Summer Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore: Top Travel Guide
Summer in Bangalore calls for a refreshing break, and what better way to unwind than by exploring some of the best weekend getaways near Bangalore? If you’re planning a quick family weekend trip, a romantic escape for two, or an adventurous trek, there’s no shortage of stunning destinations just a short drive away. From coffee plantations and cosy homestays of Chikmagalur to the thrilling wildlife safaris at Kabini and Dubare Elephant Camp, these getaways offer the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and heat.
Imagine waking up to misty hills in Yercaud, exploring the ancient ruins of Hampi, or camping under the stars at Gandikota’s stunning canyon just a few hours from Bangalore. These are some of the best weekend getaways near Bangalore in summer, perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers eager to escape the heat and soak in fresh air. So pack your bags and get ready to discover these hidden gems within 100 to 300 km of the city!
In this Blog
Chikmagalur: The Ultimate Weekend Getaway from Bangalore
Just 245 km from Bangalore, this charming hill station is a coffee lover’s paradise, famous for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch of a cosy homestay, or trekking up Mullayanagiri, Chikmagalur makes for the perfect summer escape near Bangalore. Ready to trade the city heat for cool hills, lush greenery, and a little caffeine-fueled magic? Your next unforgettable weekend getaway is in Chikmagalur.
Hidden Gems of Chikmagalur You Need to Visit:
- Mullayanagiri Peak: Stand atop Karnataka’s highest peak and feel like the king of the world! On clear days, you might even spot the Arabian Sea.
- Hebbe & Jhari Waterfalls: Nature’s shower systems where you can cool off after a sweaty trek. Pro tip: Please exercise caution near the slippery rocks at Hebbe Falls, as many overconfident visitors have experienced mishaps in the past
- Baba Budangiri: Named after the saint who smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen in his beard to introduce coffee to India.
- Hirekolale Lake: The perfect spot to take photos as the sun sets.
- Coffee Museum: At the Coffee Museum, explore the journey of coffee from bean to brew, and understand why true connoisseurs value simplicity overelaborate indulgence
Things To Do in Chikmagalur:
- Coffee Plantation Tours: Walk among the beans that fuel your Monday mornings. The planters tell stories about coffee that will make you appreciate every sip. Plus, the tasting sessions might leave you pleasantly buzzed!
- Wildlife Safari: At Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, you can spot elephants, tigers, and deer. The tigers are rarely seen but often mentioned by the guides.
- Get Lost in Coffee Estates: Walk through plantations with fresh air. The sound of birds and rustling leaves creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Agumbe: A Rainforest Trekking Paradise in South India
Welcome to Agumbe, the “Cherrapunji of the South,” where rain pours in feet and umbrellas are your best friends! This tropical rainforest is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to the elusive King Cobra- Adventure seekers can trek through misty forests, chase waterfalls like Barkana and Jogi Gundi, and spot vibrant birds such as the Malabar trogon. With its rich medicinal plants and breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea, Agumbe is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore for an unforgettable monsoon escape.
Places to Visit in Agumbe:
- Agumbe Rainforest Research Station: Where dedicated scientists study king cobras.
- Sunset View Point: Offers breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Arabian Sea – the perfect backdrop for those “candid” photos of you looking thoughtfully into the distance.
- Barkana Falls: One of India’s largest waterfalls and a must-visit natural attraction in Chikmagalur.
- Kundadri Hills: Known for its ancient Jain temple and panoramic views, it’s a serene trekking spot in Chikmagalur
Things to Do in Agumbe:
- Trek through the rainforests to hidden waterfalls for an unforgettable offbeat monsoon travel experience in India.
- Navigate the white-knuckle drive through Agumbe Ghat, one of the most thrilling scenic routes in Chikmagalur.
- Visit the Malgudi Days filming locations and relive childhood nostalgia.
Yercaud: The Perfect Hill Station Getaway in Tamil Nadu
Yercaud, a serene hill station in Tamil Nadu’s Shevaroy Hills, offers a truly peaceful mountain retreat getaway. The cool mountain air and mist-kissed landscapes create an idyllic setting for trekking and nature lovers. This charming offbeat destination provides everything you could desire in a nature escape, yet remains wonderfully uncrowded and calm. Picture yourself wandering through aromatic spice plantations, enjoying a tranquil boat ride on Yercaud Lake, or pausing at scenic viewpoints. For those seeking an authentic South Indian nature retreat, this hidden gem in the Shevaroy Hills awaits.
Places That Prove Beauty Can Be Budget-Friendly:
- Emerald Lake: The only natural lake in South India’s hill stations, perfect for a family getaway.
- Lady’s Seat: A viewpoint offering panoramic views.
- Pagoda Point: Also called Pyramid Point, it offers breathtaking views of the valleys and hills with a peaceful ambience
- Shevaroy Temple: Located atop the Shevaroy Hills, this temple offers spiritual solace and scenic views
Things to Do Between Coffee Breaks:
- Circle the hill station on the scenic 32-km Loop Road.
- Explore mysterious caves like Bear’s Cave – named not because bears live there, but because the rocks resemble a bear.
- Visit botanical gardens showcasing diverse flora and family-friendly walking paths in South India.
Gandikota: The Ideal Summer Escape from Bangalore
When someone asks, ‘Have you seen the Grand Canyon?’ you can now mysteriously reply, ‘Which one?’ This jaw-dropping carved by the Pennar River features dramatic 300-foot cliffs, stunning rock formations, and panoramic views that will make your heart skip several beats — a must-visit for nature lovers, landscape photographers, and adventure seekers exploring hidden gems in South India. It’s one of the top weekend getaways near Bangalore for those looking to experience the beauty of untouched landscapes.
Places to visit in Gandikota:
- Gandikota Fort: Explore the centuries-old fort with impressive gateways, temples, and mosques that have witnessed more history.
- Pennar River Gorge Viewpoint: Offers spectacular views that will have you questioning whether you’re still in India or somehow teleported to Arizona.
- Ranganatha Swamy Temple: A historic temple within the fort complex known for its intricate architecture.
- Belum Caves (nearby): The longest cave system in India, famous for its stalactites and stalagmites formations that look like nature’s own modern art exhibit.
Things to do in Gandikota:
- Camp near the gorge under skies so clear you’ll see constellations you didn’t know existed.
- Try rock climbing and rappelling on the rugged cliff faces.
- Photograph the dramatic landscape, especially during golden hour when the entire canyon bathes in magical light.
Bheemeshwari: Scenic Weekend Getaway Near Bangalore
Just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangalore’s concrete jungle lies a riverside paradise on the Kaveri River, offering a tranquil escape with activities like gentle kayaking, thrilling white-water rafting, and scenic river views. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and weekend getaways from Bangalore.
Places to visit in Bheemeshwari:
- Bheemeshwari Adventure Camp: The hub for adventure sports, perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Doddamakali Nature Camp: A rustic, serene spot ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Shivanasamudra Falls (nearby): A spectacular waterfall system that’s basically nature’s version of a theme park water ride.
Things to do in Bheemeshwari:
- Try your hand at angling for the legendary Mahseer fish – known as the “tiger of the river” for its fighting spirit.
- Take on kayaking and coracle rides – those circular boats that spin like teacups will have you laughing and screaming.
- Spot wildlife including elephants, deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species that aren’t bothered by your presence.
Kunti Betta: A Weekend Getaway Near Bangalore for Trekking Enthusiasts
Kunti Betta, a mythical hilltop trek near Bangalore, is steeped in Mahabharata legends, believed to be the resting place of Kunti and the Pandavas during their exile. This popular trek offers stunning views and is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring historic sites. Kunti Betta is a must-visit destination for a weekend getaway near Bangalore, combining scenic beauty with ancient mythology.
Places to visit in Kunti Betta:
- Kunti Betta Hills: Featuring rugged rocky paths and caves where you can pretend, you’re on an epic quest
- Thonnur Lake: A tranquil freshwater lake perfect for kayaking and picnics after your climb.
- Melukote Temple Town: A nearby historic spiritual center worth exploring when you’re done conquering hills.
Things to do in Kunti Betta
- Trek the moderate 4-km trail through forests and rocky terrain
- Experience magical night treks culminating in sunrise views
- Kayak on Thonnur Lake after your hike
Discover Kabini: A Top Summer Weekend Getaway Near Bangalore
Welcome to South India’s answer to big-game safaris! Kabini doesn’t just promise wildlife sightings. Explore the rich biodiversity, including Bengal tigers, elephants, and exotic bird species, while staying at luxury eco-resorts that blend comfort with nature. Perfect for weekend getaways from Bangalore or Mysore, Kabini is an unforgettable destination for those seeking a wildlife sanctuary experience in South India.
Places to visit inKabini:
- Kabini River & Backwaters: Discover the beauty of Kabini River & Backwaters, a peaceful retreat for nature lovers
- Nagarhole National Park: A vast forest reserve offering thrilling wildlife encounters.
Things to do in Kabini:
- Take boat safaris along the river to spot crocodiles sunbathing.
- Join jeep safaris venturing deep into the forest in search of big cats that are definitely watching you, even if you can’t see them.
- Wildlife photography sessions offer unforgettable shots of Kabini’s majestic fauna.
Dubare Elephant Camp: Family-friendly adventure camps near Bangalore with elephants
Get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the forest at this unique elephant camp managed by the Karnataka Forest Department. Home to magnificent elephants that once graced the famous Mysore Dasara processions, this wildlife experience offers a rare opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, animal lovers, and cultural explorers to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat. Perfect for eco-tourism, wildlife photography, and immersive nature experiences, this camp provides an unforgettable adventure in South India’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Places to visit in Dubare:
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Interact closely with elephants through feeding and walking.
- Cauvery River Banks: Scenic spots perfect for nature walks.
- Nisargadhama (nearby): A beautiful island park with bamboo groves and deer.
Things to do in Dubare:
- Feed elephants their favourite treats and watch them eat with more enthusiasm.
- Enjoy river rafting sessions on the Cauvery during monsoon season – providing both an adrenaline rush and an unexpected shower.
- Take traditional coracle rides – those circular boats that spin like tea cups.
Discover Hampi: A Cultural Summer Weekend Getaway Near Bangalore
Hampi’s boulder-strewn terrain and 1,600+ ancient monuments make it a dream for history buffs, temple architecture enthusiasts, and cultural travellers exploring heritage sites in South India. With its awe-inspiring ruins, intricate carvings, and rich history, Hampi is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of South India’s past.
Places to visit in Hampi:
- Vittala Temple: Famous for its iconic stone chariot.
- Virupaksha Temple: An active temple with a towering gopuram.
- Hemakuta Hill: Offers panoramic views and houses several ancient temples that have witnessed more sunsets.
- Hampi Bazaar: The historic market street where you can pretend you’re a time traveller.
Things to do in Hampi:
- Take heritage walks through ruins that make your history textbooks come alive.
- Climb Matanga Hill for sunrise views.
- Enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River, offering unique perspectives of the ruins.
Talakad & Somnathpur: Discover Ancient Ruins Near Bangalore
Prepare for a mystery worthy of a Netflix documentary! Talakad’s ancient temples are playing the world’s longest game of hide-and-seek – buried under mysterious dunes for centuries. This archaeological wonder is perfect for history enthusiasts, spiritual travellers, and those exploring offbeat temple towns in Karnataka. A must-visit for cultural heritage tourism, mythological site explorers, and weekend getaways near Bangalore
Places to visit in Talakad & Somnathpur:
- Vaidyanatheswara Temple: A partially excavated temple emerging from the sands.
- Chennakesava Temple (Somnathpur): Showcases Hoysala craftsmanship so intricate
- Talakad Beach: A unique river beach along the Kaveri where sand meets water in the most unexpected setting.
Things to do in Talakad & Somnathpur:
- Take thrilling coracle rides on the Kaveri River.
- Explore partially excavated temples and play amateur archaeologist for a day.
- Marvel at Hoysala sculptures that tell captivating stories through intricate artistry.
Image Credits Banner: Basavaraj M
Written by: Elita Almeida
