With the long weekend approaching, most of you must have certainly planned exotic trips and shopped for cutesy outfits. But if you’re a rebel at heart and like taking the road less traveled each time, then you’re in for a sweet delight. We’ve jotted down just the right offbeat spots in Bengaluru for you to unwind away from the chaos of the parties. We care for your time so if you begin sweating at the thought of longer travels, then relax because all the offbeat spots mentioned are less than 300 km from Bengaluru! Let’s check them out.
Places To Visit Near Bengaluru
- Skandagiri
- Kanakapura
- Anthargange
- Hogenakkal
- Horsley Hills
- Jawadhu Hills
1.Skandagiri
Did you know you could boast of living in the clouds without actually being on flights? Well now you do. Located 70 km away, Skandagiri proudly boasts of its captivating sunrise views and trekking opportunities, becoming one of the best offbeat spots in Bengaluru. This hill, also known as Kalavara Durga, stands tall at 1450 meters and is surrounded by the scenic Nandi Hills.
Trekkers and adventure junkies, listen! You’re about to discover your next favorite offbeat spot near Bengaluru. To experience the sweet fruit of wondrous sunrises, you must first undertake a laborious 10 km trek. Night treks also are popular, allowing you to witness a dreamy combination of hills juxtaposed against a starry sky. If you do make it to the top, reward yourself with some time of relaxation (you can actually rest there, because the rocks are humongous, just don’t topple off!).
Once home to a fort built by Tipu Sultan, today, Skandagiri only has a few remaining walls and two temples—one at the bottom and another at the top. Despite its historical significance, the trek and the scenic landscapes are what steal the show here. Skandagiri is a must-visit if you want your long weekends to end on a high because the refreshing treks and the ruined fort WILL raise your freight or flight senses, thanks to the chilling vibe.
Things To Do Here:
- Treat your eyes to the panoramic views of the neighboring ‘Giris,’ villages, towns, and forests from the hilltop.
- Trek through the steep rocks, hopping boulders, and a muddy track.
- Explore the ancient fort’s ruined walls and carved pillars.
Distance from Bengaluru: 70 km
2.Kanakapura
You remember the cottage in the woods from where Little Red Riding Hood would travel to the city to fetch an earning? The story’s changed only a little since then– the cottage transformed into a city in the woods and the descendants of Hood (us) are running back to the woods today. Now, in the real world, if this was the case, the city would be called Kanakapura. Located 55 km from Bengaluru in Karnataka, this place is a popular getaway known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and proximity to Turahalli Forest.
The city, situated on the banks of the Arkavathi River, entices tourists and wildlife enthusiasts with its rich flora and fauna. You’re bound to relax and let go of all worries here in the picturesque landscapes, soothing aura, and tranquil temples. For some adventure, you can trek to hilltops and remember to carry food and sufficient water with you. Be careful because you’ll be greeted by a lot of monkeys up there.
Situated at an elevation of 634 meters above sea level, Kanakapura enjoys a pleasant tropical climate year-round, making it one of the best offbeat spots in Bengaluru. The summer heat is beat by rainfall, while winters experience lesser precipitation, making it ideal for a New Year getaway.
Things To Do Here:
- Trek through the Kabbaladurga and reach the magnificent hilltops and enjoy the views.
- You can enjoy a safari ride in the lush green Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The waterside is perfect for a picnic. Spend some time with nature while munching on some snacks.
- Explore the process of filmmaking and visit the set of famous Indian reality tv show Bigg Boss at the Innovative Film City.
- Head to the Pyramid Valley if you want to experience a peaceful retreat.
Distance from Bengaluru: 64.1 km
3.Anthargange
Anthargange, situated 69 kilometers from Bengaluru, is a popular tourist destination known for its religious significance, natural beauty, and trekking opportunities. The area is famous for the Anthargange Caves and Temple, making it a preferred spot for night treks and camping near the metropolitan city.
The name Anthargange, meaning Inner Spring, comes from a spring originating in the hills that flows through a bull statue at the temple. The ancient temple is surrounded by lush vegetation and a tranquil water pool, originating from the spring. To reach the temple, you’ll need to walk uphill for approximately 15 minutes from the parking area at the hill’s entrance.
Anthargange is a pilgrimage site where you’re likely to encounter friendly monkeys who’d eye nothing but your food. The temple area is known for its natural beauty and serenity. For adventure enthusiasts, the Anthargange Caves, located about an hour’s trek from the temple, are an opportunity to explore various caves, some of which are suitable for camping. If you’re one to take on adventures without fainting at the slightest sound, you can even opt for camping here overnight.
Amidst all these offbeat spots in Bengaluru have to offer, this one particularly lacks in one aspect . There are no food options available at Anthargange, so you must carry your food supplies from Kolar which is only 4 km away, or from the city itself if you’re planning to say hello to the New Year from the peak.
Distance from Bengaluru: 69 km
4.Hogenakkal
If there’s Niagara Falls in the west, we have Hogenakkal in the east. Hoge means smoke and Kallu means rocks in Kannada. Thus emerge the gorgeous amalgamation of rocks, water, and mist on the borders of the two states. You’ll realize the smoke reference when you notice the water falling on rocks like smoke because of which this waterfall is also called the Niagara Falls of India.
Why must you be here for your next long weekend? To take a dip in the medicinal water here. Besides that you can enjoy a visual treat especially during the monsoons when the waterfall is at its peak.
Things To Do Here:
- Enjoy the coracle rides post monsoon season.
- If you didn’t get to visit Thailand, it’s okay, you can get the best oil massages here at affordable rates, and your partners won’t even be upset. The perfect win-win for all!
Distance from Bengaluru: 125.5 km
5.Horsley Hills
Perched at 1264 meters, Horsley Hills stands tall (quite literally) as a popular hill station in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. With the Chittoor district falling in proximity to Bengaluru, it’s also become a favored destination for the tourists and tech geeks because they finally get a chance to look at mountains in real life and not on the screens.
Horsley Hills were once known as Yenugu Mallamma Konda, inspired from folklore of the time. A young girl, Mallamma, was said to be taken care of by the elephants of the region and was capable of healing the tribal folk. Legend has it that she vanished all of a sudden, prompting the construction of a temple in her honor. As interesting as that sounds, the hill was renamed as Horsley after the collector of the district.
The best way to reach the hills is definitely by train. But might we suggest you choose to drive so you can explore the scenery surrounded by lush vegetation and various species of flora and fauna. You’ll come across a whole stretch of dense growth of eucalyptus, gulmohar, reeta, beedi leaves, blue gum, and sandalwood. Considering you’re visiting during peak winters, be sure to carry jackets and sweatshirts, and enjoy a fun weekend at this offbeat spot near Bengaluru.
Things To Do Here:
- Visit the Lake Gangotri
- Trek to the different viewpoints
- Visit the Gali Banda or the wind rocks
- Have fun in the Zorbing– a rarity in the southern region.
- Explore the Horsley Hills Museum
Distance from Bengaluru: 157.3 km
6.Jawadhu Hills
The Jawadhu Hills are an extension of the Eastern Ghats spread across Vellore and Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu. Besides respiratory recovery, the unpolluted air here offers a clear view of the sky making stargazing a favorite must-do activity.
On your visit there if you start feeling too calm, just let go and put up a camp because it’s allowed. Not to forget the aesthetic flex of camping under the stars, amidst clean air. Your camping experience can be enhanced (and sustained) with the views of the Cheyyar and Agaram Rivers.
If you get a chance to interact with the native inhabitants of the hills, feel free to ask them more about the area’s history and legend.
Things To Do Here:
- Visit the Beeman Maduvu Waterfall
- Visit the Kavalur Observatory operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Be careful of the forests surrounding the observatory as it’s home to species of deer, snakes, scorpions, and other creatures.
Distance from Bengaluru: 183.8 km
Summing Up
There are 2 types of people in the world– one who parties like crazy and one who wears their heart on their sleeves and prefers to get lost in the wonders of nature. But one thing’s common, both kinds sure like to begin the New Year on a joyous and happy note. If you’re one from the latter category, head to these offbeat spots near Bengaluru to welcome your year memorably.
FAQs
What Are The Exotic Locations Near Bangalore?
Some exotic locations near Bengaluru are Jakkur, Savandurga, Bidadi, Anthargange, and Skandagiri.
What Are The Places Near Bangalore To Enjoy?
Lal Bagh and Cubbon Park are two well-known attractions in Bengaluru. You can also visit some other tourist spots like Nandi Hills and Bannerghatta National Park, which are picturesque spots with abundant flora and fauna.
What Are The Places Like BR Hills?
Some places like the Biligirirangana Hills (BR) are Kundadri Hills, Madikeri, Agumbe, and many others.
Which Is Better, Coorg Or Wayanad?
Coorg in Karnataka and Wayanad in Kerala are both picturesque and serene hill stations. You can explore these hill stations with your friends, family, or even solo trips.
Where Can I Go For A Half Day Trip In Bangalore?
Some of the places you can visit in Bengaluru for a short half-day trip are Bangalore Fort, and Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha and High Court heritage building, and Krishna Rajendra (KR) Market.
Which Beach Is Like Goa In Karnataka?
Gokarna is widely known for its beaches and temples. It’s slowly gaining popularity as an offbeat beach location just about 3 hours from Goa.
