TripAdvisor recommends weekend retreats from Bangalore

The rain gods may be playing spoilsport this monsoon, but that’s no reason to skip a trip this season. TripAdvisor^® - the world’s largest travel site, shares some escapes recommended by its community of destination experts and millions of travellers from around the world.

The destinations are all easily accessible during monsoons and within a driving distance of 500 kms from Bangalore. In these places, travellers can bask in the serenity of hills or the beauty of forests; and if that’s not enough TripAdvisor suggests some popular things to do during your visit. 

Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore Slideshow: TripAdvisor’s trip from Bangalore, Karnataka, India to 3 cities Kolli Hills (near Yercaud, Tamil Nadu), Chikamagalur and Nandi (near Hoskote) was created by TripAdvisor. See another India slideshow. Create your own stunning free slideshow from your travel photos.

Chikmagalur: Famous for being the place where coffee was first cultivated in India, Chikmagalur has a lot more to offer than lush coffee plantations. The town has  a plethora of attractions  nearby with something for everyone. Rivers like Tunga and Bhadra have their source in the mountains of this place. There are hill stations including Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, beautiful waterfalls, ancient temples, a wildlife sanctuary and national park – all within easy access from the town. The splendor of nature is at its best in the monsoon at Chikmagalur.

Distance from Bangalore: 245 km

Do & See: Nature walks and trekking, visit to the Coffee museum is a must, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kudremukh National Park, Kemmangundi, Mullayanagiri

Nandi Hills: A TripAdvisor traveller says, “If you are looking for the best place near Bangalore, then Nandi hills is the place to be.” At a distance of only 60 kms from Bangalore, Nandi Hills was once the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, the Emperor of Mysore. Just hop on to a bike, drive parallel to the lush green mountains and there starts an excellent weekend getaway! Pleasant weather throughout the year makes it a great retreat for all seasons. Around the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills, which can be visited on foot. Do not miss Tipu’s Drop and Yoga Nandishvara Temple when there.

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Do & See: See the sunrise from behind the hills and visit Tipus summer palace and fort

Kolli Hills: Kolli Hills, part of the Eastern Ghats, is a relatively untouched and unspoilt hill station in Tamil Nadu. Replete with nature’s bounty, the best thing to do here is unwind and relax. However for those who prefer a little more action, there are trekking and hiking trails, as well as a botanical garden, cave house, boat house and a new waterfall developed by the local administration. The surrounding forests are lush green and have a pleasant climate. A monsoon delight! 

Distance from Bangalore: 292 km

Do & See: Arapaleeswarar Temple, Siddhar Caves, Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Botanical Garden, Masila Falls and Selur View Point

Yercaud: Situated on the southern part of the Shevaroy ranges at a height of 4,700 metres, Yercaud is easily accessible from both, Bangalore and Chennai. Unlike other hill stations, this is a quiet place which hasn’t been exploited commercially.  Yercaud has an abundance of coffee and citrus plantations and enjoys pleasant climate throughout the year. The place has a number of interesting attractions  with unusual names like Arthur’s seat, Heaven’s ledge and Lady’s seat. Another major popular spot is the Servarayan temple situated at the highest point in Yercaud.   

Distance from Bangalore: 199 km

Do & See – Yercaud lake, Anna park, Kiliyur falls, Servarayan temple. Don’t miss the sunset or sunrise from Pagoda point or Arthur’s seat.