Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is not just about bustling IT parks and a fast-paced lifestyle. Nestled amidst the Deccan Plateau and close to the Western and Eastern Ghats, the city is blessed with easy access to some of the most serene hill stations in South India. 🏞️
Whether you’re seeking a weekend break, a romantic escape, or an adventure-filled trip, these hill stations near Bangalore offer the perfect breather from the urban chaos.
From misty mornings and lush greenery to winding roads and waterfalls, the surrounding hills are calling. Most of these destinations are easily accessible by road or bus and are ideal for short getaways. In this blog, we explore the best hill stations near Bangalore, things to do at each one, and how to get there comfortably via bus.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Bangalore:
1. Nandi Hills (61 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
One of the closest hill stations to Bangalore, Nandi Hills, is a favourite among early risers, bikers, and trekking enthusiasts. With its winding roads, cool morning mist, and panoramic views of the sunrise over the city, it offers a refreshing break without going far.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Trek to Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Explore the historical architecture of this 18th-century palace, once used as a retreat by Tipu Sultan himself.
- Sunrise at Nandi Hills Viewpoint: Reach the viewpoint before 6:00 AM to catch a glorious sunrise above the clouds.
- Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: A 9th-century temple known for its Dravidian architecture and peaceful ambience.
- Paragliding (seasonal): If you’re up for an adventure, try paragliding over the hills during the windy months.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Catch a KSRTC bus or a private bus to Chikkaballapur from Majestic Bus Stand. From there, Nandi Hills is a 10-12 km uphill journey, best done by local auto or taxi.
2. Chikmagalur (243 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Famous for its coffee plantations, mist-covered peaks, and lush greenery, Chikmagalur is a dream destination for nature lovers and photographers. It’s where Karnataka’s highest peak resides, and every corner smells of fresh coffee.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Mullayanagiri Peak: Trek to the highest point in Karnataka for sweeping views of the Western Ghats.
- Coffee Plantation Tours: Learn how your favourite brew is made while strolling through scenic coffee estates.
- Baba Budangiri Range & Hebbe Falls: Explore the spiritual caves and stunning waterfalls around this mystical hill.
- Jhari Waterfalls Jeep Ride: Go off-road through dense forests to reach this stunning waterfall.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Bangalore to Chikmagalur is well-connected with both KSRTC and private Volvo and sleeper buses. Travel time is 6 to 7 hours, and most buses drop you right in the heart of the town.
3. Coorg (Kodagu) – (265 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Dubbed the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is all about rolling hills, cool breezes, thick forests, and charming homestays. It’s perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers looking for tranquillity.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Abbey and Iruppu Falls: Scenic waterfalls surrounded by forest-best visited post-monsoon.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Watch elephants bathe and feed, or go for a coracle ride.
- Coffee and Spice Plantation Walks: Enjoy aromatic strolls through estate paths.
- Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple): A serene Tibetan monastery in Bylakuppe with golden statues and peaceful gardens.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Daily KSRTC and private buses connect Bangalore to Madikeri, the district headquarters of Coorg. You can also get down at Kushalnagar if your resort is nearby.
Incredible Places to Visit in Karnataka
4. Wayanad (280 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Set in the Western Ghats in Kerala, Wayanad offers a unique mix of tribal culture, untouched forests, and spice plantations. It’s cooler, quieter, and rich in natural beauty.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Chembra Peak Trek: A moderately difficult trek known for its heart-shaped lake near the summit.
- Edakkal Caves: Ancient rock carvings and Stone Age etchings await history buffs.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Spot elephants, bison, deer, and, if lucky, a leopard.
- Pookode Lake: A serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests with boating options.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Regular buses from Bangalore to Kalpetta and Sultan Bathery are available. From these hubs, cabs and autos will take you deeper into Wayanad’s greenery.
5. Sakleshpur (221 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
An emerging favourite among trekkers and offbeat explorers, Sakleshpur is nestled in the Western Ghats and offers raw, untamed beauty with coffee estates and scenic treks.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Manjarabad Fort: A star-shaped 18th-century fort offering breathtaking hill views.
- Sakleshwara Temple: A beautiful Hoysala-era temple on the banks of the Hemavathi River.
- Estate Hikes: Many homestays offer guided coffee trail walks and local food experiences.
- Riverside Camping: Perfect for a quiet night under the stars with the sound of water nearby.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
KSRTC, VRL, and Sugama buses operate daily from Bangalore to Sakleshpur. The journey takes about 5-6 hours.
6. Yercaud (215 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Tucked away in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is perfect for budget travellers. Less commercialised than Ooty or Kodaikanal, it still offers rich experiences.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Yercaud Lake: Try boating or just relax by the lakeside with a cup of local coffee.
- Lady’s Seat & Pagoda Point: Spectacular viewpoints offering wide valley panoramas.
- Kiliyur Falls: A short but steep trek leads to this hidden waterfall, best visited post-monsoon.
- Botanical Garden and Silk Farm: Great for educational family outings.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Bangalore to Salem buses are frequent and fast. From Salem (35 km away), local taxis and buses run regularly to Yercaud.
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7. BR Hills (Biligirirangana Hills) – (173 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Situated at the confluence of the Eastern and Western Ghats, BR Hills is an ecological treasure trove. It’s less crowded and ideal for solitude seekers and wildlife photographers.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple: It is set atop a hill with panoramic views and spiritual significance.
- Wildlife Safari: Explore the BR Hills Tiger Reserve, home to tigers, elephants, gaurs, and leopards.
- Trekking Trails: Multiple short and long trails with varying difficulty.
- Bird Watching: With over 200 bird species, this is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Take a bus from Bangalore to Kollegala or Yelandur. From there, a cab or shared jeep can take you to the BR Hills (around 30 km).
8. Horsley Hills (150 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Located in Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills is less known but offers refreshing weather, clean air, and scenic views-a perfect spot for a weekend hideaway.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Gali Bandalu (Wind Rocks): Strong winds and panoramic views await at this rocky viewpoint.
- Horsley Zoo: A small but enjoyable zoo for kids.
- Adventure Activities: Try ziplines, archery, and rappelling.
- Nature Trails: Ideal for peaceful nature walks or photography.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Board a bus to Madanapalle from Bangalore. From there, Horsley Hills is a short 25-30 km ride by taxi or auto.
9. Agumbe (355 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Known for its high rainfall and enchanting rainforests, Agumbe is one of India’s last remaining lowland rainforests and a favourite of nature documentarians.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Agumbe Sunset Point: Witness stunning sunset views over the Western Ghats.
- Barkana & Onake Abbi Falls: Offbeat trails leading to gushing waterfalls.
- Rainforest Research Station: Learn about snakes and medicinal plants.
- Kundadri Hills: A peaceful Jain temple with misty views.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Take a night bus to Thirthahalli or Udupi, and from there, local jeeps or buses head to Agumbe. Best explored with a local guide.
10. Kudremukh (330 km from Bangalore)
Why Visit:
Named after the “horse-face” shaped mountain, Kudremukh is a national park and biodiversity hotspot ideal for trekking and nature photography.
Top Things to Do: ✅
- Kudremukh Peak Trek: A challenging full-day trek through grasslands, forest patches, and streams.
- Kudremukh National Park: Spot deer, langurs, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
- Hanuman Gundi Falls: A scenic spot surrounded by forest, great for a quick picnic.
- Shola Forest Trails: Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you hike or cycle through.
How to Reach by Bus: 🚍
Buses are available from Bangalore to Kalasa. From Kalasa, you can hire local jeeps to reach Kudremukh.
Conclusion: Escape the City, Embrace the Hills
The hill stations near Bangalore are a testament to the diverse beauty of South India – from coffee plantations and forested trails to ancient temples and gushing waterfalls. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, an adventurous solo trip, or a fun family outing, there’s a hill station for every kind of traveller.
With frequent buses, budget stays, and scenic beauty in every direction, all you need is a backpack and a spirit of exploration. So, what are you waiting for?
👉 Start planning your next hill station getaway today.
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