About Weekend Getaways from Bengaluru
Time passes quickly in Bengaluru – India’s third-largest city and the capital of the state of Karnataka. The city is a thriving cosmopolitan hub of trade and commerce, and is the heart of India’s booming IT industry. If you’re looking for a break from all the chaos and mayhem that is modern-day Bengaluru, do read through Musafir.com’s list of top Bengaluru getaways that are as relaxing as they are easily accessible.
Ramanagara
A gorgeous town located roughly 50 km southwest of Bengaluru, Ramanagara is as famous for its silk as for its ancient granite outcrops that served as the backdrop for David Lean’s A Passage to India and to the legendary Bollywood film – Sholay. The region is home to several endangered bird species, including the yellow-throated bulbul and long-billed vultures, which are sure to enthrall birders. Ramanagara is a hot favourite for climbers and has over 80 routes. A visit to Ramanagara comes highly recommended if you’re looking for a more relaxed getaway with a spot of climbing – be warned though that the rocks are only suitable for sports climbing and not traditional climbing.
Nandi Hills
A shimmering lake, sylvan landscapes and agreeable climate – it’s easy to see why Nandi Hills has been a popular retreat for Bengaluru natives, since the time of Tipu Sultan. Today, visitors can view the remains of Tipu Sultan’s fort, including the infamous Tipu’s Drop where prisoners were flung down a 600 m cliff face. Nandi Hills was also a hill station of choice for several luminaries, including Queen Elizabeth II and Mahatma Gandhi. In recent years, Nandi Hills has also begun to offer quality paragliding services, which adventure-hungry visitors can enjoy in addition to cycling and trekking trips. Visiting Nandi Hills as a solo traveller is not permitted; if you are travelling alone, make sure to join another group before you reach the ticket counter.
Coorg
Coorg is one of Karnataka’s most coveted tourist spots owing to its emerald hills, sparkling rivers, agreeable weather and locals that never cease to amaze you with their warm hospitality. One of the country’s most prolific producers of coffee and spices, the Coorg countryside is enveloped in beautiful plantations. While here, do visit scenic Abbey Falls, whose resounding roar can be heard even in the summer months. The Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary that is part of India’s first biosphere reserve is another of Coorg’s most prominent attractions, and offers you the opportunity to view bison, elephants, spotted and barking deer, panthers and even the occasional tiger in their natural habitat. Madikeri is another scenic stop, known for its lush coffee plantations, mist-laden hills and spectacular views that have earned it the moniker of Switzerland of India. Madikeri is also the world’s highest producer of cardamom, so brace yourself for some seriously scented air.
Chikmagalur
Located in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, Chikmagalur is a picture postcard-perfect town that is famous for its pleasant weather and lush coffee estates. This area has very scenic hiking and trekking trails, and offers exciting Nature walks for the less physically inclined. Chikmagalur is also famous for its several waterfalls, of which the 400-feet Kalhatti Falls are the most scenic. Nature lovers must stop by the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to 33 tigers, a number of leopards, sambhars and wild boars.
Are you still in two minds about where to go for your next weekend getaway? Make sure to browse through Musafir.com’s top weekend getaway recommendations, before you pack your bags and book your tickets.