Top 25 Hill Stations Near Bangalore

source: holidify

Bangalore, India’s most westernised city, is the industrial powerhouse synonymous with development, multinationals and world-leading infrastructures. The IT Capital of India is filled with bars and pubs, attracting people of all ages to take a break from the city’s hubbub. However, it has more to offer to travellers.

Whether you are an orophile or not, add these top 25 resplendent hill stations near Bangalore to your bucket list to unwind your soul and enjoy nature to its fullest.

The list includes the mainstream hamlets near Bangalore and a few hidden gems. While some will woo you with their natural splendour, wildlife, lush green flora, tea, coffee and rubber plantations, others offer several adventurous activities. You indulge in rock-climbing, trekking, camping and others.

1. Ooty

source: blogspot

Those who skip their Switzerland trip plan due to budgetary constraints can visit Ooty, once the summer capital of Madras Presidency under the British. The majestic “Queens of the Hills” offers a canopy of unkempt and untouched nature that reflects a rare view of the symbiotic existence of the hills. Further, you can resuscitate your soul with a pristine view of tea plantations dotting the hillside.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Ziplining, walking on the sky bridge, rappelling, cycling, bungee swinging, bird watching, and speed climbing
• Top Places to Visit: Ooty Lake, Avalanche Lake, Dolphin’s Nose Emerald Lake, Kalhatty Waterfalls, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Botanical Gardens, St. Stephen’s Church, Kamraj Sagar Dam, Deer Park, and Doddabetta Peak
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,400 (1N/2D) to ₹ 29,900 (3N/4D) for couples
• How to Reach: By road and train

2. Coonoor

source: medium

Tucked away in the Nilgiri hills and a perfect hideout place from the hustle and bustle of city life, Coonoor is a charming hill station 300 km from Bangalore. Being one of the quintessential hill stations near Bangalore, it offers tourists a panoramic view of lush green hills, valleys, waterfalls and ravines. Further, the stunning flora and fauna, tea estates and colonial-style architecture add to its beauty and charm.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May, July to October and December to February
• Top Things to Do: Go onto the Heritage train, play golf, boating and sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Droog Fort, Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Rallia Dam, St. George’s Church, Ketti Valley, Law’s Falls, Highfield Tea Factory, and Lady Canning’s Seat
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,56,380 per person, ₹ 2,80,840 for two persons and ₹ 5,26,570 for four persons (for a 7 day trip)
• How to Reach: By road and train

3. Coorg

source: holidify

This affluent hill station near Bangalore is widely known as the “Scotland of India” and lures thousands of tourists annually across the country and overseas. It is adorned with quaint landscapes, captivating natural bounties, sprawling acres of coffee plantation, countless streams, rich flora and fauna and pleasant weather year-round. Further, from historical and religious sites to thrilling adventure sports, the heavenly Coorg is one of the most-visited hill stations near Bangalore.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, river rafting, camping, angling (fishing), bird watching, coffee plantation tour, quad biking, microlight flying, rappelling, and cycling
• Top Places to Visit: Abbey’s Fall, Golden Temple, Iruppu Falls, Madikeri Fort, Namdroling Monastery Bylakuppe, Barapole River, Dubare Elephant Camp, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,000 (for 3 days at a 3-star hotel) and ₹ 23,789 (for 7 3 days at a 5-star hotel)
• How to Reach: By road

4. Kodaikanal

source: holidify

From verdure valleys, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers to undulating hill slopes, Kodaikanal spoils the travellers with several choices. The hill station has served as a retreat since the mid-19th century and was also the summer capital of the British. Apart from the diverse landscape and rich flora and fauna, the Kurunji flower is one of the main attractions of the place since it commonly blooms once in 12 years.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do:  Night safari, boat riding, trekking, scenic driving, playing boomerang with caps at Caps Fly Valley, and biking
• Top Places to Visit: Green Valley View, Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, Thalaiyar Falls, Kodai Lake, Dolphin’s Nose, Fairy Falls, Pillar Rocks, and Devil’s Kitchen
• Average Cost of the Vacation: Starting from ₹ 7,000 (2N/3D)
• How to Reach: By road and train

5. Munnar

source: wikimedia

The quaint town of Munnar, in the district of Idukki, Kerala, was a summer resort of the British during colonial times, courtesy of its idyllic view. In addition, it is replete with affordable lodging options and luxury resorts to fit the diverse budgetary requirements of tourists across the country and overseas. The unending expanse of tea plantations, picturesque valleys, and exotic flora and fauna make Munnar the ultimate nature retreat of South India.

• Best Time to Visit: March to September
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, camping, safari, mountain biking, boating, hiking, sightseeing, rock climbing, paragliding and rejuvenating at ayurvedic spas
• Top Places to Visit: Pothamedu View Point, Echo Point, Attukad Waterfalls, Tata Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Marayoor Dolmens, Chinnakanal Waterfall, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 27,400 for two people (for 7 days)
• How to Reach: By road

6. Wayanad

source: irisholidays

Contagious to Bandhipur in Karnataka and Mudumalai in TamilNadu, Wayanad is a green paradise nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats. The vast stretches of mountains, gurgling water springs, pristine blue lakes, lush greenery of the valleys and wild forests exhibit the mesmerising natural beauty of this hill station. Another attraction of this hill station is its large tribal population and unique lifestyle

• Best Time to Visit: September to April
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and cycling
• Top Places to Visit: Edakkal Caves, Kuruva Island, Banasura Sagar Dam, Chain Tree, Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and many more
• Average Cost of the Vacation:  ₹ 7,660 per person (3D/2N from Bangalore), ₹8,990 per person (3D/2N from Chennai and Mysore), ₹4,990 per person (2D/1N), and ₹ 9,990 per person (for 4D/3N from Madurai)
• How to Reach: By road

7. Nandi Hills

source: mouthshut

The next in the list of hill stations near Bangalore perfect for one-day trips is the Nandi Hills, located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. The serene environment and bracing air of this hill station offer an idyllic summer retreat. Besides, its historical sites and architectural wonders attract flocks of tourists every year.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Cycling, trekking, paragliding, camping and walking along the hills
• Top Places to Visit: Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Tipu’s Drop, Tipu’s Summer Residence, Muddenahalli, Amrita Sarovar and Brahmashram
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1.14 lakhs (per person for 7 days), ₹ 2.05 lakhs (two persons for 7 days) and ₹ 3.85 lakhs (four persons for 7 days)
• How to Reach: By road 

8. Horsley Hills

source: hyderabadtourism

Want to respite from the daily humdrum of city life? Then visit one of the prime highlights of Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills, almost 143 km away from Bangalore. The exquisite hilly hamlet offers a fine blend of Nilgiri’s lush greenery and the rocky terrain of the Deccan Plateau. In addition, it is popular for India’s oldest Eucalyptus tree and the world’s largest Banyan Tree.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and trail walking
• Top Places to Visit: Horsley Hills Zoo, Gali Bandalu/Wind Rocks, Kalyani Eucalyptus Tree, Gangotri Lake, Kaigal Falls and Whisper Wind View Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,400 (day trip) and ₹ 6,000 (2D/1N)
• How to Reach: By road

9. Biligiriranga (BR) Hills

source: blogspot

If you are fond of long rides/drives, plan one to Biligiriranga or BR Hills, one of the most popular hill stations near Bangalore within 200 km. Approximately 173 km from the Silicon Valley of India, BR Hills is the perfect escape plan from the chaos of city life. It serves as an ecological bridge between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats. The hills are filled with diverse flora and fauna, including medicinal plants.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, safari, river rafting and camping
• Top Places to Visit: Dodda Sampige Mara, BRT Wildlife Sanctuary and Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,350 to ₹ 5,900 (accommodation)
• How to Reach: By road

10. Chikmagalur

source: coffeegroveresort

If you want to experience the tranquil retreat of Karnataka, visit Chikmagalur, the land of cascading waterfalls and mystical temples, nestled amidst the extensive Western Ghats. Besides its picturesque landscapes and salubrious air, Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantation and is often called the “Coffee Land of Karnataka”. Moreover, the entrancing hill station is the ideal place to savour your inner thrill enthusiast.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Jeep safari, river rafting, camping, and kayaking
• Top Places to Visit: Shettihalli Rosary Church, Gorur Dam, Shravanabelagola, Yagachi Dam, Halebeedu, Manjarabad Fort, and Belur
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,42,160 per person (for 7 days), ₹ 2,55,310 for a couple (for 7 days) and ₹ 4,78,670 for four-member family (for 7 days)
• How to Reach: By road

11. Kodachadri

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The 10th highest peak in Karnataka, Kodachadri, is a paradise for trekkers. The journey will take you through a quaint village with dense forests, rolling lush grasslands, waterfalls and paddy fields, making it among the popular hill stations near Bangalore for weekend getaway. Apart from its scenic attraction, you can visit a temple dated thousands of years. Moreover, in 7th AD, the famous philosopher and theologian Adi Shankara visited this hill station to meditate.

• Best Time to Visit: September to January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Hidlumane Falls, Chakra Dam, Nagara Fort, Belkal Theertha Falls and Savehaklu Reservoir
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,310 to ₹ 2,500 per person (for 2D/1N without transportation) and ₹ 3,770 to ₹ 4,200 per person (for 2D/1N with transportation)
• How to Reach: By road

12. Skandagiri Hills

source: cloudinary

If you are looking for hill stations near Bangalore for one day trip to lift your spirits and rejuvenate your mind, Skandagiri Hills is an apt option. Located only 60 km from Bangalore in the Chikkaballapura district of Karnataka, it is part of five prominent hills. The hill station is a perfect blend of natural beauty and history, unravelling history dating back to the 18th century. In addition, it offers an enthralling trekking experience and landscapes that will make your journey worthwhile.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June & November to March
• Top Things to Do: Sunrise and night trekking and enjoy the starlit sky
• Top Places to Visit: Tipu Sultan Fort, Papagni, Shiva Temple, Grover Zampa vineyards, Nrityagram
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 450 per person (entry fees), ₹ 50 to ₹ 100 (parking charges), and ₹ 800 to ₹ 1200 (night trekking charges)
• How to Reach: By road

13. Antargange

source: yatra

Well known as the wonder world of caves, Antargange is among the top hill stations near Bangalore within 70 km. Located in the Shathashrunga mountain range near Kolar, 67 km far from the city bustle, Antargange is popular for large boulders, freshwater streams, and a network of deep caves. Further, this place offers an adrenaline-charged experience, courtesy of trekking, cave exploration, and intriguing sunrise atop the hills.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, cave exploration and photography
• Top Places to Visit: Tipu Sultan Fort, Papagni, Shiva Temple, Grover Zampa vineyards, Nrityagram
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1300 per person
• How to Reach: By road

14. Kabbaladurga

source: explara

Ideal for soul searching, Kabbaladurga is the next on the list of the best hill stations within 100 km of Bangalore. It has derived its name from the temple of Goddess Kabbalamma and the ruins of the fort at the hilltop. If you are an amateur trekker, visit this hill station to witness the blissful natural surroundings, especially in the early dawn.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Kabbaladurga Durga Peak and Kabbaladurga Fort
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1300 per person (for trekking)
• How to Reach: By road

15. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

source: blogspot

Another tranquil hill station around 80 km from Bangalore is Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta or Bilikal Betta, offering a sheer delight of thrill and adventure. As maintained by the Bangalore forest department, visitors need to seek permission. In addition, Bilikal Betta is the haven of elephants and has a thick plantation, making it a must-visit weekend getaway near Bangalore.

• Best Time to Visit: August to January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Chunchi Falls, Ramadevara Betta, Mekedatu, Janapada Loka, Lord Ranga Swamy Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1100 per day (for trekking)
• How to Reach: By road and train

16. Avalabetta

source: shortpedia

If you are looking for the best hill stations near Bangalore within 100 km, route your trip to Avalabetta to escape mundane city life and experience the picturesque beauty and serenity of nature. Moreover, this emerging tourist destination is ideal for bike enthusiasts, courtesy of the zigzag cement terrain connecting the hill to the peak. Further, ages ago, when the gods and demons churned the ocean, both good and evil surfaced. It is believed one of them was a holy cow that landed at Avalabetta.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Hilltop Pond, Beak Rock, and Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 400 per person
• How to Reach: By road and train

17. Kunti Betta

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The next on the list of best hill stations near Bangalore is Kunti Betta, posing an eclectic hotchpotch of mythology, nature and history. It recites stories of the time when Kunti and Pandavas took adobe here during their exile period. Moreover, it is believed that Kunti had spent most of her time on the hillock; thus, it is named Kunti Betta.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, camping, rappelling, kayaking, boating and swimming
• Top Places to Visit: Parikrama Point, Sri Mallikarjuna Temple, Kunti Kund and Thonnur Lake
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1349 (per person)
• How to Reach: By road

18. Madhugiri

source: bangaloreadventureschool

Madhugiri, the second largest monolithic rock in Asia, is among the most-visited hill stations within 200 km of Bangalore. Its imposing charm invites flocks of tourists and trekkers every year. Here you can witness the intricate architecture adorning the fort that will follow you throughout the trail. However, Madhugiri poses a challenging trek up close with an incline as steep as 50 to 70 degrees.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Jayamangali Blackbuck sanctuary, Channarayana Durga, Seebi Narasimhaswamy Temple and Siddara Betta
• Average Cost of the Vacation: No entry fee
• How to Reach: By road

19. Shivaganga

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The alluring beauty of nature and adventurous ecstasy of Shivaganga make this hill station a great option for a one day trip near Bangalore. Further, this place is also recognised for exploring religious fanatics. The myth says that pouring milk on the Shiva Linga of the Shivagange Olakal Theertha temple will instantly turn into butter.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, hiking, and rock climbing
• Top Places to Visit: Nandi statue, Gangadhareshwara Temple, Patala Gange, Olakala Theertha and Shanthala Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: No entry fee
• How to Reach: By road and train

20. Yercaud

source: clubmahindra

Another hill station within 200 km from Bangalore is Yercaud, an ideal option to witness the unspoiled and pristine nature. Filled with raw natural resources and a rustic ambience, it houses a wide range of vantage points, each with unique charm and beauty. Moreover, it is known as Ooty for the poor, given its affordable tourism. With cool temperatures and an inviting setting amidst the lush green hills, Yercaud is also known for the rare Kurinji flowers that bloom once in twelve years.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, high rope, zipline, hiking, boating, and long walks across natural trails within the forest
• Top Places to Visit: Yercaud Lake, Tipperary Viewpoint, Kiliyur Falls, Deer Park, Lady Seat, White Elephant Tooth Rocks and Pagoda Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,19,150 per person (for 7 days), ₹ 3,93,590 for a couple (for 7 days) and ₹ 7,37,870 for four-member family (for 7 days)
• How to Reach: By road and train

21. Kolli Hills

source: peapix

Individuals who are looking for hill stations untouched by commercial tourism must visit Kolli Hills. History says ghost of “Kolli Pavai” existed on the top of the hills and that is how it received the name, literally meaning “Mountain of Death”. Further, the fertile pocket is home to exotic flora, making this hill country mystical to probe.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and August to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, river rafting, camping, angling (fishing), bird watching, coffee plantation tour, quad biking, microlight flying, rappelling, and cycling
• Top Places to Visit: Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Siddhar Caves, Tamil Nadu Medical Plant Farms & Herbal Medicine Corporation Limited (TAMPCOL), etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation:  ₹ 3,200 (one day trip for 2 persons), ₹ 3,500 ( one day trip for 3 persons) and ₹ 4,600 (one day trip for 4 persons)
• How to Reach: By road and train

22. Savandurga

source: medium

Only 48 km away from the cosmopolitan city of India, Savandurga is among the popular hill stations near Bangalore for a one-day trip. The hill cluster includes Biligudda (White hill) and Karigudda (Black hill). Known as the ‘Fort of Death’, it is one of Asia’s largest monolithic hills, making it a popular trekking spot for its challenging climbs and alluring views of Arkavathi river and Thippagondanahalli and Magadi reservoirs and Manchabele dams.

• Best Time to Visit: End of September to February
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking and rock-climbing
• Top Places to Visit: Sree Savandhi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and Savandyrga Top
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 2,500 per person (hotel cost for 1 night)
• How to Reach: By air and road

23. Yelagiri

source: medium

If you plan to spend some unruffled time with your friends and family, route your next road trip to Yelagiri. Located nearly 153 km from Bangalore, the weather here remains salubrious year-round. Further, every year at the end of May, the Tamil Nadu tourism development board conducts a summer festival for the tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: November to mid-February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, paragliding and picnic
• Top Places to Visit: SwamiMalai Hills, Jalagandeeswarar Temple, Government Herbal Farm, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Velavan Temple, Telescope Observatory, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,100 (2D/1N)
• How to Reach: By road and train

24. Valparai

source: unsplash

Valparai boasts deep forests, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries. The man-made tea and coffee plantations co-exist with wild waterfalls, deep forests, cascading waterfalls and diverse wildlife. In addition, the alluring picturesque sights justify the moniker “The Seventh Heaven”.

• Best Time to Visit: December and January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, taking long walks and touring
• Top Places to Visit: Aliyar Dam, Sholayar Dam, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, Nallamudi Viewpoint, Balaji Temple, Koolangal River, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,490 per person on twin-sharing (2N/3D)
• How to Reach: By road

25. Vythiri

source: trivago

You can route your next trip to Vythiri to rejuvenate your tired senses. Environed by the lofty Western Ghats, this hill station near Bangalore lures tourists with its bewildering beauty, including most-capped soaring peaks, copious rubber and spice plantation, evergreen rain forests, tea and coffee plantation, olive foliage, white foamy waterfalls, sparkling streamlets and many more. Moreover, to enjoy nature to its fullest, you can stay at tree houses to experience the thrills of the forest.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, biking and cycling
• Top Places to Visit: Chembra Peak, Pookot Lake, Soochipara Falls, Vythiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Banasura Dam
• Average Cost of the Vacation:  ₹ 1,19,602 per person, ₹ 2,14,840 for two persons and ₹ 4,02,680 for four persons (for a 7 day trip)
• How to Reach: By road

With captivating landscapes and scenic beauty, these hill stations near Bangalore are ideal for individuals who seek a blend of bliss and serenity to rejuvenate their senses. Apart from these, you can also explore other hill stations such as Gokarna, Yana, Agumbe, Sakleshpur, Ramanagara, Mullayanagiri Hills and many more.