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January 26, 2022

14 Epic One-Day Trips from Bangalore (That Locals Try to Keep a Secret)

Bangalore – the Tech Hub of India – isn’t just where I work; it’s where the chaos of city life makes the silence of nature feel like luxury. After clocking 40+ hours every week, my soul often craves open skies, winding trails, or just the splash of water over rocks. Fortunately, Bangalore’s geography is a blessing—surrounded by forests, waterfalls, hills, and temples, all just a short ride away. So whether you’re a student like I once was, a startup hustler, or a weekend escapist—these day trips have been my favorite mini-adventures. And now, I’m sharing them with you—complete with memories, tips, and emotions you won’t find on Google Maps.

One Day Trips From Bangalore

1. Hogenakkal Falls – Niagara Falls of India (127 KM)

I still remember the goosebumps from my first visit to Hogenakkal Falls. The name, meaning “Smoky Rocks,” truly comes alive when you watch the River Kaveri thunder down over the rocks—sending up fine sprays that shimmer like smoke in the sunlight.

Set on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, surrounded by thick greenery, this place was where I truly tuned out of city life. One of the best parts? The route—rolling hills, dense forest cover, and riverside views made the drive feel like part of the destination itself.

Pro Tip: Leave by sunrise, have breakfast early, and carry a change of clothes—you’ll want to dip into the cool waters.
Food Tip: I still crave the smoky, spiced grilled fish prepared by local vendors. It’s rustic, fresh, and utterly satisfying. Don’t miss the fresh-cut pineapples and papayas either.
Unforgettable Moment: I got an oil massage by the river and, honestly, the calm afterward was better than any spa.
Did You Know? Scenes from the movie Raavan were filmed here.
Best Time: October to February
Best way to reach – Bangalore -> Attebelle – > Denkanikottai -> Anchetty -> Hogenakkal. Have breakfast and leave early in the morning to skip the traffic. The route from Bangalore to Hogenakkal falls is quite scenic, traversing through the forest and ghat section alongside the Kaveri River. So, you can stop and take a dip inside the river. You can find cafes, tea stalls and restaurants on the road but it’s good to have breakfast before leaving. The whole journey can take around 3 to 4 hours of time.

2. Skandagiri – 60 KM

The night I first trekked Skandagiri is etched in memory—the chilly air, the beam of my torch cutting through the mist, and the anticipation of sunrise on the summit.

Starting from Papagni Mutt, the 3 KM trek is perfect for early risers or restless souls. The climb in darkness was both eerie and exciting, but when the horizon slowly bled orange, it felt like standing on the edge of the world.

Trek Tip: Start around 3 AM. Bring your own water and packed food—there’s nothing like biting into a sandwich while watching clouds swirl beneath your feet.
Nearby Gems: Nandi Hills, Muddenahalli, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
How to reach – Take the bus from Bangalore that will drop you at Chikballapur. From there either you can take an auto to reach the base in 15 minutes or you can also walk down to the foothills of Skandagiri which will take around 1 hour.

Check out – 17 Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur

3. Nandi Hills – 61 KM

The magic of Nandi Hills lies in the moment the sun peeks out and drenches the world in gold. I’ve gone there multiple times, and every sunrise feels new.

It’s not just the view—from ancient temples to charming gardens, the entire hilltop whispers stories from a different time. And for those who love a bit of legwork, the 1.5 KM trek from Silver Oak Farm base point is a lovely climb.

Pro Tip: Arrive around 5 AM, bring a thermos of chai, and wait—sunrise is worth the crowd.
Stay Tip: Want to stay longer? Book a room at KSTDC’s Mayura Pine Top. I once spent a misty evening there watching the sun set beyond the hills—pure bliss.
Food Tip: Stalls up top offer snacks, but I usually grab a hearty breakfast at the restaurants near the base.
How to reach – Take a state bus of KSRTC from Bangalore to Nandi Hills. There are regular buses from the Bangalore bus stand to Nandi Hills. If you want then you can also drive your own vehicle as well.

Also Read – 20 Best Weekend Gateways From Gurgaon

4. Makalidurga – 57 KM

My escape to Makalidurga was unplanned—and that made it even more special. Just a couple of hours from Bangalore, this trail winds through lush greenery and ends at a hilltop fort overlooking the lake below. The Gundamagere Lake below even looks like the shape of South America!

Trek Tip: Book in advance on the Karnataka Eco Tourism site. The trail is marked well with arrows, and the views are soothing to both eyes and soul.
Food & Water: No eateries around—pack your meal and hydrate well. I once forgot my bottle and learned the hard way!
Don’t Miss: Watching the train snake through the landscape below—it’s oddly hypnotic.
How to reach – You can easily reach the Makalidurga from Bangalore via SH 9. It will take around 2 hours to reach there. The state bus is the most convenient way to reach Makalidurga from Bangalore.

5. Savandurga Hills – The Largest Monoliths in Asia (47 KM)

Standing at the base of Savandurga, I remember tilting my head back and gasping—it’s one of the largest monoliths in Asia! The 3–4 KM trek is a rocky thrill and a test of stamina, but reaching the top feels like conquering something ancient and majestic.

The temples at the base—Savandi Veerabhadraswamy and Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy—echo with timeless chants, grounding you before the climb.

Trek Tip: Start early (5 AM-ish) to avoid both heat and crowds. Wear sturdy shoes—the granite can be slippery, especially after rains.
Scenic Stop: Don’t miss Dodda Aladamara, a 400-year-old banyan tree nearby. It’s the perfect pitstop for reflection (and photos).
Water Alert: Bring plenty. While there’s water at the base, it’s not purified.
How to reach – Savandurga is located in the Magadi town and it is easily accessible by road from Bangalore. If you want to drive your own vehicle then just follow up the navigation in Google maps. But don’t forget to stop at Dodda Aladamara – A Big Banayan tree that is around 400 years old. If you’re traveling here by public transport then take a bus to Magadi then take shared auto that charges you around 15 INR to Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy temple.

6. Bannerghatta National Park – 21 KM

Sometimes you just want to spend a laid-back day with lions, butterflies, and elephants—and Bannerghatta National Park is perfect for that. Just 20 KM from Bangalore, I’ve visited it with friends, family, and even solo. Every time, the excitement of the safari stays the same.

Must-Do: Take the Jeep Safari for a closer encounter. I once locked eyes with a tiger and that moment—pure adrenaline!
Family Tip: The butterfly park is a hit with kids and surprisingly soothing for adults too.
Getting There: Bus numbers 365 and 365J from BMTC Platform No. 17 will get you there in under an hour.
Food: Plenty of food stalls inside. Try the simple South Indian meals—they’re comforting and budget-friendly.
Timings – 9:30 AM to 5 PM, closed on Tuesday
Safari timings – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fees for Indians – 80 INR for Adults, 40 INR for kids and 50 INR for senior citizens.
Entry Fees of Foreigners – 400 INR
Boating fees – 60 INR
Jeep Safari – 3500 INR including cost of Zoo, safari, butterfly park and camera
AC bus safari – 500 INR for adults and 300 INR for kids
Non-Ac bus safari – 280 INR for adults and 140 INR for kids
Best time to visit – Nov to June

7. Anthargange Hills – 68 KM

I still remember the thrill of my night trek at Anthargange—the flashlight dancing on rocky trails, the distant echoes of temple bells, and the crisp night air that carried a strange serenity. “Anthargange” translates to “Inner Stream,” and the place lives up to its name with an eternal spring gushing from a bull’s mouth near a sacred temple.

The trek is short but intense—about 3 km of boulders and uneven terrain that demand both grit and grace. But reaching the top and peeking into the mysterious volcanic caves felt like stepping into another realm. The sunrise here? Absolutely worth the sweat.

Best time to visit: October to March
Getting there: A bus to Kolar (₹50), followed by a shared auto. Or drive—it’s a scenic route.
Food tip: Pack your own meals and water. There are some basic options near the base but not much at the top.
Don’t miss: The spiritual aura of Lord Shiva temples and the surreal experience of camping in caves.

8. Manchanabele Dam – 40 KM

If I had to name a place that truly feels untouched, it would be Manchanabele Dam. I once spent an entire afternoon here doing absolutely nothing—just watching the water shimmer under the sun, framed by hills on three sides. No vendors, no noise, no distractions. Just the sound of the breeze, your thoughts, and the occasional bird call.

This dam, built across the Arkavathi River, is my go-to when I need to unplug and reflect.

Best time to visit: October to March
Getting there: A short drive or bus ride from K.R. Market. You can drive at this place by following this link.
Food tip: No shops around—bring food and lots of water.
Don’t miss: The 400-year-old Big Banyan Tree, just 10 km away.

9. Chunchi falls – 90 KM

I first stumbled upon Chunchi Falls en route to Sangama, and wow—what a detour! At 50 feet, it’s not the tallest waterfall, but the force with which it carves through the rocks is mesmerizing. The greenery around makes it feel like a hidden jungle escape.

Though swimming is off-limits (yes, crocodiles!), the real charm is in the 30-minute walk from the parking area—rustling leaves, red earth beneath your feet, and the roar of the waterfall growing louder with each step.

Best time to visit: Monsoon (lush and vibrant)
Food tip: Sparse local snacks. Pack your own if you plan to stay longer.
Things to do: Hike, picnic, and soak in the natural drama.
How to reach – The fall is around 30 KM from the Kanakapura and 1 KM from the bus stop. There is no direct bus from Bangalore. You may need to change the few buses and hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the fall. You can drive your own vehicle. The route could be like this – Bangalore -> Kanakapura -> Turns towards Mekedatu -> Yeleguri Village. After parking the vehicle you need to take a short walk of 30 minutes to reach near the falls. The whole journey from Bangalore will take around 2 and half hours to reach the falls.

10. Shivanasamudra Waterfalls – 133 KM

Standing on the viewpoint, watching the mighty Kaveri River split into Gaganachukki and Bharachukki falls was one of the most humbling sights I’ve ever witnessed. The thunder of water crashing 98 meters below is not just heard—it’s felt in your chest.

The area is tourist-friendly with stairways, food stalls, and plenty of spots to sit and soak in the view. Post-monsoon is when the falls are at their grandest, veiled in mist and magic.

Timings – 8 AM to 5 PM all days.
Entry Fees – 20 INR at the Bhara Chukki falls and 10 INR to walk down the stairway to the base of the falls.
Best time to visit: August to February
Food tip: Plenty of stalls and eateries near the viewpoint.
Entry Fees: ₹20 (Bharachukki), ₹10 (stairway)
Stay options: KSTDC lodges or Mandya city hotels
How to reach – It is located a 2-hour drive from Bangalore on the Bangalore Mysore highway till Mandya then you have to turn into Malavalli town which takes around 1 and half hours. There are daily buses from Bangalore to Malavalli bus stop. From there you can either hire an auto-rickshaw or take a bus to reach the base of the fall. The road condition is pretty good with amazing views and fresh wind.

11. Lepakshi – 123 KM

Lepakshi isn’t just another temple town. Walking into the Veerabhadra Temple, with its hanging pillar and centuries-old frescoes, felt like stepping into a living storybook. Local lore says the name Lepakshi (“Rise, bird!”) comes from Jatayu falling here after trying to save Sita from Ravana. That gave me goosebumps.

Don’t miss the massive Nandi statue and the monolithic Nagalinga—true testaments to architectural brilliance.

Timings – 6 AM to 6 PM
Best time to visit: October to February
Food tip: Plenty of options en route and at Lepakshi itself.
Highlights: Jatayu Park, hanging pillar, Durga Padam, and temple carvings that will leave you awestruck.
How to reach – Lepakshi is located around 2 hours of distance from Bangalore. Try to leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and rush. The road is condition is very good and surrounded by the thick vegetation. Either you can drive your own car or take public transport to reach there. There are number of private and government buses run on this route.

Route – Bangalore – Yelahanka – Devanahalli – Chikaballapur – Bagepalli – Lepakshi

12. Mysore – 144 KM

Mysore always feels like an elegant breath of the past. My one-day trip turned into two when I couldn’t tear myself away from the majestic Mysore Palace lit up at night. From exploring Chamundi Hills to walking through the floral wonderland of Brindavan Gardens, the city never fails to impress.

And don’t get me started on the food—Mysore masala dosa at Vinayaka Mylari? Pure bliss.

Best time to visit: July to February
Highlights: Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore Palace, Sand Sculpture Museum, Srirangapatna Fort
Food must-tries: Mysore Pak at Guru Sweets, mutton pulao at Hotel Hanumanthu, spicy meals at RRR
How to reach – Mysore is located around 3 hours of distance from Bangalore. Being a famous tourist spot, getting there is not a big deal. There are frequent buses from Bangalore to Mysore. And if you want to drive then the road condition is very good with scenic views. Try to leave early in the morning around 6 AM to cover most of the tourist spots in a day. For train lovers, there are around 20+ train runs daily from Bangalore to Mysore.

13. Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp – 106 KM

Tucked on the banks of the river Kaveri, Bheemeshwari is a place where I felt completely in tune with nature. Kayaking on the river, zip-lining above trees, and spotting a crocodile basking in the sun made the day unforgettable. It’s also home to Mahseer—the prized game fish, although I just enjoyed watching the anglers do their thing.

At night, under a sky bursting with stars, I camped by the riverside and felt a calm I hadn’t experienced in ages.

Best time to visit: August to February
Getting there: Buses available. Or drive via Kanakapura and Sathanur.
Activities: Trekking, boating, rope walking, rafting, wildlife spotting
Stay options: Jungle lodges, riverside tents, and eco-resorts

14. Ramanagara – Silk City Of India – 50 KM

Every time I visit Ramanagara, I can’t help but hum the Sholay theme song. This was Ramgarh in the movie, after all! With its giant granite boulders and dramatic landscapes, it’s a dream for rock climbers and trekkers.

Once, I climbed to the top of a ridge just as the sun dipped behind the hills—an orange glow stretching across the sky, and not a soul in sight. Pure cinematic magic.

Best time to visit: March to June
Getting there: Fastest via train from Bangalore (under 50 mins).
Food tip: Carry food or stop at roadside dhabas for basic but tasty eats.
Fun fact: It’s also called the Silk City of India!

These day trips have become my therapy sessions—each place offering a fresh perspective, a unique emotion, or a quiet escape. Whether it’s the thrill of a cave trek, the joy of a simple picnic by a dam, or the awe of ancient legends, every journey has added a layer to my Bangalore story.

So, when the city gets too loud, pack light and head out. Let the roads surprise you, let nature soothe you. Trust me—you’ll return with more than just photos.

FAQ’s

Q1: What are the best one day outings in Bangalore for Couples?

Nandi Hills, Lal Bagh Botanical garden, Hebbal lake, Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, Lumbini Gardens and Ramanagara are some of the best places to visit in Bangalore for couples.

Q2: What are the beautiful waterfalls to visit near Bangalore?

Hogenakkal falls, Chunchi falls, Shivanasamundra falls, Thottikallu falls, Muthyala Maduvu falls, and Balmuri falls are some of the best waterfalls near Bangalore.

Q3: What are the best places to enjoy wildlife near Bangalore?

Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp and Bannerghatta National Park are two places where you can enjoy the wide range of flora & fauna including leopards, tigers, elephants, wild cat, deer and wild boars. To spend a night, these places also have accommodations options.