Settled in Bangalore recently or on a long trip to Bangalore and you have already explored the city more or less and want to see some more in the places around it? Bangalore is one city that is surrounded by pristine destinations, and this article talks about the top 10 weekend getaways from the city.
Bangalore is one of the best places to visit and settle in. The climate is amazing throughout the year, there are numerous places to visit, and so much to do in the city. However, the best part is that there is so much to explore in the places around the city! A short train ride from Bangalore to Mysore can kick off your expedition! Here is a list of the top 10 weekend getaway destinations from Bangalore.
Best Places to Travel Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore
1. Mysore
- Distance: 180 km (2.5 hours by train)
- Highlights: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Mysore Zoo
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities: Sightseeing, shopping, exploring historic sites
The easiest and safest choice for a weekend getaway from Bangalore is the city of Mysore. Located just 180 km from Bangalore, it takes only about 2.5 hours by train to reach, making it extremely accessible. The city is a relaxing getaway, dotted with ancient monuments, rich culture, and vibrant markets.
2. Bannerghatta National Park
- Distance: 22 km
- Highlights: Wildlife safari, butterfly park, biological reserve
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities: Wildlife viewing, nature walks
One of the nearest places you can visit from Bangalore, Bannerghatta National Park is located just 22 km away and can be visited in a day. The park is home to tigers, lions, and also has a butterfly park and a biological reserve.
3. Ooty
- Distance: 270 km (6-7 hours by road)
- Highlights: Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Railway
- Best Time: April to June, September to November
- Activities: Trekking, boating, sightseeing
Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes, Ooty is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the country. A trip to South India without visiting Ooty is the biggest mistake one can make.
4. Coorg
- Distance: 250 km (5-6 hours by road)
- Highlights: Coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities: Trekking, coffee tours, wildlife spotting
Coorg is a hill station blessed with the best that nature can offer. From its coffee plantations to various orchards, waterfalls, and wildlife, Coorg is a complete treat for anyone seeking the company and sights of pristine natural beauty.
5. Kanchipuram
- Distance: 270 km (5-6 hours by road)
- Highlights: Temples, silk sarees
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities: Temple visits, shopping for silk
If you are looking for a heritage visit from Bangalore rather than a hill station, then you ought to visit Kanchipuram. Some of the major temples, which serve as pilgrimage sites for many Hindu devotees worldwide, can be found in this city.
- Suggested Tour: Kanchipuram Tour Packages
6. Pondicherry
- Distance: 310 km (6-7 hours by road)
- Highlights: French Quarter, Auroville, Promenade Beach
- Best Time: November to March
- Activities: Beach, sightseeing, yoga retreats
The next best destination to Goa in terms of beach party destinations, Pondicherry is a haven for those looking to have fun. Seafood is fresh, cheap, and abundantly available, while the booze is cheaper than anywhere else in India, as it is a Union Territory.
07. Mangalore
- Distance: 350 km (7-8 hours by road)
- Highlights: Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, Panambur Beach
- Best Time: October to February
- Activities: Beach outings, temple visits, seafood
The closest beach destination from Bangalore, the small port city of Mangalore offers a small-town, close-knit community vibe. The streets and residential areas give out a warm, homely feel, and the food is out of this world!
8. Chikmagalur
- Distance: 280 km (5-6 hours by road)
- Highlights: Mullayanagiri Peak, coffee plantations
- Best Time: September to March
- Activities: Trekking, coffee tours, wildlife spotting
Located about 280 km from Bangalore, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the great Mullayanagiri range. The coffee plantations add to the beauty of the place, making it a relaxing getaway from Bangalore.
9. Yercaud
- Distance: 230 km (5-6 hours by road)
- Highlights: Yercaud Lake, Shevaroy Hills
- Best Time: April to June, September to November
- Activities: Boating, trekking, viewpoints
Yercaud is another scenic getaway from Bangalore. Located about 230 km away, the hill station offers a spectacular selection of flora and fauna with over 3,000 trees and a wide array of wild creatures, both common and endangered species.
10. Coonoor
- Distance: 300 km (6-7 hours by road)
- Highlights: Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, tea plantations
- Best Time: October to March
- Activities: Trekking, tea tasting, sightseeing
Coonoor is an excellent place to visit if you are looking for adventurous activities like trekking expeditions, rock climbing, and more. It is located very close to Ooty, around 300 km from Bangalore.
Although all the places mentioned above make great weekend getaways, if you have time to visit only one place, your best bet would have to be Mysore. Mysore is incredibly accessible from Bangalore, and you do not need to search for the nearest railway station, as you would have to for other destinations.