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Nandi Hills!

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Population

Very small

schedule

Best Time

September to May

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Karnataka map South India πŸ”οΈ Adventure ⛰️ Mountains πŸ”οΈ Hill Stations Hill Stations Nandi Hills Karnataka Bangalore Weekend Getaway Sunrise Cycling Paragliding Trekking

Nandi Hills, an ancient hill fortress in Karnataka, offers stunning sunrise views and a tranquil escape from the bustle of Bangalore. Once a summer retreat for Tipu Sultan, it's now a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nandi Hills is a great weekend getaway from Bangalore, offering beautiful views and fresh air. However, it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, and some areas may be poorly maintained. If you are looking for solitude, this might not be the best choice.

Located about 60km from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is easily accessible by road. Plan for at least a full day to explore the main attractions and enjoy the scenery. Consider staying overnight to witness the sunrise.

When To Visit

Best Time

September to May

15-25 degrees C

Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for outdoor activities. Clear skies offer excellent views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Why Visit:

This is the best time for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the panoramic views. The weather is comfortable for cycling and paragliding. The gardens are in full bloom, adding to the scenic beauty.

Tip: Expect higher prices for accommodation and activities during peak season. Book your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially for weekends.

Shoulder Season

June to August

20-30 degrees C

Monsoon season with occasional rainfall. The hills are lush green, but visibility may be limited due to fog.

Why Visit:

The landscape is exceptionally green and picturesque. The crowds are thinner compared to the peak season. However, outdoor activities might be restricted due to rain.

Tip: Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before planning your trip. Some attractions might have limited access.

Avoid

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Why Avoid:

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Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Tipu's Drop

⏱ 30 minutes β‚Ή15 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Tipu's Drop is a cliff face where Tipu Sultan allegedly had prisoners thrown to their deaths. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape....

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Nandi Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

Nandi Temple is dedicated to Nandi, the bull which is the mount of Lord Shiva. It features a monolithic statue of Nandi....

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Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple

⏱ 2 hours Free

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is an ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. It showcases exquisite Dravidian architecture....

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Amrita Sarovar

⏱ 30 minutes β‚Ή10 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Amrita Sarovar is a beautiful lake that adds to the charm of Nandi Hills. It's a serene spot for relaxation and enjoying the scenery....

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Secret Passage

⏱ 1 hour β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners)

A hidden passage that was supposedly used by royalty in the past. It's a bit of an adventure to explore....

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Brahmashram

⏱ 30 minutes Free

A cave that was once used as a meditation place. It is believed to have been used by Ramakrishna Paramahamsa....

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Sunrise Viewpoint

⏱ 1 hour β‚Ή10 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The main reason people visit Nandi Hills is to view the sunrise. The view is spectacular when the weather is clear....

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Things To Do

attractions

Cycling

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1500 per person

Explore Nandi Hills and its surroundings on a bicycle. Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic routes....

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attractions

Paragliding

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή2500-4000 per person

Experience the thrill of paragliding over Nandi Hills. Enjoy the panoramic views from above....

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attractions

Trekking

⏱ 2-4 hours πŸ’° Free

Embark on a trekking adventure through the hills and forests surrounding Nandi Hills. Discover hidden trails and viewpoi...

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attractions

Photography

⏱ Flexible πŸ’° Free

Capture the beauty of Nandi Hills through your lens. Photograph the stunning landscapes, historical monuments, and vibra...

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Cultural Experiences

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Visit Local Villages

3-4 hours | β‚Ή200-500

Experience the rural life of Karnataka by visiting the local villages around Nandi Hills. Interact w...

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Temple Visit

1-2 hours | Free

Visit the ancient Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. Witnes...

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Local Cuisine Tasting

1-2 hours | β‚Ή100-300

Indulge in the local cuisine of Karnataka. Sample the regional delicacies and experience the flavors...

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celebration

Attend a Local Festival

Varies | Free

If you are lucky, time your visit to coincide with a local festival. Experience the vibrant celebrat...

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celebration

Learn Kannada Phrases

Flexible | Free

Learn a few basic Kannada phrases to enhance your interaction with the locals. It shows respect and ...

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Visit a Winery

2-3 hours | β‚Ή500-1000

Tour a local winery and learn about the winemaking process. Sample different varieties of wine and e...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Masala Dosa
Masala Dosa

Crispy crepe filled with spiced potatoes (Try at local restaurants)

Idli-Vada
Idli-Vada

Steamed rice cakes and lentil fritters (Try at local restaurants)

Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath

Rice dish with lentils and vegetables (Try at local restaurants)

Thatte Idli
Thatte Idli

Large, plate-sized idlis (Try at local restaurants)

Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak

Sweet fudge made from gram flour and ghee (Try at a sweet shop)

Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee

Traditional South Indian coffee (Try at any local cafe)

Where to Eat

Nandi Upachar

Nandi Upachar

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

South Indian

πŸ“ Nandi Hills

A popular restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine and quick service. A great place for breakfast or a quick meal.

Masala DosaFilter Coffee

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Indian Paratha Company

Indian Paratha Company

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

North Indian

πŸ“ Near Nandi Hills

Offers a variety of stuffed parathas and other North Indian dishes. A good option for those craving North Indian flavors.

Stuffed Parathas

β‚Ή500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Nandi Hills Roadside Stalls

Nandi Hills Roadside Stalls

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Bargain the price. Check for hygiene.

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Foodie Finder: Nandi Hills

More restaurants & dishes from Nandi Hills

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Nandi Hills

Best for those who want to stay close to the attractions and enjoy the natural beauty. However, accommodation options are limited and can be expensive during peak season.

Best For: Nature lovers, sunrise viewers

Devanahalli

A good option for those who want to stay near the airport and have access to a wider range of accommodation. It's a bit further from Nandi Hills, but easily accessible by road.

Best For: Transit travelers, business travelers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Mount Palazzo

πŸ“ Nandi Hills

Basic rooms with essential amenities. Offers a good value for money.

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Clarks Inn Bangalore Airport

πŸ“ Near Airport

Clean and comfortable rooms near the airport, suitable for a short stay. Provides easy access to transportation.

β‚Ή1800-2800/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Signature Club Resort

πŸ“ Devanahalli

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, swimming pool, and restaurant. Ideal for a relaxing getaway.

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Windflower Prakruthi - Bangalore Resort

πŸ“ Devanahalli

A resort with well-appointed rooms, spa, and multiple dining options. Surrounded by lush greenery.

β‚Ή3500-5500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή8000+/night

Taj Bangalore

πŸ“ Near Airport

Luxurious rooms with top-notch amenities, multiple restaurants, and a spa. Offers a premium experience.

β‚Ή8000+/night

JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa

πŸ“ Nandi Hills

Exquisite rooms with stunning views, a golf course, and world-class dining. Provides an unforgettable stay.

β‚Ή10000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), 60km from Nandi Hills

train

By Train

Stations:

Chikkaballapur (CBPR)

Nearest major railway station, about 9km from Nandi Hills. Several trains connect it to Bangalore.

Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 1-2 hours (β‚Ή100-300)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) in Bangalore
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 2-3 hours (β‚Ή150-300)

Note: Trains offer a more comfortable journey

Getting Around

directions

Car/Bike

πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-2500 per day (rental)

Best for: Exploring at your own pace

Rent a car or bike for maximum flexibility. Be careful on the winding roads.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή200-500

Best for: Short distances within Nandi Hills

Bargain before you start. Confirm the price.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Carry warm clothing if visiting during the winter months.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Available in Chikkaballapur

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted. Cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or purified water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, dehydration. Bring necessary medications.

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Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in Bangalore. Airtel and Vodafone are good options.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and some restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases is helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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