Designed by Sir M. Vishweshwarya, the dam is surrounded by the magnificent Savandurga Hills. Located around 50 km away from the city, this spot is loved by bird watchers and sought after by people for the sunset that can be viewed here. Apart from that, it has some great adventure sports to offer you. With the likes of kayaking, rappelling and raft building, this spot is bound to get you breathless; in a good way, of course.
As uncommon as it sounds, visiting the various vineyards hidden in the outskirts of Bangalore is one of the best and most fascinating activities to indulge in during the cooler months. Spend the day watching and learning about the wine-making process, and finish the day by treating your taste buds to the lavish richness of bottled elixirs.
Spend your weekend amidst the beautiful landscapes of Kabini at The Kaav Safari Lodge. Go on a complimentary coracle ride, have a scrumptious meal at the restaurant here, go for a swim and the best of all, take a wildlife safari to explore the jungles of Kabini and spot a tiger too!
Situated about 135 km away from the city, this splendid waterfall is one of the best one day trip around Bangalore. It’s a beautiful long drive via NH209 after which lovely scenic views await you. The falls are a branch of the Cauvery River which forms two walls. It is blessed with beautiful temples and lush greenery and a peaceful calm that you’ll fall in love with. The trekking trails are absolutely beautiful and if you’re one of those photographers, then you’re going to be clicking away on one day from Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 125 km
Best Time: August to February
Known For : Cauvery Fishing Camp Doddamakali Nature Camp Boat Rides in Bheemeshwari
About 105 km away from the garden city, lies the beautiful Bheemeshwari. The Wildlife Sanctuary here is a paradise for all you nature lovers. It offers amazing trekking trails and camps at their well-known jungle lodges that is enclosed in lush greenery. A range of adventure sports is available here to keep you up and running along with delicious food and chai. You can go trekking; try raft building, jumaring, river rafting and the like. Or you could just sit by the bank and spend a few hours in solace on a one day trip from Bangalore.
Distance from Bangalore: 102 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Located at a distance of around 60 km from Bangalore, Chhota Ladakh (also known as Dodda Ayur) is a tiny abandoned quarry that has been filled with rain water and is flanked by solid rocks. It has a slight resemblance to the Ladakh landscape. The place is best known among the bikers who go here to enjoy a nice bike ride. However, it is recommended that you go only during the early morning or in the late evening since the harsh sun gets unbearable during the day with no nooks to hide.
Distance from Bangalore: 56 km
Situated around 50 km away and perfect for a one day trip from Bangalore, these hills are one of the largest monoliths in Asia. A beautiful drive via Mysore road will refresh you on that sleepy weekend morning. One of the best trekking destinations near the city, it comprises of two peaks – Karigudda and Billigudda. The hills offer you a serene atmosphere and the chance to get a thrilling experience while you indulge in trekking and rock climbing. A good trek, an amazing view, and a ruined fort at the top that you can explore – what more could you ask for?
Distance from Bangalore: 48 km
Best Time: November to May
Microlight flying, also referred to as ultralight flying, is an activity where you pilot a lightweight aircraft, usually a one or two-seater with fixed wings. Older microlights used hand-gliders, making them noisy and slow. Microlight flights today can cover much larger distances at high speed of 100mph.
Where: Hangar No-2, Mysore Airport
Price: INR 5,000 for 15 minutes
Thottikallu Falls is only 35 km away from Bangalore. The fall is more popularly known as TK Falls and locally as the Swarna Mukhi falls. The word Swarna Mukhi translates to ‘Golden Face.’ The venue is excellent for trekking or to spend an entire day away from the clatter of the city. Since this place is relatively close to Bangalore, college students and others often pay a visit to this place on weekends.
Distance from Bangalore: 33 km
Known For : Tipu's Drop Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple Tipu's Summer Residence
This is the favourite Bangalore getaway for a long Sunday morning drive. Located within 60 km from Bangalore, an amazing view awaits after the beautiful drive via NH 7. It’s one of the best one day trips from Bangalore if you’re looking for a rejuvenating and peaceful break from the hustle bustle of the city. If you arrive here in the morning, make sure you reach prior to the sunrise. It’s the best sunrise in Bangalore that you’ll ever see. That’s a promise! :)
Distance from Bangalore: 57 km
Best Time: October to June
Located 22 km away from Bangalore, the Bannerghatta National Park is an asylum for a large variety of flora and fauna. Spread over a massive area of around 104.27 sq. km, this national park was established in the year 1971. The park itself has a number of establishments within its confines, which includes the country's first butterfly park as well. Other attractions here are ten Reserve Forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division, an aquarium, a zoo, Children's park, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park and Prehistoric Animals' Park. What's more, you can get up close and personal with the wondrous wildlife here by the means of a jungle safari, which is a popular activity to pursue here. The best part about Bannerghatta National Park is the small well-defined zones for animals that almost guarantees that you will spot the animals. People go in caged vehicles (buses/safari).
Distance from Bangalore: 31 km
The Big Banyan Tree or locally called as the Dodda Alada Mara is a 400 year old banyan tree in the village of Kethohalli near Bangalore. Sprawling over a vast 3 acres of land, the tree is one of the largest of its kind. In the 2000s, the tree got infected with a natural disease and the chief roots died of contamination. Ever since, the giant tree looks like an amalgamation of several smaller trees, with its roots still multiplying in number and size. Awning with at least a thousand aerial roots, Alada Mara covers a circumference of more than 250 metres.
Distance from Bangalore: 27 km
Nrityagram is a‘dance village’ located at a distance of 35 km from the city and one of the unique options for day trips from Bangalore. Set up by the famous Odissi dancer, Protima Bedi, this place and community is dedicated to nurturing dance forms and has several Dance Gurukuls. One can always find students honing their traditional dance skills as it is frequented by enthusiasts from all over the world. Go here if art and culture are your callings. One can also visit the Hessarghatta reservoir, located 5km from the village.
Distance from Bangalore: 36 km
Best Time: February to Apr, October to December
Located near the southwestern border between Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Horsley Hills refers to a hill station that is the perfect amalgam of the charms of Andhra Pradesh and the beauty of the hills. It is thus often called, the Ooty of Andhra. This natural marvel is situated at an astonishing height of 4312 metres and is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes.
Distance from Bangalore: 143 km
Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo
If you want to do a one day trip from Bangalore admiring architectural marvels from the Tipu Sultan era and the British Raj, Mysore is the place for you. You can go and spend time at the Mysore Palace, which is the heart of the Dasara celebrations in the state. You should also pay a visit to the famous Mysore Zoo and drive up the Chamundi Hills, where a set of marvellous temples await you along with a stunning view from atop. Located about 140 kms from Bangalore, Mysore is a perfect quick getaway.
Distance from Bangalore: 143 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Wonderla is said to be the best amusement park in the city (and also one of the best in the country), and attracts all those looking for a rush of adrenaline. While it is most famous for the high-thrill dry rides, it also features some relaxed, fun rides, hence providing something for every visitor.
Distance from Bangalore: 28 km
Popularly known as the pearl valley of Karnataka, Muthyala Maduvu is located at a distance of 40 km from Central Bangalore. Muthyala Maduvu is famous for the beautiful mountain ranges that it overlooks and a waterfall that highlights the place. The name Muthyala Maduvu in Kannada translates to ‘Pearl Pond’. There is a Shiva Temple in the premises where pooja is offered every morning. With rich biodiversity and trekking spots, this place is a favourite spot among Bangaloreans for a one day trip.
Distance from Bangalore: 40 km
‘Fort of the God’ is what Devarayanadurga is popularly called as. Located very close to Tumkur in Karnataka, the place is 4000 feet above sea level. If you’re a trekker, then this is your paradise. The forest department of Karnataka declared it as a reserved protective forest as various hillocks and wildlife surrounding it. It is said to be 2000 years old built in the Dravidian style. Within its premises, there are two temples; one built on the hillock – Yoga Narasimha and another made at the foot of the hillock – Bhoga Narasimha.
Distance from Bangalore: 71 km
Known For : Hogenakkal Falls Mettur Dam Melagiri Hills
Known as the ‘Niagara Falls of India’, these milky falls are located about 180 km away in Tamil Nadu. These falls are a sight to behold and are frequented by many Bangaloreans for its tranquil atmosphere and dazzling views. It is one of the oldest waterfalls in South East Asia, popular mainly for its medicinal baths and the boat ride in the local boat that is known as Teppa. If you were looking for a refreshing experience in one-day trips near Bangalore, this is one of the best that you get!
Distance from Bangalore: 128 km
Best Time: October to March
A weekend to laze around between beautiful Coorg plantations is always a good idea. The AMA Plantation trails in Coorg is the perfect place for this and if you're looking for some activity, you can take a fun early morning jeep safari across the plantations. The food served here is delicious and you can dine from the comfort of your balcony too, with a fantastic view of nature too.
If you’re into cave exploring and trekking, then Anthanrgange is one of the best one day trips from Bangalore, for you. Anthargange is situated in the Kolar district of Karnataka in the Shathashrunga range, about 70 km from Bangalore. this range is dotted with hillocks and caves that have been formed from volcanic rocks and boulders. If you’re up for travelling another 30 km, you can pay a visit to the Kotilingeshwara temple as well. An ideal picnic and trekking spot, this is one destination you shouldn’t miss out on!
Distance from Bangalore: 67 km
Best Time: October to March
In the state of Karnataka, a beautiful city is nestled amongst trees and rivers, which is excellent for a weekend getaway. This place is a hidden gem bountiful in greenery and waterfalls. Kanakapura is home to abundant flora and fauna. Some of the most common animals that can be easily spotted are wild boars, pigs, wild dogs and spotted deers. A lot of colourful birds can be seen perched on the trees filling the emptiness with their melodious chirpings.
Distance from Bangalore: 63 km
Known For : Ramadevara Betta Ramnagara Hills Ramdevara Temple
Located about 50 km away from Bangalore, this place was Ramgarh in the famous Hindi movie Sholay. If you’re looking for a quick adrenaline rush one day trip from Bangalore, this place dotted by rocks and boulders is the place for you. Trekking, cave exploration, rappelling or any other rocky adventure sport that you would like to try out; Ramanagara has it all for a one day trip from Bangalore. You can take the Mysore Road and get there within less than two hours and experience that entire thrill!
Distance from Bangalore: 47 km
Best Time: November to February
Here is yet another spot for the trek lovers, located about 60 km away from the beautiful city. If you’re a history buff as well, then even better! It will take you less than two hours to get there if you drive down the NH 7 route. The hills let you witness ruins that date back to almost the 18th century. Apart from the beautiful ruins and view, this place is known for its night treks. So, if you’re the midnight adventure kinds, you know where to head to! ;)
Distance from Bangalore: 59 km
The 50 feet high Chunchi Falla fed by the Arkavati river lies enroute to Mekedattu. It is considered as one of the most mesmerising waterfalls in Bangalore that is adorned with lush green avenue on the way. You’ll find this scenic beauty 83 km away on the outskirts of Bangalore. During the monsoon and winter months, you’ll notice an increase in the number of tourists and adventure enthusiasts at this spot.
Distance from Bangalore: 90 km
Perched at an elevation of 3664 feet, Makalidurga Fort is situated around 60 kms from Bangalore. Nestled between green hills, and graced with picturesque surroundings, the fort can be reached after a small trek. There is also a Lord Shiva temple in the vicinity of the fort that is visited by the local people frequently.
Distance from Bangalore: 57 km
70 km south of Bangalore city is this beautiful hill on the Kanakpura road. Atop the Bilikal Betta is a vast granite rock below which is a temple dedicated to Lord Ranganathaswamy. Filled with shrub forest at the height of 3780 feet; the hill belongs to the Forest Reserve. It is rich in biodiversity with elephants and other wild-life with vegetation over high hills. The annual festival is held once every year on January 14.
Distance from Bangalore: 77 km
Known For : Somanathapura Panchalinga Darshana Mallikarjuna Temple
This quaint mystical town which is one of the best one day trips near Bangalore is known as the ‘Kashi of South India’ for housing many beautiful temples belonging to various dynasties that ruled here. If you are a history buff or have a love for architecture, Talakad is sure to liven up your senses. Located on the banks of River Kaveri, this place has 5 Shivalingas which give it a spiritual touch as well.
Distance from Bangalore: 131 km
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Trekking in Shivagange Temples in Shivagange
Shivagange, a hillock situated 56 km from Bangalore, is a combination of temples and scenic beauty that makes it both a pilgrimage as well as an adventure spot. From a distance, the hillock looks like a 'Shiva Linga', with a spring flowing nearby that's locally called Ganga, thereby naming it Shivaganga.
Distance from Bangalore: 29 km
Best Time: October to March
Balmuri falls is a small water cascade located at Srirangapatna in Karnataka. Though known as a waterfall, it is a human-made check dam over the Cauvery river, which allows the water to flow in a 6-foot cascade over the Cauvery. Green coconut palms and trees adorn the shores and the gushing cascade of water sparkle in the sun, which is why the spot is quite scenic where many song sequences in Kannada and a few Hindi films have been shot! Now, isn’t that inviting enough for all you photographers out there to spend a day out wading over the waters and capturing beautiful pictures!
Distance from Bangalore: 138 km
A small village in Mulbagal taluk, Avanni is situated about 10 miles from Kolar Gold Fields. This famous rock climbing destination is 13 km from Mulbagal. It is prominent because of his legend. Apparently, Sita gave birth to the twins lava – kusha in Avani, and according to local beliefs, the author of Ramayana, the great sage Valmiki resided in this place. Popularly known as the Gaya of the South, Avani has many ancient temples like the Lakshmaneshwara, Ramalingeshwara, Shatrugneshwara, and Bharateshwara.
Nestled in the town of Pandavapura between two hills, Kunti Betta is a perfect place to get away from the helter skelter of the city. This place is surrounded by sugarcane fields, paddy fields and coconut trees that makes the place look beautiful and mesmerizing. Situated at an elevation of 2882 feet, the picturesque scenic views that this place comprises of will make you feel rejuvenated. A number of rocks with fascinating shapes are located here. A crocodile face rock is one of them which provides bird eye view of the whole place. Some rocks are in the shape of utensils and it is believed that they were used by the Pandavas to cook food in. Giant footprint like formations can also be found here which are called Bheemana Pada. Kunti Betta with its historical significance and splendid natural beauty is a magical place to unwind and cherish some quality and peaceful time with your loved ones.
Distance from Bangalore: 122 km
Known For : Punganur Lake Nature Park Jalagamparai Falls
A quaint little hill station located in Vellore, Yelagiri is just three hours away from Bangalore, making it the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. Spread a little over 30 square kilometres, and at a height of over 1100 metres above sea level, Yelagiri offers its tourists some beautiful places like the Jalagamparai falls, sweeping orchards and rose garden, among others. The ideal destination for nature lovers, Yelagiri is a town that is completely off the beaten tourist trail, lending it a quieter and much more peaceful vibe compared to other more famous hill stations nearby. Originally belonging to the Zamindar family of Yelagiri, the hill station began to gain popularity since the colonial rule, when it was used by the British as a summer getaway. Ever since then, it has been one of the hidden gems of South India, replete with rocky hills and natural scenic beauty, making it the perfect place to take a break from the fast-paced city life.
Distance from Bangalore: 163 km
Best Time: November to February
Situated in Kanakapura of Ramanagara district, Mekedatu is a site by a stretch of narrow, deep gorges through which the river Kaveri flows. 100km from Bangalore, Mekedatu is a perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers. Mekedatu means 'goat's leap' in Kannada and has an interesting mythology behind this natural beauty.
Distance from Bangalore: 99 km
Known For : BRT Wildlife Sanctuary Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Adventure Activities
The Biligiriranga hills, or the BR Hill as they are better known, are a bit of heaven between the Western and the Eastern Ghats, with a wonderful floral diversity and a vast variety of fauna as well.
Distance from Bangalore: 168 km
Best Time: April to October
The activity of microlight flying in Bangalore always takes place close to Yelahanka at Jakkur Aerodrome. Lakes and tourists surround the flight path can see the two main ones are Yelahanka Lake and Puttenhalli Lake. Puttenhalli Lake is also a bird sanctuary. The setting for the flight will be Jakkur Airfield as that is the only dedicated general aviation field located in the city. It covers over 214 acres.
Timings: The flying club is open from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Price: the prices start from INR. 3699 and customers can choose other packages.
Location: Jakkur Aerodrome, Jakkuru, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Known For : Hoysala Temples at Mosale Shettihalli Church Bhagwan Bahubali Statue
Known as the temple-architecture capital of Karnataka, Hassan is located 187 km from Bangalore lying in the Malnad and Maidan districts of Karnataka. The district headquarters of Hassan district in Karnataka, it derives its name from the presiding deity Goddess Hassanamba which in Kanada language mean 'Smiling mother'.
Distance from Bangalore: 183 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Thirthahalli is a quaint little town situated on the banks of river Tunga and is also a taluk headquarters in Shimoga District. Famous for the holy river Tunga and its significance to Indian mythology, Thirthahalli is a popular attraction near Shimoga. Set along the dense forests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, Thirthahalli is a must-visit place for those who love the serenity of nature and Indian heritage. The area is also known to have produced some of the great Kannada writers such as Kuvempu, Ur Ananthamurty and M K Indira.
Distance from Bangalore: 346 km
Known For : Vivekanand Falls Ranganathaswamy Temple Kaivara
Chikballapura town is located about 57km from Bangalore, Karnataka and is an important port link in North Bangalore area and also a major educational hub. Nandi Hills, Bhoga Nandeehwara, Vivekananda Waterfalls and Yoga Nandesshwara temples are some of the famous places here providing opportunities of sight-seeing, rock climbing and exploring nature as well as man-made attractions. This town is famous for its gold and silver trade and for its incense industry.
Distance from Bangalore: 78 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Located between Mysore and Bengaluru, Channapatna is a town famous for its small wooden toys industry. These famous toys were sold since the times of Tipu Sultan. There are also temples and historical monuments that are a significant attraction in the city.
Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Known For : Veerabhadra Temple Lepakshi Temple Nandi Bull and Paintings
Lepakshi is a small quaint village with a trail of several great kingdoms that once ruled the area. Located in the Anantpur district of Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi is located at a distance of 120 km from Bangalore making it a great choice for one day trip. Founded in 1535 AD by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara empire, Lepakshi is a trove of several fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful ancient temples and rich culture.
Distance from Bangalore: 123 km
Best Time: September to February
Which of these day trips from Bangalore have you completed? Let us know your experience in the comments below!