15 Best Hill Stations in Karnataka to Visit (Aug–Feb) — Travel Guide 2025
Why Is Now the Perfect Time to Plan a Hill Station Holiday in Karnataka
It’s that time of the year again—when the monsoon begins to wind down, the air feels cooler, and your travel plans start making their way from thought to action. Between August and February, the hill stations of Karnataka are at their best—offering fresh mountain air, open trails, seasonal waterfalls, and a kind of stillness that city life rarely allows.
Whether you’re looking for a long weekend escape, a holiday near Bangalore, or a quiet retreat in the Western Ghats, Karnataka has a wide range of destinations—from popular tourist places to lesser-known gems that are just starting to gain attention.
This guide features 15 hill stations in and around Karnataka, with detailed insights into what makes each place worth visiting—weather, top attractions, local food, accessibility, and more. We’ve also incorporated what people are searching for—terms like hill stations near Bangalore, cool places in Karnataka, and holiday destinations in Karnataka—to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
In this Blog
1. Coorg (Kodagu, Karnataka)
Distance from Bangalore: 260 km | Nearest city: Mysore (120 km)
Weather (Aug–Feb): 15°C–26°C
Discover Coorg:
Often called the coffee capital of Karnataka, Coorg is more than just a scenic town—it’s an entire experience. Picture winding roads through lush plantations, homestays that smell of fresh filter coffee, and a landscape that turns emerald right after the rains. It’s perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers alike.
Top Highlights:
- Abbey & Iruppu Falls in full flow post-monsoon
- Dubare Elephant Camp and Cauvery river experiences
- Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe
- Madikeri Fort and Raja’s Seat for culture and views
Local Food to Try:
Pandi curry, bamboo shoot curry, Akki rotti, honey and coffee from local estates
2. Chikmagalur (Karnataka)
Distance from Bangalore: 245 km | Nearest city: Hassan (80 km)
Weather (Aug–Feb): 14°C–24°C
Discover Chikmagalur:
Nestled at the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, Chikmagalur is one of Karnataka’s most popular hill stations. Known for its coffee estates, winding ghat roads, and cool mountain air, it makes for a great all-season destination—especially ideal from late August through winter.
Top Highlights:
- Coffee plantation tours and estate stays
- Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary safaris
- Belur & Halebidu for Hoysala architecture
- Z Point trek and Kemmangundi drive
Local Food to Try:
Malenadu thali, jackfruit curry, Neer dosa, spicy filter coffee
3. Mullayanagiri (Chikmagalur district)
Distance from Bangalore: 265 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 10°C–20°C
Discover Mullayanagiri:
Standing at 1,930 meters, Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka and a must-visit for trekking enthusiasts. The sunrise views from the top are worth the early start, and the winding drive up offers stunning mountain vistas at every bend.
Top Highlights:
- Sunrise trek with panoramic views
- Shiva temple at the summit
- Off-roading trails to Bababudangiri
- Photography haven during golden hour
Local Food to Try:
Boiled groundnuts, roadside tea, local Malnad snacks
4. Baba Budangiri (Chikmagalur district)
Distance from Bangalore: 270 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 12°C–22°C
Discover Baba Budangiri:
This twin-peaked range near Chikmagalur is not only a scenic delight but also holds historical and spiritual significance. Baba Budangiri is where coffee was first introduced to India, and the unique religious fusion of Sufi and Hindu traditions makes this a one-of-a-kind destination.
Top Highlights:
- Historic dargah and ancient caves
- Coffee trail origin stories
- Drive through rugged mountain terrain
- Ideal stop en route to or from Mullayanagiri
Local Food to Try:
Kharabath, ragi dosa, crispy vadas, Mysore coffee blends
5. Tadiandamol (Kodagu district)
Distance from Bangalore: 270 km | Nearest town: Virajpet (40 km)
Weather (Aug–Feb): 14°C–24°C
Discover Tadiandamol:
Tadiandamol is Coorg’s highest peak and a favourite among trekkers. Unlike the touristy parts of Coorg, this area is less crowded and more immersive, with wide open grasslands, mist-drenched trails, and unspoiled nature.
Top Highlights:
- Moderate-level trek with scenic rewards
- Forest trails and ridge walks
- Nalaknad Palace near the base
- Ideal for nature-focused travellers
Local Food to Try:
Wild mushroom curry, rice dumplings, honey-infused desserts
6. Kemmanagundi (Chikmagalur district)
Distance from Bangalore: 270 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 13°C–23°C
Discover Kemmanagundi:
Kemmanagundi, once a summer retreat for the Mysore royals, remains a lesser-known but stunning hill destination. The gardens, viewpoints, and hidden waterfalls here are a dream for quiet getaways and romantic holidays.
Top Highlights:
- Hebbe and Kalhatti waterfalls
- Raj Bhavan viewpoint for sunrise
- Rose gardens and forest trails
- Perfect for couples and offbeat explorers
Local Food to Try:
Ragi mudde, chutney podi, steamed banana leaf meals
7. Sakleshpur (Hassan district)
Distance from Bangalore: 220 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 16°C–26°C
Discover Sakleshpur:
Sitting along the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur is an all-weather destination with misty mornings and coffee-scented air. The hilly terrain, forest hikes, and scenic railway tracks make it ideal for both laid-back stays and active itineraries.
Top Highlights:
- Green Route Railway Trek
- Manjarabad Fort and Jenukal Gudda
- Coffee estate accommodations
- Less commercial, more soulful
Local Food to Try:
Avarekalu curry, banana chips, local filter coffee
8. Kudremukh (Chikmagalur district)
Distance from Bangalore: 330 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 11°C–22°C
Discover Kudremukh:
A paradise for trekkers and wildlife lovers, Kudremukh combines mountain grasslands with tropical forests. It’s located inside a national park, making it a protected haven for rare species and an exceptional escape from city chaos.
Top Highlights:
- Trek to the horse-shaped peak
- Kudremukh National Park flora & fauna
- Rainforest trails and valley views
- Eco-tourism zone with forest regulations
Local Food to Try:
Malnad rice thali, honey-infused dosa, seasonal fruits
9. Agumbe (Shimoga district)
Distance from Bangalore: 380 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 18°C–28°C
Discover Agumbe:
Known as the “Cherrapunji of South India,” Agumbe is where time seems to slow down. It’s a rainforest retreat famous for its monsoon magic, sunsets, and wildlife—especially the elusive King Cobra.
Top Highlights:
- Sunset Point and forest hikes
- Rainforest research station
- Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Filming location for Malgudi Days
Local Food to Try:
Tamarind rice, wild mushroom curry, jaggery payasam
10. Kodachadri (Shimoga district)
Distance from Bangalore: 430 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 14°C–24°C
Discover Kodachadri:
Kodachadri is one of the most beautiful and spiritually significant peaks in Karnataka. Offering jeep trails, misty views, and rich biodiversity, it’s also home to the famed Sarvajna Peetha temple.
Top Highlights:
- Trek or 4×4 jeep ride to summit
- Hidlumane Falls and Shankaracharya temple
- Stunning views over the Western Ghats
- Perfect blend of adventure and spirituality
Local Food to Try:
Soppina saaru, idli-chutney, dry fruit laddoos
11. BR Hills (Chamarajanagar district)
Distance from Bangalore: 180 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 16°C–24°C
Discover BR Hills:
Where the Western Ghats meet the Eastern Ghats, BR Hills is a biodiverse corridor that’s especially rewarding for wildlife sightings, peaceful forest drives, and spiritual retreats.
Top Highlights:
- Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Jeep safaris in BRT Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking and canopy birdwatching
- Great for families and nature retreats
Local Food to Try:
Steamed millet dishes, tamarind rice, forest honey
12. Nandi Hills (Chikkaballapur)
Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Weather (Aug–Feb): 16°C–25°C
Discover Nandi Hills:
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weekend trip from Bangalore, Nandi Hills always delivers. The early morning sunrise, historic temples, and sheer accessibility make it a favourite across age groups.
Top Highlights:
- Tipu Sultan’s Fort and summer palace
- Paragliding and biking trails
- Watch sunrise above the clouds
- Ideal for short getaways or day trips
Local Food to Try:
Roadside idli-vada, filter coffee, hot chilli bajjis
13. Yercaud (Tamil Nadu, near Karnataka border)
Distance from Bangalore: 230 km | State: Tamil Nadu
Weather (Aug–Feb): 13°C–23°C
Discover Yercaud:
Just across the border in Tamil Nadu, Yercaud offers an affordable and relaxed alternative to more crowded hill stations. Set in the Shevaroy Hills, it’s known for its lake, forest drives, and cool weather.
Top Highlights:
- Boating on Yercaud Lake
- 32-km Loop Road for scenic drives
- Pagoda Point and forest treks
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly
Local Food to Try:
South Indian thalis, citrus fruits, orange chocolates
14. Ooty (Tamil Nadu, near Karnataka border)
Distance from Bangalore: 280 km | State: Tamil Nadu
Weather (Aug–Feb): 10°C–20°C
Discover Ooty:
While not in Karnataka, Ooty is a favourite for those in Bangalore looking for a full-fledged mountain vacation. From toy trains to tea estates, it checks every travel box.
Top Highlights:
- Botanical Gardens, lakes, and pine forests
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway ride
- Great stay options for all budgets
- Ideal for longer holiday getaways
Local Food to Try:
Varkey biscuits, Nilgiri tea, Badaga-style curries
15. Wayanad (Kerala, near Karnataka border)
Distance from Bangalore: 280 km | State: Kerala
Weather (Aug–Feb): 13°C–25°C
Discover Wayanad:
Wayanad sits on the edge of Kerala but is often easier to reach from Karnataka. Its spice plantations, forested trails, and Ayurveda experiences make it a wellness-friendly, green getaway.
Top Highlights:
- Edakkal Caves and prehistoric carvings
- Tea and spice estates
- Chembra Peak and Pookode Lake
- Great for villa stays and eco-lodges
Local Food to Try:
Malabar parotta, Wayanadan pepper chicken, payasam
The best time to explore Karnataka’s hill stations is finally here — with crisp mountain air, scenic drives, and unforgettable experiences waiting between August and February. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a romantic retreat, or an adventure-packed holiday with friends or family, these destinations offer it all. From coffee trails in Chikmagalur to wildlife safaris in BR Hills, there’s a perfect escape just a road trip away from Bangalore.
And for those who prefer the comfort of a private, spacious villa over crowded hotels, StayVista offers handpicked villas across Karnataka’s most beautiful hill regions. So go ahead — bookmark this guide, share it with your travel circle, and start planning your next hill station holiday in Karnataka today.
Banner image courtesy: Keval Rathod via Unsplash
