Outdoor Guide
15 Best Day Trips from Bangalore
Weekend getaways within 3 hours (2026)
Bangalore's perfect weather and central location make it ideal for day trips and weekend getaways. Within a few hours, you can be watching sunrise above clouds, trekking volcanic rocks, tasting wine, or exploring ancient temples.
Whether you want adventure, heritage, nature, or just an escape from the city, these are the best day trips from Bangalore.
Nandi Hills
60 km • 1.5 hours
The classic Bangalore day trip. Leave at 4am, watch the sunrise above the clouds, freeze in the cold morning air, breakfast on the way back. A rite of passage.
💡 Tip: Gates open at 5am. Go on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Mysore
150 km • 3 hours
The royal city makes for a perfect day trip. Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and some of India's best dosas. Leave early, return late.
💡 Tip: Palace is closed on Sundays. Plan accordingly.
Coorg (Madikeri)
250 km • 5 hours
Best as a weekend trip, but doable in a long day. Coffee estates, misty hills, and some of Karnataka's most beautiful scenery.
💡 Tip: Stay overnight if possible. One day isn't enough.
Skandagiri
70 km • 2 hours
The best night trek near Bangalore. Start at midnight, reach the summit for sunrise above the clouds. Unforgettable.
💡 Tip: Book through a trekking group. Don't go alone at night.
Grover Zampa Vineyards
40 km • 1 hour
Karnataka's best winery. Tour the vineyards, taste the wines, enjoy lunch with a view. A European afternoon, Bangalore edition.
💡 Tip: Book the tour in advance. Combine with Nandi Hills.
Shivanasamudra Falls
130 km • 3 hours
Dramatic waterfalls at their best during and after monsoon. The Cauvery splits into twin falls — Gaganachukki and Bharachukki.
💡 Tip: Best after monsoon rains. Can be underwhelming in summer.
Savandurga
50 km • 1.5 hours
One of Asia's largest monolith hills. A challenging day trek with rewarding views at the top.
💡 Tip: Carry plenty of water. The climb is steep.
Lepakshi
120 km • 2.5 hours
16th-century Vijayanagara temple with incredible murals and the famous hanging pillar. Cross into Andhra for a history fix.
💡 Tip: Combine with Penukonda ruins for a full day.
Anthargange
70 km • 2 hours
Volcanic rock formations with caves to explore. Popular for night treks and camping.
💡 Tip: Bring flashlights for the caves.
Manchinbele Dam
40 km • 1 hour
Kayaking, coracle rides, and riverside camping. The closest water sports destination to Bangalore.
💡 Tip: Several operators run day trips. Book in advance.
🚗 Road Trip Essentials
- • Leave early: Beat Bangalore traffic by leaving before 6am.
- • Toll money: Keep cash for tollways on all routes.
- • Fuel up: Fill your tank in the city; options thin out.
- • Breakfast stops: Kamat, A2B, and MTR have highway locations.
- • Return timing: Avoid entering Bangalore after 6pm on Sundays.