When the Southwest monsoon hits Karnataka, the surrounding Deccan Plateau of Bengaluru bursts into emerald greens, with seasonal waterfalls and misty hilltops from clouds at eye level. If you are looking for an affordable monsoon trip near Bangalore and wondering about budget, well, guess what! You can actually plan a refreshing getaway for under INR 2,000 per person. Yes, you read that right! Don’t believe us? Here are the best one-day trips from Bangalore under INR 2,000.
Best One-Day Trips From Bangalore Under ₹2,000
Shivanasamudra Falls
Distance: Approximately 130 km via NH 09 or Kanakapura
Travel time: 3 hours one way
Best Time To Visit: July to October is the best time to visit as this is when the Kaveri River swells.
Why Visit: Shivanasamudra Falls is a spectacular twin waterfall located in Chamarajanagar and Mandya districts of Karnataka. It is formed by the Kaveri River plunging 90 meters down a rocky gorge and splits into two distinct cascading segments: Bharachukki and Gaganachukki. It is also home to Asia’s first major hydroelectric power station, established back in 1902.
Monsoon Safety Note: Stick strictly to the fenced viewpoints for safety. Swimming or boating is strictly suspended during heavy rains. The currents during July and August are incredibly deceptive and hazardous.
Budget: INR 1,100 to INR 1,800 (fuel, parking and meals)
Nandi Hills
Distance: Approximately 60 km via NH 44
Travel time: 1.5 hours one way
Best Time To Visit: July to September is the best time to visit this place for peak monsoon beauty.
Why Visit: Visiting Nandi Hills during the monsoon season creates an enchanting “sea of clouds” experience. The rainy season transforms this historic hill station into an emerald-green, lush paradise, which is blanketed in heavy fog. It is preferred for cold weather, dramatic sunrise views, and photography as well. Early mornings are the best time, as it brings the low-lying monsoon clouds that settle into the valley below. Temperatures drop significantly here, bringing in the crisp monsoon air.
Monsoon Safety Note: Thick fog can drop the visibility to less than 5 meters on the 40 hairoin curves, so keep your hazard lights on. Drive at a slow and steady speed.
Budget: approximately INR 1,400
Devarayanadurga Hills & Mandaragiri
Distance: Approximately 70 to 80 km via Tumkur Road
Travel time: 2 hours one way
Best Time To Visit: July–September is the best time to visit this place for peak monsoon scenic views.
Why Visit: Monsoons completely transform the semi-arid, rocky landscapes of Devarayanadurga Hills & Mandaragiri into mist-covered green beauties. While Nandi Hills gets overly crowded, these twin destinations in Tumakuru offer a sensory-rich monsoon and tranquil experience. The top of Devarayanadurga Hills houses the Yoga Narasimha Temple, which offers panoramic views of the valley. The Mandaragiri houses an 81-foot-tall Jain Guru Mandir shaped like a giant peacock feather broom (Pinchi). It is surely one of the most underrated monsoon destinations near Bengaluru.
Monsoon Safety Note: Wear slip-resistant trek shoes and beware of the slippery rocks. Avoid walking on the unrailed cliff edges.
Budget: approximately INR 1,600
Also Read: How To Spend A Day In Koramangala, Bengaluru?
Savandurga Hills
Distance: Approximately 55 km via Magadi
Travel time: 1.5 hours one way
Best Time To Visit: September is the best time to visit this place for low risk and the beauty of the hills.
Why Visit: Asia’s largest monolithic hill, Savandurga, is transformed into a mist-shrouded, lush green wonderland. It rises 1,226 meters above sea level and consists of two main hills: Karigudda and Biligudda. While the surrounding forest and Arkavathi River channels look stunningly vibrant, it is better to be a bit cautious while climbing the hills. It is perfect and one of the most loved places in Bengaluru for nature lovers, and trekking enthusiasts.
Monsoon Safety Note: Make sure you use shoes with good grip as rain transforms the steep, smooth incline into an incredibly slippery surface. Carry sufficient drinking water and snacks, as there are no shops available on the upper trail.
Budget: approximately INR 1,400
Manchanabele Dam Backwaters
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel time: 1 to 1.5 hours one way
Best Time To Visit: You can visit these backwaters during monsoon season but with proper precautions.
Why Visit: Visiting the Machanabele Dam Backwaters will offer you the scenic vistas of the lush, vibrant river valley, but your focus must be on sightseeing from a distance to be safe. The reservoirs are known to fill up dramatically during the peak monsoon season. Small, seasonal freshwater streams ripple through the roadside rocks, making the drive incredibly therapeutic. This reservoir is beautifully framed by the rugged backdrop of the famous Savandurga hills, making it more beautiful during the monsoons.
Monsoon Safety Note: Swimming in the backwaters or dam area is strictly prohibited and life-threatening. The dam is strictly closed during the peak monsoon season and is heavily guarded. You can witness the beauty through elevated roads or safe viewpoints.
Budget: approximately INR 1,300
Summing Up
So if your friends thought a budget trip from Bangalore under INR 2,000 is a myth, make sure you send this article to them and plan a trip ASAP. If you want one-day itineraries for Bengaluru you can visit our website and explore.
FAQs
Which Is The Best Monsoon Trip From Bangalore?
Chikmagalur and Coorg are the best monsoon trips to undertake from Bangalore.
Which Place Is Known As The Mini Switzerland Of Karnataka?
Sakhleshpur in the Hassan district is known as the Mini Switzerland of Karnataka.
Which Place Is Known As The Kashmir Of Karnataka?
Coorg is known as the Kashmir of Karnataka.
Are These One-Day Monsoon Destinations Suitable For Family Trips?
Yes, all the above-mentioned destinations are completely suitable for family trips. However, make sure you check and follow the safety advisories during monsoons.
What Should I Pack For A One-Day Monsoon Trip From Bengaluru?
Here’s what you should pack for a one-day monsoon trip from Bengaluru:
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Lightweight raincoat
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Waterproof backpack cover
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Good-grip trekking shoes
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Reusable water bottle
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Torch
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Extra clothes
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Power bank
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Basic first-aid supplies
