Best Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore: Where Adventure, Serenity, and History Meet
When the hum of city life in Bangalore becomes a bit too loud and the lure of open skies and fresh air calls, it’s time to pack your bags for a weekend escape. The Garden City might be your everyday haven, but its surroundings offer a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker yearning for adventure, a history buff chasing echoes of the past, or simply someone seeking to unwind amidst nature, Bangalore’s weekend getaways cater to every kind of wanderer.
From scaling the rugged terrain of Ramanagara, famously dubbed the “Land of Adventure,” to basking in the ethereal sunrise atop Nandi Hills, these nearby destinations offer a refreshing contrast to urban chaos. Picture riverside bliss at Bheemeshwari, marvel at the cascading beauty of Hogenakkal Falls, or lose yourself in the serene embrace of Shimoga’s verdant landscapes.
Each destination has its unique charm—be it the historical treasures of Srirangapatna, the trekking trails of Madhugiri, or the hidden tranquility of Sakleshpur. Whether you’re craving the roar of waterfalls, the serenity of rolling hills, or the thrill of a trek, these escapes ensure your weekends are anything but ordinary.
Below, discover the best weekend getaways near Bangalore that promise rejuvenation, exploration, and memories to cherish. Start checking them off your list one scenic retreat at a time!
Bangalore’s vibrant hustle can be invigorating, but even the most energetic souls need a break from the city’s fast pace. Luckily, the areas surrounding Bangalore are brimming with opportunities for unforgettable weekend escapes.
Whether you’re drawn to mesmerizing historic monuments, tranquil hill stations, adventurous trekking trails, or serene waterfalls, there’s something to suit every kind of explorer.
Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 best weekend getaways within 150 km of Bangalore—perfect for rejuvenating your spirit and discovering new adventures.
Best Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore
1. Ramanagara – Land of Adventure
Ramanagara is one of the Best Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore, It’s only a distance of 50 km from Bangalore, an exciting and peaceful travel destination.
The epic landscapes of rocks that will be roped into rock climbing and trekking are going to be quite popular with the young.
But the rocky terrain will be of great benefit with Sholay as its history. The hills have rugged profiles and are great for a little adrenaline pump for adventure freaks, and the surrounding areas are perfect for those who enjoy their peaceful existence close to nature.
A place where nature can lure you with its picturesque sights. Besides, it entices birdwatching and nature walks. The Ramadevara Betta provides the beholder with beautiful sights, while the Janapada Loka Museum is a wonderful representation of Karnataka’s folk traditions.
Whether it is an adventure you are looking for or a quiet place, Ramanagara has it for everyone.
Distance: 50 km (1.5 hours by road)
Best Time: October to March (pleasant for outdoor activities)
Key Attractions: Scenic views provided by Ramadevara Betta, Janapada Loka Museum’s showcase of Karnataka’s folk, and Sholay Hills, who knows for what reason one might think.
Activities: Trekking, rock climbing, birdwatching, and camping in the peace of nature.
Why this Place?: Ramanagara is an adventure destination that you won’t want to miss as it offers rock climbing and trekking in its dramatic rocky terrain and serene locations for birding and camping.
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2. Nandi Hills – Sunrise Delight
Nandi Hills is the Best Weekend getaway near Bangalore, It mile so high near Bangalore just flows out 60 km. It sheds an awful lot of its golden radiance at dawn, drawing those very few people who come for the sake of nature or photography.
It has a combination of old historic places and the whole mountainous area color green for it to provide a very nice getaway from normal, everybody’s getaways.
Take the cool mountain wind, some old places, and the view in the middle of the mountains, and you have a perfect family, couple, or even lone travel destination.
Tipu’s Drop is the highlight of Nandi Hills, where one wakes up to the incredible sunrise view over the city below in a golden glow. Bright Amrita Sarovar, which has a still pond, and the historic Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple reveal traces of the past.
Trekking, cycling, or just basking in the splendor of Nandi Hills-there is a real refreshing getaway for everyone.
Distance: 60 km (1.5–2 hours by road)
Best Time: September to May (clear skies for sunrise views)
Key Attractions: Tipu’s Drop, Amrita Sarovar, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple. Things to do- Sun watching, Cycling, paragliding, photography
Why this Place?: Probably one of the most stunning sunrise viewing experiences you’ll get to see in your lifetime. Also packed with historical landmarks and outdoor activities like trekking and paragliding.
3. Bheemeshwari – Riverside Bliss
Stretched out along the banks of the River Cauvery, Bheemeshwari is the ultimate eco-tourism destination and adventure getaway. This place is buzzing with wildlife, giving a thrilling experience into the outdoors.
The Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary is packed with wildlife and also you’ve got activities like fishing, kayaking, and trekking in Doddamakkali Nature Camp just near it.
Distance: 105 km (2.5 hours via road)
Best Time: October to February (after the monsoons hit and the weather is pretty cool)
Key Attractions: Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary, Doddamakkali Nature Camp.
Activities: Fishing, kayaking, trekking, birdwatching.
Why this Place?: The riverside spot will satisfy your needs as an ecotourist as well as an adventure seeker.
4. Shivanasamudra Falls – Nature’s Grandeur
Drive a couple of hours northwest of Bangalore and delight your eyes with picturesque sites in Shivanasamudra-the Barachukki and Gaganachukki Waterfalls. The dense forests there will make it so much more appealing to click some photos or just relax at picnic spots.
For a spiritual touch, the Ranganathaswamy Temple nearby adds on all to make it a fantastic combination of nature and culture.
Distance: 135 km (3 hours by road)
Best Time: July to October (post-monsoon flow)
Key Attractions: Shivanasamudra Waterfalls, Ranganathaswamy Temple
Activities: Photography, picnics, nature walks
Why This Place?: Its twin waterfalls and beautiful environment make this place very ideal and perfect for nature lovers, and photographers.
5. Srirangapatna – Historical Treasure
Srirangapatna is a place where history echoes, a town that was the stronghold of Tipu Sultan long ago, full of heritage sites and cultural landmarks. Also, the ever-flowing Cauvery river gives an additional picturesque touch to the place.P erhaps the best place for history buffs and travelers alike.
You’ve got to visit sites like the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Daria Daulat Bagh, and Srirangapatna Fort. Its historical and peaceful vibes make it great for heritage walks, and sightseeing.
Distance: 125 km (3 hours by road)
Best Time: November to February (pleasant weather for exploring)
Key Attractions: Ranganathaswamy Temple, Daria Daulat Bagh, Srirangapatna Fort
Activities: Heritage walks, temple visits, sightseeing
Why this Place?: Srirangapatna is a fine combination of history and calm. With the rich heritage and the serenity of this place along the river, you’re bound to have peace of mind.
6. Madhugiri – Trekker’s Dream
The gigantic monolithic hill, with a challenging trek up to the fort of Madhugiri, is what sets it apart. The trekking might be challenging, but the beautiful hilltop view is the real reward afterward.
You’ve got fort ruins and rocky terrains all through the path, all of which give a thrill. The spectacular view from among the ruins makes it a place to be seen for trekkers and photography enthusiasts.
Distance: 106 km (2.5 hrs of traveling by road)
Best Time: October: March (to avoid the summer scorching heat)
Key Attractions: Madhugiri Fort, panoramic views
Activities: Trekking, Photography
Why this Place?: Madhugiri is the perfect get-away place for adventure lovers, taking them away from the chaotic city to its challenging trek and sharp stunning view.
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7. Hogenakkal Falls – Cascading Beauty
Hogenakkal Falls is one of the best weekend getaways near Bangalore you can visit, It’s just near the Tamil Nadu border, and Hogenakkal Falls will enchant you with its therapeutic waters. It is very beautiful for activities such as coracle boat rides, making it a must-visit for nature lovers or relaxation seekers.
The peace experienced and the sound of water form an ideal combination for one to admire the surroundings and rejuvenate. The coracle ride also brings in some adventure that makes it unique for the visitors.
Distance: 135 Km (3.5 hr travel by Road)
Best Time: December to February (ideal weather and optimum water flow)
Key Attractions: Hogenakkal Waterfalls, Coracle rides
Activities: Boat rides, sightseeing
Why this place?: Hogenakkal Falls perfectly combines gorgeous views, adventure, and relaxation. Hence, this is a perfect retreat for a nature lover and the adventure-seeking.
8. Sakleshpur: A Hidden Gem for Adventure and Tranquility
Along the Western Ghats Sakleshpur’s got an awesome hill station. Given the beautiful coffee plantations and immaculate scenery, it is an ideal spot to trek through and experience nature! Refreshing the rolling hills and the cool weather make it a place that rejuvenates body and mind.
Sakleshpur offers great adventure through trekking over the hills, and river rafting in the deltas of the neighboring rivers. Visiting a coffee estate is the finest and most serene manner of experiencing the local culture, together with the beautiful surroundings this district has to offer.
Distance: 220 km. (4 to 5 hr drive)
Best Time: June to September (monsoon for green fields)
Key Attraction: Manjarabad Fort, Hemavathi Reservoir, Bisle Viewpoint
Activities: Trekking through the hills, river rafting, coffee estate tours
Why this Place?: Thrill and tranquility combine in Sakleshpur, ideal for adrenaline junkies and escapists alike, thanks to thrilling treks, great views, and peaceful coffee estates.
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9. Mekedatu and Sangama – Scenic Retreat
Mekedatu, “Goat’s Leap,” is a place to witness where the Cauvery River tumbles into a gorge. Converging are the Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers at Sangama. Tranquility mingles with the thrill of awe through the powerful flowing rivers and the rocky landscape around them.
Mekedatu is perfect for nature walks and picnics as it is one such peaceful getaway from the bustling city. River wading close to the confluence is an entirely different way of feeling nature and enjoying refreshing surroundings.
Distance: 90 km (2 hours by road)
Best Time: September to February (pleasant weather).
Key Attractions: Sangama, Mekedatu Gorge
Activities: Nature walk, picnic.
Why this Place?: Indeed Mekedatu is the epitome of scenic beauty and peaceful activities, and this makes it an ideal place for people looking for an escape from the chaotic city into a natural retreat by the river and serene landscape.
10. Shimoga: Nature’s Paradise and a Family Favorite
One place worth a visit in Shimoga is the stunning Jog Falls, which is one of India’s highest monsoon waterfalls. It has a view of breathtaking wildlife sanctuaries, peaceful reservoirs, and wide forests that make Shimoga feel like heaven on earth.
For family activities, Shimoga combines both serenity and adventure with places such as the Sakrebailu Elephant Camp and the Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari. For more adventure, several opportunities exist for trekking, wildlife sighting, and boat rides across the Sharavathi River. Distance: 275 km (5–6 hours by road)
Best Time: July to October (monsoon season to witness Jog Falls at its peak)
Key Attractions: Jog Falls, Linganamakki Dam, Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary
Activities: Sakrebailu Elephant Camp, Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari, Trekking, wildlife spotting, boat rides
Why this Place?: Shimoga is a perfect place for the weekend with a nice retreat as well as an adventure, making it appealing for families and nature lovers to visit.
In Conclusion,
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