They say nothing is better than picnics and we couldn’t agree more! When daily routine, hectic schedules, congested traffic, and professional stress become too much to handle, you need some moments away from all these, with your dear ones. A vacation is not always feasible, and your next best option to unwind is picnics! Luckily for the folks of Bangalore, there is no dearth of picnic spots in and around the city. A one-day trip to these places can take off the pressure of daily grind and leave you recharged for the coming days.
Does the very thought of taking a day-long break with your family or buddies leave you excited? Here comes our list of the best picnic spots around Bangalore where you can celebrate life outdoors!
Picnic Spots in Bangalore
1. Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park | # 1 of 20 Picnic Spots in Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Bannerghatta National Park promises you day-long fun and adventure. One of the most popular places to visit in Bangalore, this national park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Spread over an area of 104 sq. km, the park is home to a wide variety of animals and birds. It also includes a crocodile farm, butterfly park, and snake park within its premises. Among the main attractions of this park is the wildlife safari that allows you to see wild animals at close quarters. If you plan a picnic at this place, you won’t even have to carry a picnic basket as the park has several canteens, snack counters, and restaurants that serve tasty food. It is an ideal place to enjoy a day with your family and especially if you have kids.
- Distance from Bangalore: 21 km via Bannerghatta Road
2. Big Banyan Tree
Big Banyan Tree | # 2 of 20 Picnic Spots in Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
A short drive from Bangalore will take you to the Big Banyan Tree in the village of Kethohalli, which is locally known as Dodda Alada Mara. Wondering why we are talking about a tree in a blog about picnic spots near Bangalore? Well, it’s no ordinary tree, but a marvel of nature that has been around for 400 years now. It covers a vast area of 3 acres (yes, that’s true) and is considered one of the largest ones of its kind. With more than a thousand aerial roots forming a huge labyrinth and the sunlight playing hide-and-seek through the canopy of its leaves, the gigantic tree provides the perfect place to spread out a mat, lay out your board games, open your picnic basket, and enjoy a relaxing time under its cool shade.
- Distance from Bangalore: 33 km via NICE Bangalore Mysore Expressway
Read Also: Things to Do in Bangalore
3. Nrityagram
Nrityagram | # 3 of 20 Picnic Spots in Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
A modern Gurukul, a dance village, and a center of art, Nrityagram is all these rolled into one. This place was set up by the renowned Odissi dancer cum model and actress Protima Gauri Bedi in 1990. While here, you can witness the merger of art and life. And if you are a connoisseur of art, you will love spending time here appreciating the budding dancers nurturing their skills. What makes Nrityagram an ideal choice for one day picnic near Bangalore is its serene location dotted with trees. The village-like setup and an opportunity to watch students practicing traditional Indian classical dance forms like Odissi, Kathak, Mohiniattam, Bharatnaytam, Kathakali, Manipuri, and more, will more zing to your day. You can also visit the Hesaraghatta Lake, which is at a short distance from Nrityagram.
- Distance from Bangalore: 38 km via Bellary Road
Read Also: Historical Places in Bangalore
Picnic Spots near Bangalore
4. Muthyala Maduvu
Muthyala Maduvu | # 4 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
A secluded valley, verdant surroundings, and a waterfall gushing down a rocky background match your idea of a one-day picnic? Then Muthyala Maduvu fits your bill for a one day trip from Bangalore. The name Muthyala Maduvu means the Valley of Pearls. The place gets its name from the waterfall that cascades down the rocks, just like a string of pearls. The picturesque location is set against the backdrop lovely mountain ranges. Apart from soaking in natural splendor, you can also indulge in a session of trekking through some of the most gorgeous trails in the region. The best time to plan a picnic to Muthyala Maduvu is during or after the monsoons when the waterfall is at its most lavish form.
- Distance from Bangalore: 40 km via Hosur Road
5. Savandurga
Savandurga | # 5 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Hills and mountains often make for great picnic spots and Savandurga is a fine case in point. The place boasts of being one of the largest monolith hills in Asia. If you are looking for an adventure-filled one day picnic in Bangalore, you can never go wrong with Savandurga. A trekker’s delight, the place offers you the opportunity to embark on a challenging but wonderful trek to the Savandurga Peak where you can have a lovely picnic in the company of nature. Away from the maddening crowd of the city, this is where you can enjoy serenity even as you soak in the panoramic views from the mountain peak.
- Distance from Bangalore: 54 km via Savanadurga-Manchnabele Road
6. Ramanagara
Ramanagara | # 6 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
How about picnicking at a place where the cult Hindi movie Sholay was shot? Yes, we are talking about Ramanagara! The rocky setting you saw in Sholay’s Ramgarh is part of a hillock in this region, called Ramadevara Betta. For those of you who love adventure sports, Ramanagara is sure to quench your thirst for a quick adrenaline rush. The rugged landscape is perfect for trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and camping out in the open. You can even indulge in cave explorations! In short, Ramanagara has it all for an adventure-filled day. Drive down for an hour or so from Bangalore and you will be in the vicinity of this thrilling picnic spot. While you are here, don’t forget to a visit to Channapatna (15 km away), a place known for its indigenous wooden toys.
- Distance from Bangalore: 55 km via NH 275
7. Janapada Loka
Janapada Loka | # 7 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Perfect for a one-of-its-kind one-day trip, Janapada Loka or Folk World is a museum and a treasure trove of folk artifacts. The place preserves more than 5000 artifacts depicting the vibrant folk art and culture of the region. Ancient hunting equipment, long forgotten agricultural equipment, traditional household items, vibrant puppets, and items related to festivals, sculptures, lifestyle, music, and literature are all put on display here. The huge complex housing these artifacts is divided into several sections like Loka Mahal, Folks Art Museum, Chitra Kuteera, Ayagaramala, Shilamala, and Doddamane. You can also buy some of the artworks of the rural artists that are sold here.
- Distance from Bangalore: 57.7 km via NH 275
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8. Skandagiri
Skandagiri | # 8 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Also known as Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is an ancient mountain fortress that stands at an altitude of about 1350 meters above sea level. Trekking enthusiasts can have a wonderful time here exploring the trails that lead to the fort. Though the fort is in a ruined condition these days, the beauty of the treks is sure to leave you mesmerized. You will pass through a maze of verdant greenery before you reach your destination. There’s an ancient temple at the top of this hill that remains protected by six stone walls and is worth a visit for the panoramic views it offers. You will also find two caves during your uphill trek to the fort. Once you reach the top, you can spread out your picnic basket and enjoy the cool ambiance at the top while relishing the delicacies.
- Distance from Bangalore: 60 km via Bellary Road and NH 44
9. Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills | # 9 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Once a summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, Nandi Hills today is considered to be one of the spectacular picnic spots near Bangalore within 100 km. Surrounded by breath-taking views this place offers a quick and refreshing escape from the hustle-bustle of city life. To begin with, Nandi Hills is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore. You can also find an ancient hill fortress and a couple of temples at the peak. One of the main draws of Nandi Hills is Tipu’s Point, a 600 -meter cliff that is used for rock climbing. History has it that Tipu Sultan used to throw down his prisoners to death from this very same cliff. All in all, Nandi Hills is a picnic location where nature, history, and adventure exist in abundance.
- Distance from Bangalore: 61 km via Bellary Road
10. Anthargange
Anthargange | # 10 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Counted among the most enticing one day picnic spots in Bangalore, the hill range of Anthargange is known for its volcanic rock formations and the natural caves formed from these volcanic rocks. Anthargange takes its name from the perpetual natural spring that can be found flowing here. While here, you can enjoy an adventurous time by indulging in trekking, rock climbing, and exploring the ancient temples in the vicinity. You can also walk around and look for the big and small caves that dot the place. Won’t it be fun to go on a cave exploration and get to see how nature has decorated Anthargange in its own way?
- Distance from Bangalore: 68 km via NH 75
11. Chunchi Falls
Chunchi Falls | # 11 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Snuggled amidst a rock-strewn terrain, Chunchi Falls is a splendor of nature erupting out of a rocky hill. The waterfall dances down a height of about 100 feet to form a graceful pool at the bottom. It can be an absolute delight to watch the waterfall while you are perched on a high rock with your picnic basket laid out in front of you. If you are adventurous enough, you can even trek down to the base of the falls and enjoy the incredible views close up. The tranquil surroundings and the lovely waterfall create the perfect ambiance to enjoy a quiet picnic in the lap of nature.
- Distance from Bangalore: 90 km via NH 948
12. Sangama and Mekedatu
Sangama and Mekedatu | # 12 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
Sangama and Mekedatu are two ideal picnic spots situated not far from each other. Sangama is where the Cauvery River meets the Arakavathi River, and this confluence is an incredible visual feast. About 3.5 km downstream from this point is Mekedatu, meaning ‘goat’s leap’. Here you can see the Cauvery River flowing through a deep and narrow gorge. The gorge is so narrow that even a goat can jump over it and that is how the place got its name. The rocky terrain defining this landscape exudes a unique beauty. You can capture many lovely photographs during your trip to these twin places on a day-long picnic.
- Distance from Bangalore: 93 km via Kanakapura Road
13. Avani
Avani | # 13 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 100 Km)
If you are looking for picnic spots in Bangalore for family, Avani is a great option. It is a small village that holds an equal attraction for adventure seekers as well as history buffs. Avani is a preferred location for rock climbing enthusiasts while the Sita Temple situated here draws in people who have an interest in ancient monuments and architecture. This temple is counted among those few shrines in India that are dedicated to Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. Legend has it that Sita lived and gave birth to her twins at this place. A day-long outing in this village will allow you to enjoy your time amidst nature and history.
- Distance from Bangalore: 95 km via NH 75
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14. Bheemeshwari
Bheemeshwari | # 14 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
We don’t know whether Bheemeshwari is the best picnic spot in Bangalore or not, but if you love action-packed activities, this place will delight you. Nestled along the banks of Cauvery River, the place stands enveloped in greenery and houses the Bheemeshwari Nature and Adventure Camp. You can try your hands at a number of thrilling sports and activities like kayaking, boating, mountain biking, trekking, spotting animals and birds, and even fishing.
- Distance from Bangalore: 105 km via NH 948
15. Hogenakkal Falls
Hogenakkal Falls | # 15 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
Thanks to its astounding beauty, Hogenakkal Falls is a pure delight to watch and known as the Niagara of the East. No wonder, it has been the shooting location for a number of famous movies, including Roja and Raavan. As a picnic spot, Hogenakkal hits all the right notes. Whether you want to plan your day-long outing in a quiet place or engage in a few adventure sports, you won’t be disappointed. The waterfall is at its resplendent best during the monsoon season, but if you happen to visit it in the off-season, you can enjoy a cool bath or swim in the water. You can even go for a coracle ride and come back with loads of happy memories.
- Distance from Bangalore: 125 km via MDR 588
16. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary | # 16 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary makes for an off-beat but interesting picnic spot. Unlike the usual picnic places in Bangalore, it offers you the delight of watching a huge variety of bird species. The sanctuary is also known as the Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka and boasts of over 170 species of birds, many of which exotic varieties. It covers an area of over 40 acres, making it the largest of all bird sanctuaries in the state. Located on the banks of River Cauvery and comprising of six islets, Ranganathittu is home to otters and crocodiles as well. While you are here, you can go for ranger-guided boat tours to spot birds, otters, crocodiles, and even bats.
- Distance from Bangalore: 135 km via NH 275
17. Talakkad
Talakkad | # 17 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
Fancy visiting a ghost town that boasts of incredible architectural wealth? Then, take a one-day trip to Talakkad. Located on the banks of River Cauvery, it is a fascinating place steeped in history and covered in sand dunes. The intricately carved ancient temples that have escaped getting buried under heaps of sand are among the major attractions of Talakkad. Among them, the Pathaleshwar, Mallikarjuna, Maruleshwara, Vaidyanatheshwara, and Arkeshwara stand out due to their exceptional architecture and offer a glimpse into the architectural splendors of the bygone era. Talakkad might not be one of your typical picnic spots, but it will make for a great one-day trip destination.
- Distance from Bangalore: 137 km via NH 275
18. Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls
Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls | # 18 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
When it comes to the popular picnic spots in Bangalore city and its surrounding areas, you can’t miss Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls. They are two small but beautiful waterfalls near Bangalore that make for an idyllic place to spend your time with family and friends. The waterfalls stand surrounded by verdant greenery and offer a refreshing visual treat to your sore eyes. It is interesting to note that these two are not natural waterfalls, but results of a check dam construction across the Cauvery River. A walk along the green vicinity of these falls will leave you refreshed.
- Distance from Bangalore: 144 km via NH 275
19. Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills | # 19 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
The incredible beauty of Horsley Hills earns it a position among the top hill stations near Bangalore for a day-long outing. And guess what? Though the place is highly accessible from Bangalore, it isn’t located in Karnataka but in Andhra Pradesh! The quaint place is blessed with abundant greenery and offers exceptional views of the surrounding areas. One of the main attractions of this picnic spot is the View Point from where you can get an incredible view of the entire valley as well as the dense forests and the nearby hillocks. Another attraction is the Gali Bandalu or the Windy Rocks, which is basically a rocky slope where strong winds blow all year long.
- Distance from Bangalore: 144 km via Hoskote – Chintamani Road
20. BR Hills
BR Hills | # 20 of 20 Picnic Spots near Bangalore (with in 200 Km)
Located at the confluence of the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats, the Biligiriranga Hills aka BR Hills boasts of flora and fauna that is unique to both these mountain ranges. The Biligiriranga Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary also known as BRT Sanctuary is a wonderful place to get a glimpse of various species of birds and animals that call this region their home. The wildlife corridor in this region has a large population of tigers and elephants among other wild animals. For a nature enthusiast, a day out in BR Hills can be an awesome experience. Fishing, trekking, and river rafting are some of the activities that you can indulge in during your trip to the hills.
- Distance from Bangalore: 176 km via NH 275
The list doesn’t end here! For a start, you can book your room in one of the best hotels in Bangalore and begin exploring the places mentioned in this blog. Pack your picnic basket and hit the road, but also make sure to carry along a few essentials like drinking water, face wipes, hats, and sunglasses to avoid the summer heat.
Picnics are life celebrated outdoors and nothing can be better than that!
