Planning a quick weekend getaway with family or friends from Bengaluru is easy. Karnataka and the neighbouring states are blessed with innumerable destination options. Whether it’s hill stations, pilgrimages, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries or beach getaways, the choices are aplenty. In fact, you might not even require extensive planning or research before heading out. Depending on what kind of activity you want to indulge in, these umpteen holiday spots are the right places to be at. From detoxifying your soul at pilgrimages to getting an adrenaline rush exploring the mysteries of nature, these 8 weekend getaways from Bengaluru are a must.
1. Nandi Hills
The picturesque scenery of Nandi Hills is approximately 60 km from the city of Bengaluru. The place has several legends that never fail to entice the tourists. From being called ‘The Hill of Happiness’ to bearing a striking resemblance to a sleeping bull, you must take this trip for a quick dash out of the city. Apart from the beautiful Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Anjaneya temple, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple, there are other eye-catching spots in Nandi Hills. Like Tippu Drop, a cliff at an altitude of 600m where prisoners were thrown to death as punishment during the reign of Tipu Sultan. Then there is Amrita Sarovar, a beautiful lake that has been formed by perennial springs. Nandi Hills and its valleys are also famous for paragliding.
2. Chikmagalur
It takes around four hours’ time to escape city madness and embrace the serenity of Chikmagalur. Located 250 km away from Bangalore near the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, the place is favoured by visitors for its pleasant and healthy climate.
Being home to the state’s highest peak, Mullayanagiri, at close to 2000m, provides great opportunities for trekking. Baba Budangiri range is another striking destination which has three intriguing caves. Horanadu Temple is another frequently visited place in Chikmagalur. It is said to be set by sage Adi Shankaracharya. Don’t miss the Kalhatti Falls located at Kallattipura which offers a magnificent view of the cascading water.