With Independence Day 2025 fast approaching, a lot of you must be preparing to pack your bags and embark on a long weekend adventure. Call it sheer luck or geographical advantage, Bangalore is a city strategically located near many weekend getaway spots. This makes the city one of the best places to set out on weekend adventures from. So, adventure enthusiasts and slow travelers alike, here are some of the best last-minute Independence Day escapes within 5 hours of Bangalore. Pack your bags, tie your shoelaces, and let’s set out to enjoy the weekend!
Travel Plans At The Eleventh Hour: Last-Minute Independence Day Escapes Within 5 Hours From Bangalore
Coorg
‘Scotland of India’ as it is known, Coorg is a peaceful hill station tucked away in the Western Ghats. The hill station Coorg is a haven for nature lovers, coffee aficionados, and those who just want to laze around with a view. Picture yourself sipping freshly brewed coffee, surrounded by misty hills and the earthy aroma of plantations.
In the monsoon, Coorg’s landscapes become extra picturesque as each of its corners gets drenched in the downpour. Whether you’re looking to trek through lush trails, visit waterfalls, or simply curl up in your cozy homestay, Coorg has got you covered!
Must-visit attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, Talacauvery, Mandalpatti
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 5 hours
Chikmagalur
Many people know Chikmagalur for having India’s best-kept coffee estates. However, beyond the rich coffee, Chikmagalur is a haven for those seeking solace in the hills. From rolling coffee plantations to scenic viewpoints and unexplored nature trails to wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls, Chikmagalur has something for everyone!
If you’re searching for last-minute Independence Day escapes within 5 hours from Bangalore, Chikmagalur is easily one of the best! It’s conveniently located just a few hours from the IT Hub of India and has a gazillion things for travelers to engage in.
Must-visit attractions: coffee estates, Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Hirekolale Lake
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 4.5 hours
Kabini
While Ooty, Coorg, and Mysore are known by tourists as some of the ideal last-minute Independence Day escapes within 5 hours from Bangalore, Kabini is an underexplored gem. Nestled on the banks of the Kabini River, it is known for its wildlife sanctuaries, birdwatching, and boat safaris. Kabini is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts to come, unwind, and explore the biodiversity here.
From elephants to leopards and deer and rare birds, the wildlife paradise is sure to guarantee you some amazing animal-spotting experience. And when you’re not doing that, you can visit the elephant camps, the Nagarhole National Park, Kabini Dam, and much more!
Must-visit attractions: Nagarhole National Park Safari, Kabini Backwaters, Kabini Dam
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 4 hours
Wayanad
This next weekend destination from Bangalore is actually located in the neighboring state of Kerala – yes, we’re talking about Wayanad. A beautiful blend of lush green hills, spice plantations, and cascading waterfalls, Wayanad is as peaceful, picturesque, and poetic as it can get.
The drive itself is a treat – winding roads, monsoon breeze, and stunning viewpoints. Once you’re there, don’t forget to trek to the Edakkal Caves, laze by Pookode Lake, or chase the plentiful waterfalls here. Plus, Kerala’s monsoons lend a different, otherworldly charm to this place that we’re sure you’ll fall in love with. Are you excited to visit Wayanad this August 2025?
Must-visit attractions: Soochipara Falls, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 5 hours
Sakleshpur
If Coorg, Ooty, and other similar places seem too ‘mainstream’ for you, Sakleshpur is about to be your favorite underrated gem. This hill station in Karnataka is famous in the state for its cardamom, coffee, and areca plantations, however, it is not that popular among tourists.
This is what makes Sakleshpur a great place to unwind and escape from the crowd of other last-minute Independence Day escapes within 5 hours from Bangalore. Endless greenery, misty hills, ancient forts and temples, and plenty of trekking trails – Sakleshpur has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, family traveler, or a couple, Sakleshpur’s beauty and attractions will leave you mesmerized!
Must-visit attractions: Manjarabad Fort, Bisle View Point, Hemavathi Reservoir, Jenukal Gudda, Magajahalli Falls
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 4 hours
Mysore
History, culture, and a generous serving of royal charm – Mysore is a vibrant destination to pick as a last-minute weekend getaway. The city has been one of the most important centers of spirituality, administration, knowledge, and culture for centuries. And the palaces, temples, and historic buildings certainly testify to that.
In a month like August, expect Mysore’s beauty to be multiplied – the city drenches in monsoon showers diligently! If you’re into all things history, architecture, and culture, Mysore is the ultimate destination in Karnataka to be at.
Must-visit attractions: Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Chamundi Hill, Sand Museum Mysore, Karanji Lake, St. Philomena’s Church, Devaraja Market
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 2.5 hours
Vellore
While Mysore enjoys all the attention for its cultural heritage, Vellore is its often overlooked cousin. It is not the most frequented weekend destination by travelers, and that is what makes Vellore a unique spot for your getaway! It’s a city filled with history, art, and architecture in every one of its corners. Vellore, with plenty of magnificent temples, is also a great place to go temple hopping for an entire day. Besides that, there’s the iconic 16th-century Vellore Fort, Periyar Park, and plenty of museums and markets to explore. When are you visiting Vellore?
Must-visit attractions: Vellore Fort, Jalakandeswarar Temple, Periyar Park, Vaina Bappu Observatory, Science Park, Amirthi Zoological Park, Sripuram Golden Temple
Approximate distance from Bangalore by road: 4 hours
Summing Up
If you were looking for last-minute Independence Day escapes within 5 hours from Bangalore, we’ve just given you not one, not two, but seven unique options to choose from! Whether it’s the rain-kissed coffee plantations of Chikmagalur or the lesser-known hill station of Sakleshpur, these last-minute getaways have something each to offer. From taking in scenic views, trying exciting adventurous sports, and engaging in temple visits, we’re sure you’ll find plenty of activities to do in each of these places! Happy weekend already!
