When the refreshing petrichor arrives, Namma Bangalore transforms as the surrounding Deccan Hills and Western Ghats too drape themselves in lush greenery, roaring cascades, and misty fog. It is the best time to escape the concrete jungle and go on an unforgettable scenic road trip, which means planning monsoon weekend getaways from Bangalore. Whether you are looking for one-day trips from Bangalore or extended weekend road trips from Bangalore in monsoon, we have a perfect list curated just for you! Check it out.
Weekend Trips From Bangalore In Monsoon
Short Escapes: 1 to 3 Hours Drive Time
1. Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is surely an all-season favourite spot for all Bangaloreans, but it transforms into a complete paradise during the rains. If you are looking for one-day trips from Bangalore, then waking up early and driving to Nandi Hills is surely a good idea. The hills offer a walking-in-the-clouds experience with low-lying clouds and are perfect if you are someone who loves adventure. Sipping hot chai while sitting right at the top of the hills is surely an unmatchable feeling. However, you may or may not get to witness the sunrise view due to thick mist, but you can surely go for the chill vibe and green transformation.
Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Drive Time: approximately 1.5 hours
2. Shivanasamudra Falls
You cannot talk about monsoon season without mentioning the mesmerizing waterfalls near Bangalore. And talking about waterfalls near Bangalore will always feel incomplete without mentioning Shivanasamudra Falls. Fed by the Cauvery River, the twin cascades of Bharachukki and Gaganachukki split and crash dramatically over rocky cliffs. The drive along the Kanakapura Road leading to the falls is an experience in itself, with green fields and swollen rivers. The volume and thunderous roar of the falls is a must-experience beauty during peak monsoon season. It is one of the finest rainy-day places near Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 135 km
Drive Time: approximately 2.5 hours
Mid Range Escapes: 4 to 6 Hours Drive Time
1. Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is known as the spiritual home of coffee in India, and during the rainy season, you can see this home transform into a cozy emerald wonderland. There are endless rolling estates which are rejuvenated by seasonal rains. The air is filled with earthy and damp fragrance. The drive through the winding roads up to Mullayanagairi, which is the highest point in Karnataka, is surely an unforgettable experience. The visibility often drops to a few feet, so make sure you take care of that. You will witness many hidden rolling cascades like Jhari Falls and Hebbe Falls on your way. It is one of the most loved choices for weekend trips from Bangalore in the monsoon.
Distance from Bangalore: 245 km
Drive Time: approximately 4.5 hours
Also Read: 10 Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore For A Weekend Escape
2. Coorg
Often referred to as the “Scotland of India”, Coorg takes on a complete green transformation with a cozy atmosphere during monsoons. The mist-laden valleys, swelling of the Cauvery River, and the beautiful dense forests make it one of the most loved monsoon weekend getaways from Bangalore. The drive via the Mysore highway offers a really smooth transition from the urban concrete jungle to the quiet lap of nature. Do not forget to visit the famous Iruppu Falls and Abbey Falls in Coorg and the misty vistas at Raja’s Seat. If you go on any forest trails, make sure you protect yourself from leeches by wearing leech socks and carrying lime with you.
Distance from Bangalore: 250 km
Drive Time: approximately 5 hours
Long Escapes: 6 plus Hours Drive Time
1. Wayanad
Cross over from Karnataka to Kerala and visit Wayanad, which is an absolute paradise, especially during monsoons. The long scenic drive takes you through forests, rivers, lakes, and Bandipur National Park, where the dry deciduous forests are transformed into vibrant shades of green. You can easily spot deer, elephants, and exotic birds enjoying the rainfall. The district is packed with various geographical features like Banasura Dam, a heart-shaped lake, and more. It stands out as one of the ultimate places near Bangalore for a long weekend retreat.
Distance from Bangalore: 269 km
Drive Time: approximately 6 hours
2. Agumbe
Agumbe is famously known as the “Cherrapunji of the South” as it receives some of peninsular India’s heaviest rainfall. It is home to the dense rainforests of the Western Ghats and also the elusive King Cobra. This long Bangalore road trip leading to Agumbe will help you witness some endless hidden streams and huge gushing waterfalls like Onake Abbi, Jogi Gundi, and Barkana Falls. The region comes alive with the non-stop symphonies of insects and frogs, which makes visiting Agumbe a sensory adventure.
Distance from Bangalore: 350 km
Drive Time: approximately 7.5 hours
Essential Monsoon Driving Checklist
- Make sure you check the tires of your vehicle thoroughly. This will help in preventing aquaplaning on wet highways.
- The next thing to check is your brake pads and worn-out wiper blades before leaving.
- Maintain a safe distance while following other vehicles to avoid any mishaps. Heavy rainfall can reduce visibility and increase braking distances.
- Check the weather at your destination using local weather forecasts.
- Do not attempt to cross standing water or a flooded street that rises above the lower edge of your car.
Summing Up
From cascading waterfalls near Bangalore to winding mountain passes, here is a meticulously curated list of the best places near Bangalore and rainy-day places near Bangalore. So save this list now and begin planning your next road trip for a relaxing monsoon getaway from Bangalore.
And if you want to know what exciting things you can do in Bangalore this weekend or the best breakfast spots in Bangalore, then do check out our website.
