Weekend Trips From Bangalore

Weekends from Bangalore can be the perfect occasion to visit the natural beauty of this city and the vicinity, historical sites, and cultural gems. Whoever turns out to be-cum-environmental enthusiast, a history lover, or just a time-out enthusiast, options are limitless. This article will explore some of the best places you could visit to take a break from the continuous hullabaloo of Bangalore. Travel tips and tricks will be provided to help you make the best of your time.

Several lovely retreats are easily accessible. This includes cool hill stations as well as just plain relaxing beaches. Bangalore is often described as the Silicon Valley of India, so almost anything can be found within a short distance. The beauty behind trips during weekends from Bangalore lies in their variety and accessibility, and that is why they are perfect for solo travellers and family holidays alike.

Why Bangalore Is a Superb Starting Place for Weekends

Why not from a city that makes it easy to reach serenity and adventure? Bangalore is perfectly located as a base for weekend explorations. Let's see why. Is centrally located, and access Bangalore, being centrally located in Southern India, provides great connectivity to numerous places within Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. Travelling from Bangalore is easy and convenient if you like driving or train journeys.

Bangalore offers all this to your mood, whether you want some hours of yours in the hills, a wild safari, or a time machine experience with ancient temples and ruins. And, of course, whenever you decide to travel to these places, you can be sure to indulge in lip-smacking food and cool local beverages.

Best Weekend Trips From Bangalore

Here are some wonderful weekend getaways from Bangalore that you can plan within hours.

1. Mysore

Often referred to as the "City of Palaces, Mysore is indeed one of the world's most culturally rich cities within Karnataka, India. Mysore is famous for its grand heritage, rich cultural traditions, palatial architecture, lush gardens, and natural scenic pictorial settings at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills in southern Karnataka. This is what Mysore, the majestic Mysore Palace, the renowned Dussehra Festival, and its historical significance just makes it stick to travelers, drenched in old-world charm with a modern vibrancy.

Several centuries ago, Mysore was born when its roots were deeply planted into the fabric of the Maurya Dynasty. Mysore was indeed a prosperous and booming city under the Wadiyar Dynasty, with Mysore emerging as their capital in the 14th century. However, the golden era of Mysore came about only during the 18th century during Krishnaraja Wadiyar III and his successors. What with Raja Wadiyar and the majestic Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, that is.

Best Time to Visit:

• The Best Overall Time: The best time to visit Mysore is from October to March when the weather is pleasantly cool, and you can participate in major cultural events such as Dussehra, which enlivens the city to a great extent.

• For Budget Travelers or Fewer Crowds: If you detest the tourist crowd and wish prices to go low, then the summer months between April and June are also suitable for visiting Rajasthan, despite the hot weather.

• For Nature Lovers: The time during the monsoon that falls between July and September is when the landscape is clothed in lush green; do keep in mind that your visit needs careful planning during rains and dampness.

How to Reach

• By Road: Well connected through highways, buses, and taxis from Bengaluru, Mysore, and other nearby towns.

• By Train: Mysore Junction is connected to major cities in Karnataka and beyond.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport which provides only a few domestic flights. It takes about 3 hours from Bengaluru International Airport.

Once you reach Mysore, you can hire a taxi, auto, or even a local bus run by the Karnataka government.

2. Coorg

Coorg, or Kodagu, is a very picturesque district in the heart of the Karnataka Western Ghats, India. A nature retreat weekend getaway from bangalore. History in this place flows as deep and wide in diversity and richness as this natural beauty does to frame the region. From hilltop greenery to mystic shrouded misty valleys and coffee plantations, Coorg has remained long the land of fable, myth, legend, and tradition. Due to various dynasties, invasions, and varied rulers, influences in the Coorg history go a long line back a thousand years, due to which this region has built and shaped the cultural identity of the people from ages upon ages till the very present.

Coorg History

The early history of Coorg goes as far back as when the early Kadamba Dynasty ruled over the place within the period of the 4th to the 6th century CE. This region saw Kadamba rule, at least going by the inscriptions and the temples. Those who believe to have originated from these early settlers are called Kodavas. Their mode of life, their tradition, language make them a special group, and they occupied this area more than a thousand years back. Although the various relevant theories that pertain to the origin of life as such exist in their various pluralities, it is still generally understood that they have been a part of the region for several decades and have only later conceptualized and developed the culture and identity of Coorg.

Although that came later, it was also during the Chola Dynasty of the 9th Century, and because of this culture, architectural designs were mostly influenced by the influence of the culture. The Cholas had military strength and were in charge of the policy-making for the expansion and wanted Coorg to be under their southern kingdom. On the other hand, at the very same time, many flowers of temples and religious events boomed over the area. Some of the remaining temples that have survived till now are proof of Chola's influence on Coorg, like the Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is the nearest airport at a distance of 140 km, with flights from Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai. Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) is around 260 km but much more in terms of flight.

• By Train: There is no railway station in Coorg. The nearest major stations are Mysore Railway Station, 120 km from Coorg, and Mangalore Railway Station, 140 km from Coorg. Taxis and buses can be accessed from these stations to reach Coorg.

• By Raod: It is possible to access Coorg from the nearby cities, which are road-accessible. NH 275 offers a distance of nearly about 250 km from Bangalore, which is around 5-6 hours long. In addition, it also takes routes to Mysore, which takes almost 3 hours, and Mangalore, through which distances approximately 3.5-4 hours. Through this, it's easy to get eye-catching views while road travelling to get to that amazing Western Ghat, so really, one can see all those attractions.

• By Bus: There are luxury buses as well as other regular buses that travel to Coorg from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. Normally the distance takes nearly 5-7 hours.

• By Taxis: Taxis, private cars, and auto-rickshaws are pretty convenient for local travelling around Coorg. One can hire cycles or motorbikes to go sightseeing in the beautiful areas of Coorg.

3. Kabini

This extremely pure area falls in the south end of the Indian peninsula, and, yes, this area is very famously known as a place that welcomes nature lovers and wildlife lovers as well. This place's beauty is due to lush landscapes in this area, rich diversity in this region, and, aside from these, the Kabini River. This is located in Karnataka, which forms part of the great Nagarhole National Park of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This is one of the most sought-after wildlife sanctuaries in India and brings to the fore a beautiful confluence of flora, fauna, and serenity to those hoping to connect with nature.

Kabini holds historical importance since it was formerly the private hunting ground of the Wodeyar Dynasty of Mysore. This place was eventually developed as a national park to conserve wildlife and its scenic beauty. Nowadays, Kabini has become one of the most touristy places in India for Eco-tourism and Wildlife photography. Kabini is extremely rich in its biodiversity. Many species of flora and fauna exist in this sanctuary, though some of them exist as endemic species in the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Hills. Mostly the first dominating varieties are Teak, Sandalwood, bamboo, and rosewood; besides these, medicinal plants are mainly dominating the ecosystem of this region along with aquatic plants, while other varieties of plants dominate the herbivores as well as carnivores that enter different directions in the given region.

How to Reach:

Kabini is well connected with all the major cities in Karnataka and even the neighbouring states:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, which is 60 km away but is only connectively linked. Convenience lies with Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, 220 km.

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kabini Railway Station; however, most of the trains come to Mysore and Hampi. Mysore is 60 km from Kabini.

• By Road: It is relatively easily accessible by road from other cities; besides, regular buses and private vehicles are also available from such cities. Kabini would take approximately 4-5 hours of road journey from Bangalore.

4. Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur has a history dating back to ancient periods because it was a part of the tract of the Malnad region in Western Ghats, which is more famous for dense green forests, wildlife, and agricultural land. It was a place along the banks of the Hemavati River and was once a part of the larger empire of Cholas and the Hoysalas. This great empire had ruled over southern India for hundreds of years; unfortunately, very little of the history from this period is available concerning Sakleshpur.

Later on, the city of town came into handy with the full domination in the 12th and 13th centuries for the Hoysalas. The Hoysala dynasty has famous architectural contributions, including many temples inside and outside Sakleshpur. Many of the remaining ones are the same today, exhibiting the features of Hoysala architecture in ornate carvings and sculptures.

Trekking and Hiking

Sakleshpur is an excellent haven for trekkers and trek routes where one can explore dense forests, rolling hills, and coffee plantations. The well-known trek is;

1. Kudremukh Trek: This one is probably one of the famous ones because of a trek through dense forest to the meadow before a gentle climb onto the summit; that offers vistas for panoramas of the western ghat range.

2. This Bisle Ghat trek comes easy grade: it helps us traverse biodiversity in this region to view some of the breathtaking waterscape beautifications. This will be packed with great views, dense woods, and very rich flora and fauna.

Nature allows you to soak within yourself while this trek throws at you the beautiful landscapes surrounding Sakleshpur. One of the best ways of discovering the not-so-well-known beauty of Sakleshpur is by trekking and one will find trails of varied levels.

How to Reach:

Road: Many places in Karnataka are accessible by road to Sakleshpur. If you are coming from Bangalore, which is 220 km from the city, then from Bangalore, you take NH 75 towards Sakleshpur, Hassan, and Kunigal. The ride would last about 5-6 hours and would have some beautiful scenery on the way. The distance from Mangalore, 150 km away, will take close to 4 hours on NH 73. Regular service buses connecting major cities of Bangalore, Mangalore Hassan to Sakleshpur operate by both state and private agencies

• By Train: There is a railway station at Sakleshpur, and various cities have trains coming all the way to Sakleshpur. By train, it is almost 5-6 hours from Bangalore, which is some 220 km from the city. Trains from Mangalore, which is about 150 km away, and from Hassan, merely 50 km away, come all the way to Sakleshpur. A journey by train is comfortable as well as scenic. The trains run through the Western Ghats.

• By Air: The nearest airport to Sakleshpur is Mangalore International Airport. It is 150 km from Sakleshpur. You can easily get to the airport from Bangalore and Mumbai. From Mangalore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sakleshpur. You may also fly into Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. The distance between Bangalore and Sakleshpur is about 220 km. This can be reached by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.

• By Private Bus: It is also by private car for those who enjoy traveling flexibly and comfortably. The trip is through the hills and coffee estates; if it comes from Bangalore and Mangalore, then just scenic.

5. Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills was developed by the Ganga Dynasty in the 11th century. It was also used by Tipu Sultan as a summer retreat. It has been a blend of historical and nature-accompanied weekend getaways from Bangalore. Nandidurga was traditionally held impregnable, and its storming by the army of Cornwallis on 19 October 1791 was one of the most notable incidents of the first war against Tipu Sultan of Mysore. A description of the siege is given in Browne's History of Scotland and the records of the 71st Highlanders. It later became a retreat for British Raj officials during the hot season. Francis Cunningham built the summer residence here for Sir Mark Cubbon.

The climate at the top of the hill made it of interest to horticulturists. Several species of plant were introduced into an experimental garden. Firminger's manual notes that several species of Anona were grown in this garden and also notes the peculiarity of Hypericum mysorense. Potato cultivation was introduced in the neighbourhood of Bangalore by Colonel Cuppage and continued by the botanist Benjamin Heyne. Heyne brought seeds from St. Helena, and these grew well enough that they were supplied in Madras and preferred to those obtained from Bengal. In 1860, Hugh Cleghorn tried tea plants on Nandi Hills.

ENTRY FEE AND TIMING:

• Entry fee: free

• Timing: 5:00 AM TO 5:00 PM

How to Reach:

• By Bus: Public buses are available from Bengaluru to Nandi Hills. KSRTC operates buses from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Nandi Hills. The time taken by bus would take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the traffic. It is an extremely cheap mode of travel, and for a tourist who would want comfort and hassle-free travelling

• By Train: No direct train is available to Nandi Hills. The nearest big railway station where one can board a train is Devanahalli, which is the Bengaluru City Railway Station. It is about 10 km from Nandi Hills. The taxi or take a local bus to the hills from there. It takes around 1.5 hours on a train journey, and if you hire a taxi or take a local bus from Devanahalli to Nandi Hills, it would take some 20-30 minutes.

• By Air: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru: This airport is 30 km from the point of location. From there, you can reach Nandi Hills by taking a taxi or catching a bus. Depending on the traffic, driving by car will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

• By Car: The most convenient and popular mode of reaching Nandi Hills is by private car. It will take nearly 1.5 hours to 2 hours to reach Nandi Hills from Bengaluru by car. You can take NH 44 via Devanahalli around 60 km before the road becomes fine with picturesque views. A car can take you to the summit or park at the base, and then you can trek up.

6. Bheemeshwari

Bheemeshwari is one of the most beautiful, quiet places in Karnataka, located beside the banks of the Cauvery River and known for its lush green landscapes, wildlife, and adventure activities. Which is a mythical weekend getaway from bangalore Situated 100 kilometers from Bengaluru, this place can well be considered more of an adventure destination as well as a peace destination. And so is Bheemeshwari - the influential eco-tourism center in South India replete with lush forests and the Cauvery River flowing through its banks.

Best Time to Visit:

Visitation during the winter, from October to February, would be ideal for a visit to Bheemeshwari. The climate is, of course, very good, between 15° and 25°C, thereby supportive of trekking, fishing, or wildlife trips. There goes much to complement this, along with the lush greenery and the flowing Cauvery River.

It becomes very hot from March to May, at times reaching a peak temperature of 35°C, though it still cools down during the morning and evening periods. It is quite a good time for fishing and other river-related water games, etc.

Extremely heavy fall witnesses during the monsoon season, between June and September. This region turns out to be a complete green paradise. The falls near the Cauvery River get filled with rain, but these falls turn out to be beautiful and peaceful. Trekking is not carried out since the trails are quite slick.

Activities:

• Fishing and Angling: Bheemeshwari is known for Mahseer fishing, and anglers from all over the world visit here. It is one of the very few places in which one can see this game fish. Fishing here at Bheemeshwari is a fun affair that is free from environmental pollutants as it has a strict catch-and-release policy for maintaining the species. The visitors could enjoy the thrill of catching the elusive Mahseer amidst the soothing beauty of the river.

• Coracle Rides: The most exclusive and delightful experience in Bheemeshwari is the coracle ride up the Cauvery River. Traditional circular boats present such great opportunities to go through the waters and provide panoramic views of the surroundings, which are plush green. The coracle ride often goes along with bird spotting and with laced sporadic glimpses of wild animals along the riverbanks.

• Wildlife Observation and Birdwatching: Bheemeshwari lies at the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. The flora and fauna are pretty diversified in this region. Several species, including elephants, wild boars, leopards, and deers, can be seen, and occasionally even the smooth-coated otters. But it shall truly be a wonder for bird enthusiasts as it accommodates almost over 200 species of birds recorded.

• Trekking and Nature Walks: There are enormous differences in trekking options among trekkers. There are here ranges around Bheemeshwari with some options for trekking around in this region that offer numerous other tracks for novices and avid trekkers alike.

How to Reach:

• By Road: The nearest mode of transportation is by car to Bheemeshwari. Kanakapura Road, NH 209, takes about 2.5-3 hours from Bangalore to Bheemeshwari. The road is fabulous and in good condition and offers a wonderful drive through rural Karnataka. Private taxis or rental cars are available too from Bangalore.

• By Bus: A few private and government buses connect Bangalore to the closest town of Kanakapura, and there, one can hire a taxi or get on board a local bus to Bheemeshwari.

• By Train: Nearest Railway station is Bangalore. From here, one may take a taxi or public transportation to reach Bheemeshwari. It takes nearly 2.5 hours of road distance between Bangalore Railway Station and Bheemeshwari.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, from where taxi or car rentals can be taken to reach Bheemeshwari, which takes nearly 2.5 hours.

7. Wayanad:

The most visited wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad District of Kerala, India, is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. It also forms a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Many nature lovers, photographers, and enthusiasts are here because it possesses rich biodiversity and is an excellent landscape, along with rare and endangered species seen in their natural habitat. This would be the perfect weekend getaway from bangalore for zoophilists This sanctuary is very rich in flora and fauna and has high ecological value. The types of vegetation found here include dense tropical, moist, deciduous, and semi-evergreen forests. Some of the common trees found here are teak, ebony, sandalwood, and rosewood. Many medicinal plants can be found in this sanctuary.

There are many things one can do in this sanctuary. Some of them are quite popular, and some of them are as follows:

One can go on a jeep safari or trek through nature to see the various species both inside and outside the sanctuary. On safaris, one gets to see elephants and tigers along with many more varied wild species close.

• Bird Watching: It has a good number of birds, and for the bird watcher, it gives an adventurous chance.

• Trekking and Hiking: It has trek routes that can take you through scenic trails into the world of wilderness.

• Canoeing: Kabini River has wonderful boat rides or canoeing and a beautiful view of the sanctuary if viewed from the water.

• Camp: There is a provision for all those people who would love to camp here at night in the wild; they can do so in parts of the sanctuary.

This is one of the best times to come around this sanctuary, wintertime from October till the month of May, and the weather is comfortable in that season, so it would be the right scenario to spot wildlife. It is possible to have the road slippery around the months of monsoon season, namely, in June, July, and September, when the forest gets lush green.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, approximately 65 km from the sanctuary. You can take a taxi or bus there, and it should take you around 1.5 to 2 hours. For people flying in from very far places, Bangalore International Airport will be around 230 km.

• By Train: The Nearest Railway Station, Kozhikode Railway Station (CKE), is 65 km from the sanctuary. From here, one can get a taxi or bus, and it will take almost 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the sanctuary. The other railway station is Mysore, which is around 100 km from Wayanad.

• By Bus: Regular buses are available from Kozhikode, Mysore, and Bangalore to Wayanad. From Kozhikode, it covers 65 km; nearly 100 km, which roughly speaks of 1.5 to 2.5 hours to the Wayanad.

• By Road: It is highly accessible by road where roads are particularly well-designed highways joining Bangalore at 230 km, Mysore at 100 km, and Kozhikode at approximately 65km. You may even travel by taxi or your vehicle up to this reserve.

8. Hampi 

Hampi is that fantasy town speaking for history, mythology, and architectural grandeur. Hampi is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Often, it gives them an insider view of the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire, which turns out to be their living museum. Magnificent ruins, capturing landscapes, and cultural significance make it the first preference of history enthusiasts, travellers, and photographers.

Here is the complete guide that digs deep into Hampi's history, architecture, and spiritual importance, along with some travelling tips. Whether this is your first visit or your return visit to the ancient town, we would want to capture all of Hampi's timeless appeal. Hampi is of great spiritual and cultural importance. It boasts of the association with one of the epics of India, Ramayana. It is claimed that this mythological city, Kishkindha, was the place where Lord Rama had his rendezvous with Hanuman, the prince of monkeys. The stories of the cities and the temples, as the visitors here, draw pilgrims and narrators.

Natural Wonders

The rocky and richly textured landscapes offer a beautiful and scenic background of the charm of history. Natural attractions include:

1. Matanga Hill: Matanga Hill is the favorite spot for sunrise and sunset, where one gets an aerial view of Hampi ruins and the Tungabhadra River. Reaching the top is an adventure for the adventurers.

2. Tungabhadra River: The Tungabhadra River is the lifeline of Hampi, flowing gently along through the town. It has the facility for coracle rides with riverside temples or resting places at its banks.

3. Anjanadri Hill: Looks born Lord Hanuman. This place is both sacred and trekking with great landscape viewscapes.

4. Sanapur Lake: It is a few miles away from Hampi. It is a quiet and quite scenic destination ideal for picnics and swimming too. It has a rocky landscape throughout it.

Best Time to Visit Hampi Hampi could be visited during the winter season, October to February. The climate will range between 15°C to 30°C. It would be easy to walk around the tourist places and historical ruins. It is ideal for trekking, photography, and visiting temples and monuments because the mornings and evenings are cooler.

9. Kudremukh

Some tribes had settled in the region of Kudremukh before the British conquest and the systems of proper government. All of them, in one way or the other, have added to the cultural and historical input that characterizes the area today. The Western Ghats, where the Kudremukh lies, has long been an important cultural region to the natives.

The earliest settlers were believed to be the native Siddi and Gond tribes in the dense forest region. The Siddi tribe, which is said to have an African origin, was brought here by the Portuguese colonizer. They settled within the Western Ghats region of India and became a vital component of the Indian culture. Even today, they can be seen in the Kudremukh region. They live in harmony with their surroundings, subsist off the forest for sustenance, and follow long-held customs that are all land-based.

Best Time for Trek

The best time to undertake the Kudremukh trek is between October and February, when cool and pleasant weather prevails, which is ideal for trekking, and the trails do not get slippery like those in the rainy season. The monsoon, from June to September, brings heavy rain, makes the trail slippery, and the place becomes misty, making visibility poor. But with the monsoons come out lush greenery, waterfalls, and colourful flowers that may attract only experienced trekkers prepared for such conditions.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, 100 km away from Kudremukh. You can hire a taxi or take your vehicle from the airport to reach Muddebele, which is the base village of the trek, which takes around 3-4 hours. For those coming to Bangalore (330km away), you can opt for a flight and then take your vehicle to drive for 6-7 hours.

• By Train: Nearest Railway Station is Mangalore Junction, which has good connectivity with other important cities such as Bangalore and Mumbai. Taxis or buses are available from there to Muddebele. Or one can go up to Chikmagalur 95 km, or by train up to Shimoga by taxi or bus to the base.

• By Road: You can drive right from Bangalore (330 km), Mangalore (100 km), or Chikmagalur (95 km) to Muddebele through well-tarred highways. The best way to get there is by private vehicles and taxis. There are also local buses, but it's a less comfortable option for people with a tight budget.

10. Channarayana Durga

Channarayana Durga is also called Channarayana Fort. The hill fort is situated at a place called Tumkur in the Karnataka region of India. Situated atop a hillock, it is a remarkable site both by virtue of its historical importance and its scenic beauty. With its rugged terrain and scenic surroundings, the fort has made quite a high up as a very popular destination for trekking and history enthusiasts alike. The history of Channarayana Durga is very closely interlinked with the medieval and early modern history of Karnataka. Not too much is known about its origins, but it is supposed to have been built or developed during the 16th or 17th century. It is strategically important because of its location along the trade routes connecting the Deccan Plateau to southern parts of India. A defence point to the local rulers was the fort, which was used to protect against invasion and attacks.

The fort was dated unknown, however, history shows that the fort came under different regional dynasties such as the Cholas, Hoysalas, and Marathas. Believed that the fort came under the local chief Channarayana, who named the fort after him. It is said that Channarayana was a chief who served the Vijayanagara Empire in this region during the 14th to 16th centuries. Probably, this fort functioned not only as a military outpost but also as a stronghold guarding the southern domains of the empire during its rule. The most striking historical characteristic of Channarayana Durga is that it was a place of local governance. Since it was an indestructible hill fort, the powers that governed the place ensured that their chiefs, commanders, and their subordinates were kept safe there. Channarayana Durga did not have any crucial battles or sieges in its historical periods. Therefore, during the time of siege, other fortresses in the state were damaged, but this historical location was in good health.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Channarayadurga is between April and June and between November and March. Meanwhile, the weather is really nice, and the atmosphere turns into a lovely display of ambient colors. From July till October, the hilltop witnesses the rainy season, which must be avoided while visiting Channarayadurga.

HOW TO REACH:

You may take the KSRTC bus from the Bengaluru Kempegowda Bus Station to Tumkur.

From Tumkur, one can take a local bus or a taxi to Gubbi and proceed to the fort base. There are local buses and autos available, and one can take one from Gubbi town to the base.

The nearest Airport to Channaraya Durga is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. From there, one can travel to Gubbi and then to the base of the fort. From Gubbi town, auto rickshaws are available to go up to the base. The nearest Major Railway Station is TK Tumkur Railway Station. From there, take a local bus or taxi to Gubbi and then to the base of the fort.

11. Dandeli

Just like every Indian town, Dandeli moves like a silent brook all into the most ancient of eras. It is said even that it forms part of the Kadamba Dynasty who have reigned over the place of over 4th and to 6th century A D. It is even believed that such of those Kadambas, that begin a kingdom, had made some significant contributions to the local culture and architecture. Many of these rulers have built temples and other structures. Even though nothing of the old past is visible anymore, the early history dates back to when the larger unit was established, which is the Western Ghats and the Kingdoms that this region has been.

Till the British colonial period, this area was almost completely a forest region. Huge-scale development work was taking place in this location at that time. Such forests of Dandeli hold great importance in exploiting this location as a timber-generating ground. Teak and numerous other species were plentiful in this location.

Adventure Activities

It is the adventure sports hub-Dandeli. Good opportunities are present for white water rafting in the Kali River, which stands to be a valid reason why people visit the place thrice. Varieties of rapids are available on it, from soft and easy to thrilling ones, particularly for experts. Among the adventures, done include activities:

• Trekking: There are several trekking trails that pass through the forests and hills of Dandeli. Rich biodiversity can be explored, including landscape views.

• Zip-lining: it is a kind of adventure that is done in some adventure camps of Dandeli. Zip-lining offers a thrilling ride above the forest canopy.

• Kayaking and Canoeing: Kayaking and canoeing are done in the Kali River.

• Jeep safaris: this can be hired for passing through the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to see the wild at their natural habitats

• Cycling: a bicycle can be taken because amenities are available on trails passing through the forests

How to Reach Dandeli:

• By Road: Dandeli has good road connectivity to major Karnataka cities and other neighbouring states. Dandeli is about 460 km from Bengaluru and some 125 km from Goa. One can go by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Alnavar Junction. This is at an approximate distance of 30 kilometers from Dandeli. Alnavar is also conveniently accessible to the city like Goa and Bangalore. A taxi or a local bus will take you from there to Dandeli.

• By Air: The nearest airport to Dandeli is Goa International Airport, Dabolim. It is 90 kilometers away. Alternatively, one can even take a flight to Hubli Airport, which is 60 kilometers away from Dandeli.

12. Devanahalli

Devanahalli Fort is located at an altitude of 35 km north of Bangalore, which encompasses a sense of the history, cultural values, architectural beauty, and military pride concerning this abode-Devanahalli Fort. Karnataka is home to one of its primary historical landmarks, precisely the birthplace of one of the prominent rulers of Mysore, Tipu Sultan: Devanahalli Fort. Although this fort may not be as well-explored as the other forts in India, it holds a lot in terms of historical worth and architectural value. It has seen the ages of many rulers, wars, and changes that bring this monument to Karnataka's treasury.

Devanahalli Fort was first constructed by the Mysore Sultanate in the 16th century. It has passed through many structural and ownership changes over the course of centuries. This construction surmised would point to existence since the 1500s when it was under construction by the local chieftain, Malla Baire Gowda. As one of the key bastions of the Gowda family and, of course, a location of strategic importance, would surely add to its case for being there. It placed upon a hillock through which it doubtlessly saw all the plains and its environs, and this afforded it some military advantage as well.

How to Reach

• Private Vehicle/Taxi: From Bangalore, it is 35km and an hour's journey by NH44 (Bangalore-Hyderabad Highway). From Kempegowda International Airport, take signs to the fort.

• By Bus: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Devanahalli. An auto-rikshaw or taxi is available from the bus station in Devanahalli to the fort, which is 3-4 km.

• By Train: Devanahalli Railway Station is the nearest railway station. It lies 3 km away from the fort. Bangalore City Railway Station to Devanahalli Railway Station, about 1 hour by train From the railway station, one can hire an auto or taxi to the fort By Air

Taxis and ride-sharing services are available from Kempegowda International Airport, which is about 20 km away from the fort. The distance will take roughly 30 minutes to take you to Devanahalli Fort.

13. Gokarna

Gokarna is one of the quiet towns along Karnataka's coast, India, referred to as "the old Goa." Gokarna differs from Goa in a sense because it is relaxed and maintains an authentic atmosphere that has not been spoiled. The destination offers spirituality, natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. In Kannada, Gokarna means "cow's ear" and holds deep religious significance. It owns beautiful beaches and exciting treks, hence making it a destination for nature lovers, trekkers, spiritualists, and beach fans all rolled into one.

Gokarna Beaches: A piece of heaven

Some of the wonderful attractions for its tourists are the beaches of Gokarna, which make perfect destinations to sit and relax along with adventure while being in the peaceful site. The beaches of Goa are full of crowds, and the less commercialized beaches of Gokarna remain pure and have pristine beauty. The destination presents a scintillating and serene resort under the backdrop of rocky hill ranges, lush green paddy fields, and the azure blue waters of the Arabian Sea.

1. Om Beach: Om Beach is one of the main beaches of Gokarna, which has also been so titled because it represents the shape of the Hindu sacred symbol 'Om.' Om Beach is known for its varied lands and clean sands, remaining laid-back. Here, one finds some cafes and small guesthouses right along the beach that assure perfect relaxation. Water activities here include parasailing and boating. One can swim, too. This is one of those places where visitors and locals alike view the silent end of the day, and the sunsets are fantastic views from this place. Yoga centres dot Om Beach seeking the wellness traveller in search of practising meditation and yoga amidst natural splendour.

2. Kudle Beach: The other beach with long stretches of white sand is Kudle Beach, some kilometers from the town of Gokarna. It is far quieter than Om Beach and just perfect for relaxation and natural beauty. This beach allows ample time for a long walk or sunbathing and safe swimming. There are many small cafes and inns along the beach, so tourists can stay at a beach inn if they like. That makes it an ideal destination for solitude as the water is relatively calm. It is another favourite beach among backpackers, making it alive and laid back at the same time.

3. Half Moon Beach: Half Moon Beach is a secluded paradise only accessible by foot or boat from Om Beach. The beach is pretty small but very picturesque in terms of clear waters and peaceful environs. It is, therefore, a fine destination for those looking for an area that is far removed from the crowds in order to enjoy peace and quiet. Panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the rugged coastline abound in the trek from Om Beach to Half Moon Beach. So, a paradisiacal beach is what Half Moon is.

4. Gokarna Main Beach: Near the town, there is the Gokarna Main Beach; it is a common stopping place for the pilgrims who visit the Gokarna Temple. The beach does not present a similar isolation to the others; however, it presents an allure. The temple, just meters from it, provides a combination of spiritual experiences and beach activities for visitors. The beach is also a local fishermen's hangout. You can just have a peaceful walk on the beach or sit there and watch the boats returning with their daily catches.

Adventure Activities in Gokarna

Gokarna is more of a spiritual and natural beauty, but it equally provides many exciting adventure activities for those seeking some action during their tour.

Activity Outline: Add-on Activities

• Water Sports: Om Beach and Kudle Beach are the main water-based activities place in Gokarna. Other things done here are parasailing, kayaking, and just boat rides. Surfing is also amazing here; the waves of Om Beach are excellent for learning surfers and intermediate surfers.

• Boating with Dolphin Watching: Boating is the other major activity at Gokarna, and one will frequently be spotting it around the beaches of Om and Kudle. The journey can be an amateur boat excursion where watching dolphins often makes part of the excitement. Dolphins are said to play around in the waters of Gokarna, and witnessing them leap out of the sea is pretty memorable.

• Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Gokarna is also emerging as one of the prime destinations for yoga and wellness retreats. Practically most resorts and guesthouses around Om Beach offer in-store yoga classes and holistic wellness courses. The serene ambience combined with fresh air is refreshing, and one gets ample scope for yoga retreats or meditation sessions in Gokarna.

How to Reach Gokarna

Gokarna is well connected by roads, railways, and airways.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 140 kilometers from Gokarna. Then, one can get a taxi or bus up to Gokarna.

• By Train: Gokarna has a small railway station, though not so well connected with all the big cities. The nearest big railway station, however, is in Karwar, which is 25 kilometers from Gokarna town.

• By Road: It is rather easy to reach Gokarna from any of the big towns, such as Goa, Bangalore, or Mumbai. State-run buses, in addition to private taxis, ply from there.

14. Mekedatu

Mekedatu is also popularly known as "Goat's Leap" in Karnataka. It is a picture postcard and culturally important spot situated in the south of India, with the state of Karnataka by its side. Situated in the Ramanagaram district, this lies approximately 40 km to the south of Bengaluru, the Karnataka capital. Bekal is famous for its natural beauty but provides only breathtaking views of the River Cauvery, snaking through rocky gorges and dense forests. This is, besides its scenic appeal and historical and religious importance, attracting both nature lovers and pilgrims alike in Karnataka.

Mekedatu occurs at a point where the River Cauvery cuts its gorge into a narrow pass with rugged terrain, dense forests in all directions, and rolling hills. Dominating the landscape is the river's amazing path as it cuts through the rocky valleys, creating quite a mesmerizing contrast between the flowing water and cliffs. The name "Mekedatu," literally Kannada for "goat's leap," refers to an interesting legend about a goat that allegedly leapt from one side of the river to the other at this place. The Cauvery River, serene and wild in this site, is renowned for clear water flowing from the gorge, surrounded by luxuriant greenery. This serene stretch of water is marked by various waterfalls and several streams to make it a paradise for photographers, nature, and adventure enthusiasts. This landscape view of this place during monsoon months is awe-inspiring as the river flows with full tides when the forest comes alive in a new veil of foliage.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

The best time to visit here is between April and June and between November and March. All this period has quite pleasant weather, and the atmosphere turns into a lovely display of ambient colours. Between July to October, the hilltop witnesses the rainy season, which should be avoided while visiting here.

HOW TO REACH:

• By Bus: KSRTC operates buses from Bangalore to Kanakapura. From there, you can avail of an auto or local cab to your destination

• By Train: No train route is in use yet; the nearest train station is in either Kanakapura or Bangalore. It is possible to hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach here.

• By Air: The Kempegowda International Airport is the closest airport, which is situated approximately 60 km away from Mekedatu. A taxi and cab hiring services will take you here from the airport.         

15. Kumara Parvatha

Kumara parvata, literally translated as Pushpagiri, is one of the most loved trekking places in Karnataka, India. The dense forests, sceneries, and challenging trails of this peak make it quite an attractive feature for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Kumaraparvata lies at around 1,712 meters or 5,617 feet from the rest of the ground. It happens to be the second-highest peak in Karnataka and forms a part of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.

Best Season to Visit:

The best season to visit Kumaraparvata is between October and February, after the wet season and winter months. The nice cool weather prevails, with day temperatures in the 20° to 30° Celsius ranges, while at night, they are relatively cool. This dry trail, coupled with lush green surroundings during the monsoon time, made the landscape appear even more beautiful. The clear skies are a reason for which panoramic views from the top can be enjoyed, and thousands of trekkers, as well as photographers, head to the summit during these times.

Hills and burbling streams are veiled by a green mist from June to September during the onset of monsoon seasons. Though not the best season to trek in such situations, heavy rains make slippery tracks, and so many infestations of leeches, yet nature lovers can enjoy the charm of the monsoon seasons if they can stomach it. Summer months are March to May when it is hot as hell and trails are not too crowded. Post-monsoon and winters combine wonderfully ideal weather conditions with great scenery and safer trekking conditions. Check out with local weather conditions and plan beforehand for safe enjoyment.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), about 100 km from Kukke Subramanya. Taxi services or buses are available to reach the town from the airport.

• By Train: Subramanya Road is the nearest railway station from the town, that is, 12km. Many trains from all important cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, and other nearby areas have their stop at this station. From there, local taxis and buses are available to Kukke Subramanya.

• By Road: Kukke Subramanya is very well connected by roads to major cities like Mangalore 100 km, Bangalore 280 km, and so many more. It can be reached either by driving or using the bus services from these cities. The view on the road is the beautiful Western Ghats, which is simply scintillating.

Conclusion

Bangalore is for sure the best destination for off-beat weekend getaways. Starting from history by experiencing archaeological sites to nature walks and exposure to scenery, something awaits inside several hours from the hustle and bustle of their cities to relax, be adventurous, or experience the local cultures. For those who want to make this experience even more special, consider booking your trip with escapes2explore. They offer organized treks that ensure a hassle-free and memorable adventure. Happy trekking!

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