A Complete Guide To Places To Visit Near Bangalore In Summer
Looking for places to visit near Bangalore as the mercury rises? You’re not alone! When the weather in Bangalore decides to crank up the heat and your AC is running a marathon, that’s your cue. A change of scene isn’t just a good idea, it’s practically medicinal. Whether you’re a solo wanderer with a playlist and a podcast, or a couple plotting a 1 day trip near Bangalore in summer to beat the heat, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Let’s face it, summer in Bangalore makes one crave cooler air, scenic drives, and maybe a bit of waterfall-chasing or forest-bathing. That’s where these road trips from Bangalore come in. From hill stations near Bangalore to lush forests and riverside hideouts, there are as many options as your excuses for skipping Monday meetings.
So, grab your sunglasses, stock the car with snacks, and cue that playlist. These amazing places near Bangalore aren’t going to explore themselves.
In this Blog
Places To Visit Near Bangalore: Summer Trips Edition
We’ve curated the ultimate summer hitlist of places to visit near Bangalore that’ll make your road trip dreams come true. These weekend getaways near Bangalore within 100 kms (and a few just beyond) promise everything from misty mountains and coffee plantations to waterfall picnics and forest trails. Whether you’re looking for a 1-day outing near Bangalore or a full-blown weekend escape, we’ve got you covered with destinations that are scenic, refreshing, and ready for your summer photo dump.
Kudremukh
Located in the Western Ghats, Kudremukh is one of those hidden places to visit near Bangalore that rewards those willing to make the journey (approximately 331 km). The name literally means “horse face,” referring to the distinctive mountain peak that resembles a horse’s profile. During summer, when temperatures in Bangalore soar, Kudremukh maintains a pleasant climate that hovers around 20°C.
Picture Credits: Sooraj via Pixahive
The highlight here is undoubtedly the Kudremukh Trek, a moderately challenging 22 km trail that takes you through shola forests, grasslands, and streams. The panoramic views from the summit are worth every drop of sweat! Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate spotting Malabar squirrels, various bird species, and if lucky, even gaur or wild dogs.
Ooty
When in doubt, drive to Ooty. The Queen of Hill Stations is a tried-and-tested favorite for road trips from Bangalore. When the summer heat in Bangalore becomes unbearable, Ooty stands as a regal refuge approximately 270 km away. This classic hill station, fondly called the “Queen of the Nilgiris,” maintains a delightful 15-20°C even during peak summer, making it one of the most popular places to visit near Bangalore.
The journey itself is half the fun – the drive up the winding roads offers spectacular views, while the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage site) provides a nostalgic alternative for travel enthusiasts. Once there, the Botanical Gardens showcase an impressive collection of exotic plants, while Doddabetta Peak offers panoramic views of the Nilgiri landscape.
Don’t miss boating on Ooty Lake or sampling the famous homemade chocolates at the numerous local shops. For a unique experience, visit the tea factories where you can observe the processing of Nilgiri tea and purchase freshly packaged varieties. Summer also brings the annual flower show in May, transforming the gardens into a riot of colors and fragrances, making it an especially rewarding time to escape from Bangalore’s heat.
Coorg
Coffee, spice, and everything nice—Coorg ticks all the boxes for an ideal summer escape. Just 250 km from the city, it’s one of the best places to visit near Bangalore if you want to unwind in the lap of nature. Just 265 km from Bangalore lies Coorg (Kodagu), a misty paradise that offers the perfect summer respite. Known as the “Scotland of India” for its verdant landscapes, Coorg maintains pleasant temperatures of 20-30°C even when Bangalore swelters. Adventure seekers can try white-water rafting on the Barapole River or trek to Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg. For a more relaxed experience, visit the magnificent Abbey Falls, where water cascades down from 70 feet, creating a natural air conditioning effect that’s especially welcome during summer months.
Wildlife enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Nagarhole National Park, home to elephants, tigers, and numerous bird species. The Dubare Elephant Camp offers interactive elephant experiences that children particularly enjoy. Coorg’s unique culture is evident in its cuisine – try the spicy pork curry (pandi curry) and akki otti (rice rotis) at local eateries. Many homestays are nestled within coffee estates, offering an authentic experience that makes Coorg one of the most cherished places to visit near Bangalore during summer.
Chikmagalur
Another coffee-lover’s paradise, Chikmagalur is just under 250 km from Bangalore and offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats. From Mullayanagiri (the highest peak in Karnataka) to Bababudangiri, the place is packed with trekking spots and Insta-worthy vistas. Chikmagalur welcomes summer escapees with pleasantly cool temperatures of 20-25°C.
For a less strenuous experience, visit the coffee estates where many owners offer tours explaining the bean-to-cup journey. The aromatic air in these plantations works as natural stress-relief therapy! Hebbe Falls presents a magnificent 168-meter cascade hidden within dense forests, offering a cool retreat even on warmer days. History buffs will appreciate Belur and Halebidu temples, showcasing intricate Hoysala architecture just a short drive away. After a day of exploration, unwind at one of the many accommodations in Chikmagalur where you can savour authentic Malnad cuisine like kadabu (steamed dumplings) and neer dosa while enjoying the pleasant summer evenings that make this hill station in South India a sought-after getaway from Bangalore’s heat.
Nandi Hills
Looking for tourist places near Bangalore within 100 kms? Nandi Hills is the OG. Just 60 km from the city, it’s the quickest fix for city blues. This ancient hill fortress rises 1,478 meters above sea level and enjoys temperatures typically 3-5°C cooler than the city. The historical Nandi Temple and Tipu’s Drop (a 600-meter cliff face) add cultural interest to your visit. For the active traveler, cycling up the winding roads has become increasingly popular, with rental services available at the base.
Summer brings the added charm of seasonal fruits from surrounding orchards, with local vendors selling fresh strawberries and mulberries. The Grover Zampa vineyards nearby offer wine tasting sessions for a sophisticated day out. What makes Nandi Hills particularly appealing is that you can leave Bangalore after breakfast and still be back home for dinner, making it perfect for those who want to escape the city heat without extensive planning or time commitment.
Kanakpura
At just 55 km away, Kanakpura is your closest bet for a quick escape. Whether it’s kayaking on the Arkavathi river, trekking around Bananthimari Betta, or enjoying a lakeside picnic, this place is ideal for a spontaneous day out near Bangalore. Summer temperatures here hover around 30-34°C – not drastically cooler than Bangalore, but the abundance of water bodies and greenery creates a refreshing microclimate. Bonus points if you catch the early sunrise here.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The region’s main draw is the Sangama and Mekedatu confluence, where the Arkavathi River meets the Kaveri, creating dramatic landscapes of water flowing through narrow gorges. The name “Mekedatu” translates to “goat’s leap,” referring to the narrow rocky gorge that’s supposedly narrow enough for a goat to leap across.
Ramanagara
Just 50 km from Bangalore, Ramanagara as a destination is perfect for a 1 day trip near Bangalore for couples or groups. While summer temperatures here remain similar to Bangalore (around 30-35°C), the rocky landscape creates unique microclimates, with early mornings and evenings being particularly pleasant. Famous as the filming location for the classic Bollywood movie “Sholay,” Ramanagara is one of the most exciting places to visit near Bangalore for thrill-seekers. As Karnataka’s “Silk Town,” Ramanagara hosts a fascinating silk market where you can observe the silk-making process and purchase directly from weavers.
Picture Credits: P. L. Tandon via Flickr
Wayanad
About 280 km from Bangalore, Wayanad offers a verdant escape into Kerala’s misty highlands. During summer, when Bangalore sizzles, Wayanad maintains pleasant temperatures between 20-30°C thanks to its elevation and dense forest cover. The cool climate makes it a great antidote to summer in Bangalore. Don’t miss a stay in a treehouse for extra brownie points. The journey through Bandipur National Park adds wildlife spotting opportunities to your trip, making the journey to this place near Bangalore an adventure in itself. Chembra Peak, with its heart-shaped lake, rewards trekkers with Instagram-worthy views, while the ancient Edakkal Caves feature fascinating prehistoric petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. For those seeking water-based refreshment, Pookode Lake offers boating opportunities surrounded by lush forests, and the tiered Soochipara Falls creates natural pools perfect for a cooling dip on warmer days. Wildlife enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, deer, and various bird species. The region’s tribal heritage is celebrated at the Wayanad Heritage Museum, providing cultural context to your visit.
Sakleshpur
A hill station cloaked in mist and plantations, Sakleshpur is about 220 km from Bangalore and ideal for a peaceful escape with summer temperatures ranging from 20-28°C. Its lush green trails, fort ruins, and railway bridges make it one of the most amazing places near Bangalore for a weekend filled with nature and nostalgia. The famous Green Route Trek follows an abandoned railway track through 50+ tunnels, numerous bridges, and stunning landscapes – a bucket-list experience for many trekkers. The Manjarabad Fort, built in star shape by Tipu Sultan, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and makes for excellent photography opportunities, especially when mist rolls through the valleys. The combination of pleasant weather, adventure opportunities, and agricultural tourism makes Sakleshpur an increasingly popular summer destination for Bangaloreans seeking respite from urban heat.
Yercaud
About 230 km from Bangalore, Yercaud offers a less crowded alternative to more famous hill stations, with summer temperatures pleasantly hovering between 20-30°C. Situated in Tamil Nadu’s Salem district, this “Jewel of the Eastern Ghats” sits at an elevation of 1,515 meters, providing a refreshing contrast to Bangalore’s summer heat and making it one of the more serene places to visit near Bangalore. The centerpiece of Yercaud is its emerald lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering boating opportunities. The 32-hairpin-bend road journey to Yercaud itself is thrilling, with each turn revealing more spectacular views. The Servarayan Temple sits at the highest point of Yercaud, offering panoramic vistas that stretch to the plains below. A wonderful pick for a relaxed weekend getaway from Bangalore.
Kabini
Kabini is where luxury meets wilderness. Just 210 km away, it’s a great pick for wildlife safaris in India. Safari rides, boat cruises, and luxury stays await you. If you’re searching for unique attractions around Bangalore, Kabini gives you raw nature in refined style. The region forms part of the Nagarhole National Park, home to impressive populations of elephants, tigers, leopards, and wild dogs. During summer months, the famous “elephant congregation” occurs, where herds gather along the reservoir banks – one of the largest gatherings of Asian elephants anywhere in the world. Beyond wildlife, the beautiful Kabini River and reservoir provide opportunities for coracle rides, kayaking, and fishing.
Coonoor
Located approximately 285 km from Bangalore, Coonoor sits at an elevation of 1,850 meters in the Nilgiri Hills, enjoying delightful summer temperatures between 15-25°C. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Ooty, Coonoor offers a similarly refreshing climate with fewer crowds, making it one of the more peaceful places to visit near Bangalore during peak summer season. Tea is the lifeblood of Coonoor, and visits to plantations and factories like the Highfield Tea Factory offer fascinating insights into production processes – from plucking to packaging – along with tea tasting sessions. The spectacular Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of Catherine Falls and the vast Nilgiri landscape. For bird enthusiasts, Coonoor is a paradise with numerous endemic species visible around Lamb’s Rock and Lady Canning’s Seat. The combination of colonial charm, tea culture, and natural beauty makes Coonoor an excellent alternative to more crowded hill stations when escaping Bangalore’s summer heat.
Hogenakkal Falls
About 180 km from Bangalore, Hogenakkal Falls presents a spectacular display of water power as the River Cauvery creates multiple cascades through a rocky gorge. Summer is actually an interesting time to visit as water levels drop enough to allow safe coracle rides right up to the base of some falls – an experience not possible during monsoon months when the falls are at full force. The name “Hogenakkal” translates to “smoking rocks” in Kannada, referring to the mist created by water hitting the carbonatite rocks estimated to be over 1,000 million years old. With its roaring waterfalls and coracle rides, it’s a thrilling experience and a must-do on your places to visit near Bangalore bucket list. Go early to avoid the crowd and catch the falls in their full glory.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Accommodations Near Bangalore
With so many incredible places to visit near Bangalore during summer, there’s no reason to stay cooped up in the city heat! The beauty of these weekend getaways from Bangalore lies in their accessibility – from quick day trips to weekend adventures, you can find respite that fits your schedule and budget.
Whether you’re after a quick 1 day trip near Bangalore for couples, a solo trek, or a family-friendly getaway, summer’s best memories are just a drive away. So, open up those maps, make that playlist, and let your next road trip from Bangalore turn the heat into happiness. See you on the road!
