple Tipu's Summer Residence
Small mounds near Bengaluru, Nandi hills serve as a great trekking destination and a weekend getaway for people in the metro.
Distance from Bangalore: 57 km
Best Time: October to June
Explore Bangalore's outskirts by visiting its hidden vineyards, learning the wine-making process, and indulging in exquisite bottled elixirs. Wine remains a cherished companion, whether for romantic dinners or quiet evenings.
Distance from Bangalore: 58.7 km
Siddara Betta in Karnataka's Tumkur district is a blend of spiritual allure with its Lord Shiva temple and trekker's paradise, rising to 1700 feet. This hillock offers panoramic views and moderate treks, making it an ideal day trip destination for varied visitors.
Distance from Bangalore: 99 km
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 one of the best getaways for trekking, rock climbing and cave exploration enthusiasts.
Distance from Bangalore: 67 km
Best Time: October to March
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, 16 km from Kanakapura, is a notable 3780-foot hill with a temple under a significant granite monolith. Less commercialized, it's an ideal spot for tranquil trekking and panoramic views away from city chaos.
Distance from Bangalore: 77 km
Nestled among trees and rivers in Karnataka, Kanakapura is a serene weekend getaway rich in heritage and bountiful greenery. Its picturesque landscapes and year-round pleasant weather make it a perfect escape from city life.
Distance from Bangalore: 63 km
Known For : Hogenakkal Falls Mettur Dam Melagiri Hills
Hogenakkal is the small village that is known because of Kaveri river that splits into multiple streams of waterfalls over here, making it arguably the most heavenly place in the state.
Distance from Bangalore: 127 km
Best Time: October to March
Nestled in Karnataka's Srirangapatna, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is the state's largest, encompassing six islands on the Kaveri river. Its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty make it ideal for bird watching, boating, and photography.
Distance from Bangalore: 129 km
Doddamakali, just 132 kms from Bangalore and near the Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp, offers an idyllic escape from city chaos in its rustic charm and serene surroundings. With resorts providing relaxing stays, activities here include bird watching, wildlife spotting, and ending the day around a calming bonfire.
Distance from Bangalore: 109 km
Known For : Cauvery Fishing Camp Doddamakali Nature Camp Boat Rides in Bheemeshwari
This small town near Bangalore city is a perfect getaway for a nature lover and in its seclusion is a good break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Distance from Bangalore: 102 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini
Once a private hunting are for the British, this famous wildlife destination has a rich variety of flora and fauna making it a gorgeous tourist spot.
Distance from Bangalore: 164 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Vivekanand Falls Ranganathaswamy Temple Kaivara
Located about 57km from Bangalore, Chikballapur is a place close to Nandi Hills, Vivekanand falls and many other small small attractions making it a good one day getaway from Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 75 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : BRT Wildlife Sanctuary Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Adventure Activities
The Biligiriranga hills, or the BR Hill as they are better known, are a bit of heaven between the Western and the Eastern Ghats, with a wonderful floral diversity and a vast variety of fauna as well.
Distance from Bangalore: 170 km
Best Time: April to October
Belur, situated on the banks of River Yagachi in Karnataka, was the capital of the Hoysala empire and boasts exquisite temples like Chennakesava Temple and Kappe Chennigaray, reflecting the Dravidian architectural brilliance. Its twin town, Halebid, located 16 km away, similarly showcases the remarkable artistic legacy of ancient temple builders.
Distance from Bangalore: 220 km
Horsley Hills, located near the border of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, stands at 4312 meters, boasting breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and attractions like the world's largest Banyan tree and the oldest Eucalyptus. This picturesque hill station offers diverse experiences from adventure sports like rappelling to tranquil spots for relaxation.
Distance from Bangalore: 143 km
Sakleshpur, Karnataka's hidden gem nestled in the Western Ghats at 950 meters, is a serene hill station enveloped in the aroma of coffee, tea, and spices. Often dubbed the 'Poor man's Ooty', its verdant hills and tranquility make it an ideal weekend escape.
Distance from Bangalore: 221 km
Skandagiri, near Bangalore, offers unique moonlit night treks up its 1450-meter elevation, passing through a mysterious ruined fort and allowing trekkers to sleep under the stars atop the hill. This experience, blending adventure with an element of horror, is not just a morning activity.
Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat
Nestled among Karnataka's misty mountains, Coorg is a haven for nature enthusiasts and boasts a rich coffee-producing culture. The region is renowned for its hospitable Kodavas clan and their unique martial arts tradition.
Distance from Bangalore: 264 km
Best Time: October to March
At the confluence of Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers, this picnic spot is famous among tourists for its richness of flora and fauna.
Distance from Bangalore: 127 km
Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo
The second largest city in Karnataka, Mysore, has a royal history, a rich and regal heritage and is an important center of art and culture. Undeniably one of the most enchanting places to visit in India, Mysore is a melting pot of various religions and culture.
Distance from Bangalore: 143 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, Shivanasamundram is essentially a hydropower project location but is more commonly known for its waterfalls.
Distance from Bangalore: 125 km
Best Time: August to February
Known For : Punganur Lake Nature Park Jalagamparai Falls
Located just three hours from Bangalore, Yelagiri is a serene hill station in Vellore offering attractions like the Jalagamparai falls and vast orchards. With its peaceful ambiance distinct from other popular hill stations, Yelagiri has been a hidden gem since the British colonial era.
Distance from Bangalore: 161 km
Best Time: November to February
Somanathapura, nestled by the Holy river Kaveri, is home to the Kesava Temple, an epitome of Hoysala architecture dedicated to Lord Krishna. This iconic temple, consecrated in 1258 CE, attracts tourists globally, representing the pinnacle of Hoysala temple style.
Distance from Bangalore: 130 km
Situated 60 kms to the west of Bangalore, Savandurga, considered to be one of the largest single rock formation in the whole of Asia.
Distance from Bangalore: 48 km
Best Time: November to May
Nrityagram is a dance village is located near Hesarghatta in Bangalore rural district. The village was conceptualized by the well known Odissi dancer Protima Bedi.
Distance from Bangalore: 36 km
Best Time: February to Apr, October to December
Known For : Trekking in Shivagange Temples in Shivagange
Shivagange, a hillock situated 56 km from Bangalore, is a combination of temples and scenic beauty that makes it both a pilgrimage as well as an adventure spot.
Distance from Bangalore: 29 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Ramadevara Betta Ramnagara Hills Ramdevara Temple
Set amidst the challenging rocky hillocks and lush green surroundings, Ramnagaram is a popular weekend getaway for Bengaluru folks.
Distance from Bangalore: 47 km
Best Time: November to February
Mekedatu, located in Kanakapura of Ramanagara district near Bangalore, is a scenic spot where the Kaveri river flows through deep gorges. Known for its name meaning 'goat's leap' in Kannada, this place boasts intriguing mythology.
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
A lake once named Moti Talab by Tipu Sultan, is today one of the most loved spots for boating, swimming and picnics in the area.
Distance from Bangalore: 124 km
Known For : Sri Venkateshwara National Park Srikalahasti Temple Nagalapuram
Steeped in religion, devotion and architecture, Chittoor is a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Distance from Bangalore: 180 km
Best Time: September to February
Known For : Veerabhadra Temple Lepakshi Temple Nandi Bull and Paintings
Lepakshi is a small quaint village with several fascinating archeological sites and beautiful ancient temples.
Distance from Bangalore: 123 km
Best Time: September to February
Known For : Chaitanya Jyoti Museum Sathya Sai Ashram Wish Fullfilling Tree
The holy abode of the apocryphal figure, Saythya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi is a town which takes you back to the days of ashrams and the ways of living in those times.
Distance from Bangalore: 153 km
Best Time: September to February
Known For : Somanathapura Panchalinga Darshana Mallikarjuna Temple
Talakad is a small mystical town steeped in the glorious past and heritage nestled on the left banks of River Kaveri.
Distance from Bangalore: 131 km
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Gomateshwara Statue Chandragiri Hill Temple Bhandari Basadi Temple
Located near Bengaluru, Sravanbelagola is an important Jain pilgrimage center with a 17 m tall sculpture of Lord Gomateswara called Bahubali statue as its prime attraction.
Distance from Bangalore: 143 km
Best Time: October to Apr
Manchanabele Dam, built on the Arkavati River in Karnataka, offers a serene escape from city life, surrounded by lush greenery and clear waters. Its mesmerizing views, especially during sunrise and sunset, create a magical juxtaposition of sky hues with nature.
Distance from Bangalore: 36 km
Devarayanadurga, translating to 'The Fort of God' in Karnataka's Tumkur district, is a hill station elevated at 4000 ft, offering lush landscapes and rich historical and religious significance with its intricate temples. This untouched destination provides a serene weekend escape amidst nature's magic.
Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Muthyala Maduvu, a serene spot near Bangalore, boasts picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and captivating waterfalls, making it an ideal rejuvenating weekend escape. This blend of beauty and history, filled with nature's mysteries, positions it as a must-visit traveler's paradise.
Distance from Bangalore: 40 km
Kunti Betta, located in Pandavapura and enveloped by lush fields and coconut trees, stands tall at 2882 feet, offering rejuvenating scenic views and intriguing rock formations with historical tales of the Pandavas. This serene escape, boasting of unique rocks like the crocodile face and the storied Bheemana Pada, is a perfect retreat to unwind and bond with loved ones.
Distance from Bangalore: 122 km
Balmuri Falls is situated in the village of Balmuri, 16 kms away from Mysore. The 6-feet-tall waterfall is a man made stretch of cascading water formed by the check-dam on River Cauvery. It is a popular picnic spot for the people of Mysore and Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 138 km
Cited to be one of the earliest rock climbing sites in India, Ramnagaram is an almost essential destination for rock climbers. With popular hills like Ramadevarabetta, SRS betta and Thenginkalbetta, Ramnagaram has an average altitude of 747 meters and it has several tall gigantic hills which are famous for many short rock climbs, typically 1 to 2 pitches in length.
Distance from Bangalore: 48 km
Janapada Loka, meaning 'Folk World', is a sanctuary for vibrant folk art and culture located 53 km off the Bengaluru-Mysore Highway in Ramanagara District. Established by the Karnataka Janapada Parishath, it aims to conserve and showcase this art's elegance and significance for future generations.
Distance from Bangalore: 52 km
One of the best places for night trekking in Bangalore, Kabbaladurga is situated in Kanakapura city of Ramanagar district, Karnataka. Approximately a three-hour trek upwards, bonfires and camps are set up to celebrate the finish before leaving for the land. The hill is known not only for its scenic beauty and magnificent view but mainly for its safety and conducive nature during night treks.
Distance from Bangalore: 81.2 km
Situated in Kanakapura of Ramanagara district, Mekedatu is a site by a stretch of narrow, deep gorges through which the river Kaveri flows. 100km from Bangalore, Mekedatu is a perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers. Mekedatu means 'goat's leap' in Kannada and has an interesting mythology behind this natural beauty.
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
Best Time: September to December
Chunchi falls, a 50-foot cascade fed by the Arkavati river and located 83km from Bangalore, is a serene getaway en route to Mekedatu's rocky valley and Sangama, the confluence of three rivers. Named after a tribal couple, Chuncha and Chunchi, this often-deserted spot offers a peaceful escape from commercialization.
Distance from Bangalore: 90 km
Experience the thrill of cave living without the bats and worms at Guhantara, a unique underground resort that blends adventure with modern comforts. Perfect for a weekend escape, it's like stepping into a Flintstones episode but with contemporary amenities.
Distance from Bangalore: 29.8 km
Madhugiri, Asia's second-largest monolith located in Tumkur, is named after the honey bee colonies near its fort. Boasting attractions like the Gopalkrishna temple ruins, Dravidian style Malleswara and Venkataramana temples, and nearby Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve, it's a trekker's delight near Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 105 km
Located at a distance of 100 kms from Bangalore, Channarayana Durga was constructed by a local king Chikkappa Gowda. Considered an important strategic point during medieval times, the fort also houses some old structures and few temples. Currently it is one of the few popular trekking points in Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 98.4 km
For those seeking serene beauty near Bangalore, Avalabetta offers the picturesque charm of Nandi Hills minus the crowds. Standing atop, you'll relish expansive views of lush landscapes and diverse rocky terrains.
Distance from Bangalore: 92 km
Balmuri Falls, a human-made cascade at Srirangapatna in Karnataka, offers scenic beauty accentuated by surrounding coconut palms, making it a popular backdrop for film sequences and a haven for photographers.
Distance from Bangalore: 138 km
Situated amidst the calming nature at the foothills of Nandi hills, the statue of Adiyogi Shiva is one of the major attractions of Chikkaballapur. It was constructed by Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadhguru, the founder of the Isha Foundation. The location is intended to serve as an important centre for spiritual development.
Distance from Bangalore: 156 km
Best Time: June to November
Situated amidst the calming nature at the foothills of Nandi hills, the statue of Adiyogi Shiva is one of the major attractions of Chikkaballapur. It was constructed by Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadhguru, the founder of the Isha Foundation. The location is intended to serve as an important centre for spiritual development.
Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Visited any of the above places yet? Let us know your experiences down in the comment section below.