Karnataka is the state that lies in southern India, with the Western Ghats guarding it and the Arabian sea that sends cool breezes to this heavenly land. It stands out owing to its beautiful scenic landscapes, hills, canyons, ravines, rich culture, and architectural heritage. There are several best hill stations near Bangalore, which are the prime attraction of this place. The state is world-famous for its cuisine and, most importantly-coffee.
Karnataka is famous for its climate, lush green views spread over huge expanses, and its serenity to its visitors. Karnataka has been successfully conquering the hearts of tourists worldwide and has gained tremendous popularity among travel enthusiasts. If you want some change and are looking for exciting hill stations here, we have sought out some best hill stations near Bangalore for all travel buffs.
11 Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore
Bangalore is famous for its parks and bustling cafes. It is also recognized as the ‘Silicon Valley of India.’ Despite its technological development, the place has several mesmerising hill stations that can prove to be an offbeat break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Trust me; it is bliss to have eye soothing hill stations near your workplace. Here are some best hill stations near Bangalore, the best to visit during summers, chill out on weekends or have a pre-planned trip with friends or family.
1. Nandi Hills- Famous for Pleasant Climate and Scenic Views
Nandi hills are one of the nearest and best hill stations near Bangalore. The residents of Bangalore are often used to visiting this place during the weekends to relax and have fun with their families. It is known as one of the famous hill stations near Bangalore for its pleasant climate and scenic views. That’s the reason it is one of the best places to visit in April with family or friends. The place takes away the breath of its visitors.
If you visit Bangalore for a meeting and want to have time off before you head back, then Nandi Hills is your destination, for you don’t need to travel much, and it will prove to be your best decision when you reach there. We recommend you to visit this hill station during the weekdays as it remains crowded during the weekends due to its proximity to the city. Do not forget to visit the famous Tipu Sultan’s summer palace at the hill’s summit.
Distance:- 58 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Paragliding
Best time to visit:- October to June
2. Horsley Hills- Visit here to Calm your soul
Horsley Hills is a perfect place for nature lovers and undoubtedly one of the best hill stations near Bangalore. It is a perfect place to enjoy serenity and birdwatching. Horsley hills are rich in bird species and big trees such as Gulmohar, Amla, Reetha, Sandalwood, Eucalyptus, Allamanda, Jacaranda, and Blue Gum. This hill station is at an altitude of 1265 metres and is perfect for escaping the grind of daily life. Lake Gangotri and the Environmental Park are some of the places you can tour during your visit to this enchanting hill station.
Distance:- 166 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Zorbing (rolling downhill in an orb )
Best time to visit:- February to May
3. Yercaud- Witness the Mesmerising Waterfalls
This hill station in Karnataka is on our list due to its magnificently beautiful vistas and the divine touch of nature that can be experienced everywhere on Yercaud. This little spot of paradise in Karnataka is often compared to Ooty, the most famous hill station in Karnataka near Bangalore. A vast number of tourists worldwide visit this one of the famous hill stations throughout the year. Exceptional weather and several adventures this hill station offers make it the dream destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Yercaud is famous for its coffee, cardamom, pepper, guava, orange, and jackfruit cultivation. You can plan a little trip to see nature quite closely. Also, don’t forget to witness the mesmerising waterfalls on this hill station. The dense forests are abundant in wildlife such as deer, bison, foxes, mongooses, and a wide range of beautiful birds.
Distance:- 228 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities: Hiking, Trekking, Photography
Best time to visit:- October to June
4. Chikmagalur- A Ready to go Weekend Getaway
If you seek peace and a quick rejuvenation of a monotonous daily routine, then our next well-known hill station Chikmagalur could be your ideal destination. Chikmagalur is popular for its dense green forests rich in wildlife, scenic mountain views, and streams so full of life that would compel you to take your camera out and have a picture with nature in the background.
The hill station is situated at the height of 3400 feet near the foot of the Mullayanagiri Range, and it is a perfect destination for a quick and enjoyable weekend trip near Bangalore. Often tourists visit this place during the summers for trekking and adventures. Tunga and Bhadra’s major rivers also originate from this very spot, so don’t forget to keep your cameras ready. It is not just one of the best hill stations near Bangalore but also one of the most prominent places to visit in Karnataka.
Distance:- 240 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Trekking.
Best time to visit:- September to March
5. Kemmangundi- Relax within the Arms of Mother Nature
Kemmangundi is another dream destination if you want to have a little break from daily routines and relax within the arms of Mother Nature. Perfect place to plan an escapade from the summer sun, this hill station is the best to getaway. Kemamanhundi offers scenic waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes. If you are near Bangalore and are visiting this hill station, you must plan a trip to Raj Bhawan, BabaBudan hill, Kalathgiri Falls, The Z-point, Rock garden, and the mesmerising Hebbe falls. If you are an animal lover, you must also plan to visit the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. Trust me, it is exciting.
Distance:- 245 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Photography, the main attraction is the sunset from the Raj Bhawan.
Best time:- September to April
6. Coorg- Beautiful Scenic Landscapes
The famous coffee producer region with several spice plantations, Coorg is one of the best hill stations near Bangalore which is often referred to as the Scotland of India. Coorg is blessed with scenic landscapes and green expanses that will leave you awestruck. This hill station is top-rated among all others owing to its divine natural splendours and fantastic weather. The weather, beautiful surroundings, and divine location of this place is the perfect reason which makes it one of the best places to visit in Karnataka for couples.
You can plan a trip to Coorg to get fresh coffee with you when you head back. It is advised to visit this hill station during the monsoon season when the rains add a feather to the hat to its spellbinding views. Don’t forget to try some coffee in the cafe around the place as you will get tired of capturing pictures with this spectacular sight.
Distance:- 255 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Golfing, trekking
Best time:- October to March
7. Ooty- A Reason to Plan a Trip with Friends
Ooty is another breathtaking destination filled with mesmerising natural beauty. It is one of the most famous hill stations near Bangalore. This hill station is definitely blessed with nature with beautiful lakes, spectacular tea gardens, scenic hills, and energising botanical gardens. Create some beautiful memories with your friends at Ooty and make your holidays a perfect one.
A perfect destination for couples who seek to have moments of togetherness, Ooty is known for its serenity and mind-blowing beauty. You can visit St Stephen’s church, Ooty lake, Kalhatty waterfalls, and Doddabetta peak on your trip to Ooty. The hill station offers several exciting activities; hence it is always ready to surprise you throughout your visit.
Distance:- 272 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Nilgiri toy train ride, Mountain bike ride, annual Tea and Tourism Festival (Jan), and Summer Festival (May).
Best time:- March to June and September to October
8. Wayanad – A Nature’s Paradise
Wayanad is our next famous hill station on the list, a small town loaded with a lot to do, lots of food to eat, and several places to visit. If you are on a road trip, don’t forget to take a halt at this wonder hill station close to Bangalore. Wayanad is famous for the Kanthanpara Falls and the splendid Sentinel Rock Falls. Special mentions for animal lovers, you are advised to plan a stay for 3 to 4 days to visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. For those who are planning their holidays and looking for the best place then Wayanad is one of the best holiday destinations near Bangalore.
Distance:- 275 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- Visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Photography
Best time:- From March to June
9. Agumbe- A Perfect Place to go on an Adventure
Agumbe is quite a destination for peace lovers and people who enjoy solitude. This hill station is located at an altitude of 826 metres and is a lovely location for photography with friends and spending quality time with family and loved ones. The place is known for its ambiance and pleasant weather. Trekkers will find this hill station typically their choice while it is the perfect spot to plan weekends for nice recharge. Agumbe is rich in various trees, and visitors will be enchanted with the sight of rolling hills with streams emerging out. The famous Gopalkrishna temple, known to be from the 14th century, is also situated at this lovely hill station, exhibiting intricate and rare Hoysala art.
Distance:- 340 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- trekking, photography, relaxing.
Best time:- November to February
10. Yana- Experience the Lush Green Forests
The next on our list is Yana which falls in the Sahyadri mountain region. This place counts as one of the famous hill stations near Bangalore, which is beautified with lush green forests and scenic mountain views along with waterfalls. This place is blessed with many holy temples, such as the Yana Temple, which is a very popular pilgrim. The place offers trekking and visit to divine temples that bestows the visitors with peace and power and fulfil all the desires they bring with them. It is one of the best places to visit in Karnataka in October.
Distance:- 460 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- trekking, pilgrimage, photography.
Best time: January, September, and October
11. Kodaikanal- Catch the Perfect Hilltop View
Situated at the height of approximately 7000 feet, Kodaikanal is among the famous hill stations near Bangalore which is known for the tranquil atmosphere and peace that will rejuvenate your mind and body. Kodaikanal is a perfect destination to relax in the lap of nature while admiring the beautiful scenery. The hill station is located at the southern tip of Palani hill.
The ambiance will make you crave it whenever you get exhausted from your monotonous schedule. This hill station has a variety of tourist spots such as Kodai Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bear Shola Falls, Bryant Park, Silver Cascade, Pillar Rocks, and a lot more. The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is also located, so make sure you plan a visit to this wonderful place too.
Distance:- 469 kilometres from Bangalore
Traveller activities:- photography, a trip to the solar observatory.
Best time:- From March to June
So, these are our perfect choices for the most beautiful and famous hill stations near Bangalore. If you are planning for an exciting trip near Bangalore then you must add these hill stations to your list. We hope this article will help you to find the right place for your holidays. If you have visited any of these places then share your experience with us with your precious comment.