Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore for a Fun Outing
Discover ideal places to visit near you for adventure hiking in Nandi Hills, cultural sites like Madikeri Fort, or serene Honnamana Kere Lake. Plan your fun outing now!
Life in Bangalore moves at a fast pace, with packed schedules, busy streets, and the constant hum of city life. But just beyond the city limits, there’s a different side of Karnataka waiting to be explored. Within a two to three-hour drive, you’ll find scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and peaceful retreats that offer a welcome break from the urban rush.
This guide brings together some of the most accessible and worthwhile destinations near Bangalore, ideal for a day trip or a quick weekend escape. Each place offers something unique, making it easy to recharge without straying too far from home.
Let’s get started with the best adventure and nature escapes just around the corner.
Not every outing needs to be packed with adventure. Sometimes, it’s the slower moments, quiet walks, scenic drives, unplanned conversations, that stay with you the longest.
Location: Jayamahal Main Road, inside Fun World Complex, Bangalore
Distance from City Centre: ~5 km (approx. 15–20 min drive)
Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:30 AM to 8 PM (ticket counter closes at 7:15 PM)
India’s longest semi-circular underwater tunnel awaits you at Aquarium Paradise, where rays, sharks, and thousands of fish glide above your head. In a soothing, air-conditioned environment, it’s a serene oasis filled with marine marvels, touching pools, and live mermaid shows, perfect for families and anyone looking to unwind indoors.
Why You Should Go:
Tips Before You Go:
Avoid the last-minute hassle by booking your tickets online.
Location: 1st floor, Fun World Complex, Jayamahal Main Road
Distance from City Centre: ~5 km (approx. 15–20 min drive)
Operating Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, in 45-minute sessions; check slot timings online
Welcome to Bangalore’s only indoor snow park, where you can trade summer heat for a frosty -5 to -7 °C adventure zone. Dive into snow slides, ball fights, igloo explorations, and even snow climbing, all bundled in a single 45-minute winter adventure.
Why You Should Go:
Tips Before You Go:
Skip the queue easily by securing your tickets online.
Location: Jayamahal Main Road, Bangalore
Distance from City Centre: ~5 km (approx. 15–20 min drive)
Operating Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 8 PM (ticket counter closes at 7:15 PM)
Fun World is a one-stop entertainment complex featuring amusement rides, water slides, arcade games, and themed zones. Pair it with Aquarium Paradise and Snow City for a full-day adventure that keeps the excitement flowing, indoors and outdoors.
Why You Should Go:
Tips Before You Go:
For amazing discounts and offers, book your tickets online.
Location: Lokaranjan Mahal Road, Mysuru
Distance from Bangalore: ~145 km (approx. 3–3.5 hr drive)
Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Located in the cultural capital of Karnataka, Lokaranjan Aqua World brings the mysteries of the deep sea right to the heart of Mysuru. It’s a full-fledged underwater zone featuring a walk-through tunnel, state-of-the-art aquatic displays, and marine life from across the globe. A must-visit if you're planning a weekend trip from Bangalore or exploring Mysuru’s lesser-known wonders.
Why You Should Go:
Tips Before You Go:
Skip the queue easily by booking online tickets
Location: Doddamalthe near Somwarpet, Coorg district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~250 km (approx. 6 hours by road)
Honnamana Kere is the largest lake in Coorg and a peaceful destination for those looking to escape into nature. Surrounded by misty hills and coffee plantations, it’s perfect for boating, photography, and quiet reflection. There's also a temple nearby, adding a cultural touch to your visit.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Brahmagiri Hills, Coorg district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~270 km (approx. 6.5 hours by road)
Talakaveri marks the source of the sacred River Cauvery. Located atop the scenic Brahmagiri Hills, it’s a peaceful mix of spirituality and natural beauty. After visiting the temple, you can explore the surrounding hills or sit near the seasonal waterfalls for a meditative pause.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~135 km (approx. 3.5 hours by road)
Split into two falls — Gaganachukki and Bharachukki — Shivanasamudra is a dramatic sight during monsoon. The roaring twin waterfalls create the perfect backdrop for a picnic, with nearby viewpoints offering stunning photo opportunities. It’s also one of the first hydroelectric sites in India.
Why You Should Go:
Looking for a quick escape from the city’s rush? Bangalore’s nearby hill stations are just the break you need. With cool breezes, lush trails, and wide-open views, these spots are perfect for a peaceful day trip or a scenic weekend drive. Let’s explore the best hill getaways just outside the city.
Here are some of the most scenic and adventure-filled spots just a drive away from the city:
Location: Vikarabad district, Telangana
Distance from Bangalore: ~570 km (ideal for an extended weekend trip or two-day outing)
Ananthagiri Hills is one of the oldest forested regions in Telangana, offering the perfect escape for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. The hill station is blanketed with dense greenery, winding trails, and waterfalls that come alive during monsoon. At the heart of the hills lies the serene Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, a key spiritual spot that attracts many devotees and explorers alike. With fresh air, quiet surroundings, and plenty of trails to explore, it’s a lovely break from city chaos.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Between Madikeri and Kushalnagar, Coorg district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~245 km (around 5.5–6 hours by road)
Nestled quietly between the more famous Dubare Elephant Camp and Nisargadhama, Chiklihole Reservoir is one of Coorg’s best-kept secrets. This manmade reservoir is surrounded by lush forests and open meadows, making it ideal for a peaceful outing. There are no major tourist crowds, shops, or loud attractions here—just raw nature, scenic views, and a refreshing break from the noise.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Doddaballapur Taluk, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~60 km (approx. 1.5–2 hours by road)
Makalidurga is a scenic hill near Bangalore, known for its moderate-level trek leading to a historic fort at the summit. The trail passes through rocky terrain, railway tracks, and wild shrubbery, with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Gundamagere Lake waiting at the top. It’s especially popular among early-morning trekking groups.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~60 km (approx. 1.5–2 hours by road)
A timeless favourite, Nandi Hills is well-known for its early morning sunrises and cool breeze. With winding roads, hilltop viewpoints, and historic sites like Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, it’s the kind of place that suits both quiet reflection and group picnics.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh
Distance from Bangalore: ~150 km (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours by road)
Located at an elevation of over 4,000 feet, Horsley Hills is a refreshing hill station ideal for a peaceful yet fun getaway. Surrounded by dense forests and eucalyptus trees, the area is cooler than Bangalore and offers a great mix of scenic beauty and light adventure. Activities like ziplining, rappelling, and rope courses are available for the more active visitors, while those looking to relax can enjoy the viewpoints, quiet trails, and breezy weather.
Why You Should Go:
Surrounded by Majestic temples to centuries-old forts, these destinations are perfect for anyone drawn to stories carved in stone, spiritual serenity, and echoes of the past that still shape the present. These culturally significant spots around Bangalore promise more than just sightseeing. They bring history, peace, and cultural depth, just a short drive from Bangalore.
Location: Madikeri, Coorg district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~265 km (approx. 6 hours by road)
Built in the 17th century by Mudduraja and later modified by Tipu Sultan and the British, Madikeri Fort is a cultural landmark nestled in the hills of Coorg. Inside the fort complex, you’ll find a quaint Anglican Church, a small museum, and remnants of colonial influence — all surrounded by thick stone walls and lush greenery.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~125 km (approx. 2.5–3 hours by road)
Srirangapatna, once the capital of Tipu Sultan, is a culturally rich town filled with stories from the Mysore kingdom. It houses historic structures like the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Daria Daulat Bagh (Tipu’s Summer Palace), and the Gumbaz Mausoleum. The town sits on an island formed by the Cauvery River, enhancing its scenic appeal.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, Telangana
Distance from Bangalore: ~580 km (approx. 10–11 hours by road)
Yadagirigutta is home to the revered Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, situated atop a hill and recently renovated into a grand spiritual complex. Known for its architectural transformation and the majestic golden Sudarshan Chakra, it draws thousands of devotees and travellers throughout the year.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Near Mysore, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~135 km (approx. 3 hours by road)
Somnathpur is famed for the 13th-century Chennakesava Temple, an exquisite example of Hoysala architecture. The temple’s star-shaped platform and detailed soapstone carvings are a visual treat for anyone interested in art, history, or architecture.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Madikeri, Coorg district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~265 km (approx. 6 hours by road)
Built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II, the Omkareswara Temple is a unique blend of Gothic, Islamic, and traditional South Indian architectural styles. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features a central dome, minarets, and a serene water tank with a bridge, making it one of Coorg’s most distinctive spiritual destinations.
Why You Should Go:
Here are some scenic destinations near Bangalore that combine adventure, wildlife, and tranquillity.
Location: Coorg, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~240 km (approx. 5.5–6 hours by road)
Located on the banks of the Cauvery River, Dubare Elephant Camp offers a rare chance to get hands-on with India’s most iconic animal. From feeding to bathing elephants, it’s a memorable experience that draws animal lovers and curious travellers alike.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Near Medak, Telangana
Distance from Bangalore: ~580 km (approx. 10–11 hours by road; best for a weekend+ trip)
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A lesser-known gem, Pocharam is home to sloth bears, Nilgai, wild boars, and more. The sanctuary’s rugged paths and peaceful water reservoirs make it ideal for trekkers and wildlife photographers looking to escape tourist-heavy routes.
Why You Should Go:
Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
Distance from Bangalore: ~100 km (approx. 2.5–3 hours by road)
Set against the lush backdrop of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Bheemeshwari is an all-in-one adventure and relaxation zone. From nature walks and fishing to riverside camping, it offers something for every type of explorer.
Why You Should Go:
It’s easy to forget, in the middle of Bangalore’s daily hustle, that a quick escape is always within reach. Misty hills, hidden waterfalls, quiet lakes, and ancient landmarks, just a short drive from Bangalore, you'll find day trips that feel like mini getaways. Each spot adds its charm, perfect for shaking off the city and stepping into something new.
But if you’re after something truly different — a mix of wonder, relaxation, and family-friendly fun, Aquarium Paradise is a spot that really stands out. Where else can you walk through an underwater tunnel, watch a live mermaid show, and hang out in a glowing jellyfish room, all in one visit?
So go ahead, grab your tickets, pack your camera, and make a day of it. Go to Aquarium Paradise and see for yourself why it’s one of Bangalore’s most loved new attractions.
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