Visit Nandi Hills on Your Weekend Break from Bengaluru

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Distance from Bengaluru: 57 kilometres

Perched at a height of 4,851 feet above sea level, Nandi Hills, a little over an hour’s drive from Bengaluru, is an idyllic escape. The former summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, this ancient hill fortress is scattered with monuments and shrines and is a pleasant change from the humdrum of city life. During the Chola period, Nandi Hills was called Ananda Giri, meaning the hill of joy. Today, a lot of cyclists, photographers and trekkers head here for a short weekend getaway.

Things to Do in Nandi Hills

Tipu Sultan’s Trail – As one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan, who once ruled over the Mysore Province, Nandi Hills has its place in the pages of history. Among its many scenic and historic attractions is Tipu’s Drop, a 600-metre high cliff from where prisoners were hurled to death. 

Cycling Tour – Nandi Hills is a cyclist’s paradise. The drive from Bengaluru to Nandi Hills is about 60 kilometres and is an adventure in itself. Cycling past the many hairpin bends and lush greenery, while enjoying the fresh mountain air will keep your adrenaline flowing. It is advised to start early as driving after sunset through the single lane roads can be dangerous.

Vineyard Tour – On the foothills of Nandi Hills, you can take a guided wine tour, lasting around three hours. Take a long and leisurely walk through the thick rows of grape-bearing vines before entering the winery. Inside the winery, you will view the entire wine making process; from the crushing of grapes to the final labelling and packaging of wine bottles. The icing on the cake is the wine tasting session in the cellar where you will get to taste a variety of wines. The tour ends with a buffet lunch.

Temple Tour – There are many ancient temples in this region. The 19th century Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple in Nandi village is one of the oldest and most beautiful temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati and Nandi. 

Amruth Sarovar – Set amidst the greens is Amruth Sarovar, an ancient stepped tank. Since the water is fed by perennial springs, it is also called the ‘Lake of Nectar’ and is best visited at night. 

Nellikai Basavana – The monolithic statue of the Nandi bull, carved in the Chola style, dates back around 1,300 years and measures 10 feet long and 6 feet tall. On festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, rituals are performed at the shrine and the statue is covered in garlands.

Children’s Playground – Maintained by the Horticulture Department, the Children’s Playground has manicured lawns, slides, swings and other rides. This is a very popular spot for families travelling with children.

Insider Tips

Nandi Hills is also a favourite destination with the monkeys, so it is advised to keep your food items well packed and avoid feeding them.

Though there is not much to shop in Nandi Hills, you can head to Chikballapur known for sericulture and shop for silk scarves.

Distance from Bengaluru: 60 kilometres (1 hour 20 minutes by road via NH7)

Traveller Type: Families, Friends, Couples