The beautiful state of Karnataka, located in India’s south-western region, is known for its high-tech hub, nightlife, lavish palaces, old temples and wildlife sanctuaries. The state also has many hill stations with lush environs and serenity. Those who want to get away from the city heat and chaos, head to one of the many hill stations in the area to spend some tranquil time amidst nature. From verdant hills, falls and vantage points to historical attractions and adrenaline activities, the hill stations in Karnataka have a lot to offer.
Our list of the best hill stations in Karnataka will help you plan a perfect getaway, whether you are planning a family vacation, a fun trip with friends or a romantic outing with your spouse.
1. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
A coffee lover’s paradise, Chikmagalur will be etched in your memory for a long time. The majestic Mullayangiri Ranges surround this stunning hill station, which is peppered with tea and coffee plantations, milky-white waterfalls, and beautiful parks. Chikmagalur is definitely a treat for adventurous souls too. Plan a stay at one of the many hotels in Chikmagalur well in advance as the hill station receives a good footfall of visitors.
- Popular Places to Visit: Hebbe Falls, Kallathigiri Falls, Hanumana Gundi Falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Coffee Museum, Hirekolale Lake, Kodandarama Temple
- Things to Do: Take a walk through the tea and coffee plantations, trek to the highest Mullayanagiri Peak, enjoy scenic views at Kyatanamakki, pay your respects at Amruteshwara and Vidyashankara temples
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (158 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kadur Junction (39 km)
Also read about the other gorgeous places to visit in Chikmagalur
2. BR Hills, Karnataka
BR Hills, also known as Biligirirangana Hills, is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka, perched at an elevation of 5900 feet above sea level. It is located in South Karnataka, at the confluence of the Eastern and Western Ghats, and is a preferred holiday destination among nature and wildlife lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and shutterbugs.
- Popular Places to Visit: BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, Dodda Simpage Mara Temple
- Things to Do: Go for a jungle safari at the wildlife sanctuary and spot tigers, leopards, sambar and many other species of animals and birds, trek to the highest peak here, enjoy boating, angling and fishing at the Cauvery and Kapila rivers, try river rafting, shop for artefacts, handicrafts and other local products
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (84 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Mysuru Junction (85 km)
3. Nandi Hills, Karnataka
Nandi Hills, located at an elevation of 4849 feet, is one of the most famous hill stations in Karnataka. Apart from the lush green surroundings, trekking trails and stunning viewpoints, the place also has a popular historical fortress with numerous monuments and temples. Nandi Hills was Tipu Sultan’s summer retreat so many things related to his life and legacy can be found here. His regal residence, with its high pillars, painted walls, and eye-catching ceilings and archways, is a major attraction here.
- Popular Places to Visit: Tipu’s Drop, Tipu’s Summer Residence, Amrita Sarovar, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Brahmashram, Nehru Nilaya, Grover Zampa Vineyards
- Things to Do: Explore Tipu’s Summer Residence, enjoy paragliding over the hills and valleys, spend some serene time at Brahmashram, enjoy trekking and cycling
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (39 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Chikkaballapur Railway Station (24 km)
4. Coorg, Karnataka
This coffee-producing hill station, popularly known as the Scotland of India, fascinates tourists with its lush green hills, beautiful landscapes, and stunning lakes and waterfalls. Coorg also has a number of wildlife sanctuaries where you can see rare birds and animals. The hill station is an ideal destination for adventure seekers, history buffs and foodies as well.
- Popular Places to Visit: Abbey Falls, Honnamana Kere Lake, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Madikeri Fort, Honey Valley, Namdroling Monastery
- Things to Do: Take a coffee plantation tour, trek to Tadiandamol Peak, Pushpagiri and Brahmagiri, take a hiking tour to Raja’s Seat, enjoy river rafting at Barapole River, go on a jeep safari at Mandalpatti, check out premium quality coffee and spice crops at Somwarpet, try the local cuisine
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (143 km) and Bangalore Airport (242 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Mysuru Junction (117 km)
5. Sirsi, Karnataka
This charming hill station in Karnataka, nestled amidst dense forests, is an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore. Sirsi’s natural beauty will captivate you, from thick tropical forests teeming with diverse wildlife to picturesque waterfalls and verdant hills. What’s more, the area is home to a number of temples for the religiously inclined.
- Popular Places to Visit: Muregar Falls, Shivaganga Falls, Burude falls, Unchalli Falls, Vibhuthi Falls, Marikamba Temple, Sri Mahaganapathi Temple, Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Plan a picnic near the waterfalls, trek to the lush green hills, spot different species of flora and fauna at the wildlife sanctuary, enjoy birdwatching and nature photography
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Hubballi Airport (107 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station (72 km)
Also read about Karnataka Tourism
6. MM Hills, Karnataka
Constituting of seven hill ranges, MM Hills or Male Mahadeshwara Hills is frequented by nature lovers and pilgrims alike. The hill station is located 3200 feet above sea level and is famous for housing an ancient temple with Lord Shiva in ‘Swayambhu’ or self-manifested form. Apart from the religious sites, the place is rich in flora and fauna, making it a popular attraction among wildlife lovers and adrenaline junkies.
- Popular Places to Visit: Sri Male Mahadeshwara Temple, Thaala Betta, Nagamale Hills
- Things to Do: Pay your respects at the temples, trek from MM Hills to Palar, spot elephants and other animals in the dense forests
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (253 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Mysuru Junction (130 km)
8. Agumbe, Karnataka
This small hill station in Shimoga district is popularly known as the “Cherrapunji of South India”, as it receives over 7000 mm of rainfalls in a year. Agumbe has the highest rainfall in the southern part of the country and is blessed with a lush green landscape and stunning trekking trails. The hill station also boasts rich biodiversity, as well as its many beautiful waterfalls and sparkling streams. Agumbe is also home to India’s oldest automatic weather station, which monitors changes in the rainforest.
- Popular Places to Visit: Barkana Falls, Jogigundi Falls, Kunchikal Falls, Sunset View Point, Rainforest Research Station, Gopal-Krishna Temple, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Trek to Kundadri Hills, enjoy a picnic near the waterfalls, explore the forests for different species of flora and fauna, enjoy wildlife and nature photography, try river rafting at Seethanadi Nature Camp
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon or November to January
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (96 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Shimoga Railway Station (95 km)
9. Gangamoola, Karnataka
Surrounded by verdant green and dense forests, Gangamoola is an ideal destination for those looking to spend quality time in the lap of nature. The hill station enjoys a misty climate and stunning landscapes and attractions. The location is also famous for being the origin point of three important rivers – Tunga, Bhadra and Netravati.
- Popular Places to Visit: Hanumana Gundi Falls, Sri Annapoorneshwari Temple, Sirimane Waterfalls, Gomateshwara Statue, Chaturmukha Basadi, Shree Venkataramana Temple, Ambaa Teertha
- Things to Do: Trek to Kurinjal Peak and Narasimha Parvatha, soak in the natural beauty of Kudremukh National Park, enjoy nature walks, jeep safari and trekking at Bhagavathi Nature Camp
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (77 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Udupi Railway Station (74 km) and Mangalore Railway Station (83 km)
10. Kemmanagundi, Karnataka
Kemmanagundi is among the best hill stations to visit in Karnataka for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The hill station has a plethora of options for different types of tourists, ranging from beautiful gardens and trekking trails to waterfalls and temples. Plan a trip to Kemmanagundi if you want to escape the heat or simply spend some time in nature.
- Popular Places to Visit: Hebbe Falls, Mullayanagiri Peak, Z Point, Shiva Temple, Kalhatti Falls, Rock Garden, Rajendra Hill, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Enjoy trekking and hiking to Hebbe Falls, shop for local handicrafts, plan a picnic near the waterfalls, spot tigers, elephants, jackals and many endangered animals and birds at the wildlife sanctuary
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (216 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Tarikere Railway Station (32 km)
11. Anthargange, Karnataka
If you are looking for hill stations in Karnataka near Bangalore, Anthargange is a wonderful option. It is perched at an altitude of 5617 feet above sea level and is only 69 km away from Bangalore. Apart from its lush plantations, the place is famous for its caves, different sizes of boulders, natural volcanic rocks and trekking trails. The hill station houses some prominent temples as well and attracts pilgrims from far and near.
- Popular Places to Visit: Shri Kashi Vishweshwara Temple, Anthargange Temple, Anthargange Caves
- Things to Do: Explore the caves, enjoy rock climbing, trekking and camping, pay your respects at the temples
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (72 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kolar Railway Station (5 km)
These are some popular weekend getaways from Bangalore
12. Ramanagara, Karnataka
Ramanagara, near Bangalore, was the location for the popular movie ‘Sholay’. The hill station is surrounded by majestic hills and boasts lush green surroundings, much to the delight of nature lovers. In addition, you can also participate in different adventurous activities and enjoy bird-watching at Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary.
- Popular Places to Visit: Ramdevara Temple, Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary, Janapada Loka
- Things to Do: Enjoy trekking and rock climbing at Ramadevarabetta and Savandurga Hills, buy unique handmade wooden toys, enjoy bird-watching and photography at Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (89 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Channapatna Railway Station (11 km) and Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna Railway Station in Bangalore (45 km)
12. Sakleshpur, Karnataka
Sakleshpur, surrounded by lush green hills and peppered with tea, coffee and spice plantations, is undoubtedly among the best hill stations in Karnataka for nature lovers and peace seekers. Apart from natural attractions like verdant plantations, milky-white waterfalls, and stunning trekking trails, the place also has ancient temples, forts, and other attractions for a memorable trip.
- Popular Places to Visit: Sakleshwara Temple, Manjarabad Fort, Manjehalli Waterfalls, Kukke Subramanya Temple, Hemavathi Dam, Hadlu Waterfall, Eshwara Temple
- Things to Do: Trek to Agni Gudda Hill, Pandavar Gudda and Jenukal Gudda and enjoy mesmerising views from the top, feel close to nature at Bisle Reserve Forest, take a tour around the tea, coffee and spice plantations, enjoy trekking and camping
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (136 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Sakleshpur
13. Kundadri Hill, Karnataka
Kundadri Hill, at an altitude of 2910 feet, is one of Karnataka’s lesser-known tourist destinations. This is one of the reasons why this lovely hill station can retain its natural charm while remaining pollution-free. Kundadri Hill’s beauty captivates everyone, from rolling hills and meandering valleys to dense forests and sparkling streams. The main attraction here is a popular Jain Temple dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara ‘Parshwanath’.
- Popular Places to Visit: Kundadri Jain Temple, Sri Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Sri Sharadamba Temple, Sri Rameshwara Temple, Onake Abbi Falls, Barkana Falls, Kavaledurga, Koodlu Waterfall, Tunga Bridge
- Things to Do: Pay your respects at the temples, enjoy breathtaking views from Agumbe Sunset View Point, plan a picnic near the waterfalls, trek to the hills
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (114 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Udupi Railway Station (70 km)
14. Kodachadri, Karnataka
A paradise for adventure junkies, this stunning and serene hill station in the Shimoga district is a must-visit. Kodachadri, located at an altitude of 4406 feet, is endowed with beautiful waterfalls, sparkling rivers and amazing trekking trails. You can also explore the wildlife sanctuaries, temples and other attractions in addition to feasting your eyes on the scenic vistas.
- Popular Places to Visit: Sri Mookambika Temple, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Chithramoola Cave, Kodachadri Nature Camp, Belkal Theertha Falls, Nagara Fort, Sharavati Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Trek to Sri Mookambika Temple and dense Shola Forests, explore Nagara Fort, spot a variety of flora and fauna in the wildlife sanctuary, spend some serene time near the waterfalls
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (168 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Shimoga Railway Station (114 km)
15. Yana, Karnataka
This quaint hill station in the Uttara Kannada district is a popular getaway among nature lovers, adventure souls and mythology buffs, boasting exceptionally lush beauty. The place is known for its beautiful waterfalls, unusual rock formations, dense forests, and ancient caves and temples. Yana also has a self-manifested Shiva Linga in the cave temple, which is a popular attraction for Lord’s devotees.
- Popular Places to Visit: Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, Mohini Shikara, Vibhuthi Falls, Yana Caves, Yana Rocks
- Things to Do: Pay your respects at the temples, hike up to the rocks, enjoy beautiful views from the rocky cliffs, engage in nature photography
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (173 km) and Mangaluru International Airport (231 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Hubballi Junction (163 km)
16. Dandeli, Karnataka
Whether you are seeking respite from city chaos or looking to satiate your appetite for adventure, Dandeli is the place to be! From serene parks and fascinating wildlife to picturesque trekking routes and ancient temples, there is no dearth of places to explore in this stunning hill station. Dandeli is also popular with water sports lovers and photographers.
- Popular Places to Visit: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Kavala Caves, River Kali, Shiroli Peak, Anshi National Park, Dandelappa Temple, Molangi Falls, Ulavi Temple, Sathodi Falls, Syntheri Rocks
- Things to Do: Enjoy nature walks, rock climbing, jacuzzi bath, jungle safari and trekking at Kulgi Nature Camp, plan a picnic near Supa Dam, enjoy mesmerising views from Jenukallu Gudda Sunset Point and Sykes Point, try river rafting, kayaking and zip lining
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Belgaum Airport (111 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Dharwad Railway Station (57 km)
Also read: Top 50 Places to Visit in Karnataka
17. Kudremukh, Karnataka
Located at an elevation of 6214 feet above sea level, this hill station with verdant valleys and striking mountain peaks is an absolute delight for nature lovers and thrill seekers. Kudremukh has some picturesque trekking trails through the Western Ghats, and the panoramic views from the peak are mesmerising! One of the best experiences is a trek through the Shola forest area, which includes waterfalls, streams, and wildlife along the way.
- Popular Places to Visit: Kudremukh National Park, Lakya Dam, Bhagavathi Nature Camp, Kyatanamakki Hill Station, Soormane Falls, Hanumana Gundi Falls, Gangamoola, Kalasa
- Things to Do: Enjoy scenic views at Lakya Dam, spend some serene time at the waterfalls, spot endangered species of flora and fauna at Kudremukh National Park, seek blessings at the temples in Kalasa
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (93 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Mangalore Railway Station (101 km)
18. Jogimatti, Karnataka
This Chitradurga district hill station and forest reserve is known for its abundant flora and fauna. Apart from rich wildlife, Jogimatti has some lovely waterfalls surrounded by lush green environs and the soothing sounds of nature. There is also a natural cave formed by the waterfalls that flow through the rocks. This cave, which contains a Shiva Linga and idols of Veerabhadra and Basavanna, is a major attraction here.
- Popular Places to Visit: Chitradurga Fort, Chandravalli Archaeological Site, Aadumalleshwara Zoo, Obavvana Kindi, Jogimatti Forest, Chandravalli Lake, Ekanatheshwari Temple, Tuppada Kola
- Things to Do: Enjoy boating on the lakes, explore the caves and historical sites, spot animals and birds in the forest reserve
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (230 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Chikjajur Railway Station (53 km)
19. Devarayanadurga, Karnataka
Devarayanadurga, located at an altitude of about 4000 feet above sea level, is a popular destination for pilgrims and leisure travellers. Devarayanadurga, which means “Fort of God”, is home to many temples exhibiting the finest Dravidian style of architecture. The hill station is also a haven for nature lovers and trekkers, thanks to its natural beauty and hilly terrain.
- Popular Places to Visit: Bhoga Narsimha Temple, Cave Temple, Yoga Narsimha Temple, Hilltop Mandap, Lakshmi Narsimha Swami Temple, Mandaragiri Hill, Basadi Betta
- Things to Do: Spend some peaceful time near Mydala Lake, pay your respects at the temples, visit Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (85 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Tumkur Railway Station (19 km)
Here’s everything you need to know about Devarayanadurga
20. Nersa, Karnataka
This lesser-known hill station, located in the Belgaum district near the Goa-Karnataka border, is a wonderful destination for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts. From long nature walks and treks to exploring the wildlife sanctuary and bird-watching, the place offers many interesting options for tourists. The hill station is also known for its abundance of flora and 40 different species of bats.
- Popular Places to Visit: Belgaum Fort, Mahadai Valley, Syntheri Rocks, Barapedi Cave, Talevadi Village, Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kongla
- Things to Do: Spot different species of animals and birds in the wildlife sanctuary, see around 40 species of bats at Talevadi Village and more than 20000 bats in the Krishnapur area, trek to the hills
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (116 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Khanapur Railway Station (14 km)
So, do you want to escape the maddening hustle and bustle of cities? Plan a trip to the hill stations in Karnataka to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. There are plenty of options near the major cities here, so you can easily go on a weekend getaway with your loved ones and return completely rejuvenated. If you have visited any of these hill stations before, do share your experience with us in the comments section.
