Life in Bangalore can be fast, noisy, and busy. But the best part about living here is how easily you can escape into the hills. Just a few hours of driving can take you to misty forests, peaceful lakes, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. Whether you want a quiet romantic retreat, a family vacation, or a solo break in nature — the hills around Bangalore never disappoint.
Here’s a handpicked list of 10 best hill stations near Bangalore you can visit for a weekend or a short holiday.
1. Coorg (Kodagu) – The Scotland of India
Distance from Bangalore: 265 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road
Coorg is the most popular hill station near Bangalore — and for good reason. The rolling hills, endless coffee plantations, and waterfalls make it a peaceful retreat. Visit Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and take a coffee estate tour. The cool misty mornings are reason enough to fall in love with this place.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Perfect For: Couples, families, nature lovers
2. Chikmagalur – Coffee, Clouds, and Calm
Distance: 280 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours
If you love coffee and mountains, Chikmagalur should be your next stop. Nestled in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range, it’s perfect for treks, drives, and relaxed stays in nature resorts. Visit Hebbe Falls, Baba Budangiri, and the scenic Mullayanagiri Peak — the highest point in Karnataka.
Best Time: September to May
Don’t Miss: Sunrise at Mullayanagiri
3. Wayanad – Where Kerala Meets the Hills
Distance: 280 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Crossing into Kerala, Wayanad feels like a world of its own — forests, spice gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries. You can explore Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, and Banasura Sagar Dam. It’s a favorite for couples and families looking for greenery and peace.
Best Time: October to February
Good For: Nature lovers, couples, photographers
4. Ooty – The Queen of Hill Stations
Distance: 270 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Ooty in Tamil Nadu is a timeless classic. The drive through Bandipur National Park is an adventure itself — you might even spot deer or elephants. Enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, stroll through the Botanical Gardens, and sip tea overlooking the hills.
Best Time: March to June
Ideal For: Families, honeymooners
5. Yercaud – The Budget-Friendly Escape
Distance: 230 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
A smaller, quieter version of Ooty — Yercaud is ideal for a short weekend break. The Yercaud Lake, Pagoda Point, and Shevaroy Hills offer pleasant views and a relaxed atmosphere. Less crowded and more affordable than other hill towns, Yercaud is perfect if you prefer peace over buzz.
Best Time: October to June
Perfect For: Couples, solo travelers
6. Sakleshpur – Hidden Gem of the Western Ghats
Distance: 220 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Sakleshpur is an underrated gem surrounded by thick forests and tea estates. It’s great for trekking and offbeat stays. Check out Manjarabad Fort, Bisle View Point, and the scenic Jenukal Gudda trail. It’s peaceful yet adventurous — perfect for weekend explorers.
Best Time: November to April
Good For: Trekkers, offbeat travelers
7. Kudremukh – The Green Paradise
Distance: 330 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Kudremukh is famous for its breathtaking mountain views and lush meadows. The Kudremukh Peak trek is one of the most beautiful hikes in South India. You’ll cross streams, grasslands, and clouds — it feels untouched and wild. Stay in eco-lodges or homestays for a real nature escape.
Best Time: October to February
For: Trekkers, nature enthusiasts
8. Agumbe – The Cherrapunji of the South
Distance: 350 km
Travel Time: 7–8 hours
Agumbe is one of the wettest places in India — perfect for those who love rain and greenery. Known for its sunset point, waterfalls, and the famous King Cobra reserve, Agumbe is raw and wild. It’s not for luxury seekers but perfect for those who crave untouched nature.
Best Time: November to February
Perfect For: Wildlife lovers, monsoon chasers
9. Horsley Hills – Quick Weekend Bliss
Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Located in Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills is a quick weekend escape from Bangalore. Cool breeze, viewpoints, and peaceful walks make it a nice short break. You can also visit the Gangotri Lake and Mallamma Temple nearby.
Best Time: November to March
For: Families, short drives
10. Nandi Hills – Bangalore’s Sunrise Point
Distance: 60 km
Travel Time: 1–2 hours
If you just need a morning in the clouds, drive up to Nandi Hills. It’s one of the closest and most popular hill spots near Bangalore. The sunrise from the viewpoint is stunning — best enjoyed with hot coffee in hand. Go early to beat the crowd.
Best Time: Year-round (avoid rainy days)
For: Morning drives, quick getaways
Travel Tips
- Start early from Bangalore to avoid traffic.
- During monsoon, check road conditions before planning long drives.
- Carry light woolens even in summer — hill weather changes fast.
- If driving, fill up fuel at Bangalore outskirts; options reduce in hilly routes.
- Pre-book stays during weekends and holidays.
Final Thought
From misty Coorg to breezy Nandi Hills, the hill stations around Bangalore offer everything — calm mornings, scenic drives, and a chance to slow down. Whether you want to sip coffee in Chikmagalur, watch clouds at Wayanad, or chase waterfalls in Sakleshpur, every trip offers something new.
So, pack light, hit the road, and let the hills remind you what fresh air truly feels like.