Road trips give tourists and explorers a sense of independence. You are not bound by train or flight timings and you can choose to extend or prepone the trip based on your convenience. If you stay in Bangalore, there are so many awesome road trips you can take that will appeal to the traveller in you! Check these destinations out. Pick up the one that calls to your inner self, pack your bags and get ready for travelling.
1. Nandi Hills, Karnataka
Looking for a one-day trip from Bangalore? Then, Nandi Hills is the best choice. Located 4851 feet above sea level, this spot is one of the best road trips from Bangalore since it is close to the Bangalore International Airport. It is a great place to watch sunrise and sunset.
- Distance from Bangalore: 61 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Places to See: Tipu’s Summer Residence, Tipu’s Drop, Sunrise Point, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple
2. Doddamakali, Karnataka
A rustic and less-explored location in Karnataka, Doddamakali is slowly gaining popularity among the people of Bangalore. Many corporates also choose this scenic spot for weekend getaways. You may explore the unspoiled surroundings, try your hand at fishing or simply laze around the Cauvery River.
- Distance from Bangalore: 110 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: July, August and February
- Places to See: Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp, Shivasamudram Falls
3. Hogenakkal Falls, Karnataka
Popularly known as the ‘Niagara Falls of South India’, Hogenakkal is a great option for a short weekend trip from Bangalore. Flowing all through the year, this majestic waterfall offers the ultimate escape that you might be looking for a long time. While here, relish some freshly cooked seafood and coracle ride for sure.
- Distance from Bangalore: 129 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
4. Mysore, Karnataka
Situated on the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore and hence is a city steeped in history. It is popular not only for its heritage sites but also for products such as sandalwood soaps, silk sarees, paintings, etc. Travellers must try the famous Mysore Masala Dosa and those with a sweet tooth should make sure to sample Mysore Pak.
- Distance from Bangalore: 144 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Places to See: Mysore Palace, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Sri Chamundeshwari Ammanavara Temple, St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery And Auditorium
5. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
Yelagiri is a quiet and serene hill station located 1100 metres above sea level. This hill station makes for a good getaway as it offers great views, pleasant climate all through the year and delicious South Indian food.
- Distance from Bangalore: 163 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and November to February
- Places to See: Punganoor Lake, Jalagamparai Falls, Yelagiri Nature Park
6. BR Hills, Karnataka
The Biligiri Ranga Hills (BR Hills) is undoubtedly one of the top chosen short road trips from Bangalore. Since it is a combination of the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats, and boasts rich biodiversity, there are umpteen adventure opportunities for all kinds of travellers.
- Distance from Bangalore: 171 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Places to See: BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Dodda Sampige Mara
- Things to Do: Trekking, camping and jungle safari
7. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Another hill station you should not miss visiting from Bangalore is Yercaud. This is a perfect long-weekend destination and is located about 1515 metres above sea level. Coffee plantations and lush greenery dominate this hill town. The Yercaud Summer Festival that happens in May attracts thousands of visitors every year.
- Distance from Bangalore: 205 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Places to See: Killiyur Falls, Lady’s Seat, Shevaroy Hills, Bear’s Cave, Pagoda Point
8. Bandipur, Karnataka
Bandipur was once the hunting ground for the Mysore Maharajas. It is now a well-protected tiger reserve and national park – home to majestic tigers, Indian elephants, bison and antelopes. You can stay in jungle resorts and enjoy wildlife tours in Bandipur.
- Distance from Bangalore: 219 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
9. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station known for its tropical rainforest, expansive coffee estates, enchanting views of the Western Ghats and pleasant weather. This hill station has no dearth of sightseeing spots and lodging options.
- Distance from Bangalore: 244 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Places to See: Mullayanagiri Peak, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Kudurekuha Jamly Hill
10. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is among the most charming and frequented hill stations in India. This scenic town in the Nilgiris District was established as a summer resort by the British. The colonial reminiscence can be seen in its many old houses, churches and the steam railway line. If you want to enjoy a truly relaxing vacation amidst green hills and quaint surroundings, this is the place to check out.
- Distance from Bangalore: 265 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
- Places to See: Government Rose Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Mountain Railway
11. Coorg, Karnataka
In the list of best weekend road trips from Bangalore, you cannot miss Coorg. Misty hills soothe the mind as nothing else does. Located in the Western Ghats, Coorg or Kodagu is rightly called the ‘Scotland of India’ for its enchanting scenery. The easy road connectivity and availability of humble homestays as well as luxury resorts make this hill town a favourite choice of travellers from across the country.
- Distance from Bangalore: 266 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: September to June
- Places to See: Abbey Falls, Talakaveri, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Namdroling Monastery, Honnamana Kere Lake
12. Wayanad, Kerala
Now, who does not love Kerala? This ‘God’s Own Country’ has something to offer for every traveller. Wayanad is a beautiful and unpolluted district of Kerala located close to the Karnataka border. The lush green landscape and the eternally pleasant climate make this a great place to visit from Bangalore. Wayanad is a perfect location to explore on a long weekend and there are innumerable tourist spots that will leave you in awe.
- Distance from Bangalore: 271 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
- Places to See: Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, Phantom Rock, Edakkal Caves
13. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor is one of the hill stations of the Nilgiri district and is a smaller and quainter place that is perfect for those looking to absolutely cut off from the city’s mayhem. You can delve into the past of this place at the historical places, visit tea estates, enjoy a ride on Nilgiri Mountain Railway that passes via Coonoor or simply capture splendid views from the various vantage points – the things to do in Coonoor are myriad.
- Distance from Bangalore: 285 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 7 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Places to See: Sim’s Park, Highfield Tea Factory, Lamb’s Rock, Ketti Valley, Hidden Valley
14. Pondicherry, Puducherry
Without a doubt, Pondicherry is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. This quiet little town is surrounded by greenery on all sides and lined with safe and peaceful beaches. The French connection that the town has reflects everywhere you go. You can relax on the beaches or indulge in the spiritual side of the town. Enjoy visiting colonial buildings and feast on awesome Continental delicacies and alcohol.
- Distance from Bangalore: 311 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Places to See: Auroville, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise Beach, Rock Beach, Serenity Beach, The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
15. Agumbe, Karnataka
Surrounded by lush rainforests, Agumbe is a tranquil hill altitude village that makes for a great road trip from Bangalore. This beautiful spot is absolute heaven for travellers who want to enjoy nature at its best. From cascading waterfalls and forested valleys to exotic wildlife and enchanting sunsets, there is so much to see and explore in Agumbe.
- Distance from Bangalore: 348 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Places to See: Onake Abbi Falls, Barkana Falls, Sunset Point, Jogigundi Falls
16. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Called the ‘Gift of the Forest’, Kodaikanal is among the most beautiful hill stations Tamil Nadu has to offer. This popular honeymoon destination has a lot of breath-taking destinations to enjoy. There is no dearth of budget and premium accommodation all over the hill station. You can spend an extended weekend here and enjoy the views and the pleasant climate.
- Distance from Bangalore: 466 km
- Estimated Driving Time: 9 hours 15 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Places to See: Kodaikanal Lake, Coakers Walk, Green Valley View Point, Bryant Park
All these best road trips from Bangalore by car are easy to reach and are well-connected by National and State Highways. All these destinations are filled with homestays, hotels, and resorts and will leave you feeling rejuvenated and stress-free at the end of the trip. Make your plan to take one such awesome road trip right away.
