Around the Garden City: The 15 Best Day Trips from Bangalore

Located in the southeast of Karnataka, Bangalore, usually referred to as Bengaluru, is known as the Garden City of India. The third greenest city in India is also the fastest-growing city in the country. An ideal habitat for vegetation is created by the mild climate and the optimum combination of sun and rain.

Bangalore was depicted in paintings from about 250 years ago as a place with sand, and old, strong granite rocks. The village wood lot and Devarakadu (holy woods), which are located close to lakes and the Arakavati River, were the first tree-covered areas in this region. Hyder Ali’s Government is responsible for the presence of the vegetation. Along with his son, Tipu Sultan, he also created the rose and cypress garden at Lal Bagh.

There are many many beautiful places in and around Bangalore. If a day outing is on your mind, here are 15 places for that sweet getaway:

Ramanagaram

The Sholay movie was filmed in Ramanagaram, which is 50 kilometers from Bangalore. In addition to being a well-known filming location, Ramanagaram offers a variety of adventure of options such as trekking and underground cave exploration. Because of its industry related to silk and cotton, Ramanagaram is sometimes referred to as the Silk City.

Skandagiri

Another location for trekkers, some 60 kilometers from Bangalore. Kalavara Durga is another name for the Skandagiri summit. You may not believe your eyes when you come to the top of the hill and witness the breathtakingly lush surrounding foliage. The majority of hikers ascend first thing in the morning in order to arrive at the summit in time for sunrise.

Anthargange

The name Anthargange alludes to the spring that emerges in the center of the mountains and runs through the rocks. The name directly translates to “Inner Stream” or “Ganges from the Deep”. Situated at an elevation of 1712 meters above sea level, the mountain boasts dense forests and small caves, making it an ideal retreat for those who enjoy trekking, rock climbing, and cave research.

Kuntibetta

The name Kunti Betta itself carries the heritage of this ancient site. According to local mythology, the Pandavas and their mother Kunti spent her final days on this hill, whereupon they named the hill Kunti Betta in honor of their mother. The most breathtaking hike is the night one in Kunti Betta when fireflies dance across the sky as the moon rises!

Shivanasamudram falls

The ideal day trip from Bangalore is to the little town of Shivanasamudra, which is located on the banks of the Kaveri River. The Kaveri River carves its way across the rugged Deccan Plateau to build the Shivanasamudram Falls. During a one-day journey around Bangalore, a coracle ride across the surging water at the base of Shivanasamudram falls is a popular pastime. The Shivanasamudram Falls can be visited throughout the year, however, to truly enjoy the spectacle, one should go between July and October, or essentially, during monsoon season.

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is home to one of the region’s oldest temples and it also offers excellent trekking and cycle routes. Watching the sunrise here is also highly recommended.

Bheemeshwari

If you are looking for excursions outside of the hills and temples in Bangalore, this is the spot for you, The Mahseer, one of the greatest game fish, lives in the small village, making it a hot spot for anglers. Bheemeshwari also offers boat trips and nature camps.

Manchanabele Dam

On the Arkavati River, the Manchanabele Dam is constructed. The location’s charm is enhanced by the thick green trees that encircle this dam in little hills. The ideal times to see the panoramic views of the earth and sky are at dawn or dusk. The way the blue water and rich flora contrast with the sky’s various hues creates a mesmerizing sight. Manchanabele Dam is a great spot to relax and unwind. Because so many different species of birds call Manchanabele Dam home, it is a birdwatcher’s haven. Many birds, like the Oriental Honey Buzzard, Purple Heron, Blue Kingfisher, and Marsh Harrier, are observed fluttering their wings.

Bannerghatta National Park

Situated 22 kilometers from Bangalore, the Bannerghatta National Park is for those who appreciate a wide variety of flora and fauna. This national park was created in 1971 and has a total area of about 104.27 square kilometers. The park’s limits house several establishments, one of which is the nation’s butterfly park. Ten Reserve Forests in the Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division, a zoo, an aquarium, a children’s park, a crocodile farm, a snake park, and a park with prehistoric species are among the other attractions. In addition, a jungle safari—a well-liked activity here—allows you to interact closely with the amazing wildlife.

Hogenakal Waterfalls

One of the coolest spots to go on a day trip near Bangalore is Hogenakkal Waterfall. In the Dharmapuri area of Tamil Nadu, there is a waterfall called Hogenakkal, where the Kaveri River divides into several waterfall streams. Hogenakkal, 180 kilometers from Bangalore, is referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India” and is well-known for its therapeutic pools. It’s the perfect day trip from Bangalore because of the carbonite rocks, freshwater fish, coracle (basket boat) rides, and traditional oil massages.    

Vineyard Tour

As strange as it may sound, one of the most interesting and enjoyable things to do in the winter is to visit the several vineyards tucked away on Bangalore’s outskirts. After spending the day observing and learning about the wine-making process, reward your palate with the sumptuous richness of bottled elixirs. Bangalore’s vineyard excursions are becoming a great alternative for travellers who would rather take the less travelled route.

Kanakapura

Perfect for a weekend escape, Kanakapura is a stunning city in the state of Karnataka, tucked away among rivers and trees. There are many waterfalls and lush flora in this hidden gem. Kanakapura is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Some of the most frequent and easily spotted animals are pigs, wild dogs, spotted deer, and wild boars. There are lots of different species of birds sitting on the branches, their melodic chirping filling the silence.

Savandurga

One of Asia’s largest monoliths, these hills are around 50 kilometers away from Bangalore. Savandurga is one of the biggest isolated rock formations in Asia. It consists of two hills, Karigudda (black hill) and Billigudda (white hill), with a pond close by and a shrine at the foothill. Most hikers prefer Billigudda because of its milder hills. Rock climbing, camping, and trekking are popular weekend activities here.

Nearby, the Arkavathi River empties into the Manchanabele Dam. Trekking in the Savandurga hills offers a great view of a gorgeous lotus pond. Slab climbing is one of the coolest things to do in the world, and a lot of adventure seekers and climbers visit there often. Enthusiasts can witness the endangered yellow-throated bulbuls, among other amazing avifauna. In this location, sloth bears and leopards have also been sighted.

Wonderla Water Park

With more than 60 rides, Wonderla is a fantastic water and amusement park that is situated off the Mysore Road in Bangalore’s suburbs. One of the park’s primary selling factors is its assortment of “high-thrill rides.” It also features India’s first “reverse looping roller coaster” which allows riders to travel in two directions at the same time.

Avanni

Avanni is a small village located approximately 10 miles away from the Kolar Gold Fields in Mulbagal taluk. This popular spot for rock climbing is 13 km from Mulbagal. It’s noteworthy because of his mythology. The renowned scholar Valmiki, who wrote the Ramayana, is said to have resided in Avani, where Sita gave birth to the twins Lava and Kusha. Several historic temples, including Lakshmaneshwara, Ramalingeshwara, Shatrugneshwara, and Bharateshwara, can be found at Avani, sometimes referred to as the Gaya of the South.