30 Excellent Options For A Road Trip From Bangalore

Bangalore is well-known for its amazing weather and its cosmopolitan spirit. However, even with so many things to see, one of the best parts of this Garden City is the wealth of places to get away on road trips from Bangalore. With its great road connectivity, there is no shortage of exciting destinations to visit around the city. A road trip from Bangalore is a delight as Karnataka and the neighbouring Southern Indian states have lush and scenic landscapes. There are many sights to behold and things to do in Bangalore. Destinations to visit near Bangalore like Nandi Hills also offer a variety of cultural and natural attractions.

Also read: 11 unusual things to see in Bangalore

30 Road Trips From Bangalore You Have To Check Out

We have divided these places to see around Bangalore into sections – places that can be visited on a one-day trip and those that require a longer time to visit and explore. All these places can be visited throughout the year.

Best One-Day Road Trips From Bangalore

1. Ramanagara: Bringing Back Sholay

Made famous by its appearance (as “Ramgarh”) in the iconic Hindi movie, ‘Sholay’, Ramanagara is the ideal one-day trip from Bangalore. The area is dotted with huge rocks, boulders, and caves which are exciting to explore. Ramanagara is also perfect for other adventure activities such as trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, and much more. Since it is only 30 km away from Bangalore, it’s ideal for those who do not have much time to spare.

Distance from Bangalore: 50 km

Also Read: 8 Fun Things To Do On Your Ramanagara Trip

2. Nandi Hills: The View, The Sky, And The Sun

The Nandi Hills provides an idyllic quick escape from the city and is one of the popular road trips from Bangalore. Located just 60 km away from Bangalore city, the hills also offer breathtaking views of the sunrise. There is something for everyone here. If you desire peace and quiet to rejuvenate, you can find it here. However, if adventure sports and adrenaline-pumping activities are your thing, that’s available too.

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Also Read: Nandi Hills: A Complete Guide To This Adventure Retreat

3. Anthargange: Adventure Beckons You

Located in the Kolar district just 68 km away from Bangalore, the ancient caves at Anthargange make it the perfect place for those who are interested in trekking and cave exploration. The whole area is filled with hillocks full of boulders and volcanic rocks, which are perfect for a diverse range of adventure activities. You can also visit beautiful temples like Kotilingeshwara Temple, Lord Someshwara Temple, and Kolaramma Temple if you wish for a break from trekking.

Distance from Bangalore: 68 km

Also Read: Fascinating Rock Formations Around the World

4. Skandagiri: Important Part Of Karnataka’s History

Also known as Kalwarbetta or Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri, is a mountain ruin with the remains of Tipu Sultan’s fortress. It is believed that this site was used by Tipu Sultan as a base to attack and fight the British forces. Skandagiri is located about 70 km from Bangalore. It is a popular destination for day trips as well as overnight treks, as the peak offers spectacular views of the sunrise. You can take a vehicle up to the Papagni Temple, but from this point, you have to make a steep climb to reach the summit. It is believed that the Hindu Goddess Parvati at the Papagni Temple bestows blessings on the trekkers.

Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

Also Read: 8 Incredible One-Day Trips To Take From Bangalore

5. Bheemeshwari: Trekking, Kayaking, Rappeling, And More

Located 105 km away from Bangalore on the Kaveri River, Bheemeshwari is filled with serene beauty, with the perfect touch of wilderness. It offers lots of amazing adventure sports, from kayaking, rappelling, zip-lining, trekking, coracle riding, and even fishing. The lush jungle is filled with animals, so also make sure to go on a wildlife safari.

Distance from Bangalore: 105 km

Also Read: A Travel Guide To Bheemeshwari Adventure And Nature Camp

6. Lepakshi: Hoarding History And Culture

If you want to check out some other amazing ancient buildings close to home, visit Lepakshi in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Located just 120 km from Bangalore, it is famous for its hanging pillars, the many temples, and the monolithic statue of Nandi. The site also has associations with the Ramayana legend. Lepakshi also has the Veerabhadra Temple which has beautiful architecture and exquisite sculptures.

Distance from Bangalore: 120 km

Also Read: The Veerabhadra Temple: A Spiritual Exploration Close to Home

7. Srirangapatna: The Final Resting Place Of Tipu Sultan

This historically rich town is located close to Mysore and is a popular destination for short trips. Srirangapatna is known both for its excellent bird sanctuary as well as being the final resting place of Tipu Sultan. Here, you can visit the famous ruler’s mausoleum, his palace, as well as the Srirangapatna Fort, and various temples and museums. It is also the location of the Triveni Sangam. Ganga Dynasty founded the town in the ninth century and has monuments of the Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a must-visit tourist spot. The temple has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Distance from Bangalore: 128 km

Also Read: 10 Fascinating Things To Do And See In Srirangapatna

8. Hogenakkal Falls: Cascading Waters

Said to be one of the oldest waterfalls in the world, Hogenakkal literally means “Smoky Stone”. It gets its name from the water that spurts out of the cascading falls when it hits the rock surface, giving the illusion of emitting ‘smoke’. Its waters are also said to have medicinal properties. Make sure to visit during the monsoon when the Kaveri River (which creates the falls) is in its full glory.

Distance from Bangalore: 135 km

Also Read: The top 12 most beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka 

9. Shravanabelagola: Cultural Treasure

Located in the Hassan district, 144 km from Bangalore, Shravanabelagola is an important Jain pilgrimage site. It is known for the massive 58-foot-tall Gommateshwara Bahubali statue, as well as numerous ancient temples and inscriptions. It is also said to be where the famous king Chandragupta Maurya died in 298 BC after becoming a Jain monk. Shravanbelagola also has religious attractions like Vindhyagiri Temple, Ghati Subramanya Temple, and natural destinations like Chandragiri Hills, Sri Ramadevara Katte Waterfalls, and Cauvery Fishing Camp.

Distance from Bangalore: 144 km

Also Read: A Travel Guide Of Amazing Places To See In Karnataka

10. Yelagiri Hills: Nature All Around

Located in the Vellore district, the beautiful hill station of Yelagiri is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Apart from the many resorts and hotels in the area, it is also known for its excellent trekking opportunities. It is very popular among tourists looking for the best road trips from Bangalore. Yelagiri Hills has all kinds of locations to visit ranging from Jalagandeeswarar Temple to Telescope Observatory to Jalagamparai Waterfalls and Punganoor Lake.

Distance from Bangalore: 158 km

Also Read: 12 Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore: Within 500 Kms

11. Mysore: Of The Royal Past

The historic city of Mysore is one of the top tourist destinations in South India. Also known as Mysuru, it is filled with historic buildings and monuments that speak to its glorious past. Visit the beautiful Ambavilas Palace, the Chamundeswari Temple, and the Mysore Zoo. Mysore’s royal past goes back to the 13th century and Mysore Palace is a must-visit. The city has many religious attractions like St. Philomena’s Church, Sri Chamundeswari Temple, Chamundi Hill Bull Statue, Somnathpur Temple, and Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery. Mysore is also a good destination to practice yoga and meditation.

Distance from Bangalore: 160 km

Also Read: Seven Palaces In Mysore That Make It The “City Of Palaces”

More Than One Day: Best Long Weekend Drives From Bangalore

1. BR Hills: Tigers And Jungles

The Biligirirangana Hills (or BR Hills as they are popularly known) are located between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats. This beautiful area filled with jungles is now also a tiger reserve and you can go on a range of jungle safaris and walks to see the animals and birds that live here.

Distance from Bangalore: 181 km

2. Shettihalli Rosary Church: The Floating Church

Located near the town of Shettihalli just 201 km from Bangalore is the magnificent Neo-Gothic Shettihalli Church. It was built in the 1860s by French missionaries but was abandoned after the construction of the Hemavati Dam in the 1960s. Now, during the monsoon, the church becomes mostly submerged leading to it being called “the Floating Church”.

Distance from Bangalore: 201 km

Also Read: Shettihalli Church: The Gothic Relic Of Karnataka

3. Kabini: Unforgettable Jungle Safaris

Along the Kabini River are a host of exciting activities and experiences. Experience the nature and untouched wilderness of the Nagarhole Forest and among the popular road trips from Bangalore. Tigers, elephants, and deer are frequently spotted in the region. Coracle rides, jungle safaris, elephant rides, and nature walks are some of the most popular activities here.

Distance from Bangalore: 211 km

Also Read: Top 10 Important Rivers In Karnataka

4. Bylakuppe: Seek Solace At Buddhist Monasteries

The second-largest Tibetan settlement in India, Bylakuppe lies between Coorg and Mysore. It is home to several Buddhist Monasteries, as well as the stunning Tibetan Golden Temple (at the Namdroling Monastery). Bylakuppe is a truly offbeat destination for road trips from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 218 km

Read More: A guide to exploring the golden temple in Coorg

5. Bandipur: At The Foot Of Nilgiri Hills

The Bandipur National Reserve is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka. It is surrounded by foliage and lush greenery. Here, you can find elephants grazing, and spot numerous other animals and birds on tours and wildlife safaris. Located at the foot of the Nilgiri Hills, it also has many opportunities for adventure activities, such as trekking, camping, and mountaineering.

Distance from Bangalore: 220 km

6. Belur & Halebidu: Towns Of The Past

Located near the hilly region of Chikmagalur, lie the ancient towns of Belur and Halebidu. Crowds of history buffs throng to see the many ancient temples in what was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire. The Chennakeshava and Hoysaleshwara temples are especially fine examples of Hoysala architecture.

Distance from Bangalore: 220 km

Also Read: 10 famous structures and must-visit temples of Belur

7. Sakleshpur: Amidst Coffee And Tea Plantations

Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur is known for its numerous tea, coffee & spice plantations. The clear mountain air flows through meadows with sparkling streams and gushing waterfalls. Sakleshpur is also the perfect destination to engage in some exciting and adventurous activities.

Distance from Bangalore: 223 km

Also Read: Top 12 Tourist Places To Visit In Sakleshpur

8. Yercaud: Hills And Spices

Nestled in the lush green Eastern Ghats in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu, is the peaceful hill station of Yercaud. Amidst coffee plantations and the aroma of spices that blankets the region of the Shivaroy Hills are a number of fascinating attractions, such as Anna Park and Lady’s Seat.

Distance from Bangalore: 228 km

Also Read: Summer In South India: 10 Places To Go Trekking

9. Masinagudi: Into The Wild

Located just beyond Bandipur, the wild beauty of Masinagudi in Tamil Nadu is known for its excellent safaris. Here, you can catch a glimpse of tigers, elephants, bears, deer, and boars roaming through the jungle. You can also visit the Elephant Camp to see how the elephants are trained and cared for. Masinagudi near Bangalore also has a beautiful dam called the Maravakandy Dam and has a tower for bird watching. The city also has Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary whose residents are Bengal Tiger, leopards, and elephants.

Distance from Bangalore: 243 km

10. Chikmagalur: Trekking And Hiking Paradise

The town of Chikmagalur is famous for its numerous coffee plantations. However, the rugged land is also filled with lush valleys, gushing streams, and numerous peaks such as Baba Budangiriand Mullayanagiri. It is an ideal getaway from city life and is also the perfect spot for trekking. Chikmagalur also boasts of its rich coffee culture with its lush coffee plantations. One of the best things to do in Chikmagalur is to go on walks and hikes organised in the coffee plantations. Chikmagalur is also close to stunning waterfalls like the Hebbe Falls and Kalhatti Falls, and adventurous treks like the Kudremukh Trek.

Distance from Bangalore: 250 km

Also Read: The Best Places For Trekking In Chikmagalur

11. Coorg: Distinctive Cultures

There are lots of plantations and hill stations around Bangalore, such as Chikmagalur, Wayanad, Sakleshpur, and Coonoor. However, Coorg (Kodagu), located in the Western Ghats 250 km from Bangalore, combines the best of these places. Coorg also has one of the most beautiful monasteries in India called the Namdroling Monastery. The monastery near Bangalore has Tibetan architectural influences and was built in 1963. Known as the “Scotland of Southern India,” it is filled with waterfalls, lush tea and coffee plantations, and delicious food. Don’t miss the fascinating Madikeri Fort nearby. The city near Bangalore also offers many trekking options.

Distance from Bangalore: 260 km

Also Read: Coorg Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes From The Kodava Table

12. Wayanad: In The God’s Own Country

Wayanad is a famous forest reserve just across the border in Kerala. Filled with lush green forests, waterfalls, and historic sights, it is also the location of the heavily protected Silent Valley. You can ride through the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, or go trekking to one of the numerous peaks in the area. The wildlife sanctuary situated around Bangalore is spread over 344 sq kilometres and is famous for its jungle safaris and residents like elephants, panthers, and tigers. Wayanad is also home to Asia’s second largest dam called the Banasura Sagar Dam. Don’t miss the pre-historic Edakkal Caves situated on Ambukuthi Hill at a height of 1,200 meters. With inscriptions and paintings, the caves are 22 ft wide and 96 ft long.

Distance from Bangalore: 271 km

Also Read: An Exciting Travel Guide of Beautiful Places to Visit in Kerala

13. Gandikota: India’s Grand Canyon

Surrounded by the Erramala Hills and the Penna River, Gandikota is a village located in Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its magnificent 13th-century fort and the Gorge Viewpoint that looks over the Gandikota Gorge. The stunning gorge has an uncanny resemblance to the Grand Canyon in America and is an unusual destination for road trips from Bangalore. Located 15 km from Jammalamadugu in Kadapa District, Gandikota has a rich history. The gorge and the fort also have springs, lakes, Belum caves and temples with intricate carvings.

Distance from Bangalore: 280 km

Also Read: Gandikota: A Guide To The Grand Canyon Of India

14. Ooty: Dense Forests And Heritage Homes

Located 280 km from Bangalore down the picturesque Mysore State Highway, Ooty has been among the popular hill stations in India since British times. Passing through the dense forests of Bandipur and Masinagudi and about 32 hairpin bends, the trip to Ooty (or Udagamandalam) is just as stunning as the destination. Filled with heritage homes, churches, beautiful lakes, botanical gardens, and pine forests, a highly popular attraction is nonetheless the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Distance from Bangalore: 283 km

Also Read: Ooty Getaway: Your Best Bet for a Relaxing Weekend

15. Hampi: Divine Architecture And Heritage

Located 350 km from Bangalore, Hampi was once the centre of the Vijayanagar Empire. Its many ancient monuments, including the massive Virupaksha Temple, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the Hampi Bazaar and explore the ruins of this once-great city set along the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Time taken from Bangalore to Hampi comes around seven hours by road.

Distance from Bangalore: 350 km

Also Read: A Complete Guide To What to See And Do When Visiting Hampi

16. Jog Falls: Second-Highest Waterfalls In India

At Jog Falls, four different cascades of water from the Sharavathi River (Raja, Rani, Rover, and Rocket) thunder down from a height of over 830 feet. Together, they are the second-highest waterfalls in India. One of the best places to visit near Bangalore, the waterfalls are located in the Shimoga District and are a popular tourist destination. It’s a great destination for a long drive from Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: 408 km

Read More: A complete guide to Jog falls

17. Dandeli: Get Your Adrenaline Rush

This quiet town in North Kannada (Uttara Kannada) is a go-to destination for adventure lovers. The thick forests offer a variety of flora and fauna to explore through treks or wildlife safaris. It takes around nine hours by road to reach from Bangalore to Dandeli takes. However, the most popular activity here is whitewater rafting. Hurtle down 12 kilometres of gushing the Kali River to get your heart racing and an adrenalin fix that’ll last for days!

Distance From Bangalore: 460 km

18. Kodaikanal: The Gift of the Forest

One of the top hill stations in South India, Kodaikanal is known for its scenic beauty. Set amidst dense forests and enchanting waterfalls in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, it surrounds the beautiful (man-made) Kodaikanal Lake. Visit the vibrant gardens of Bryant’s Park, the massive Pillar Rocks, and the many picturesque churches in the city, and homemade chocolates. The hill station is close to both Bangalore and Chennai. The trip from Bangalore to Kodaikanal takes around nine hours.

Distance from Bangalore: 460 km

Also Read: 6 Must-Try Destinations in India for Chocolate Lovers!

19. Gokarna: A Pristine Beach Town

Tall palm trees sway over the idyllic beaches of Gokarna. This small temple town has some of the best beaches in the country and is the perfect destination to unwind and relax. Though some of the beaches may be crowded, you can still find a quiet spot to enjoy the unspoiled and pristine ocean view. The town is just a road trip from Bangalore and has attractions like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, night markets, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Banana boat rides, and more. This is one of the best places to visit to relax and take in some sun and sand.

Distance from Bangalore: 500 km

Also Read: 10 Beach Destinations In India You Have To See, Other Than Goa

Leave A Green Footprint

Are there any other exciting road trips from Bangalore that we’ve missed? If so, be sure to share them in the comments below. Also, keep in mind that these destinations are natural and cultural treasures. They must be safeguarded and treated with respect. When you are visiting places like hills and forest reserves make sure to not harm nature by littering, make environmentally sound choices like hiking or cycling, and try to carry reusable bags whenever you go shopping. Adapting to eco-friendly travel helps you and nature. It is surely progressing from a trend to a lifestyle choice. When you visit cultural sites make sure to not touch or write on any surfaces as you might damage them. These sites have structures that are centuries old and some have faced the wrath of rulers already.