Top 20 Places to Visit near Bangalore

Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is the capital of Karnataka and one of the most vibrant cities in India. Known for its pleasant climate, beautiful parks, and bustling nightlife, Bangalore is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, Bangalore has something to offer for everyone. Bangalore is known as the "Silicon Valley of India" because it is the nation's leading software exporter as well as a major semiconductor hub. Below is the list of top 20 places to visit in Bangalore trip.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Distance from Bangalore: 4 km

Significance: Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the most famous botanical gardens in India. Spread over 240 acres, it is home to a variety of tropical plants, trees, and flowers. The garden is known for its annual flower show, which attracts thousands of visitors. The iconic Glass House, modeled after London’s Crystal Palace, is a major attraction here. Lalbagh also houses the Lalbagh Rock, one of the oldest rock formations on Earth, dating back to 3,000 million years.

Bannerghatta National Park

Distance from Bangalore: 22 km

Significance: Bannerghatta National Park is a unique wildlife park located on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is known for its rich biodiversity and offers a safari experience where visitors can see lions, tigers, and bears in their natural habitat. The park also houses a zoo, a butterfly park, and a rescue center for orphaned animals. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the various trekking trails in the park. It is a perfect destination for a day trip with family and friends.

Nandi Hills

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Significance: Nandi Hills is a popular hill station located near Bangalore. It is famous for its stunning sunrise views, ancient temples, and historical significance. The hills were a favorite summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, and you can visit Tipu's Drop, a cliff with a drop of 600 meters. The serene environment, pleasant weather, and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect getaway from the city's hustle and bustle. Adventure activities like paragliding and trekking are also popular here.

Wonderla Amusement Park

Distance from Bangalore: 28 km

Significance: Wonderla Amusement Park is one of the largest amusement parks in India, offering a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions. It features high-adrenaline rides, water slides, and a wave pool, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day with family and friends. The park also has a resort for those who want to extend their stay and enjoy the attractions at a leisurely pace. Special events and seasonal celebrations are regularly held, adding to the excitement.

Innovative Film City

Distance from Bangalore: 40 km

Significance: Innovative Film City is an entertainment park that offers a variety of attractions, including a film studio, amusement rides, and museums. Visitors can explore the sets of popular movies and TV shows, enjoy thrilling rides, and visit the numerous museums, including the Dinosaur Park and the Wax Museum. The park also hosts live performances and events, making it an exciting destination for people of all ages. The mix of entertainment and educational experiences ensures a memorable visit.

Chikmagalur

Distance from Bangalore: 240 km

Significance: Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station known for its coffee plantations, scenic landscapes, and serene environment. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The region is home to several trekking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. The Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka, offers breathtaking views and a challenging trek. Coffee enthusiasts can take plantation tours and learn about the coffee-making process.

Mysore

Distance from Bangalore: 145 km

Significance: Mysore, also known as Mysuru, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and magnificent palaces. The Mysore Palace, an architectural marvel, is a must-visit attraction. Mysore is also famous for its Dussehra festival, celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm. Other notable attractions include the Chamundi Hill, Brindavan Gardens, and the Mysore Zoo. The city is also known for its silk sarees, sandalwood products, and delicious cuisine.

Mysore Car Museum

Distance from Bangalore: 145 km

Significance: The Mysore Car Museum also known as Payana Car Museum is a must-visit destination for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs. This unique museum houses an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, showcasing the evolution of automotive design and technology over the decades. Visitors can admire a variety of models, including rare and antique vehicles from around the world.

Exhibits and Features: The museum features meticulously restored cars from different eras, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history of automobiles. Each exhibit is accompanied by detailed information about the car's make, model, and historical significance. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events, celebrating the heritage of automotive engineering.

Interactive Experiences: In addition to static displays, the Mysore Car Museum offers interactive experiences for visitors. Guests can enjoy virtual reality tours, giving them a chance to experience driving some of the classic cars. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of Indian automobiles, highlighting the contributions of Indian car manufacturers.

Educational Programs: The museum organizes educational programs and workshops for students and enthusiasts, promoting knowledge about automotive history and engineering. These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of automobile engineers and designers. The museum's library is another valuable resource, offering a vast collection of books and publications on automotive topics.

Visitor Amenities: The Mysore Car Museum is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. There is a café offering refreshments, a souvenir shop with unique memorabilia, and ample parking space. The museum is also accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ramps and elevators provided for easy navigation.

Hogenakkal Falls

Distance from Bangalore: 180 km

Significance: Hogenakkal Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara of India," is a stunning waterfall located on the Kaveri River. The falls are known for their breathtaking beauty and therapeutic properties of the water. Visitors can enjoy a coracle ride, a traditional round boat, to get up close to the falls. The surrounding area offers scenic views and opportunities for trekking and picnicking. It is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Coorg

Distance from Bangalore: 265 km

Significance: Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery, coffee plantations, and pleasant climate. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Popular attractions include Abbey Falls, Raja's Seat, and Dubare Elephant Camp. Coorg is also famous for its unique culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. The serene environment and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect getaway for a relaxing vacation.

Shivanasamudra Falls

Distance from Bangalore: 135 km

Significance: Shivanasamudra Falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the Kaveri River. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in Karnataka and is divided into two segments, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the falls are in full flow. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and take a dip in the natural pools formed at the base of the falls.

Skandagiri

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Significance: Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is a popular trekking destination near Bangalore. The trek to the top of the hill offers stunning views of the sunrise and the surrounding landscape. The ruins of an ancient fort at the summit add to the charm of the trek. The trek is moderately challenging and is best undertaken during the early morning hours. It is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers looking for a thrilling experience.

Hampi

Distance from Bangalore: 340 km

Significance: Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, monuments, and ruins. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is home to numerous architectural marvels, including the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple. The landscape is dotted with boulders and offers stunning views of the Tungabhadra River. Hampi is a paradise for history buffs and photographers, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India.

Savandurga

Distance from Bangalore: 50 km

Significance: Savandurga is one of the largest monolith hills in Asia and a popular trekking destination near Bangalore. The hill offers two trekking trails, Karigudda (Black Hill) and Biligudda (White Hill), both offering stunning views from the summit. The trek is moderately challenging and takes you through lush greenery and rocky terrain. At the summit, you can visit the ancient Savandi Veerabhadreshwara Swamy Temple and Narasimha Swamy Temple. It is a perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Chunchi Falls

Distance from Bangalore: 83 km

Significance: Chunchi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the Arkavathi River. It is known for its scenic beauty and serene environment, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the falls are in full flow. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful picnic and take a dip in the natural pools formed at the base of the falls.

Yercaud

Distance from Bangalore: 230 km

Significance: Yercaud is a charming hill station located in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its pleasant climate, coffee plantations, and scenic beauty. Popular attractions include the Yercaud Lake, Pagoda Point, and Lady's Seat. Yercaud offers several trekking trails and is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The serene environment and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect getaway for a relaxing vacation.

Ramanagara

Distance from Bangalore: 50 km

Significance: Ramanagara is a popular destination for rock climbing and trekking near Bangalore. The rocky terrain and large boulders make it an ideal spot for adventure activities. It is also famous as the shooting location for the iconic Bollywood movie "Sholay." Visitors can explore the Ramadevara Betta hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The region is also known for its silk industry and you can visit local silk farms and shops.

Lepakshi

Distance from Bangalore: 120 km

Significance: Lepakshi is a historic village known for its stunning architecture and ancient temples. The Veerabhadra Temple, with its intricately carved pillars and frescoes, is a major attraction. The village is also home to the largest Nandi bull statue in India. Lepakshi is a paradise for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India. The village also hosts several festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Chitradurga Fort

Distance from Bangalore: 200 km

Significance: Chitradurga Fort is a historic fort known for its impressive architecture and strategic significance. The fort is built on a series of hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is known for its massive stone walls, secret passages, and ancient temples. The fort played a significant role in the history of Karnataka and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the various structures and learn about the fort's rich history.

Srirangapatna

Distance from Bangalore: 125 km

Significance: Srirangapatna is a historic town known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. The town is home to the famous Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Srirangapatna also played a significant role in the history of Karnataka and was the capital of the Mysore Kingdom under Tipu Sultan. Visitors can explore the various historical sites, including Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and the Gumbaz. The town is also known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment.

Anthargange

Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

Significance: Anthargange is a popular trekking and caving destination near Bangalore. The region is known for its volcanic rock formations and natural caves, offering a unique adventure experience. The trek to the top of the hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. At the summit, you can visit the ancient Kashi Vishweshwara Temple. Anthargange is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers looking for a thrilling experience.

Shivagange

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Significance: Shivagange is a popular trekking destination near Bangalore, known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. The trek to the top of the hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and takes you through lush greenery and rocky terrain. At the summit, you can visit the ancient Shiva Temple and the Olakala Teertha, a sacred water spring. Shivagange is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.