Bangalore, the IT hub of India, is the fifth metropolitan city of the country. The city is the number one city in the southern part of India. Also known as the Silicon Valley of India the city is vying with Mumbai for being the most progressive city of the nation. With the increasing work-culture and the monotonous schedules the locals try to find an escape every now and then to rejuvenate themselves. The city is blessed with an amazing neighbourhood that is worth exploring. Here is a list of top 10 weekend getaway places near Bangalore that will leave you refreshed.
[Also See: 8 Best Places In Bangalore To Make Your Trip Complete]
1. Yelagiri
Yelagiri, also known as the ‘Poor Man’s Ooty’ is located167 km away from Bengaluru. The place comprises of 14 hamlets that together form the entire estate. Yelagiri is famous for its breath-taking lush green, sun kissed mountains and the beautiful view that one gets while in the region. The hair pin bends strike some of the most splendid views. The Punganoor Lake Park, Jalagamparai Falls, Government Silk Farm and Vainu Bappa Observatory are the major attractions in Yelagiri.
2. B R Hills
Commonly known as the B R Hills, The Biligiriranga Hills are 185 km away from Bangalore. The hills are a juncture of the Eastern and the Western Ghats. These hills have a diverse variety of flora and fauna and appear to be a velvet carpet of green on the hills which makes the entire scape spectacular. There is a wildlife sanctuary in the area and also a temple of Sri Biligiri Ranganatha here. Activities like mountain biking, trekking, bird watching and jungle safari are common attractions.
3. Hogenakkal Falls
The gushing of waters from a height of about 20 meters at Hogenakkal Falls that are situated about 148 km from Bangalore. If you are a water enthusiast and want to experience an Indian version of mind-blowing waterfalls, then welcome to the ‘Niagara Falls of India’. The waterfall receives water from the River Kaveri and causing smoking effect over the rocks and hence is also known as Smoking Rocks. Also coral boat rides are available for the visitors and the lower region of the waterfall can be used for drenching yourself.
4. Nandi Hills
This beautiful hill station is just 60 kms away from Bangalore. Due to its close proximity from Bangalore the place is frequently visited by people who are looking for quick getaways. Nandi hills also holds historical significance as it covers stories of Tipu Sultan and then had also witnessed the British era. The hill top also has a trekking trail with cleanly cut steps it becomes comparatively easy to climb to the top. The view from the slope during the trek is truly mesmerising. Also, the place offers a cycling tour which in itself is a wonderful experience.
5. Balmuri and Edumuri Waterfalls
Located about 138 km from Bangalore, Balmuri Falls are a man-made falls on the River Kaveri having a check dam of about 1.6 km. Though the water fall is less in height of about 6 feet it is visited a lot by the locals. The water flows in a controlled speed which makes it ideal for water activities. A little upstream towards the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam is Edumuri falls which are a little less crowded but equally beautiful. There is a small temple of Lord Ganesha at the waterfront of Balmuri Falls which attracts a lot of devotees as well.
6. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located about 130 km from Banglore on the River Kaveri. The sanctuary has about 6 little islands where a large variety of migratory birds can be seen. While a boat tour that is guided by the ranger can take you to the islets close enough to have a crystal clear look of the birds but far enough as in no to disturb them. The area also has crocodiles which can be seen sun-bathing at times. Birds like open bill stork, paint stork, lesser whistling duck, oriental darter, Indian shag and stork-billed kingfisher can be prominently seen among others.
7. Mysore
The highly fascinating city of Mysore is about 180 kms apart from Bangalore. The city rich in its ancient value is a beautiful place to spend your weekend in. The stories of Tipu sultan and later the British Raj is spread everywhere in the city. A spell binding architecture and the pilgrimage sites make this place perfect for a weekend.
8. Lepakshi
At a distance of 125 km from Bangalore is this treasure than is yet unexplored and unexploited. The major attractions Lepakshi place are the three prominent shrines of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Virabhadra that were constructed King Vijayanagara’s rule. Also a huge sculpture of Nandi Bull of Lord Shiva is sculpted with a single granite stone which takes the tourists by awe.
9. Horsley Hills
About 150 kms from the city of Bangalore lays another yet mesmerising hill station of Horsley in Andhra Pradesh. The place is close to Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary and has dense vegetation. The picturesque hill also offers adventurous activities like zorbing, rappelling and hiking. The Lake Gangotri and Lake Mansarovar, Gaalibanda, Horsley Hills Museum and Highview Point are a must visit when here.
10. Kunti Betta Trek
If you are adventure junkie you can come in to this place as it provides some most amazing views of the nature. About 150 km from Bangalore are these treks of Kunti Betta that unite you with nature. One can see a panoramic view of the place from the hill top and can also enjoy camping at night fire here.
Surrounded by enchanting destinations, the places to visit near Bangalore provides a variety of options to the Weekender for rejuvenating themselves in the laps of nature. All one needs is a two day off and a bag pack. Explore these places and fall in love with the nature.
