Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq
There are only a few places on earth that can offer both thrill and tranquillity at the same time.
The Nandi Hills, located close to Bangalore, is one such paradise for tourists worldwide.
This place is a tiny hidden jewel in the south, surrounded by breathtaking views, magnificent attractions, and surreal experiences.
Nandi Hills Bangalore: An Overview
Nandi Hills is one of Karnataka’s most popular weekend getaways, located 60 KMs from Bangalore.
Nandi Hills, perched at 1478 meters above sea level, offers an enchanting retreat for many visitors, much as it did for Tipu Sultan and the British as their perfect summer repose.
Beautiful landscapes surround the hill station.
It can be quite rejuvenating to walk along the mountain trails amid the numerous beautiful locations can be quite rejuvenating.
Planning your vacation in this picturesque hill station is made easy by the lush mountain valley, sharp hairpin turns on steep slopes, tiny cottages clinging to the mountainside, the cold breeze, and the pure blue sky above.
How to Reach Nandi Hills Bangalore
By Road
These hills are well-connected to nearby cities like Bangalore and Chikkaballapura. Therefore, you can reach Nandi Hills through both routes.
In the case of Bangalore, you can avail of a KSRTC bus from the Bangalore city bus stand, and you will be at your destination within 2-3 hours.
If you choose to come through Chikkaballapura, you can take an auto or bus, whatever is readily available, since Nandi Hills lies at a distance of 10 KM.
You can also reach Nandi Hills by taking a personal vehicle if comfort or time limit is on your priority list.
By Rail
The nearest railway junction to Nandi Hills is Chikkaballapur Railway Station. It’s situated just 9 KM away.
There are several trains you can consider to reach Chikkaballapur Railway Station.
One such is the Channapatna – Kolar DEMU, coming from Bangalore City Junction to Chikkaballapur Railway Station.
It takes about 1 hr 30 m.
You can always book a cab or rent a car from the station to reach Nandi Hills.
By Air
The nearest airport to Nandi Hills is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore (KIAB). Nandi Hills is about 37 KM from the airport, and you can easily book a taxi.
Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills Bangalore
One of the best aspects of this destination is that it can be visited any time of year.
All you have to do is set a date and pack your bags.
If you want to enjoy the best weather, plan your trip between September and May, when temperatures range from 10 to 35 degrees Celsius.
The subsequent months, June through September, frequently receive moderate rainfall, keeping the hills soaked.
And when you are at Nandi Hills, the best time to enjoy the place is sunrise and sunset.
At these times, Nandi Hills is filled with tourists.
The hills appear surreal owing to the red, yellow, and orange colors that saturate the terrain.
Therefore, it is always recommended to visit the hills early or at sunset in the evening.
Must Visit Places in Nandi Hills Bangalore
Once you are at Nandi Hills, a few places are a must-visit.
Given below is a list of some of those places.
Tipu’s Drop
(Source: Native Planet)
A visit to this location will leave you with goosebumps.
There is a steep rock here that is 600 meters high.
Both the climb and the view are breathtaking.
The most exciting aspect of the cliff is that Tipu Sultan used it to punish his prisoners by hurling them from the top of the hill.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is one of the earliest temples in the Nandi Hills region.
It is the epitome of exquisite craftsmanship, handicrafts, and ancient culture.
The temple’s interior and exterior walls and pillars are decorated with magnificent metalwork and stone carvings.
Lord Shiva and his revered consorts Nandi and Parvati are honored at the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple.
Brahmashram
On the edge of a steep slope in the Nandi Hills sits this ancient cave.
Brahmashram is significant historically because Ramkrishna Paramhamsa, a well-known priest who once resided in the Nandi Hills, is said to have used it for meditation.
The cave is a beautiful location for sightseeing and a place to unwind and take in the wonders of nature.
Amrita Sarovar​
(Source: Native Planet)
Due to its natural and man-made beauty, visiting the Amrita Sarovar is a must if you’re at the Nandi Hills.
It is a perennial spring enclosed on all four sides by arches and step-like structures.
Amrita Sarovar​ is known by names such as ‘Lake of Ambrosia’ and ‘The Lake of Nectar.’
This location offers the most serene environment, letting you forget about all your work stress.
Tipu’s Summer Residence
Another well-known attraction in Nandi Hills is Tipu’s Summer Residence, referred to as Tashk-e-Jannat (meaning the envy of heaven) during his time.
It is primarily constructed of wood and includes carved pillars, arches, and exquisitely painted walls and ceilings. This place should absolutely be on your travel list.
Restaurants Near Nandi Hills Bangalore
If you’re worried about what to eat and where when you visit Nandi Hills, don’t worry.
Here’s a list of restaurants where you can enjoy your three-time meals and snacks as well.
Gowdaru SLV Hotel Veg and Non-Veg
One of the most sought-after restaurants close to Nandi Hills to have an unforgettable experience is Gowdaru SLV Hotel Veg and Non-Veg.
You can enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones while admiring the picturesque views of the alluring hills. The restaurant ensures that you enjoy high-quality, delicious food when you order.
Sinchana Palace Restaurant
One of the few restaurants with a good reputation nearby Nandi Hills is Sinchana Palace Restaurant. This restaurant features a homely atmosphere that is ideal for a beautiful experience.
Tribal Café
This hillside café is the perfect location to savor some delicious food while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.
If you’re looking for a late-night meal, the Tribal Café is a terrific location to dine and open all through the night.
Nandi Upachar
Another popular restaurant along the Bangalore-Hyderabad Highway is Nandi Upachar.
It is well known for its delectable food and high-quality service.
On your trip to the Nandi Hills, you will undoubtedly be able to satisfy your hunger by eating delicious meals at this place.
Places to Stay Near Nandi Hills Bangalore
Due to the high number of tourists who visit Nandi Hills, some excellent hotels have developed in the area.
The following are some of the best places to stay while visiting Nandi Hills:
Mount Palazzo
Mount Palazzo is a premium resort with multiple stories and a pool.
You may take advantage of their cutting-edge services, like free parking, free wifi, and much more, while enjoying food from their in-house restaurant.
Valley of the Wind
In Nandi Hills, Valley of the Wind is a welcoming and pleasant lodging option that provides luxurious services and amenities at a reasonable cost.
You can take advantage of their well-furnished rooms, bathrooms, and swimming pool as and when desired.
Village Studio Resort and Spa
This hotel has everything you could want, from a spa and a massage to a plush, well-furnished room and delicious food.
Everything you may need is taken care of at this resort.
The accommodations include queen-size beds, quality bedding, a mini refrigerator, and other amenities. The rooms are furnished and styled in a modern way.
Things To Do In Nandi Hills
You’d be wrong to assume that this location is only home to tourist attractions.
There’s also plenty of adventure in store for you.
The top things to do in Nandi Hills are as follows:
Camping
Camping on the foothills of Nandi Hills is a favorite activity for young people who travel to this place.
You can reserve an excellent camp and spend the night away from the bustle of the city, which is an ideal alternative to city life in concrete structures.
Paragliding
It is only possible to complete your visit to Nandi Hills with paragliding.
Paragliding, which includes gliding over beautiful valleys and mountains, is one of the most engaging activities you can participate in while visiting this place.
Trekking
You can only visit Nandi Hills by looking at one of its many trekking routes if you love the outdoors and prefer to use your weekends effectively.
The beautiful slopes, the luxuriant rainforests, and the breathtaking views make for some worthwhile treks.
The day trek to Horagina Betta and Channagiri are two of the most popular treks.
Cycling
Due to the area’s perfect biking and cycling conditions, people find Nandi Hills almost impossible to resist.
It is the ideal location to enjoy biking alone or with company because of the height, landscape, and well-maintained biking tracks.
Tips for Visiting Nandi Hills Bangalore
While visiting Nandi Hills, keep the following information in mind:
- It’s crucial to remember that it gets dark rather quickly in Nandi Hills. If you are traveling with children or valuables, it is preferable to return before it becomes dark. The sun sets here at about 6:00 pm
- When traveling to Nandi Hills, pack raincoats, a few jackets, binoculars, and a camera
- During your trip, you might run into monkeys. Be prepared
- Since there is only one restaurant facility on top of the hill, you should always have some snacks and food
​​FAQs on Nandi Hills Bangalore
Is Nandi Hills open now?
Yes, Nandi Hills is now open to visitors from 6 am to 10 pm. However, passes issued by district authorities will be required to enter the place.
What is the entry fee for Nandi Hills?
These hills have an INR 5 per person as an entry fee. Additionally, there are fees for parking services, which are INR 15 for two-wheelers and INR 60 for four-wheelers.
What is special about Nandi Hills in Bangalore?
Nandi Hills, a small but lovely village 60 kilometers from Bangalore, has emerged as the ideal weekend getaway for its people. Beautiful hills and lush green valleys surround it. It offers a range of places to visit nearby.
What is the best time to go to Nandi Hills Bangalore?
The months of September to February are perhaps ideal for visiting Nandi Hills. Although the chilly mornings will make you shiver, watching the sunrise over the clouds makes you feel like you are in heaven.
Is Nandi Hills open on weekends?
Yes, Nandi Hills is now open on the weekends.
Nandi Hills Bangalore: A Must-visit for all
Nandi Hills is a lovely place near Bangalore city that is well worth the trip for a rejuvenating holiday.
It offers a quick escape from the hectic pace of city life to a far more serene and relaxing atmosphere.
So without further ado, get ready to take the route less traveled!
Over to you. Have you visited Nandi Hills Bangalore? Is there something you’d like to share about your trip?
Let me know in the comments below. 🙂