Are you planning a weekend dedicated to trekking near Bangalore? If so, our list of the best trekking places near Bangalore will be helpful when you begin your research. Let’s start the journey to the lesser-known yet incredibly captivating trekking destinations near Bangalore that’ll give your weekend a new purpose.
It’s time to break free from the nerve-wracking hubbub of the city, pack your bag, and say goodbye to the chaos for a while.
20 Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore in 2024
Scroll down to find some of the best treks near Bangalore that you should indulge in for an unmatched adventure. Make a note of all the best ones you see.
Ramanagara the shooting venue for the legendary Hindi movie ‘Sholay,’ is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore. Famed for the silk market and a scenic trek, Ramnagara is popular amongst both amateur trekkers and professionals. It is also known for rock climbing, bird watching, and the ancient Pattabhi Rama temple, which makes it a perfect spot for weekend treks near Bangalore.
Distance Between Ramanagara and Bangalore: 50 km
Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult
Highlights: Pitch climbing and fishing in Kanva and Janapada Loka reservoir
Things to do: Camping, bird watching, trekking, shopping for souvenirs
Located at an altitude of 1478 m, Nandi Hills, or Nandidurg, is one of the most popular trekking places near Bangalore. One can climb 1,200 steps to reach the summer palace of Tipu Sultan, located on the top. It is a mesmeric location and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and Amrita Sarovar. One can practice rock climbing and rappel from Tipu’s Drop – a famous rock outcrop of Nandi Hills.
Distance From Bangalore: 60 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Most photogenic sunrise from Tipu’s drop (a rocky outcrop)
Things to do: Paragliding, cycling, shopping,
In Skandagiri, the trek starts from Papagani Temple, which is easily accessed from Bangalore, Nandi Hills, or Chikkaballapur town. One can find two caves in the entire stretch. This is a reasonably challenging trek that experts mostly take. Also known as Kalavara Durga, this is one of the most beautiful places in Bangalore, especially for night trekking around Bangalore. Explorers planning road trips from Bangalore will love this little piece of beauty.
Distance From Bangalore: 61 km
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highlights: Camping and bird watching
Things to do: Fishing, bumper boat ride, jet skiing
Volcanic rocks, boulders, caves, and small hillocks have made Anthargange one of Bangalore’s most frequently visited trekking places. This trail is a combination of trekking and cave exploration. This is a 3-km long journey that takes you through challenging, tricky trails and some of the most gorgeous vistas. Considered one of the best places for solo trekking near Bangalore, the trek is easy, level, and scenic, making it one of the best treks near Bangalore.
Distance From Bangalore: 70 km
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Overnight camping in the caves
Things to do: Caving, trekking, visit Someshwara temple
One of the most picturesque trekking places around Bangalore, Savandurga is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers. There are two popular trails in Savandurga: Karigudda and Billigudda. This is a more popular and challenging trek through the age-old fort of Kempe Gowda.
Distance From Bangalore: 70 km
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Highlights: One of the best places to trek near Bangalore during the night
Things to do: Night trek, visit Manchanabele Dam, visit BhogaNandeeshwara Temple
With two temples, Bhoga Narsimha at the base and Yoga Narsimha at the top, the trekking of Devarayanadurga offers a mesmeric view of the surroundings. The region is dotted with numerous natural springs, and NamadaChilume is one of them. One will also find a vast cave with idols of Rama, Laxmana, and Sita en route, which makes it one of the most charming trekking places near Bangalore for pilgrims and adventure seekers alike.
Distance From Bangalore: 72 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Cave festival of Sri Bhoga Narasimha Swamy from March to April
Things to do: Visit Nijagal fort, visit Yoga Narasimha Temple, trekking
This trek is challenging through granite hillocks, wild shrubs, and other vegetation. Makalidurga boasts of its serenity, and the sight of the ruined fort at the top delights every trekker. A one-day trek near Bangalore, Makalidurga is trekked by adventure enthusiasts, especially from September to February. Since it’s only located 75 km from Bangalore, it is one of the closest trekking places near Bangalore.
Distance From Bangalore: 75 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Photography of the surrounding forests, curvy roads, and temple of Lord Krishna at the foothill
Things to do: Visit Sri Vani Science Park, visit Ghati Subramanya Temple, Kinvah Vineyards
Madhugiri is the second-largest monolithic rock after Savanagiri and is amongst the most beautiful offbeat places near Bangalore. On the way, one can see Madhugiri Fort, built by Hyder Ali, which was infested with honey bee colonies soon after it was built. Though it’s among the best trekking places near Bangalore, the one-and-a-half-hour trekking duration can be challenging at some stretches.
Distance From Bangalore: 100 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Architectural ruins of Gopalakrishna Temple on the peak
Things to do: Visit Madhugiri Fort, visit Sri Chennakeshava Temple, visit Pavagada Fort
To enjoy the rustic beauty of the hills and the age-old fort, trek to Narayanagiri. It is a moderate one-day trek near Bangalore, and it takes about half a day to ascend and explore the Maratha fort atop. There are no proper signboards, so trekkers sometimes get confused with the directions. With so much to offer, it’s one of the best trekking places near Bangalore.
Distance From Bangalore: 70 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: The area grows shrubs and herbs with medicinal value
Things to do: Witness the sunrise, trekking, sightseeing
With a cocktail of the topography of rocky boulders, grasslands, and granite outcrops, Kunti Betta is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore, known for night trekking. Overnight trekking near Bangalore in Kunti Betta is thrilling and worth the pain you take to trek it. People ascend at night and enjoy the most photogenic sunrise and stunning views of the surrounding paddy fields, forests, and a sparkling lake.
Distance From Bangalore: 122 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Stunning view of Thonnur Lake
Things to do: Visit Kunti Kund, visit Kunti Temple, visit Parikrama Point
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta in the Eastern Ghats is one of the most popular trekking places in Bangalore, near the famed town of Kanakapura. It is also one of the highest hill towns in the area, thus making your trek all the more thrilling. It is also known as Bilikal Betta, sometimes meaning white rocks. It’s an excellent destination for short treks around Bangalore if you’re more into easy-level trekking. Once you’re at the top, you can bask in the incredible views and visit the temple dedicated to Lord Rangaswamy. You can also see at the time of the Rangaswamy temple festival at the top that locals celebrate there.
Distance From Bangalore: 75 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Temple on top, breathtaking views
Things to do: Visit Chunchi Falls, visit Janapada Loka, visit Lord Ranga Swamy Temple
This small town in the Mandya district is popular amongst fishing enthusiasts. Bheemeshwari is also home to the Mahseer fish, the world’s best game fish. Amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, this place is truly paradise, located just a few hours away from Bangalore. Alongside flora and fauna, this place is also famous for other adventure activities like boating, trekking, and camping. This place is also home to many birds and other wildlife creatures like leopards, crocodiles, and wild boars. It is amongst the famous trekking spots near Bangalore.
Distance Between Bheemeshwariand Bangalore: 9.9 Km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Fishing
Things to do: Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary, boating, fishing
Famously called Pushpagiri, Kumara Parvatha is known to be the highest peak in the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. This also holds a record of being the 6th highest peak in Karnataka. The Kumara Parvatha trek is one of the South’s most demanding and challenging treks, taking around two days to complete. The total distance of the trek is 13 km, and it is located at a height of 4000 feet. Situated at the Subrahmanya village, this is one of the ideal treks to experience by the adventure junkies. It is one of the best places to trek near Bangalore.
Distance Between Kumar Parvatha and Bangalore: 258 Km
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Highlights: Scenic views, Village lifestyle
Things to do: Photography, camping, caving
Resting at a height of 1930 ft above sea level, Mullayanagiri is a beautiful place at the Baba Budan Giri Range of Western Ghats. This is considered the highest peak: the Nilgiris and the Himalayas. Surrounded by the stunning view of nature’s finest beauty and grassland, this is one of the must-visit places for adventure lovers. This is a 4 km trek that starts from Sarpadhari and has a steep trail. Other fun activities like mountain biking and road biking are worth experiencing.
Distance Between Mullayanagiriand Bangalore: 264 Km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Mountain biking trail
Things to do: Trekking, mountain biking, visit Hebber waterfalls
This is one of the highest mountain peaks at Coorg, resting at 1748 m above sea level. Considered one of the best places for trekking and hiking, this is also an ideal trek for beginners. Known as the second-highest peak in Karnataka, the Tadiandamol trek is an excellent option for spending time amidst nature and enjoying a great time.
Distance Between Tadiandamoland Bangalore: 268 Km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic view of nature
Things to do: Visit Kabbe Hills, visit Chelavara Falls, visit Igguthappa Temple
Starting at the little settlement at the foot of the mountain, one can park their car and begin the climb. It is a fantastic experience to walk the first trail through the dense forest cover. The path is rocky and steep when one reaches the midway mark. Though the trek up is not easy, the expansive vista from the summit is well worth it. When at the summit, one may take in the breathtaking vistas of the neighbouring hills and the captivating dusk. The site has a spiritual atmosphere enhanced by the little temple honouring Lord Shiva on the summit. Many devotees flock to the summit of the temple to make their offerings and ask for blessings. In conclusion, everyone wishing to escape the busy city life quickly would find the Uttari Betta trek to be the perfect option.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Best view of nature
Things to do: Water Activities, Rope Activities
Mekedatu is located along Kaveri on the border of the Chamarajanagar and Ramanagara Districts. From this point, about 3.5 kilometres downstream, the river Kaveri flows through a deep and narrow gorge. Mekedatu Sangama is the confluence of two rivers Arkavathi and Kaveri. It’s around 2 hours’ drive from Bangalore. Arkavathi will be just a small stream for most of the year and will have some water during the monsoons. Mekedatu means ‘goat’s leap’ in Kannada. At Mekedatu Falls, the Kaveri runs through a deep, narrow ravine of hard granite rock. The river, which is more than 150 meters wide at the confluence (at Sangama), flows through the hardly 10-meter-wide gorge at Mekedatu. At Mekedatu Sangama, the Kaveri River is more than 150 meters wide at the confluence and flows through a narrow 5-10 meter gorge at Mekedatu. Legend has it that the channel was so narrow that sheep would jump across, hence the name Mekedatu (Meke = sheep, Datu = cross in Kannada). Chunchi Falls is an almost 50-foot-high cascade of falls that is fed by the river Arkavati. Chunchi Falls lies en route to Mekedatu and Sangama.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic view of nature
Things to do: Trekking, Coracle Ride and other water activities
Hogenakkal Waterfalls, often called Hogenakkal Falls, is a captivating destination nestled on the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu, India. Known as the “Niagara Falls of India,” it boasts cascading waterfalls amidst rugged rocks and lush greenery, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Visitors can embark on thrilling coracle boat rides guided by local experts, immersing themselves in the misty spray and the powerful currents up close. The falls’ mineral-rich waters are renowned for their therapeutic properties, inviting travellers to indulge in refreshing baths believed to alleviate ailments and rejuvenate the senses. Surrounded by serene landscapes and enriched by the local culture of nearby tribal communities, Hogenakkal Waterfalls is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure. Located within a convenient distance from Bangalore and accessible from Chennai and Salem, it promises an accessible escape into nature’s embrace. Whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Hogenakkal beckons with its natural charm and promises unforgettable experiences amidst pleasant weather conditions.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic view of nature
Things to do: Coracle Ride and Kayaking
Mondovi River flowing in the Western Ghats bordering between 2 states creates a drop at colleen of Goa bordering Karnataka. This is 4 tiered waterfall, and water jumps from a height of 310 meters (1017 feet) above sea level. And Dudhsagar waterfallis like the Sea of Milk hence the name Dudhsagar. Legend has a Story about the falls. The beautiful princess who lived in the kingdom close to the falls used to take a bath in the streams of these falls, and after completing it, she used to drink the sweet milk in a golden jug. On one such day, after completing her bath, she found she was. Being watched by a prince, Red, with embarrassment at her inadequate bathing attire, poured the jug of water and entered the water to cover her body. In the meanwhile, the maids rushed to cover her with her dress. It is said that it is that sweetened milk that cascades down the mountain slope as Dudhsagar Falls to this day as a tribute to the virtue of the princess.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic view of nature
Things to do: Trekking, Camping And Adventure Activities
Ettina Bhuja Peak, which means an Ox’s shoulder, is one of the magical trekking and camping places around Bangalore. The 1300 meters peak is situated at a proximate distance from Dharmasthala in Charmadi Ghats that are covered in lush green trees, flora & fauna such as spotted deer, brown palm civets, gaur, and giant flying squirrels. The bus will first reach Shishila village, from where you, along with other trekkers, can set foot to begin a 7-8 km trekking route to reach the peak. The green vegetation field hiding the rare faunas will welcome your visit under the moderately hot sunlight. During your Ettina Bhuja Trek, you can capture the panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic view of nature
Things to do: Trekking and waterfalls visit
Tips For Trekking Places Near Bangalore
If you’re a beginner, start with an easy trek or go for a group trekking
Do thorough research before going on the trek
Plan the itinerary well and avoid going for spontaneous trips
Invest in good-quality trekking shoes
Use the trekking poles to get support on rough trails