bangalore to br hills road trip

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BR Hills from Bangalore: Travel Guide & Places to See Around

BR Hills also known as Biligiriranga Hills are situated at a distance of around 175 Km from Bangalore. it is one of the famous road trips from Bangalore . Here is a complete road trip guide to BR Hills from Bangalore. The hills are named after the Biligirirangan Temple, which is located at the top of the hills. The hills are a part of the eastern Ghats and are known for their rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The area is home to a number of endangered species of plants and animals, and is also a popular destination for trekking and wildlife viewing.

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BR hills road trip from Bangalore:

A road trip from Bangalore to B.R. Hills can be a great way to explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of this region. Here is a suggested itinerary for a road trip from Bangalore to B.R. Hills:

• Start your journey early in the morning from Bangalore.
• Take the National Highway 44 and drive towards Mysore.
• After reaching Mysore, take the Mysore-Ooty Road and drive towards Nanjangud.
• From Nanjangud, take the road that leads to B.R. Hills. The journey from Nanjangud to B.R. Hills takes about 1 hour.
• Once you reach B.R. Hills, you can visit the Biligirirangan Temple, go trekking in the hills, or go on a wildlife safari in the nearby Bandipur National Park.
• You can also visit the Gopalaswamy Betta, a hilltop located in the western part of the B.R. Hills range.
• Spend the night at a homestay or resort in B.R. Hills.
• The next day, you can visit the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, located about 50 kilometers from B.R. Hills.
• After exploring Ranganathittu, you can drive back to Bangalore.

Note: It is advisable to plan your trip in advance and book accommodations and activities beforehand, as the availability of these may be limited. Also, make sure to follow all necessary precautions and guidelines related to COVID-19 while on the trip.

Road condition from Bangalore to BR hills:

The entire stretch from Bangalore to BR hills is double lane road. During day time while going or coming, expect more traffic from Bangalore to Kanakpura stretch and the least traffic from Kollegal to BR hills.

The last stretch of the drive of 20 Kms up the hill to the peak of the BR hills is really scenic and calm. There will hardly be any traffic driving up the hill in the morning around 6 or 7ó clock. At the base of the hill, there is a forest department check post. It opens at 6 in the morning till 5 in the evening. There is also an entry charge of rupees 20 for the cars.

The drive up the hill is really scenic. Unlike other hill stations or road trips from Bangalore , this road drive is really peaceful with rare traffic for even bikers. Maybe, this place is still not so famous among Bangaloreans.

I have also been to other nearby road trips from Bangalore like Yercaud from Bangalore , Bandipur national park , Yelagiri , Hogenakkal waterfalls , Ooty etc. But BR hills is the only place where I was surprised to see no crowd at all or maybe I was lucky.

There is not much to see at the BR hills like a proper viewpoint, boating or doing any other fun activities. The main purpose of the drive should be reaching the peak. There are two to three viewpoints en route where you can stop and enjoy the sunrise.

BR hills weather:

Unlike Yelagiri or Yercaud, I did not find BR hills so hot. BR hills are the part of the easternmost Western Ghats and weather is cool there. Just look out for the rainy weather if you are going there in the rainy season.

Facilities at the BR hills:

BR hills are still not so developed in terms of commercialization of a tourist place. There are some local shops where you can breakfast and lunch. Besides, there are no other basic facilities like toilets, public bathrooms, ATMs etc.

Biligiriranga Temple, BR hills:

BR hills are also famous for Biligiriranga temple which is situated at the peak of the BR hills. This temple opens around 7.30 to 8 in the morning and is very famous among the locals. Beware of the monkeys there. The view from the temple and places nearby is breathtaking.

Shivanasamudram from BR hills:

Shivanasamudra is around 50 Kms from BR hills en route Bangalore from BR hills. Falling on the way back to Bangalore makes Shivanasamudra another favorite location for the travelers to stop at the Shivanasamudra and see both of the falls, Barachukki falls and Gaganachukki falls. Know more here about the Shivanasamudra falls here.

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One reply to “br hills from bangalore: travel guide & places to see around”.

BR hills is fit for a higher cc bike not less than 125, min. for a 65 kg person. And a SUV, or 1.6 litre vehicle, lesser depends on driver skills to climb the hairpin bends, which are to say the least very very dodgy. Nothing much to do once you climb up, few vendors selling corn and seasonal mango fruits.

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A weekend at B R Hills from Bangalore

B R Hills or Biligiriranga Hills is one of the many beautiful hill ranges near Bangalore. It makes for a perfect weekend getaway from the metropolitan city of Bangalore. Although, it’s a surprise that many haven’t heard about it. While people mostly tend to go to the more popular weekend getaways, like visiting the hill station of Coorg and   Chikmagaluru , Wayanad , spending a long weekend during monsoons in Ooty , an year end over a long weekend in Kodaikanal , our honeymoon trip to Munnar , spending a night in the houseboat on backwaters of Alleppey , a relaxing holiday besides the vemnadan lake in Kumarakom , visiting the iconic temples and sites in Mahabalipuram , a weekend at Yercaud , two days visiting places in Pondicherry , a day in the royal city of Mysore , an overnight stay at Peepal Tree on the backwaters of Kabini , a weekend visiting the ancient sites in Hampi , Badami , and the beautiful temple of Halebidu and many more. When we heard of B R Hills, we decided to one day visit here. So, ultimately, one weekend, tired of the boring corporate life, we decided to rejuvenate our souls here.

Little did we know that our plans will be twisted by the Karnataka Bandh (A strike) called out the very same weekend. As a result, at the end moment we had to cancel our plans.

But we were not the ones to give up so easily. Since it didn’t seem feasible to go this weekend, we decided to shift our booking. So, we called up our resort, Gorukana and asked them to shift our booking dates to October 1&2. Not only did they move our bookings, they actually didn’t charge us anything extra for it! (Although, their policies mentioned some shifting charges). So, delightfully, we started waiting for the day of the trip to arrive.

In between, we had our awesome trip to Rajasthan. After coming back from the Rajasthan trip, we started eagerly counting the days to this weekend getaway. Soon, arrived October 1. As usual, to avoid city traffic and get a lead, we started around 6 in the morning. It’s always refreshing to feel the morning air once in a while, for us the city dwellers. Soon we were zooming out of Bangalore city premises.

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Off to B R Hills

We took the NICE road to Kanakura and further. And started off on yet another epic road trip in India . Although, this road is a little longer. But it is traffic free. And, it is also in an excellent condition. As a testimony to the road condition,  by 8 am, we had already reached near Shivsamudra . We were now carving for breakfast. Alas, there are not many breakfast options in this route. And those which are there, were not yet open.

The options that are there are mostly small bakery shops and and ready to eat snacks outlets or general grocery shops. Finally, after much hassle on what to have for breakfast, we decided to stop near a bakery. And from here we bought some bananas and chips. Then we had these in our car itself while we drove further. It was actually good to have a light breakfast while we were still on the winding roads. And, it also saved the time that we would otherwise waste sitting in a food outlet. So, eventually, we made good use of the tough condition we were put in with respect to food. But yes, we took this learning on our subsequent trips. And as a result had a wonderful picnic trip when we next drove to Gandikota and Belum caves from Bangalore .

The road on this route is mostly 2 lanes. Hence, you cannot speed too much. But, this route is not at all crowded compared to the other route. (That one being the Bangalore – Mysore highway). The distance to BR Hills is almost 180km when going via this Kanakpura route, which is the shortest compared to other routes. And the scenery is good. As the road mostly passes through villages with green farms and very scattered population.

Beautiful meadows

Almost 30km from Shivsamudra, the road takes a diversion from the main highway towards B R Hills. Somehow, I had cultivated this notion that the resort had to be on top of the hills. We were still driving through the meadows and plane lands. So, I started feeling little disappointed. I even started getting a little restless. However, soon we entered into an expanse which has beautiful green meadows and pasture lands. This meadow is lined by the B R Hills at the other end. And in between, farm animals can be spotted grazing. I found myself immediately re-glued to my car window. And, I completely forgot about climbing on the hill top. I rather felt like stopping the car and running into the utterly green fields that stretched till eternity.

There is only one word that comes to my mind to describe the kind of feeling you feel upon seeing fields lush green and full of healthy crops. And that also in a country that is primarily agricultural. And that word is “happiness”. That was exactly what I felt while passing through this patch of land. I spotted farmers, men and women, working in the field. Their colorful cloths made scattered spots of vibrant color in the overall green meadows. Some were ploughing their land with the help of their farm animals while others were harvesting their crops.

Into the thick forest

The roads start winding a little into the mountain ranges at this point. Soon, we arrived at the entrance of BR Hills. The entrance is marked by the forest check post. We have to make entries of our vehicles before entering. As one enters inside, there is a beautiful narrow road leading inside the forest. This road is marked by super dense forests on both sides. The forest department advices not to blow horn loudly and avoid stepping out of the vehicle on this stretch.

Rendezvous with wildlife

People often spot herds of elephants crossing the road inside this forest stretch. The forest department again advices to turn off your vehicle ignition and wait at a distance if you spot a herd of elephants. Basically, leave them at peace and so will they. However, we were not lucky enough to spot elephants or tigers. We did spot some beautiful deers though! The whole stretch of drive inside the forest is very beautiful. While driving through you will get the rich moist aroma of rainforest. The constant melodious chirping of birds will add to it. It’s like getting transported into another world.

Out of the forest

However, like all good things, this road has to eventually come to an end. Upon crossing the forest road, we again started spotting some habitation. Our mobile phones started catching signals back. Immediately, we put on the GPS and looked for directions to our resort. Almost 1 km down this stretch, google commanded us to take a kaccha rasta (untarred path) down the main road. This road leads to Gorukana in almost half a kilometer.

Do note that you have to be a little careful here. In case you don’t get a gps connection, you have to keep a watch for the board of Gorukana soon after you are out of the forest area. Otherwise you might miss the turn. And the road downhill that leads to the resort is really a very narrow one, so, it might take a little bit of effort to spot it from a vehicle moving with high speed.

Our resort : Gorukana

Soon we arrived at our resort, by 10:30am. We were given a warm welcome with fresh grape juices. Then, we spent rest of the day peacefully, enjoying thoroughly at Gorukana. Read our full experience of stay at Gorukana . In short, we loved every bit of our stay at the resort. Cut off from the world, amidst thick forests, enjoying our chats and interacting with the flora and fauna of the forest !! It turned out to be the best of what we had expected from B R Hills and our resort. There were lots of things to do at Gorukana   including bird watching, forest safari, camp fire, traditional tribal performance and visit to their NGO, to name a few. Must mention, our little one had a wonderful time as well.

Next day, we started from our resort post breakfast. Gorukana is maintained by an NGO. They are doing many good things in this area. We visited the schools and education center maintained by the NGO. The tribal kids are educated in these schools. Along with education, they are also provided lodging and food. Volunteer teachers are welcome at the school. So, if you are looking to do some good volunteer work in teaching, don’t hesitate to contact them. We also visited a honey processing plant. Basically, raw honey extracted from the honey bees are processed here organically. The organic honey is then packaged and supplied to the towns.

All the money earned from the ventures is in turn again invested in the welfare of the tribal community in BR Hills. We really loved the way the NGO is working day in and day night for the tribal welfare.

But, no visit to BR Hills would complete without paying homage to BR Temple. Next, we decided to visit the temple, before starting on our journey back home. BR Temple is perched atop a beautiful hill. The hill provides breathtaking panoramic view of the whole valley. Behind the valley, enormous green hills stay guard. The air is crisp and fresh as ever.

After offering our prayers in the temple, we decided to trek a little along the roadside, to soak into the panoramic view around us. I am simply falling short of words to describe the view in front of us. So, I would let the pictures do the talk.

Shivsamudra

From here, we embarked on our return trip, refreshed, rejuvenated, full of energy. We reached Shivsamudra by 12:30pm. We decided to visit the waterfalls on our way. Before taking the diversion towards the waterfalls, we decided to have lunch. However, we were again disappointed by the options present. Nevertheless, we satisfied our hunger with a few plates of idli. Then we started on our journey further to the waterfalls. Though, the falls were not on their peak charm in this month. Already, water volume had reduced. Nevertheless, it was refreshing to stop midway and have a look at one of the most majestic waterfalls of South India. The area near Shivsamudra waterfalls has recently been developed a little. There is a nice restaurant. Refreshment options are also abundant. We had an icecream each.

And, back to home

From here, we started on our trip back to Bangalore, by 2:30pm. And we were home by 5pm. Overall, this turned out to be an awesome two days weekend getaway from Bangalore. However, like all awesome things, it has left me yearning for more. This got me thinking why we are not doing more two days journeys from Bangalore. I was simply amazed by how much we could do and enjoy in just two days!! Definitely, I am going to soon embark on more such journeys and bring to you more amazing stories!!

So, what is your favorite two days weekend getaway from Bangalore? I would love to know. (And, visit next!!).

Tips for visiting B R Hills

• There are two routes that you can take to B R Hills : Bangalore – Mysore highway and Bangalore – Kanakpura main road.
• The Bangalore – Mysore highway is multi lane and have lots of food and refreshment options. But this route is little longer. You will take 5 hours to reach B R Hills from here. Assuming you will stop in between for food etc. Traffic is also higher on this route.
• The Kanakpura road is two lanes only, but has almost nil traffic. It is shorter. It took us just 4 hours to reach B R Hills inspite of taking breaks in between.
• If you decide to take the Kanakpura road, carry some food with you for the way. Since, there are not good refreshment options on this route. You can have the food while driving. This way, you also save time.
• Start early from Bangalore, no matter whichever route you decide on. You will be able to avoid the city traffic and take a lead.
• Weather is mostly pleasant at B R Hills all through the year. Light jacket or sweatshirt would do in the morning and evening. For daytime, light cloths are fine.
• Wear comfortable cloths as you will most likely do lots of trekking on hilly terrain. Even inside the resort it’s hilly pathways.
• If you have kids with you, carry one warm jacket for them. They will need it during morning and evening hours. In the day, they should be fine.
• It must be charming to visit here in winter. November – February. You might require little warmer cloths at this time.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

90 thoughts on “A weekend at B R Hills from Bangalore”

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Hi Marissa No, we only allow link insertions as of now. Please dont quote paragraphs etc. which can lead to Plagiarism

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This looks like such a great place to visit. I love the idea of escaping for a few days. The resort also looks really tranquil. Shame you didn’t get to see any of the rarer wildlife, but at least you got to see some deers!

Truly it was such a rejuvenating feeling that we got here, we said to ourselves, let’s do at least one such trip every month.

Love those beautiful hills, and it’s all so green! In this cold winter day I’d, for sure, prefer to be there!

Hmm..exactly my thoughts too

BR Hills looks so lush and green. It’s not al all like the picture so have of India in my mind.

There are many places in India Sydney, that are lush green and beyond imagination when it comes to natural beauty..do visit sometimes

I’ll try Neha! I have so much planned for the next three years it will be tough to fit in

Great… No hurries 🙂

This spot looks absolutely delightful – the resort looks lovely, and the views are amazing. What an awesome weekend getaway. Great tip to leave early from Bangalore…would hate to be stuck in traffic.

Thanks Soraya!

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BR Hills: the best travel guide to Biligiri Rangana Betta

The BR hills, or Biligiri Rangana Betta, in Karnataka are a world of nature, greenery and wildlife. Rolling hills that are often covered in a mysterious mist. Forests that are home to elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars and deer. 

The BR Hills are not far from either Bangalore or Mysore . Yet, few foreign visitors have ever heard of this place. 

When I knew my internship for global health was going to be in BR hills I had to look it up myself. I couldn’t have wished for a better place to spend three months researching access to mental health care in this unique area of Karnataka .   

Why visit BR Hills

BR Hills translates as Biligiri Rangana Betta. Biligiri means white hill in Kannada.Rangana refers to the Lord Ranganathaswamy temple that is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus from all over India and the local Soliga population.

The BR Hills are a unique ecosystem. It’s where the Western ghat mountain range meets with the Eastern ghat mountain range. Being right in the middle, the area forms a natural bridge allowing animals to move in between. 

The result is a rich flora and fauna with species from both areas coming together, creating an ecological hotspot of incredible biodiversity. The animals are shy and hard to see in the dense vegetation, but you can hear and feel they are never far away.  

The BR Hills wildlife sanctuary is part of a network of protected areas that form the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve and that includes more famous national parks like Kabini and Bandipur. It became a wildlife sanctuary in 1974 and since 2011 it is also an official tiger reserve. 

BR Hills and the Soliga

BR Hills becoming a protected area was not without controversy, because these decisions affected the Soliga. The Soliga people have lived in the BR Hills for centuries. As hunter gatherers they have an intimate knowledge of the plants and animals in the forest. 

When Biligiri rangana Betta became a wildlife sanctuary the Soliga were to be evicted and relocated. For years the Soliga fought a legal battle for the rights over their ancestral lands and won. 

Although the Soliga now have community forest rights there is still a long way to go for them to be more involved in conservation efforts and decision making in BR Hills.

BR Hills is thus not only about nature, but also about culture. Besides the famous Ranganathaswamy temple, there are hundreds of places within the forest that have a special meaning for the Soliga. 

Sustainable tourism in BR Hills

Tourism in BR Hills is still in its infancy. It must be said that the Soliga have mixed feelings about the influx of visitors to their area. 

As the Soliga are struggling to find new sources of income, tourism could be one of them. However, it needs to be done in a sustainable way without threatening the forest that is their home. So far, few of the benefits of tourism are going towards the Soliga as only a few hotels do make an effort to employ local people.  

When you visit BR hills, do so with respect for the Soliga and the environment. Don’t add to the problem of plastics and waste. Bring a water filter and leave nothing but footprints.

Things to do in BR Hills

Biligiri rangana betta temple.

The 400 year old Biligiri Ranganathaswamy temple is one of the main attractions in BR Hills. Lord Ranganatha is a Hindu deity in South India and a form of Vishnu. There are other Ranganatha temples in the area such as the one in Srirangapatna . 

The temple in BR Hills for sure has the most beautiful location. On top of a hill it offers sweeping views over the forests and hills of Biligiri rangana betta. According to a Soliga folk take, Lord Ranganatha fell in love with a Soliga girl and married her. As a result, they consider Ranganatha to be their sister’s husband.

The Soliga also believe that Ranganatha still wanders through the forests during the night. Every 2 years they present a new pair of large leather slippers to the temple. 

Dodde Sampiga Mara 

The Dodde Sampiga Mara is another sacred place for the Soliga that is even more important to them than the Biligiri rangana betta temple. They believe that the old champak tree is more than 2000 years old and is home to a number of deities. 

The Soliga worship the tree and also come to celebrate many of their festivals. In february during Shiva ratri the soliga pray and dance around a fire. 

BR Hills Wildlife sanctuary

For many tourists, the main reason to come to BR Hills is nature. The lush and green forests are home to elephants, tigers, sloth bears, wild boars, deers and squirrels as well as birds and butterflies. 

Because of the confluence of the Western and Eastern ghats it is a truly unique ecosystem that connects with a number of protected areas in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The best way to explore the BR Hills Wildlife sanctuary is by trekking with a local guide or a jeep safari. 

The best guides come from the Soliga community as they know all about the animals and plants in the forests, including the use of medicinal plants. Jeep safaris are arranged at the K gudi wilderness camp and last about two hours   

Spotting Wildlife at BR Hills

Spotting any wildlife in BR Hills requires both luck and planning. Although BR Hills has one of the largest numbers of wild elephants and tigers east of the Western Ghats, you would be very lucky to see one. 

Your chances of seeing animals in BR Hills depend a lot on the time of the year and day that you plan your jeep safari or trek. The early morning and late afternoon just before sunset are the best times to spot wildlife. 

When to visit BR Hills

The winter season from October till March brings good weather. The best time to see animals comes in the dry season from February till March. 

The vegetation will be less dense and animals are forced to come out of the forest to drink water. Be patient and wait at one of the watering holes and you have a good chance you will be rewarded. 

The monsoon runs from June till September. This will bring lots of rain and mist to BR Hills. Therefore it will be difficult to see anything, although the lush greenery has a certain beauty of its own. 

My wildlife experiences

I was in BR Hills for 3 months during the monsoon when I went on a jeep safari once. Unfortunately, I didn’t spot any animals during the actual jeep ride. It being a misty morning after days of rain was probably one of the reasons. However, if you hang out at K Gudi camp in the early morning you are very likely to see wild boar, spotted deer (chital) and barking deer.

I stayed in a place that was actually quite close to the main road. I loved to go for short walks in the early mornings and this is when I saw the most birds such as woodpeckers and the crested hawk eagle. Often there was also a small barking deer that was grazing in the garden next to my room. 

During my stay I often heard elephants at night, but never saw them up until my very last day when I was leaving BR Hills. As I was in the local bus to Yelandur, there were three elephants right next to the road.    

Where to stay in BR Hills

K.gudi wilderness camp.

For the best wildlife sightings and nature immersion you have the jungle lodges of K.Gudi wilderness camp . Their packages start at 6000 rupees per person per night. This does include lunch, dinner, breakfast and two jeep safaris.

K.Gudi lies somewhat remote and is difficult to get to without your own transport. From the Biligiri rangana betta temple it is 18 kilometers to the K.Gudi camp. 

Gorukana Wellness Resort

One of my top recommendations is the Gorukana Wellness Resort offering luxurious eco cabins and a tree house in the midst of the forest. 

They are one of the few hotels that make an effort to train and employ the local Soliga in the hospitality business. Part of their profit also goes to VGKK , a non profit organization working on development projects in the area. 

The Gorukana resort is not far from the main road and therefore easy to reach with public transport. Gorukana can arrange community walking tours, nature walks, forest safaris and the K.Gudi jeep safaris for you. 

Giridarshini Homestay

Giridarshini homestay is all about location. Next to the main road and within walking distance of the Ranganathaswamy temple you are in the center of action. Although the rooms offer views into the forest, this is one of the most populated areas within BR Hills.

This is not the best option if you are looking for a true nature getaway. However, it is one of the cheaper places to stay in BR Hills. Therefore it is very convenient if you come with public transportation and don’t have the money to stay at Gorukana. They can also organize jeep safaris and nature treks.   

BR Hills Travel Tips

Where to eat.

There are not a lot of restaurants in BR Hills. Close to the Ranganatha temple are a few basic facilities, but otherwise you are dependent on your hotel. Places like K.Gudi and Gorukana therefore offer all inclusive packages that include food.

Safety in BR Hills

Consider yourself lucky if you spot any of the big animals in BR Hills, but do remember that these are wild animals and walking in the jungle is not without its risks.

Animal attacks are rare, but do happen if you don’t take care. Walking along the main roads on your own is fine, but don’t wander off in the jungle or after dark. At last, always keep a safe distance from the animals you see and be very wary if you see a mother tiger with cubs or a mother elephant with her young. Elephants are easily provoked and can run pretty fast if they want. 

That said, the biggest safety concern is getting ill. Travellers diarrhoea is the most common problem and therefore bring some kind of water purification system (filter, steri pen). 

How to get to BR Hills

From Mysore : From Mysore it is about two hours to BR Hills. It is best to take one of the frequent buses from Mysore to Yelandur (1 – 1.5 hour). From Yelandur there are frequent buses to the Biligiri rangana Betta temple (45 minutes). The bus follows the main road. After BR Hills lake it goes past the Gorukana Eco Wellness resort, Giridarshini and finally the temple.  

From Bangalore : From Bangalore it is about 5 hours to BR Hills. It is best to take a bus from Bangalore to Yelandur (4 hours). From Yelandur there are frequent buses to the Biligiri rangana betta temple (45 minutes). The bus follows the main road. After BR Hills lake it goes past the Gorukana Eco Wellness resort, Giridarshini and finally the temple.  

Note that K.Gudi lies in the interior of the forest, about 18 kilometers from the main road and requires your own transport to get there. 

BR Hills packing list

Sturdy shoes or hiking shoes : If you plan to do some nature walks in BR Hills it is good to bring some sturdy shoes. Professional hiking boots are not necessary. 

A sunhat and sunscreen : There will be a lot of shade in the forests, but because you will be outside a lot it is still important to protect you from the sun. 

Anti mosquito repellent : There are a lot of mosquitoes and although dengue and malaria are rare there are occasional outbreaks. Wear long sleeve pants and use mosquito repellent.

Water purification system : Bring enough water with you. There is no need to add to the plastic waste problem. You can easily fill up your bottle with tap water. However, do use some kind of water purification system (filter, steri pen). Giardia and other microbes are very common

Clothes in Green, brown or grey colours : To improve your chances of seeing wildlife avoid wearing bright colours. Clothes in green, brown or grey colours allow you to blend in. The best is to bring thin and lightweight clothes with long sleeves. For women it is not appropriate to wear shorts or sleeveless tops.

Binoculars : If you have binoculars certainly bring them along to see birds and wildlife. 

Enough money : There are no ATM’s so make sure you bring enough money with you.

Snacks : There are a couple of small stores around the temple, but not much beyond. It is best to bring some snacks with you.

Toilet paper : There are no public toilets and most are of the drop down variety with no toilet paper in sight.

Sustainable Travel in BR Hills

BR Hills is a beautiful nature reserve that gets increasingly more visitors. It is important to be aware of the possible negative impacts mass tourism can have. Traveling sustainably to BR Hills, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors. It is better to try South Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. South Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Karnataka has a well-developed public transportation system. It is easy to reach BR Hills by bus. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Leave no trace principle : I encourage you to take all your trash back with you when you go on a safari in BR Hills or hike in the forests. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions of the Soliga beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Kannada or the Soliga lannguage, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about BR Hills, also known as Biligiri rangana Betta, in Karnataka, India contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support

6 thoughts on “BR Hills: the best travel guide to Biligiri Rangana Betta”

Is there a Tulsi: tree: a shrub of worship in the Hindu way of life, considered as the biggest Tulsi tree in the world in this place BR hills a very nice coverage of the attractions of the place thank you

Not a Tulasi tree, but a Sampige (Magnolia champaca ) tree

Thanks for the detailed and interesting coverage of BR Hills, Solinga tribes and Ranganatha swamy temple.

i am happy with this article

Informative. Would be visiting it this sat and surely your blog helped me in the planning.

Pench National Park is a popular wildlife reserve located in central India. It spans across two states, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, and covers an area of approximately 758 square kilometers. The park derives its name from the Pench River, which flows through its territory.

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A Wildlife Extravaganza in BR Hills

By rahuldev rajguru, last updated: 28 jul 2023.

The onset of summer in Bangalore marked a gradual increase in the mercury, albeit not by much. However, we Bangaloreans have a tendency to be pampered and a touch finicky, even when the temperature crosses a mere 25 degrees Celsius, prompting us to yearn for the cool hills. As the schools were still in session, a family trip was out of the question. Nevertheless, this presented the perfect opportunity to blame the rising temperature and organize an outing with friends. It was an ideal chance to reminisce about our bachelor days, even if only for a couple of days, and relive those cherished moments from the past.

My buddies: Montu , Devang and Chirag (left to right) - we have been traveling together for over a decade

Bangalore to BR Hills Road Trip

The drive to BR Hills via Kanakapura Road offers a picturesque journey on NH948, with intermittent diversions due to ongoing road work. The final 15-kilometer stretch, following the Yelandur Forest check post, leads you through the enchanting and winding roads of the BR Hills forest. It is during this phase that you are likely to experience thrilling encounters with abundant wildlife. Eager not to miss out on such an opportunity, we embarked on this adventure and were pleasantly rewarded with unforgettable wildlife sightings.

Our first encounter with an elephant while climbing up to BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

Sighting Wildlife in BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

The most important aspect of driving inside the forest is not to venture out of your vehicle when you spot animals. This is dangerous as animals feel threatened and you are likely to be attacked. There have been instances of animal attacks in BR Hills. There are frequent signboards en route that keep reminding you of this fact. We soon reached BR Hills Lake, the place where you are likely to spot animals. It was our day and we saw an elephant family inside the water.

BR Hills Lake is a hotspot to sight animals during the dry season

Summer had already set in and it was rather warm even though we were climbing the hill, but it is the ideal time to spot wildlife. The vegetation starts drying up and they are forced to come out of the bushes in search of water. We were the only ones on the road and that gave us enough opportunities to spot and click them.

People drive quite fast on this road and honk continuously even though there are signboards prohibiting such behavior. This scares away the animals. If you reach early and visit during the non-peak season, then you are more likely to get your own space to be with nature.

Black-faced Langur of Western Ghats, their white fur makes them easy to spot but their agility poses a challenge for the best click

As we continued our journey, my focus remained fixed on the road as expected of a driver. My passengers had the liberty to let their eyes wander, and as we ventured deeper, a gasp of excitement erupted from the rear seat. Curiosity piqued, I reversed the car, only to be spellbound by the sight before us. In the distance, about 100 feet away from the road, two Malabar Giant Squirrels danced fearlessly on a tree, their vibrant coats and bushy tails accentuating their magnificence. These usually shy creatures seemed indifferent to our presence that day, allowing us a rare glimpse into their enchanting world. The Malabar Giant Squirrels, with their strikingly vivid colors and agile movements, painted a scene of ethereal beauty against the backdrop of the wilderness.

Enchanting Malabar Giant Squirrel playfully perched in BR Hills Tiger Reserve

Our next encounter was with a group of Dholes (Indian Wild Dogs). All of them ran away as we approached closer, but one of them was posing to be clicked. Dholes are known as fearless communal pack hunters . Even though they are from the Dog family, they don't bark. These interesting creatures with long tails, red fur and short muzzles are gradually making it to the list of endangered animals. They are majorly found in the Western Ghats of South India. Nagarhole National Park and Kabini Tiger Reserve are other places to spot them. We were lucky to spot them on our first day but we didn't know that a huge surprise awaited us the following day.

The fearless and adventurous Indian Wild Dog inside BR Hills Tiger Reserve

Finally, we arrived at the top of BR Hills, the home to the renowned Ranganatha Swamy temple, and naturally, we sought the blessings of the deity.

Sri Biligiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple in BR Hills

Biligiri means "White Cliff", Rangana means "Lord Ranganatha/Vishnu" and Betta means "Hills" in Kannada. A 400-year-old ancient Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is located atop the hill at 5,000 feet and is one of the most important places to visit in BR Hills.

The rear view of Lord Ranganatha Swamy Temple in BR Hills

The BR Hills Temple has a captivating history. Originally known as the Venkatanatha Temple, it was later renamed the Biligiri Ranganatha Temple. According to local beliefs, Lord Ranganatha, the presiding deity, fell in love with a girl from the Soliga tribe and married her. The Soliga tribe's heirs consider Lord Ranganatha to be their brother-in-law, leading to their devoted worship of him.

Gopuram of Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple at 5,000 feet altitude

One of the significant events at the temple is the Car festival, which takes place during "Vaishakha" in the month of April, once every two years. This festival attracts an astounding 1.5 lakhs of devotees, resulting in a crowded atmosphere on the tiny hill.

During the festival, two sub-classes of the Soliga tribe present a large pair of slippers, measuring 1 foot and 9 inches, made of Deerskin. Interestingly, each tribe takes the responsibility of creating one slipper separately, yet astonishingly, the designs of both slippers perfectly match each other.

The Soliga tribe firmly believes that Lord Ranganatha still wanders around the BR Hills forest, protecting the tribes and the village. As an offering, they present the large slippers for the deity to wear while walking in the forest.

A pair of giant slippers offered during the previous car festival is currently used to bless devotees

The evening "Puja" at the temple holds special significance, during which the slippers are prominently displayed. The priest performs a blessing by placing the slippers on the heads of devotees. This evening Puja (worship to God) starts at 7.30 pm, and it is highly recommended to visit the temple during this time, as the atmosphere brims with energy and devotion.

Evening view of BR Hills Temple from the main entrance

The short drive to the temple hillock is quite scenic and surrounded by dense forests. The road to the temple has three hairpin bends with almost 90 degree turns. One of the turns has an amazing viewpoint from where you can watch a breathtaking sunset. You can also spot some wildlife from there on your lucky day.

View of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and serpentine road from BR Hills forest guest house

Note : Before going up the hills to the temple, you have to pay an entry fee of INR 30 per car. If you want to visit the temple multiple times, don't throw away the receipt. You can show the same receipt again to access the hill without paying again.

BR Hills Viewpoint

There are 150 steps to reach BR Hills temple from the parking bay. The view from the parking area is once again stunning. Take some time to enjoy the beauty of this place. Be cautious of the monkeys, as they have become aggressive due to people feeding them. There have been instances of them snatching mobile phones, wallets, and purses.

A breathtaking vista of BR Hills forest from the temple's parking area

We passed through numerous stalls and individual vendors selling flowers and stuff that you need for the offering at the temple. Incidentally, the host of our BR Hills homestay was the main priest of the temple, so we had privileged access to all the sections. He also explained the history of this temple and his family tree who are devoted to this temple for 18 generations.

A beautiful sunset from BR Hills temple that splashes its colors on the dam below the hill

The thrilling meandering road leading to the BR Hills temple, a recent addition, has replaced the once-frequented climbing steps. However, during one of my visits, I decided to embark on the adventurous climb, and the panoramas it unveiled left me utterly astonished. Each steep section gifted me with breathtaking vistas of the majestic BR Hills and the quaint villages nestled within the lush forest. If you're up for an exhilarating experience and have the time, I wholeheartedly recommend taking on the challenge of those steps - you won't be disappointed by the awe-inspiring rewards that await you!

By ascending these steps, one can reach the temple's Gopuram, once the primary entrance to the shrine

An awe-inspiring panorama of BR Hills forest and the village from the temple's gopuram

Soliga Tribe in BR Hills

BR Hills is home to the Soliga tribes, an indigenous community with a long and rich history. Their roots run deep into the lush forests of BR Hills, where they have resided for centuries. For generations, the Soliga people have relied on forest resources for sustenance and livelihood.

Their cultural heritage is interwoven with unique practices, rituals, and beliefs focusing on forest deities and spirits. For their well-being and survival, they revere the local flora and fauna. They possess a deep understanding of medicinal plants, biodiversity, and sustainable practices in the forests. Their lives have been characterized by harmony with nature, preserving the delicate ecosystem of BR Hills through conservation.

A temple for the Soliga tribe awaits as you enter BR Hills

Stay options in BR Hills

There are limited options restaurants and hotels in BRT Wildlife Sanctuary barring a couple of expensive resorts inside the forest. KSTDC (Karnataka State Tourism) was about to open a budget hotel, Mayura Biligiri, when we visited BR Hills. We chose a homestay in BR Hills run by Ramesh Babu, the main priest of the temple. The place is nicely located with decent amenities, but the standout is their food. We had authentic local cuisine with diverse varieties prepared at his home. When I returned for my next visit, I didn't get the booking there, so I stayed in Hotel Mayura Biligiri , which is a nice budget hotel with a reasonably priced restaurant.

Bird watching in BR Hills

Our thoughtful host had planned an exhilarating bird watching activity for us the following morning. It was quite obvious that all of us were not going to make it; we were on a relaxing holiday, right? However, Montu and I were filled with excitement and found ourselves awake before the guide's arrival. We eagerly set out on foot, exploring the captivating forest and its undulating slopes, where we were fortunate enough to spot a variety of beautiful birds gracing the area with their presence.

Birds of BR Hills

Our adventure then led us to a stunning bungalow perched on a hilltop, serving as the BR Hills forest guest house. The panoramic view it offered of the magnificent BRT Wildlife Sanctuary was truly mesmerizing, leaving us in awe of the natural splendor that surrounded us.

Beautifully designed BR Hills Forest Guest House atop the hill with french windows and a patio

My wildlife experience with Bison family

We made a couple of pit stops on our way while taking a glimpse of the routine life of the Soliga Tribe who dominate this tiny village. After reuniting with our two other friends and a healthy breakfast, we decided to revisit the BR Hills forest guest house in the afternoon to relax in the solitude and silence the place offers. But not before a drive to the same route we came from. I was confident that we were going to spot a few more animals. My prediction was spot on as a Bison family was awaiting us.

Bison family's day out

Bison is a huge and deadly animal. They are usually found as a family with the male navigating the herd. Bison account for killing more humans than all other wild animals combined. You need to be watchful especially when they are with a baby. The entire road to BR Hills was empty and we got about 15 min to watch them grazing around with that "care-free" attitude. They were least bothered with our presence.

Lunch is over, it's time for water before they disappear into the bushes

Suddenly, a few more vehicles arrived, stopped and started honking for no reason. One of them even got down and went closer to capture this gigantic creature with his mobile phone. This was intimidating and the Bison wanted to rush into the bushes, but they were thirsty and the water body was on the other side of the road. With 5 vehicles blocking the road it was difficult for them to cross. They started running parallel to the road and within a few seconds they overtook everyone and crossed the road towards the lake. It was a beautiful sight to watch and I was lucky enough to capture a video of this moment.

A rare but amazing sight of a Bison family running across the road towards the lake at BRT Wildlife Sanctuary

BR Hills Forest Guest House

We were thrilled with this experience. It was now time to head to the BR Hills forest guest house and relax. It was locked and nobody was there. We walked to the rear side of the guest house and then the stairs to go up. It is a beautiful green building with a nice viewpoint. We could not go inside but had a nice relaxing time with some photo ops without anyone disturbing us.

Panoramic view of the BR Hills and forest from guest house

We were making the most of the solitude to take photos in the surroundings of the BR Hills forest guest house

K Gudi Wilderness Camp

There are not many places to visit in BR Hills apart from enjoying nature's splendor, something we friends are very fond of. Even though we were at 5,000 feet, it was quite hot during the afternoon. We took every opportunity to drive through those beautiful and meandering BR Hills roads with surprisingly green landscape in summer. This time we drove towards Kyathadevara Gudi, popularly known as K Gudi.

Narrow and curvy road from BR Hills to K Gudi

BRT Wildlife Safari

There is a K Gudi wilderness camp that is run and managed by Jungle Lodges. They also offer accommodation in case you want to stay inside BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. This entire area was a hunting lodge for the erstwhile Kings of Mysore state. They conduct BR Hills safaris which take you inside the forest on designated routes. You can opt for either an early morning or an evening Jeep safari. Check out BRT wildlife safari timings at Karnataka Tourism website . We didn't go for it as we had spotted enough animals on our own. However, I did take the BR Hills safari on my next visit and I wasn't that happy either.

Captured this Spotted Deer (Chittal) on my camera just before it scurried away

The road inside BRT Wildlife Sanctuary remains closed for vehicles between 6 pm and 6 am. The forest guard at K Gudi check post advised us to return to BR Hills and pass the next check post before 6 pm to avoid getting stranded. They are quite strict about the timing.

A tortoise family at the lake during our return drive

Driving inside BRT Wildlife Sanctuary

We were again served mouth-watering dinner at the homestay. The excitement of sighting wildlife was visible on our faces. A fellow traveler recommended an early morning drive on the same route to K Gudi Wilderness Camp and we started staring at each other, "early morning"? The evening was quite pleasant with a nice breeze and chirping of Cicadas. We got engaged in the game of UNO cards till late night, but I was ready to venture out the next morning. I took possession of the car key before we hit the bed.

With the sun splashing its colors on the trees in the morning, the same road looks very different

As usual, Montu was up and ready to join me. We ensured we reached the check post no later than 6 am as we wanted to be the only ones inside the BR Hills forest as long as possible. Wildlife spotting requires a lot of luck and some amount of planning. It also depends on which time of the year and what time of the day you visit BR Hills. We had hardly driven for 15 min inside the dense forest and a pleasant surprise awaited us.

A rare sight to spot these fearless pack hunters in a group

We had to suddenly jam brakes on the road. A group of about 10 Dholes might have spotted their prey and some of them had occupied the entire road. No complaints for this road block because it's their home and we were the guests. We were thrilled because this is a rare sight. We spent half an hour with them and they were unfazed by our presence. Probably, it was our lucky day. I was not going to miss this incredible opportunity to record a video.

A rather unique and rare sight of Dholes occupying the entire road. It's not every day that one gets to witness something like this.

The thrill of waking up early in the morning proved worth every moment, as we knew that these hours held the greatest potential for wildlife sightings. Our excitement was palpable, and we felt as though we were in for an unforgettable experience. Just when we thought our adventure couldn't get any better, I had to slam on the brakes once again, and there it was - a solitary Bison, leisurely grazing by the road, mere 10 feet away from us.

Initially, we were taken aback by its sheer size and felt a hint of fear. Although I had encountered Bison up close before in Kodaikanal , this encounter still sent shivers down my spine. Nevertheless, we watched in awe for 10 minutes as the Bison seemed unperturbed by our presence, engrossed in its meal. Such moments of proximity to nature always leave you in awe, and with our hearts still racing, we finally headed back to our homestay, cherishing the unforgettable encounter.

A close encounter with a Bison, only 10 feet away, as it glanced at us before getting engrossed in grazing

Krishna Katte Earth Dam

It was time to check out and hit the road from BR Hills to Bangalore . It was already a weekend and we were expecting a lot of incoming traffic so chances of sighting animals were minimal. Our guess was right, so we drove non-stop through the forest and paid a short visit to the dam that we had spotted from the top.

Beautiful landscape at Krishna Katte Earth Dam

In Pursuit of Wildlife Wonders

It was an impromptu and unplanned trip but memorable for all of us. We thoroughly enjoyed our much needed break. We had never expected to see so many animals. This prompted me to make a few more trips to BR Hills thereafter but I was never so lucky. However, I am not a person who will give up. I will be heading there again soon.

Frequently Asked Questions :

What does BR Hills mean?

The full form of BR Hills is Biligirirangana Hills. Biligiri means "White Cliff", Rangana means "Lord Ranganatha/Vishnu" and Betta means "Hills" in Kannada.

Why are BR Hills so famous?

BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary also known as BRT Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many animals, birds and flowers. You are very likely to sight animals in their natural habitat at BR Hills Tiger Reserve if you plan your visit properly.

What is the best time to visit BR Hills?

Dry season from December to April is the best time to visit BR Hills of Karnataka. This is the time where you have a better chance of sighting wild animals inside BRT Wildlife Sanctuary and near K Gudi Wilderness Camp.

What is the best way to reach BR Hills?

BR Hills forest can be reached via Kanakapura road through Yelandur or via Mysore through Chamrajnagar.

How many tigers are in BRT Tiger Reserve?

As per the 2018 census, there are 86 tigers in BRT Wildlife Sanctuary of Karnataka.

Disclaimer: This blog may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may get a small commission if you buy anything. All products and services we endorse have been personally used or come highly recommended to us. These incomes allow us to keep the community supported and ad-free.

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Best time to visit, art & culture, off the beaten track, travel checklist, about the author.

Rahuldev Rajguru

An entrepreneur for a better part of my life, I have traveled across 6 continents to 62 countries and lived in 6. Travel is my passion and has always been a vital part of my life. I regularly embark new adventures around the world. My travel has exposed me to diverse cultures, traditions and people. My love for adventure and exploration has taken me to many unique destinations, creating one-of-a-kind experiences. I have spent a substantial amount of time in third-world countries hence gaining knowledge and understanding of this region in particular. Globetrotting has given me immense experiences and expertise in travel while meeting amazing people from across the world. Through my stories, I aspire to share insightful experiences and information that could help other travelers make the most of their travel experiences.

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Experience the Picturesque beauty of Road Trip to BR Hills from Bangalore

A picturesque exotic flora and fauna view located around 175 kilometers from Bangalore, Biligiri Ranga Hills is a perfect road trip from Bangalore within 200 kilometers. If you glance at the all-India road trip route map, BR Hill’s destination is highly congested. The place is an abode to the Biligiri Rangaswamy temple and BRT wildlife Sanctuary. The range of deific conjuncture for the Eastern and Western ghats is observed here, where forest adventure opportunities are fulfilling. 

The trail: From Bangalore to BR hills, it will take 3 hours and 54 minutes. Midway you will cover Chamarajanagar, a local district that adds a wondrous view to the trip. 

Distance: It covers 175 kilometers from Bangalore

Weather: 24 degrees celsius 

The ideal time to Visit:   The best time to visit BR hills is October to March. The BR Hills weather is perfect for exploring the gorgeous weather. You can even enjoy adventurous activities. BR Hills is located at a very high altitude, it doesn’t get too hot, and the weather is very smooth to enjoy in all seasons.

The main attraction in BR hills is its wildlife. The rich biodiversity is ideal for travelers to stop by and click amazing snapshots of the breathtaking beauty of nature. Few temples like Biligiri Rangaswamy are dedicated to Lord Ranganathan. Located at the topmost point, this temple is a must-visit. The additional spectacular bird’s eye view that you will experience from here is mesmerizing. There are lovely tree trails through the roadway, bearing quaint flowers as well. The terrain is indulged in top-class activities, which include trekking, river rafting, and fishing. Do explore the local artifacts and handicrafts that are most popular here. 

Things to explore in BR Hills 

1: brt wildlife sanctuary.

A bright morning with the wildlife is the charm, and you must visit the destination of the BR hills. It is the home of a wild variety of flora, fauna, and wild animals between the Kaveri and Tungabhadra rivers. The sanctuary is spread all over 540 square kilometers and creates a wonderful environment that is a great retreat to the BR Hills tourists. Your trip from BR Hills to Bangalore will surely be a memorable one. 

2: Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple 

BR Hills temple is devoted to Lord Ranganatha. It is situated atop the highest peak of the BR hills. It is the only temple in the country where the deity is depicted in a standing posture. Every year there is a car festival of the deity held during Vaishakha in April month. The most popular Rath Yatra festival is celebrated at the BR hills with the local traditions that make it one of the most visited BR Hills timings. The large pair of slippers measure 1 foot and 9 inches made up of skin to the Ranganathaswamy once every two years. 

3: Dodda Sampige Mara 

The main attraction of this destination is the big Champak tree. It is believed that it is 2000 years old with a height of 34 m and 20 m. It is positioned within the temple with multiple lingams lying next to it. This tree is considered to be a holy tree that is worshipped by the local tribes. 

Adventurous activities to explore in BR Hills

There are numerous exciting activities in BR Hills that include fishing, river rafting, and even trekking. River Kaveri flows through here. It is the staple spot for river rafting and fishing. You will explore an outstanding landscape with lunches of green hills that make it an ideal spot for trekking.

BR Hills trekking is pretty famous. The Biligiriranga Hills is one of the unlikely trekking trails from Bangalore, where enthusiastic trekkers trek to experience the thrill of the wandering hills, navigating the tough terrains and dense forest. 

All about the famous Tribe: Soliga tribe 

Soliga Tribe is one of the ancient tribes in the Biligirirangan Hills. They lived in this place for more than centuries. Currently, the government of India is trying to turn the resident places of the Soliga tribe into a park that will safeguard wildlife like tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. The Soliga tribe is well known for their silk weaving crafted sarees. They are experts in making honey, turmeric powder, and other organic products for extensive usage. 

BR Hills shopping is a lovely experience for the tourist. You will get all sorts of tribal products, artifacts, juices, pickles, and ayurvedic plants. You can explore the Tribal Resource Centre that may be flattering in a number of the options for the tribal products. 

Amazing resorts in the BR Hills 

The hill view BR Hills stay is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the serene nature. The typical BR Hills homestay is also a great place to enjoy the local charm and local food. You will get mouth-watering South Indian cuisine and other cuisines as well. 

To summarize, a road trip to BR Hills from Bangalore will be an exceptional experience that you will explore. Plan out your most awaited trip to this place and explore the hidden beauty of nature through your own eyes.

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Wilderness Escapade: The Definitive Travel Guide to BR Hills and K Gudi (2024)

Within this article, embark on a journey to explore the untamed beauty of K Gudi BR Hills and delve into the wilderness of Karnataka. Situated in the picturesque Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Wildlife Sanctuary, KGudi Wilderness Camp provides a distinctive retreat amidst nature’s embrace. This tranquil sanctuary, conveniently close to Bangalore, extends a warm invitation to adventure enthusiasts and wildlife admirers.

Delight in the excitement of discovering the unspoiled charm of BRT through captivating safaris, offering glimpses of elephants, gaurs, and an array of other species thriving in their natural surroundings.

One of the weekend retreats I cherish the most from Bangalore is BR Hills. I’ve visited BR Hills numerous times, and each visit has been delightful. My initial excursion to BR Hills holds a special place in my memories, as it was the best—I was fortunate enough to spot two leopards during that trip.

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Travel Guide to K Gudi BR Hills

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

About BR Hills

Situated in Karnataka, the Biligiriranga betta, BR Hills forms a picturesque hill range. This region is designated as the Biligiri Ranga Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, a safeguarded tiger reserve serving as a vital corridor between the Western and Eastern Ghats.

For an optimal experience, the recommended period to explore BR Hills is from October to March.

How to Get to BR Hills ?

Located approximately 170 kilometres from Bangalore and 85 kilometres from Mysore, BR Hills is easily accessible by a scenic drive that typically takes around 4 hours. Optimal access to BR Hills is achieved by taking the route via Mysore Road.

Furthermore, K Gudi is conveniently situated a mere 20 kilometres away from BR Hills.

By Public Transport

Regular bus services connect Bangalore to K Gudi (BR Hills). To reach K Gudi from Bangalore, one can take a train or bus to Mysore or Chamrajnagara and then transfer to a bus heading to BR Hills. Local buses operate between these destinations, providing convenient transportation.

• Train tickets to Mysore or Chamrajnagara can be booked through the IRCTC website.
• For information on specific buses connecting Mysore or Chamrajnagara to BR Hills, you should engage with the locals, who can guide you on the available options.

Where to Stay in BR Hills?

BR Hills offers environmentally conscious accommodation choices , enabling you to submerge yourself in a tranquil environment while keeping your ecological impact to a minimum. Revel in the rustic allure of the camps, enhanced by the welcoming hospitality of the staff.

As mentioned earlier, my visits to BR Hills have led me to stay at two distinct places, both of which have provided exceptional experiences.

Gorukana Resort

The Gorukana Eco Resort stands out as one of the most exceptional resorts I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. Nestled amid the wilderness, the property and the staff exhibit absolute brilliance. Notably, the resort is dedicated to supporting the Soliga Tribal Community, with a significant portion of its staff belonging to the Soliga tribes.

What sets the Gorukana Eco Resort apart is its commitment to hiring, training, and employing tribal individuals from the Soliga community. This unique aspect contributes significantly to the resort’s distinct charm and positive impact on the local community.

K Gudi Wilderness Camp by Jungle Lodges

I’ve had the pleasure of staying at various Jungle Lodges properties; without exception, each experience has been truly remarkable. The K Gudi Wilderness Camp by Jungle Lodges , situated at BR Hills, is no exception – it’s an excellent choice for accommodation. Their inclusive packages cover all three meals, and the culinary delights served at Jungle Lodges are genuinely delicious.

Opting for Jungle Lodges accommodations is advantageous, given that it operates under the governance of the Government of Karnataka. This affiliation simplifies access to various activities, including jeep safaris, making the overall experience more convenient and enjoyable.

Things To Do in BR Hills

Jeep safari.

It has been surprising to realize how little awareness exists outside India regarding the remarkable safaris available. Mentioning safaris often prompts assumptions about Africa, yet India boasts dense forests teeming with incredible wildlife and offers captivating jeep safaris.

For those with an affinity for exploring forests, delve into the travel guide to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary .

BR Hills stands out for harbouring the largest population of Asian wild elephants. The forest is renowned for sightings of Indian Gaurs, giant flying squirrels, sloth bears, civet cats, and many other captivating species. A diverse range of mammals, including deer, civet cats, and wild dogs, accounts for 26 species.

Forest safaris are conducted twice daily, in the morning (6 AM to 8 AM) and late afternoon (4 PM to 6 PM), typically costing between INR 750 to INR 1000. For accurate pricing, it’s advisable to check with the resorts.

According to a 2017 survey, the area is home to 62 tigers. Unfortunately, my attempts to spot these majestic creatures have been unsuccessful thus far.

Bird Watching

BR Hills proves to be a fantastic location for observing vibrant and beautiful avian species. The area boasts a documented count of approximately 254 bird species, and during my visits, I had the pleasure of spotting numerous diverse birds.

Make sure to bring along a quality camera with zoom capabilities to capture the splendour of these remarkable bird species.

Jungle Walks

The resorts organize brief jungle walks, providing an opportunity to stroll through the lush forests and gain insights into the local flora and fauna. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors receive explanations about various plants and their benefits. You might even encounter some of the area’s wildlife during the walk if fortunate.

As per the Indian tourism website , the reserve is home to an impressive array of more than 800 plant species.

Tribal Music and Dance

The resorts organize evening entertainment featuring tribal performances, treating visitors to local music and dance. An enchanting evening unfolds with a campfire, where the dancers showcase their talents. It’s a captivating experience, and visitors are sometimes invited to join in the dancing festivities.

Biligiri RangaSwamy Temple (BRT)

Exploring the Biligiri Ranga Swamy Temple, devoted to Lord Venkateshwara, is an essential part of the BR Hills experience. At the highest peak, convenient access is available through a drive to the temple’s car parking.

The temple welcomes visitors daily from 7 AM to 2 PM and 4 PM to 6 PM.

Given the sacred ambience, it’s crucial to show respect to fellow devotees and dress modestly when visiting. Additionally, exercise caution around the resident monkeys, particularly if you have any food items with you.

Is BR Hills Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

BR Hills stands out as a secure destination, with both resorts providing a high level of safety, making it an ideal recommendation for solo female travellers. Nevertheless, it’s essential to exercise caution regarding wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants in the area. It’s advisable not to venture out alone and prioritize safety measures, particularly during the night.

Closing Notes

BR Hills emerges as a captivating weekend escape from Bangalore. While it’s feasible to make the trip over the weekend, I highly recommend extending your stay for a few days to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and the lush forests. Undoubtedly, BR Hills holds a special place in my heart as one of the most memorable destinations in Karnataka.

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Bangalore to Br-hills

How to reach br-hills from bangalore.

BR Hills is a popular hill destination near Bangalore. It is situated only at a distance of 173 kms from Bangalore and there are several ways to traverse this distance. You can take a bus from Bangalore to BR Hills, which is one of the easiest and convenient ways to get there. Or you can also choose to travel in a train. But the nearest station to BR Hills is 60 kms away, which is called Chamarajnagar. Ofcourse, another option is to take a cab or hire a taxi. Alternatively, you can also drive down on your own. Given below is a detailed account of the travel mediums from Bangalore to BR Hills. Have a look!

Knowing The Details

Top hotels in br-hills.

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1. Bangalore to BR Hills in Bus

2. Bangalore to BR Hills in Train and Bus

3. Bangalore to BR Hills in Car

Popular Routes to Br-hills

Popular routes from bangalore, places to visit in br-hills.

BRT Wildlife Sanctuary

Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple

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BR Hills From Bangalore | A Travel Guide To Still Unspoiled Hill

BR Hills Travel Guide situated in south-eastern Karnataka at its border with Tamil Nadu. Since It is the confluence of Western and Eastern Ghats so, the sanctuary is home to ecosystems that are unique to both the mountain ranges.

Therefore,If you like bird watching and just want a close to nature kind of outing, you must visit awesome places in BR hills .

Since it is not commercialized much, it will bring you immense peace and solitude. It is famous for its beautiful picturesque less commercialized locations. Driving along the woods, watching the beautiful jungle and dense patches of wilderness, hills you will feel mesmerized once you will reachHills.Set 3500 ft above sea level,  the hill is interspersed with the valley, stream, and the place of breathtaking scenic beauty.

BR Hills -Jungle Safari

Most of BR hills are taken up by the BR Hills wildlife sanctuary, which is a protected reserve by the government. It has a wide array of species of animals, birds, and insects.The animals spotted in the forest are panthers, tigers, leopards, gaurs, wild pigs, sloth bears, Langur, antelopes, Chital, Sambar deer, and bears.It has around 200 species of birds. Some of them are the Malabar Whistling Thrush, Racquet Tailed Drongo, Paradise Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Bulbul, and the Crested Hawk Eagle.

tiger footprint

Best time to visit  BR Hills: October to March

P.S.: If you are planning to have a trip in June or July – You will witness grassy green immense and dense forest area.

BR hills-Spotted Deer

BR Hills Places To Visit :

• BR Temple, Soliga and the Jenukurba tribal hamlets, the thousand-year-old Mara (Big Champak Tree)
• Jungle safaris and Bird watching – There are two timings, one early morning around 6:30 a.m. and the other one is around 2:30 p.m.We will recommend the morning timings as the cool breeze of the morning will be so much refreshing.

BR Hill Landscape

CONTACT INFO

How to reach :

(From Bangalore): Bangalore – Kanakapura – Malavalli – Kollengala – Yelandur – BR Hills. (From Coimbatore) Take either KSRTC or TNSTC to reach Chamarajanagar, buses ply every 20 minutes.

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About the author: nilabh ranjan.

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Hi, I am planning to visit Kerala in the last week of November for honeymoon. Please be in touch with me and let me know if you have any travel package for that. Thanks

Wow, amazing locations and super clicks…. I loved your descriptions as well…. I will love to come back to your site from time to time….. Best wishes

Mysore is a heritage destination and well visited for the Mysore Palace and located most centrally more

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Serendipitously Spotting Sloth Bear and Leopard in BR Hills, Karnataka

From Bangalore to BR Hills – Venturing Into the Hearts of Karnataka Jungles

Biligiri Rangana Betta hills or popularly known as BR hills lie about 180 km south of Bengaluru. 

Just a 4–5 hours drive away from Bangalore, it is no surprise that the hills make for a perfect weekend getaway. Having been stuck in the city for two months straight, I was in desperate-need-of-greenery-and-fresh-air and quickly finalized upon Biligiri Hills as my weekend destination in Karnataka . The trip was with my husband so it had to be short to accommodate his full-time job. But even a 2–3 days road trip soaked us in so much nature that we savored it through the next few months of the dry pandemic era in which even stepping out of our tiny abode for groceries felt like a luxury.

I hadn’t expected to see much wildlife in BR hills, as my ventures into the hearts of Karnataka jungles (such as the Dandeli Sanctuary ) before hadn’t borne me much fruit; I never saw the big cats or even the tail of an errant elephant. But little did I know that my desire to see Karnataka wildlife would finally come to color in the Biligiri Rangana Hills, officially known as the BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary which was formed in 1974. 

At an altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, BR hills stand where the Western Ghats meets the Eastern Ghats, and make for an ecological hotspot. In addition to the location exoticism, the BRT wildlife sanctuary is quite large, 540 km² in the area to be precise, and is also an official tiger reserve.

Map of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve(part of Western Ghats). Source: http://www.cepf.net/ / CC BY-SA

Not only did we see two  sloth bears , at different times, sprinting across in front of our jeep, but we also spotted a leopard hidden behind the thickets, wild bisons appearing all macho, mama and baby chital(spotted deers), an Indian grey mongoose tottering around, a tortoise couple resting on a log in a pond, vultures and owls perched on high and dry tree branches, lone sambar deers, barking deers melting us with their innocent eyes, Malabar squirrels nibbling through nuts perpetually, colorful birds of various kinds, langurs, wild monkeys, and wild boar. Phew. 

But taking you through this tedious list isn’t doing good to either your reader’s gratification or to my creativity. So let me narrate the story of my visit to the Biligiri hills, staying at the Kyathdevaraya Gudi Wilderness Camp (BR hills jungle lodges), and how I encountered these majestic living beings one after another in the thick Karnataka forest.

Oh, if you are confused by the name BR hills, I should tell you that BR stands short for Biligiri Ranganatha/Billigiri Rangana/Billigiri Ranga, and the name is most probably either given after the Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple (Lord Vishnu’s temple) that stands at the top of the hills or from the white mist and the silver clouds that cover the Biligiri Rangana hills for most of the year as Biligiri means white hill in Kannada. ( BRT wildlife sanctuary is short for Biligiri RangaSwamy Temple wildlife sanctuary. )

Also Read: If you love nature and want to see more of green Karnataka, visit Coorg .

It was almost the end of February.

The journey from Bangalore to BR hills was green and soothing. We took about 5.5 hours for the drive including a break for coffee. The drive was simple apart from one bad stretch. A long and simple drive is rare for us as mostly one unplanned turn into a village off the highway often leads us on mud roads devoid of GPS, fuel, and communication(I am still inadequate in making conversations in Kannada). 

Regardless of the time or those moody drives, I always find driving through Karnataka roads a bliss. Maybe because I am from Uttar Pradesh where driving on highways with deep forests on both sides while not worrying about getting looted could only happen in a dream. 

We arrived at the Biligiri Ranga hills by noon and straightaway headed to the BR hills Jungle Lodges that we had booked for one night.

I have already introduced the Jungle Lodges through my article on  Kali Adventure Camp . But to summarize, it should be sufficient to say that jungle lodges have large comfortable tents, food is included in the package, a coracle ride is guaranteed if there is a river in the vicinity, at least two jungle safaris (mostly in a jeep as forest hills in Karnataka are dense with animals), a nature walk, and a campfire come along with knowledgeable and humble guides.

Now BR hills wildlife sanctuary isn’t as popular as Bandipur, Nagarhole, or Kabini, but quite a few huts were occupied by families and nature lovers. We also perched inside a tent that was surrounded by tall and rustling Arjuna and sal trees.

Noon means lunch at the jungle lodges, and you cannot expect anything less than a buffet full of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and dessert options. After a hearty lunch at the food Gol Ghar, we relaxed for a bit in the sun, as at that time of the year sun feels pleasant in Karnataka. The banks of a muddy swamp near the huts served as our pillow, while boars frolicked around unabashedly. 

Soon we hopped onto a jeep for the BR hills safari that was to last for about three hours. 

Rains had been away from the forest for months now, and we found ourselves driving on ochre paths fringed by thick and tall trees on both sides. 

But as this was one of my most successful wildlife-spotting safaris, it was only a few minutes until we started seeing the lovely and shy chital and sambar deer. They would stare at us for a second and then gallop away into the forest. A lone mongoose couldn’t hide away from us for long. We are also guilty of barging in on a tortoise couple resting on a log half-submerged in a shallow pond.

And there was no chance we would have this missed this cool bison chilling by himself on the edge of yet another waterhole that had survived the dry months of winter.

My neck was already aching by constantly craning to see the Indian spotted eagles, crested serpent eagle, amongst many other predators, perched peacefully at the top of the tallest deciduous trees.

But hey, I shouldn’t complain.

We drove on further on a quiet path, and suddenly all of us almost sprang into the air to get the last glimpse of a sloth bear that hadn’t sensed our jeep and could only sprint away at the last minute. Obviously, I don’t have a photo. 

We were sad to have interrupted his sweet search for honey but also thrilled to have come face to face(or jeep to face?) with a wild bear who are known to be shy and mostly stay in hiding. (It was only after waiting for about 3 hours, that we saw any sloth bears in the  Daroji sanctuary near Hampi. )

We hadn’t even come out of our euphoria, that we saw some tiger footprints in the dry earth. Estimates say that there are about 62 tigers in the Biligiri Hills Sanctuary, but there could be many more.

Some more chital and sambar later, we ran into a barking deer that stared at us with the most innocent eyes before turning around and running away.

The sun had started dipping towards the horizon, and the skies were a mix of orange and blue.

I was almost slowing down when the biggest surprise of the day was unveiled by the guides.

There is a leopard in that direction behind the thick bushes. He whispered while pointing to my 11’o clock.

Of course we jumped up again clutching hard onto our DSLRs and tiptoeing to get a view while almost falling into each other in the jeep that suddenly seemed crowded. But irrespective of how intensely I peered through the stunted shola trees, I couldn’t spot the sly cat.  

Camera zoom in. Remove. See with the naked eye. Spot some shadows. Zoom in. Remove. Repeat. Fumble. Request the guide to show you the leopard. Raise yourself on your toes. Feel like you will miss a lifetime opportunity. Repeat. Raise. Feel like hitting the people who claimed to have spotted it.

Well, my husband who can’t find the spoon kept right in front of him, finally spotted the leopard, took a few pictures, and tried hard to show her to me. 

I called in all the leftover energy, transferred it to my gaze, and spotted the glorious being. It was right there. But only behind some dense shrubs. 

Almost an hour later when we were too tired of trying to spot her behind the dry foliage, we drove on. The molten sunset soothed the eyes, but our safari wasn’t over yet. 

One more sloth bear was right there in front of us on the road and this one posed for a minute before dashing away.

A few birds and a brown fish owl later, we were home. Oh, it had been some day!

We were greeted by a bonfire back at the camps. At the jungle lodges, an informative and fun video always accompanies the ginger chai and snacks in the evening. The warmth of the bonfire relaxed our tired bodies, and the heavy buffet dinner(yes, after the snacks) almost thrust us to our beds.

I set out early morning on yet another safari hoping to see a leopard in full view, but this trip was not going to be that exciting. We saw owls, langurs, wild monkeys, wild boars, and some more deers waking up to the rising sun. Oh, these seem like a fair lot to see on a morning safari.

After a heavy breakfast and playing around in the camp for a while, we headed back on the road.

It is time to show some monkeys and birds of the camp.

We also drove up to the famous BR hills temple but didn’t climb up in the afternoon sun. The view was already pretty good from the top of the hill.

The B iligiri Ranga hills had put one of the best wildlife shows I had ever seen, and I couldn’t be more pumped to go to another wildlife park soon. And then pandemic happened.

But life is getting back to normal slowly, and it shouldn’t be long when I would venture into the jungles if only for a day or two with a mask and gloves. Well, better be safe than sorry.

Until the next time then.

Also Read: If you love trodding along in nature, have a look at this guide to Belligundi waterfalls, Sharavathi Valley : Offbeat India

How to go to Biligiri Hills, Karnataka?

By road, Mysore to BR hills is about 90 kilometers (56 miles). BR hills distance from Bangalore is about 180 kilometers (112 miles). Either you can drive or take a bus to one of the nearest cities to the hills. Chamarajnagar, Kanakapura, and Kollegal are the closest cities to Biligiri Rangana.

You can also take a train to Chamarajanagar, which is about 40 kilometers away. From there, a taxi or a local bus would be the best commute option for the sanctuary.

Where to stay in Biligiri Rangana Hills, Karnataka?

BR Hills stays are of many kinds. From Airbnb’s to hotels to tents, you would find them all. 

I stayed at the BR Hills jungle lodges and loved the stay. The service is always good at the Karnataka jungle lodge, but I have also always found a few guards and porters or other service people to be a bit pushy about tips and lunchtime. If only, they gave their guests a little more space. We are anyways always preemptive in giving tips to the people who help us get around. No complaints otherwise. 

Oh, lunch is also just quite a large spread. It is hard to keep your eyes open after a one-hour sit-down affair at about 1–2 pm. I always feel that the jungle lodges can reduce their meal size, and hence their package cost, and let the tourists feel a little more energetic when they venture into the jungle. Of course, I can eat less but have you seen the colorful curries in the as-much-as-you-want buffet? Please don’t blame me.

The price for one person for a day was about INR 6,000 (about $80) which is on a higher side, and I only took it for it was a special weekend for us, and the packed included everything.

Also check out BR hills homestay options if you would love to stay with a family, eat home-cooked food, and generally get to know the local life better.

If you don’t want to stay at the jungle lodges, you can opt for one of the many BR hills resorts. But as they have to be booked separately from their websites, I am putting down two properties (from Booking) that look promising: Gorukana BR hills resorts  and this KSTDC hotel (both with great reviews).

What is the best time to visit BR Hills in Karnataka?

The best time to visit the Biligiri hills would be from October to March. BR hills weather would be the most pleasant in these mostly dry summer and winter months.

Read More  about the best places to see in  Karnataka  with the best times to visit.

Have you been to the B iligiri Rangana Betta hills ? Would you go now?

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Steps Together - Explore with us

Explore Karnataka with us

• All posts / Jul 2016

BR Hills and K Gudi

by Steps Together · Published September 26, 2016 · Updated May 23, 2021

Date: 2-Jul-16

This weekend was booked for a day trip to Biligiri Rangana Hills, popularly known as BR Hills. This hill range is located in the Chamaraja Nagar district of Karnataka and is famous for its wide variety of flora and fauna. Since we could cover Shivana Samudra falls (Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls) on the way, we decided to revisit these falls en route.

Gaganachukki Falls

My brother accompanied us on this trip. As we had a long day to go, we started at 6.15 AM. Our first destination was Gaganachukki Falls which is around 120 km from home. We traveled via Kanakapaura > Malavalli road and reached Gaganachukki Falls at 8.45 AM. It was a huge disappointment to see no water in the falls. Locals told us that the water will be released from the dam after August, and then the falls will be filled with water. We were expecting it to be with the full flow like how it was during our last visit. But, we were wrong.

After clicking a few photos of the dry falls, we had our tasteless breakfast at the Mayura hotel near the parking area of the falls. We always wonder why they provide such bad food when they get to serve enough customers. Since there was no water in the Gaganachukki Falls, we decided to skip visiting Bhara Chukki Falls which is just 10 kms away.

See here   for the post on our last visit to these falls.

Next, we proceeded towards BR Hills which is around 50 kms from Gaganachukki falls viewpoint. On the way, within 10-15 mins drive from the falls, we came across a beautiful narrow road which had a lake like water body on one side of the road, which was filled with water. We did a photo and selfie video session near this and then started towards BR Hills. We traveled via Kollegala. The road condition was fairly good. There was almost zero traffic on the road which made the drive blissful.

BR Hills is known for its wildlife sanctuary, commonly known as Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary or BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. Karnataka government declared it as a tiger reserve in 2011. This hill range is the link between eastern and western ghats. As soon as we entered the gates of the sanctuary in BR hills, the landscape changed to the forest and the narrow road went through the dense green forest. The season was apt to visit this forest. There was greenery everywhere. We were expecting any animal to show up at any point. But to our surprise, nothing showed up, not even a deer. Though we felt a little sad, we had a great time going through the forest. It is advisable NOT to stop the vehicle in the forest.

As we were nearing the temple, we could see a small village with a few houses, a hospital, a school, etc. There is a junction wherein you have to take right towards Biligiri Ranganathaswamy temple. The road from here on is a bit narrow and steep as well. Near the temple, the road was curvy and it was under construction during our visit. One can get a mesmerizing view of the surrounding hills and forests from the parking area near the temple. We reached the temple at around 12 noon.

Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple

This temple has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 500 years. The temple of Lord Ranganatha is present at the edge of a rock cliff. This rock cliff looks white in color and hence the name of the hills (Biligiri means white hills in Kannada). In this temple, the God is depicted in a unique standing pose and he is accompanied by his consort Ranganayaki. The temple attracts large number of tourists during festivities. Luckily, there was less crowd on the day of our visit which made us complete our Darshan within 15 minutes. Outside the temple, you can get breathtaking view of nature. There are viewpoints on both front and back sides of the temple. Around the temple, there are lot of monkeys. Be aware !! Do not carry eatables openly, if you do not have the intention of feeding them.

B R hills is also home for Soligas, whose name means ‘Children of the Bamboo’. They are the first tribe in India to have their right to use ancestral land inside a tiger reserve, i.e B R Hills.  Their main source of income is harvesting and sale of Non-timber Forest Produce (NTFP) like honey, nellikai (gooseberry) and bamboo. You can find people dressed up in tribal wear near the temple, celebrating their rituals.

Beyond BR Hills

After spending some time in the temple, we decided to start towards our next destination K Gudi at 12.30 PM. Kyathadevara Gudi is popularly known as K Gudi and is just 20 km from Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple. At the junction where we took the right for BR Temple, take the left road which leads to K Gudi. Jungle lodges offer a wilderness camp in K Gudi and apart from this, nothing, in particular, to see in K Gudi. But, we recommend you to take this extra 20 km pleasant drive if you ever visit B R Hills.

The road leading to K Gudi traverses through a dense forest with space for only one vehicle to pass in most of the places. There was absolutely no traffic in this forest route. The thought of this forest being home for numerous wild animals, the lonely road, and thick forest definitely makes your drive an adventurous one. Avoid stopping the vehicle in this route. Unfortunately, we could not see any animals except for few deers en route. Near the Jungle lodges’ wilderness camp, we could see 2-3 wild boars. After the jungle lodges, the wildlife sanctuary continued for about 3 kms.

Note: Since there will be very less vehicles on the way to K Gudi and there are chances of animals crossing, take extra precautions if you are going alone.

After the exit of the forest’s wildlife sanctuary gate, we proceeded towards Chamarajanagar which was around 20 km. But the road was so pathetic that the 20 km distance took us around 45 mins to cover. We had lunch at a small hotel named Shingar Sagar near Pachappa circle in Chamarajanagar and started towards home at 3.30 PM. We took the Kollegala > Malavalli > Kanakapura route and reached home at 7 PM.

Route Travelled:

• BTM Layout > Kanakapura > Gaganachukki Falls > Kollegala > B R Hills > K Gudi > Chamaraja Nagar > Kollegala > Malavalli > Kanakpura > BTM Layout.
• Total Distance (To & Fro): 404 km
• Mileage (Car):  19 km/l
• Fuel expense:  1488 Rs
• Total expense:  2073 Rs 
• Photos: B R Hills and K Gudi Photos

Tags: Bangalore BR Hills K Gudi one day trip

• Next story  Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta
• Previous story  Nagarahole

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Beautiful places

This was a nice piece. The dry waterfalls is sure a disappointment. Have heard so much about the temple. We recently went to Male Madeshwara temple. BR hills and the temple.is on the cards. Let me.bookmark this post 🙂

Thank you so much for visiting.

The place is looking awesome. Though I have visited karnataka only once that too bangalore.

Thanks Manu. Do plan a trip to Karnataka.. there are lot of places to visit which will make your trip a memorable one..

Karnataka sure has a wide variety of flora and fauna. I liked the pic where your car was parked on a straight road, embraced on both sides with tall trees. Like a Boulevard of Trees. Imagine if you had a nice comfy little bungalow in such a place ?

Thanks for visiting Steps Together.. very nice imagination.. luckiest is the person who gets a chance to sleep in mother nature’s lap every moment..

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BR Hills & Shivanasamudra falls – Weekend Trip Guide!

Last updated on August 14th, 2023 at 05:41 pm

BR Hills National Park & Shivanasamudra Falls plus the sandy beach at Talakadu makes a nice weekend trip!

This is the Seventh in the   Weekend getaways from Bangalore series. These are trips to tourist places near Bangalore within 300 KMs. These can also be considered as a 2 day trip from Bangalore.  These trips are excellent weekend getaways for family.

They provide much-needed break from the routine. Bangalore is blessed with numerous options for weekend trips to revitalise oneself.

These weekend getaways from Bangalore cover travel Saturday and Sunday. They can be comfortably done by car/bike. A detailed itinerary given here will help you plan the trip to lovely BR Hills.

So why wait? Plan this trip on one of the weekends.

The Circuit

Bangalore – Kanakapura – Malavalli – Ganganachukki Waterfalls – Barachukki Waterfalls – BR Hills National Park – Talakadu – Malavalli – Kanakapura – Bangalore

371 KMs (end to end). Excellent roads.

Google map Link

7 AM  – Depart from Bangalore. Enter Kanakapura road. You are lucky if you are near NICE road where you can exit at Kanakapura Road and join the road.

8 AM – Breakfast at iconic MTR or Hotel Yoga Prasanna at Kaggalipura after you cross Art of Living ashram. Excellent Thatte Idlis

8.45 AM – Depart and drive straight to Kanakapura. Cross Kanakapura town and drive towards Malavalli. Cross Malavalli on the bye pass road. After 10 KMs you will find a signage for Gaganachukki falls. Turn left and drive for few minutes to reach the water falls.

10.30 AM – Arrive at Gaganachukki falls. Park your car and walk to the view-point. Enjoy the beauty of the cascade. Spend 30 minutes here.

11 AM – Depart from Gaganachukki falls and drive to Barachukki falls which is at a distance of 15 KMs. When you reach the highway, turn left. On the way stop for five minutes to enjoy the lovely view of Cauvery backwaters. After driving for few KMs, you will find a prominent junction with signage for Barachukki falls.

11.20 AM – Arrive at Barachukki falls. Park your car and walk to the view-point. Spend 30 minutes savouring the beauty of the waterfalls.

Lovely backwaters on Cauvery Barrage.

11.50 AM – Depart from Barachukki falls and head straight to B R Hills.

1.45 PM – Arrive at BR Hills National Park. Check into the hotel, have lunch and relax for some time.

3.00 PM – Go for Safari. Check if hotel can buy the tickets in advance from counter in Kyatarayanagudi (K Gudi) forest office. The safari starts at 4 PM.

6 PM – On the way back from safari drive up to the Biligiri Ranganatha Temple which is at the highest point in the area. It has lovely views of the forest and plains below. You may also see sunset.

7.00 PM – Return back to your hotel. Relax for the day.

6.00 AM – Get up to the calls of Hill Myna. After a cup of coffee, get ready for another round of Jungle safari.

6.30 AM – Go for Jungle safari. Safari starts at 7 AM You will get a chance to see many animals like the ones below.

8.30 AM – Return back from Jungle safari.

9 AM – Breakfast time at hotel.

10.30 AM – Depart from your hotel.

12.30 PM – Arrive at Talakad. Enjoy the Sandy beach on the banks of Kaveri. Visit the lovely Chola temples. Check out more on Talakad here.

One Day trip from Bangalore 10 – Shivanasamudra falls and Sandy beach!

2 PM   – Lunch time. Head to Raya resorts or Jaladhama Resorts  for lunch. Speak to them in advance and book it.

3.30 PM – Depart for Bangalore.

5.30 PM – Stop over at Hotel Krishnam Udupi after Art of Living ashram  for light snacks and Coffee.

6.30 PM – Depart from Hotel Krishnam Udupi and return home.

For More details on BR Hills National Park, please click this post on this blog – BR Hills – A Morning Rendezvous with a Leopard!

Travel Information

Stay Options

The best options for stay in BR Hills National Park are

• K Gudi Wilderness Camp – Managed by Jungle Lodges and resorts, this was the first one to be established in BR Hills national park. Decent cottages, excellent naturalists and Good food makes it a good option. Don’t expect luxury here. Safari starts from here.
• Gorukana – Managed Vivekananda Tribal welfare Trust is fairly new property having been established four years back. Designed by award-winning architect Namit Varma of  GNA Architects , it has charming cottages and tree houses next to an artificial lake. Local tribal boys have been employed as naturalists and they are excellent. Food is decent too.
• Giridarshini is another nice home stay option to stay.

Travel Tips

• Timings are indicative for travelling in Car/bike.

Once you enter the forest check post of BR Hills National Park, keep a watch for wild animals. Especially near the water bodies. You may be lucky to spot Elephants, Wild Boar or Indian Guar. If you are super lucky you may spot big cats – Tiger and Leopard!

• Drive slow once you enter the forest. Open the car windows and enjoy fresh air.

Carry good Binoculars and a torch.

• Carry a good hat and sunscreen lotion. It is required if you drive to Talakad on the way back.

Get up early and hit the road at dawn if there is no safari. Chances of seeing wild animals will be bright at this time

Don’t worry if you can not see a tiger or leopard. There are other wild animals to be seen.

BR Hills is a bird watchers paradise. 

The naturalists at Jungle Lodges and Gorukana are knowledgeable about flora and fauna. Do not hesitate to ask questions.

Trekking inside forest is not allowed at times. Check out with you hotel for latest information.

VGKK, The NGO has a retail outlet from where you can buy organically produced items. Look out for the furniture made out of Lantana shrub. Looks very good and cheap.

The national park looks beautiful after rains.

 Check with your hotel for Safari. Sometimes Safari will be banned due to forest fires.

The other places to visit in BR Hills National Park are – Ranganathaswamy temple, VGKK Shop.

The place is lovely for cycling. Take your bicycles along and enjoy the ride in the morning. The forest roads should be avoided after dusk due to movement of wild elephants.

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How to Reach BR Hills by Train, Flight, Bus or Car? Know The 3 Modes

• October 24, 2023

BR Hills, located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, India, is a breathtaking hill range known for its natural beauty and wildlife. If you’re planning a visit to this picturesque destination, you might be wondering about the best ways to reach BR Hills. In this blog post, I will guide you on how to reach BR Hills by rail, flight, bus, or car. Whether you prefer a convenient flight or a scenic road trip, I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the different modes of transportation and find the one that suits and gives you the answer to the question of how to reach BR Hills .

How to Reach BR Hills?

If you prefer travelling by train, you will ask how to reach BR Hills by train. The nearest railway station is Chamarajanagar Railway Station, situated approximately 40 kilometres away. This station is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Chennai. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach BR Hills. The journey from the railway station to the hill station is a scenic one, passing through picturesque landscapes and small villages.

From Bangalore:

BR Hills is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore . So, many people from Bangalore choose to visit this hill station from Bangalore when they get continuous holidays. If you are one such person thinking how to reach BR Hills by rail from Bangalore, you should know you can book a ticket on the TPTY CMNR Express . This train departs from Bangalore at 7.20 am to reach BR Hills by around 12.30 pm.

From Chennai:

Are you travelling from Chennai? In this case, the distance is more. BR Hills is located around 495 km from Chennai. You can take a train from Chennai to Mysore. From there, you can hire a car to reach BR Hills. Otherwise, you can book a train ticket from Chennai to reach Ramanagaram. From there you will have to take a road trip to reach Bangalore. The other stations you can reach by train are Mettupalayam, Tirupur, Bangalore and Coimbatore. From these cities, you will have to travel by road to reach BR Hills.

From Mumbai:

If you are from Mumbai and thinking how to reach BR Hills by rail, you will have to book a train ticket from Mumbai to reach one of the stations mentioned above. From there, you will have to take a road trip to reach BR Hills.

To reach BR Hills, the nearest airport is the Bangalore International Airport, located around 190 kilometres away. From the airport, you have the option to hire a taxi or take a bus to reach BR Hills. Bangalore Airport is well-connected to major cities in India as well as international destinations.

If you prefer travelling by bus, there are regular bus services available from various cities in Karnataka to the hill station. You can board a bus from Bangalore, Mysore, or Chamarajanagar to reach BR Hills. The bus journey allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region while experiencing the local culture. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates bus services to the hill station, offering both regular and luxury bus options.

Travelling by car gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. BR Hills is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach it by car from major cities like Bangalore and Mysore. The journey from Bangalore to the hill station takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route offers scenic views of the countryside and passes through charming towns and villages. You can either drive your own car or hire a taxi for a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Reaching BR Hills is convenient and accessible, thanks to various transportation options. Whether you prefer the comfort of a flight, the scenic charm of a train journey, the flexibility of a road trip, or the affordability of a bus ride, there is a mode of transport to suit your preferences. Choose the option that best fits your schedule, budget, and travel style. BR Hills awaits you with its enchanting beauty and unique experiences. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable adventure in the lap of nature. Can you spend five days in BR Hills? If so, my post on the best 5-day BR Hills itinerary might help you for sure.

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A road trip to BR Hills - Biligiri Ranganath Hills

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• Biligiri Ranganath Hills

Biligiri Ranganath Hills is one of the beautiful place which every individual a must visit place... read more

Dodda sampige Mara is one of the main attraction here and one must have permission from forest... read more

A road trip to BR Hills

Trip to BR Hills one can enjoy three in one. Nice road trip from Bangalore , 6000 years old famous hill top Vishnu temple and finally lash green Reserve forest with morning and evening Jangle safari facility at very reasonable price.

B R Hills located in Yalandur taluk of Chamarajanagar District, at about 90-95 Kms from Mysore & 200 Kms from Bangalore (via Kollegal).. Its must visit place for Wild life enthusiast since BRT tiger reserve is located in this forest range where one can spot many wild animals..K Gudi Camp consisting many Dashera fame Elephants located also falls within this forest range.. It's Divine place because Famous Temple of lard Maha Vishnu in the name of Lord Venkateshwara or Ranganatha is situated here for which thousands of devotees visit during Sravana specially Saturday's..

2 hours drive from Mysore and you reach B.R. Hills. Preferably, a morning place, hence, it makes a great view point and we had a good darshan in the temple there.

This place approx 70 kms from Mysore one of its kind. This is neither a commercial hill station or a tourist sport nor a place of pilgrimage. Located in the centre of a reserve forest with only a mid sized ranganatha temple at the top. This place excellently calm, mostly out of network for bsnl and airtel at some places, beautiful view from the temple site and lot of such scenic places. If just lucky you can spot some wild boars and elephants in the vicinity (but be double careful). Overall I would say a definite yes for multiple visits to this location

I had been to this place with a suggested place to visit for nature lovers. This is an amazing place with rich greenery widely spread across and many natural habitats around. Nature with its lush greenery and one of the Religious temple make this place a must visit. There are couple of Homestay providing economical and quality services. Its a family hangout and kids would enjoy the rich nature, safari and trek places around.

I visited Br Hills year ago and it was a awesome trip. As soon as we entered we could sight a lot of Peacocks !!! On the way to the temple we found a herd of elephants. We stayed in a home stay which was ok. But the main attraction was the road drive to K.Gudi in the morning. We found a lot of different types of Birds , one of the favorites were paradise flycatcher. We enjoyed a interaction with the local soliga tribes.

Travel From bangalore to br-hills

bangalore to br-hills By Road

br-hills Overview

No city is too big or too small. We know travellers and wanderers like us are everywhere. You live near Khajuraho, you live near Aleppey, and you live near Alibag and near Tranquebar. We want you to visit them all. Pack your bags every weekend and explore everything there is to see around you. We love that you're free to stop to breathe in clean air, learn about cultures and taste local food when you travel by cabs. We love that these wholesome experiences make travelling better and enrich our lives. We live for the surprises we find on road trips. Trust us when we say: The best time to travel is now; and Travel Begins With Savaari.

Road Trip to BR HILLS and Sivasamudra Falls

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• 35 Road Trips From Bangalore

Road Trips near Bangalore

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Most Famous Road Trips From Bangalore

Bangalore to nandi hills (61 kms).

To enjoy one of the most happening road trips from Bangalore within 100 km, head out to the highway and drive straight to Nandi Hills. It is a small hill station in close proximity to the city, housing several resorts and hotels with world-class amenities. Due to its perfect location and elevated position, it serves as a perfect getaway for Bangaloreans seeking an escape from the city’s uproar. While you are here, you can witness a panoramic view of thick layer of clouds engulfing the green landscape around the hill. In terms of attractions for sightseers, Nandi Hills encompasses Tipu Sultan Fort where you can see brilliant artistry in the form of murals and stone carvings. Another one is a Hindu temple called Nandeeshwara Temple, famous for the statue of a holy bull, Nandi. Distance from Bangalore: 61 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Yelahanka - Chikkajalaa - Kodalgurki- Kempathimmanahalli - Nandi Hills Attractions:   Places to Vi sit in Nandi Hills Activities:   Things to do in Nandi Hills Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to stay in Nandi Hills Check Out:  8 Best Restaurants near Nandi hills

• Nandi Hills

Bangalore to Coorg (267 Kms)

If a night drive in Bangalore does not quench your thirst for thrill and adventure, you should drive for 5 hours to reach the most celebrated hill station of Karnataka, Coorg. Blessed with plush covers of greenery and splendid waterfalls hiding in the deep, Coorg is located at an altitude of 900 metres. The pleasantly cool climate throughout the year and a rich collection of natural attractions make it a must-visit place. Besides, there are Madikeri Fort, Raja’s Tomb, and Omkareshwara Temple which you can cover on your road trip. Picnic by the waterfalls, capture the fascinating hills, and drive on the beautiful roads while listening to your favourite songs – this trip will become one of your favourite memories. Distance from Bangalore: 267 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Bidadi - Ramanagara - Channaptana - Madduru - Mandya -Srirangapatna - Bilikere - Chilkunda - Siddapura - Coorg Attractions:  Places to see in Coorg Activities:  Things to do in Coorg Where to Stay:  1.  Places to stay in Coorg                            2.  Best homestays in Coorg  

Top Experiences To Do in Coorg

Bangalore to Ooty (271 Kms)

Undoubtedly one of the finest hill destinations for family road trips near Bangalore, Ooty is a town located at an elevation of 2,240 meters in Tamil Nadu. A six-hour long journey by your private vehicle on the smooth road will bring you to this magnificent place brimming with natural charm and it is one of the best destinations for bike trip from Bangalore. Guaranteeing a peaceful retreat, far from the madding crowd of Bangalore, numerous luxury, as well as budget accommodation choices, dot the town. So you can expect to comfortably retire after the drive and enjoy the pleasant climate. The city has a long list of tourist attractions for sightseers to cover on their visit. The major ones of which are Ooty Lake, Rose Garden, and Botanical Garden in addition to pine forests and tea estates. Distance from Bangalore: 271 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Ramanagara - Mandya - Srirangapatna - Mysuru - Bandipur - Masinagudi - Ooty Attractions:   Places to Visit in Ooty:  Activities:   Things to do i n Ooty :  Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Ooty Also Read:   Best Trekking Tours in Ooty

Top Experiences To Do in Ooty

Bangalore to Pondicherry (311 Kms)

If you are looking for some fun filled bike trips from Bangalore then Pondicherry is the perfect option for you. Puducherry, a previous French settlement is extraordinary compared to other spots to get a glimpse of the colonial heritage with its paths having little yellow walled houses alongside French bistros serving delectable steaks. Pondicherry, now referred to as Puducherry and generally alluded as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. The more seasoned piece of Pondicherry is a glaring difference to the encompassing South Indian urban communities with little houses, inns, bistros, road side shops pitching a substitute universe of French to the Indians. Blessed with scenic beaches and amazing surrounding this destination attracts a lot of tourist around the world. The town's Auroville with the popular Shri Aurobindo Ashram is another unmistakable motivation behind why individuals come here. Pondicherry is an inside to take in the speciality of yoga, contemplation and most profound sense of being. The sustenance, the brew, the shorelines, the ashrams, the serene noticeable all around, the blustery shores, Pondicherry has a shading for everybody. Distance from Bangalore:  311 km Route Map: Bangalore - Krishnagiri - Kanchipuram - Mahaballipuram - Pondicherry. Attractions:  Places to Visit in Pondicherry Activities:  Things to do in Pondicherry Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay while Visiting Pondicherry Check Out:  Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Top Experiences To Do in Pondicherry

• Pondicherry

Bangalore to Goa (558 Kms)

Unmistakably not quite the same as others Goa has trademark brilliant houses, lavish green fields and a soothing environment. The enchanting towns of Goa are perfect for a laid-back morning walk or a purposeless night walk. The North and South districts of the place are strikingly extraordinary the former cultural hub with traditional eateries and markets, while the last makes for a charming getaway with its 5-star inns, private shorelines, and a blend of white sand and clear blue water. Under the star-loaded skies, you will never have enough of this place. Distance from Bangalore : 648 km Route Map: Bangalore-Tumkur-Shimoga-Sagar-Talguppa-Honnavar-Karwar-Panjim Attractions: Places to visit in Goa Activities: Things to do in Goa Where to Stay:  Best Resorts in Goa to Stay Check Out:   Best Adventure Activities in Goa

Top Experiences To Do in Goa

Bangalore to Gokarna (480 Kms)

Best known for its prominent temples and serene beaches, Gokarna is a coastal town in Karnataka. It does not matter if you are planning to travel with family or friends, road trips from Bangalore to Gokarna are bound to be full of pleasant surprises. Loads of fun await you at Gokarna, so leave the hubbub of Bangalore behind and get away for an eventful holiday experience. Once you reach the town and witness its picturesqueness, you will realise that the 9-hour long drive was worth it. Though it is a famous Hindu pilgrimage in the region, hippies from India and even other countries love to be here.  Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, Paradise Beach, and Gokarna Beach are the major highlights in addition to several significant temples. Distance from Bangalore: 480 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Tumkur highway - Davanagere - Harihar - Haveri - Hubli - Gokarna. Attractions:   P laces to visit in Gokarna Activities:    Activities in Gokarna Where to Stay:  Best Places & Resorts to Stay in Gokarna Popular Read:  30 Best Resorts in Bangalore for a Relaxing Day Outing

Top Experiences To Do in Gokarna

Bangalore to Chikmagalur (243 Kms)

While you are in Bangalore you are definitely looking for that amazing road trip. Another road trip from Bangalore which you should take is to Chikamagalur. Arranged at the foothills of the Mullyanagiri ranges, it is an extraordinary fascination for trekkers and those wishing to encounter the tranquil mood of the city. Alternate attractions that the town brings to you are Mullain Giri, the most elevated top in Karnataka, Jamia Mosque, Kondadarama Temple, St Joseph's Cathedrals well as the Siddheshwara temple, which is recently close-by. The waterfalls of this locale likewise have pulled in a lot of explorers from far and wide. There are numerous waterfalls situated in this area like the acclaimed Hebbe falls, Shanti waterfalls and a few others. This will be an exciting summer road trips from Bangalore those who are planning to beat the summer heat. Chikmagalur is the birthplace to numerous freedom fighters, intellectuals and also poets and politicians.  Truth be told, even Indira Gandhi once spoke to Chikmagalur in the Indian Parliament.  Get ready to feel the thrill as you hit the road with scenic views and soulful surroundings. Distance from Bangalore:  243 km Route Map: Bangalore – Yadiyu - Channarayapattana – Hassan – Belur - Chimkmagalur. Attractions:   Places to visit in Chikmagalur Activities:  Things to do in Chikmagalur Where to Stay:   1.  Resorts in Chikmagalur                             2.  Best homestays in Chikmagalur  

Top Experiences To Do in Chikmagalur

• Chikmagalur

Best of Goa

Bangalore to Dandeli (462 Kms)

If you are adventure seekers and looking for some thrilling activity than Dandeli is a must visit destination for you. This is another of the best road trips from Bangalore which you should take. Dandeli is a perfect get-away goal in north Karnataka for the ones who cherish nature. It offers travelers an exceptional blend of beautiful excellence. The cutting edge town on the stream is encompassed by deciduous forest and a renowned wildlife habitat where rare animals and winged creatures wander in profound valleys and uneven landscape. Dandeli offers a white water rafting, night camps, nature walks, boating, bird watching, tiger and crocodile spotting and angling. One can also alongside arrange picnics, eco-tourism, and trek to the nearby caves and temples of this region. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is another component of fervour that the place brings to the table where one can spot Bisons and Black Panthers. Get ready to discover some of the unknown parts of this region. Feel the thrill as you move to and fro while enjoying the white water rafting. Distance from Bangalore:  462 km Route Map: Bangalore - Tumakuru - Devangere - Dandeli. Attractions:    Tourist places in Dandeli Activities:  Things to do in Dandeli Where to Stay:  Resorts near Dandeli

Top Experiences To Do in Dandeli

Bangalore to Munnar (467 Kms)

A journey to Munnar with your family and friends is one of the best choices for road trips from Bangalore. With the spectacular landscape of the Western Ghats featuring undulating hills replete with lush foliage and tea plantations, Munnar is a popular hill town in Kerala. As scenic as the destination itself is the road which you will take to reach here from Bangalore. The winding roads with verdant scenery on both sides will compel you to take a halt every now and then to capture the charm in your camera. When you reach here, you can make the most of your time by climbing high peaks, strolling in tea gardens, and sighting Nilgiri tahr at Eravikulam National Park. Distance from Bangalore: 467 km Route Map:   Bangalore - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Salem - Avinashi - Udumalpet - Marayoor - Munnar. Attractions:   Places to Visit in Munnar   Activities:  Things to do in Munnar  Where to Stay:   Best Places to Stay on your Visit to Munnar Popular Reads:   10 Best Waterfalls in Munnar

Top Experiences To Do in Munnar

Best of Coorg

Bangalore to Mysore (140 Kms)

Words fall short to describe the historically rich neighbouring city of Bangalore . A bike trip from Bangalore to Mysore unravels many appeals. Irrespective of the time one heads out from Bangalore, here’s one state highway which is energetic and crowded from the word go. While this can be tiring, it’s also enticing. Several sights unveil along with the drive like toy city Channapatna, silk city Ramanagaram, amusement park Wonderla, and Innovative Film City. Great eating joints seal the palate’s zeal for delicious food.  Mysore can be enjoyed over a day or couple. The city charms needless of the age. Choose from a host of sightseeing options in Mysore ranging from Mysore Palace, one of the largest and most magnificent palaces in India (its true beauty comes out during Dasara), sprawling greenery of Brindavan Gardens, India’s most beautiful show garden, the towering Chamundi Hills giving a true bird’s eye view of the grandeur city below, Mysore Zoo – one of the country’s oldest zoos, the enchanting and ornately crafted St. Philomena’s Church with its Neo Gothic style of architecture, and other innumerable churches and temples.  Not to mention the city’s list of museums are also fascinating. Go in search of less significant sights too like Colonel Bailey’s dungeon. Distance from Bangalore:  140 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kumbalgodu -Bidadi - Ramanagara - Channapatna - Madduru - Mandya - Srirangapatna - Kesare - Mysuru Attractions: Places to visit in Mysore Activities: Things to do in Mysore Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Mysore Popular Reads:   15 Best Places to visit near Mysore

Top Experiences To Do in Mysore

Road Trips from Bangalore Within 200 km

Bangalore to ramanagara (47 kms).

The list of the most rewarding road trips from Bangalore within 100 km is incomplete if you skip Ramanagara. If you are running out of plans for the upcoming weekend, turn your ignition on and set out to Bangalore-Mysore Highway to make your day off a pleasant one at Ramanagara. A city in Karnataka with a plethora of exciting experiences, Ramanagara encompassing several hills, making this place is a paradise for trekkers and rock climbers. It is also fondly referred to as the ‘City of Sholay’ because the Bollywood blockbuster, Sholay was shot here. Furthermore, with several significant Hindu temples, this is also a good choice if you want to calm your senses with some soulful experiences. Thus, a road trip to Ramaganara is a better choice than a night drive in Bangalore. Distance from Bangalore: 47 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Hemmigepura - Kumbalgodu - Kanmanike - Bidadi - Ramanagara Where to Stay:   Resorts in Ramanagara with best amenities Must Read:  4 Best Resorts in Whitefield Bangalore for a luxurious stay

Best of Munnar

Bangalore to Anthargange (67 Kms)

Since the mountain boasts a maximum height of 1,712 meters, you can only imagine the kind of scenery one gets to relish from up here. Sweeping views of the valleys and hillocks will mesmerize your soul while the cool breeze revives your senses. Distance from Bangalore: 67 km

Route map: Bangalore - Krishnarajapura - Hosakote - Dasarahalli - Mugabala - Narsapura - Antharagange

Bangalore to Bheemeshwari (100 Kms)

Take off on that much-needed weekend break from Bangalore and head to Bheemeshwari! The jungles and the serenity of nature are sure to enthral you into a lush sense of calm and quietude. Stay amidst the benevolent natural beauty at the Jungle Lodges and experience the forests come alive around you, with the Cauvery River lilting calmly beside you and it is one of the best road trips from Bangalore. You can experience a vast range of adventure activities such as Zip-Line, Burma Loops, Parallel Walk, Cat Walk, Elephant Walk, Rappelling, Kayaking, and Coracle Ride to give your daily schedule that burst of adventure and adrenaline. Distance from Bangalore:  100 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Somapura - Kaggalipura - Bolare - Gabbadi - Jakkasandra - Kanakpura - Halaguru - Bheemeshwari Where to Stay:  Best places to stay in Bheemeshwari

Top Experiences To Do in Bheemeshwari

• Bheemeshwari

Best of Wayanad

Bangalore to Savandurga (50 Kms)

A short drive from Bangalore to Savandurga is all you need to escape the monotony of life and the hullabaloo of the city. Claimed to be one of the largest single rock formations on the entire continent of Asia, Savandurga Hill is surrounded by green plains and it is one of the best road trips from Bangalore. The best part of driving to this scenic site is that you can devote all your time to exploring and experiencing rather than spending hours on the road. If you want to thrill yourself with a memorable adventure, trek to the top at night, watch a magical sunrise from a height of 1226 metres and click some Instagram-worthy pictures with your entire gang. Distance from Bangalore: 50 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Somapura - Anchepalya - Kanmanike - Hejjara - Dodderi - Manchanabele - Nayankanapalya - Savandurga Hill Must Read:   7 Best Resorts on Mysore Road for an amazing stay

Bangalore to Sangam (90 Kms)

Drive on the Kanakpura road to reach this natural footprint where the River Arkavathy merges with River Cauvery. A piece of wonderment awaits at Mekedatu, the end of a probable destination for a bike trip from Bangalore. Follow the Cauvery from this point as she gushes through narrow and deep ravine of granite rocks. With a strong mythology story tucked behind its name ( Mekedatu means goat’s leap in Kannada), this makes for a great outing backed with highly intense trekking. Upstream on the Cauvery is the famous Shivasamudra Falls. The area is also well nourished with other attractions such as Chunchi Falls (5km before Sangam), untouched picnic spots and Arkavathy Dam.  Distance from Bangalore:  90km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kaggalipura - Jakkasandra - Kanakpura - Dodda Alahalli - Sangama

Best of Chikmagalur

Bangalore to Kunti Betta (130 Kms)

Embellished with picturesque trails and panoramic views all around, a trek to Kunti Betta not only gives you the joy of exploring the joys of climbing but also the pleasure of water sports like swimming and kayaking! If you are thinking of taking an impulsive road trip around Bangalore, then Kunti Betta is the place to be at! Distance from Bangalore:  130 Kms Route Map: Bangalore - Kumbalgodu - Bidadi - Ramanagara - Channapatna - Madduru - Mandya - Kunti Betta Trek (Starting Point) Must Read:   15 Best Places for Night Trekking in Bangalore for a thrilling experience

Bangalore to Ranganathittu (140 Kms)

A flourishing breeding and nesting ground for several migratory birds, Ranganathittu is Asia’s most preferred stop over. An accidentally created set of six islets, the bird sanctuary is a haven for nature and bird lovers alike. A deviation from Srirangapatna along the Coorg state way, this is an ideal getaway and among the enjoyable road trips from Bangalore. All the way, find sugar cane fields and paddy pastures chase you. Sudden appearances of canals make you realise how fertile the land around is. Plan a road trip around December when the sanctuary is filled with its guest residents for the season. Frequent boat rides drifting through the islets are the primary means to catch a glimpse of species such as White Ibis, Lesser Whistling Duck, and Wolly-necked stork, Asian Open Bill Stork, Common Spoonbill and the Painted Stork. Being 19km from Mysore city and stone’s throw from Srirangapatna, the drive out can be combined with history too. Distance from Bangalore:  140 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kumbalgodu - Bidadi - Ramanagara - Channapatna - Madduru - Mandya - Srirangapatna - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Best of Ooty

Bangalore to Lepakshi (150 Kms)

A historic and archeological destination, Lepakshi fulfils a desire to go back in time. Best known for its hanging pillar, this village in Andhra Pradesh is quite similar to styling of Vijayanagar architecture at Hampi. Also it bears mythology significance, as the town area is believed to be where Jatayu, the brave bird from Ramayana is said to have fallen after being slayed by Ravana. The town has a huge Nandi bull etched from a single monolith rock. The ruins are known to be engineering marvels from the yesteryears. The Lepakshi Temple is famed for its mural paintings, the fresco of the main sanctum is largest in India. What grabs attention at Lepakshi is the minute details involved in the carvings and superbly sculpted pillars found all around the area. Should time be on your side, visit nearby Dharmavaram (silk weaving units), Hindupur (elegant cotton weaves), and Puttaparthi (famed pilgrim town). Distance from Bangalore:  150 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Yelahanka - Chikkajala - Kothanoor - Manchanabale - Paragodu - Kodikonda - Demakethepalli - Lepakshi Book Now:  Trip To Gandikota, Belum Caves And Lepakshi for 2 days.

Bangalore to Hogenakkal (126 Kms)

En route in direction of Tamil Nadu from Bangalore lie some interesting getaways that make great weekend travel bytes. Hogenakkal Falls 40km from Dharmapuri is popular for its glittered as a great backdrop for several regional and Bollywood films. A brilliant option for a Bangalore road trip, because it cannot be reached via direct access of public transport and it is one of the best road trips from Bangalore. The landscape along the drive is somewhat typical of Tamil Nadu, plentiful banana and coconut plantations adorn the view. The falls throw themselves out of a rocky terrain emitting white smoke giving its name (Hoge = smoke, kal = stone). The surrounding hills are dotted by green vegetation and are peppered with shrines. The Cauvery around here also is conducive to coracle rides along the canyon. Pack a picnic basket along and you’ve a stunner of a weekend on hand and one can surely go here for a bike trip from Bangalore. Distance from Bangalore:  126 Kms Route Map:  Bangalore - Doddanagamangala - Attibele - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Denkanikottai - Andevanapalli - Anchetty - Billgundala - Hogenakkal

Best of Sakleshpur

Bangalore to BR Hills (170 Kms)

Whenever you are in the mood for a short drive from Bangalore, BR Hills is one of the best choices you have. A quaint hill station in Karnataka cradled between the Eastern and the Western Ghats, BR Hills claims rich biodiversity which can be explored by visiting BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. The scenic route leading to this heavenly abode will help you leave your worries behind and move towards moments filled with joy and contentment. If yours is a gang of adventure freaks, this place is definitely ideal because you can spend your time here indulging in a variety of adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and wildlife safari. Distance from Bangalore: 170 km Route Map: Bangalore - Ramanagara - Channapatna - Madurru - Kollegal - BR Hills. Where to Stay:   Resorts to Stay in BR Hills Suggested Reads:   25 Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore Within 500 Kms

Bangalore to Shivanasamudra Falls (132 Kms)

Promising an endless availability of tranquillity, Shivanasamudra Falls is a perfect destination for road trips near Bangalore. While this spot is majorly preferred by city dwellers for family picnics, local youngsters also enjoy visiting it for fun outings and long drives. These perennial waterfalls are located on Kaveri River and feature a verdant setting, scenic enough to sweep you off your feet. The twin waterfalls are known as Gaganachukki Waterfall and Barachukki Waterfall, both of which plummet with a roaring noise. The force with which the water falls upon the rocks turns the stream milky white – a sight anybody would love to photograph. If you are travelling by a private vehicle, you should also check out the ancient temples located nearby. Distance from Bangalore: 132 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kanakapura - Malavalli - Shivanasamudra Falls Must Read:   35 Best 3 Days Trip From Bangalore

Best of Pondicherry

Road Trips from Bangalore Within 300 km

Bangalore to sakleshpur (221 kms).

A quiet hill station in Karnataka lying in the embrace of the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur is merely a 4-hour drive away from the city of Bangalore. Your checklist of road trips from Bangalore must feature this town as it has countless delights for you and your entire family in the form of natural and historical landmarks. However, even if you are planning a road trip with your friends, this place is equally ideal because it is also quite famous for its adrenaline-charged trekking trails. Moreover, the route is simply mind-blowing with pristine nature all the way. Learn about the regional history and traditional architecture at Manjarabad Fort, get God’s blessings at Sakaleswara Temple, and set out on a nerve-wracking adventure to conquer Jenukal Gudda Peak. Distance from Bangalore: 221 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Nelamangala - Kunigal - Yadiyur - Bellur- Channarayapattana - Hassan - Sakleshpur Attractions:  Places to see in S akleshpur Activities:    Things to do in Sakleshpur Where to Stay:   1.  Resorts in Sakleshpur                             2.  Best homestays in Sakleshpur

Top Experiences To Do in Sakleshpur

Bangalore to Wayanad (277 Kms)

Counted among one of the most rewarding road trips around Bangalore, Wayanad exploration is sure to be full of pleasant surprises. An abode of clouds, perched above all the chaos and hubbub of the cities at an elevation of 2,100 metres, Wayanad is a hill station in Kerala. Though this place is rapidly gaining popularity among vacationers, you can still expect to experience pure serenity in its atmosphere. The reason why a road trip to Wayanad is recommended is that there are numerous places worth exploring in and around the town, which you can conveniently visit by your private vehicle. Besides, the picturesqueness of the route to Wayanad is heavenly. Distance from Bangalore: 277 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Ramanagara - Srirangapatna - Begur - Bandipur - Wayanad Attractions:    Places to see in Wayanad Activities:   Activities to do in Wayanad Where to Stay:   Places to stay in Wayanad

Top Experiences To Do in Wayanad

Best of Kodaikanal

Bangalore to Masinagudi (249 Kms)

On the green foothills of Nilgiri Mountains lays a charming hill station called Masinagudi. Characteristic of the Nilgiri Landscapes, the destination harbors a medley of flora and fauna unique to the region as well as a commendable population Tiger and Elephant population. You can experience the beauties of this land via a Jeep Safari which will take you on 4x4 vehicle through the lush green landscapes, just a few hours in this open jeep and you will end up feeling refreshed and insightful! You can also experience a nature stay at Nilgiri Mountains in Masinagudi at a beautiful homestay near the gushing Avarhalla River, where you can experience exactly why nature is so peaceful!  Wildlife excursion at this beautiful destination is highly recommended! Distance from Bangalore:  249 Kms Route Map:  Bangalore - Ramanagara - Srirangapatna - Nanjanagudu - Bandipur - Masinagudi Attractions:  Places to Visit in Masinagudi   Activities:   Things to do in  Masinagudi Where to Stay:   Places to Stay in Masinagudi Book Now :  Trekking in Masinagudi with an unforgettable experience

Top Experiences To Do in Masinagudi

Bangalore to Bandipur (220 Kms)

If you like the idea of taking road trips around Bangalore for wildlife experiences, Bandipur is, without a doubt, the best choice. A national park established in 1974, Bandipur spans over an area of 874 sq km in the Western Ghats and is known to house a rich variety of flora and fauna. While travelling to Bandipur from Bangalore, you can also take a halt in Mysore. While on a jungle safari, you may get lucky to spot animals like elephants, tigers, gaurs, and sloth bears. And the most recommended way to double your jungle thrill is to book one of the forest lodges and stay in the realm of raw nature. Distance from Bangalore: 220 km Route Map: Bangalore - Madurru - Mandya - Mysuru - Nanjanaguru - Bandipur Distance from Bangalore: Bandipur is located at a distance of 220.8 km from Bangalore. Attractions:  Places to Visit in Bandipur Activities:  Things to do in Bandipur Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Bandipur

Best of Gokarna

Bangalore to Kabini (220 Kms)

Escape from the city’s crowd and deadline chaos into the wilderness to Kabini – no destination at a journey’s end comes close to this. Straight off a prescription for rejuvenation, travel to Kabini is one of the finest road trips from Bangalore. An erstwhile hunting sojourn of the Mysore Maharaja is now one of the best wildlife spotting areas in Karnataka. Some of the things to do around the national park are coracle rides, jungle safari, bird watching, nature walks and simple bike rides.  Easily accessible from Bangalore, it’s risen on the popularity charts because of its lush green landscape, a picturesque locale, and almost predictable sightings of large herds of pachyderm. Pegged as India’s next great jungle safari destination, a few lucky visitors have spotted leopards, langurs, spotted deer, and tigers too!  Distance from Bangalore:   220 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Ramanagara - Mandya - Srirangapatna - Mysuru - Kadakola - Kabini Activities :  Things to Do in Kabini Where to Stay:  Best Places and Resorts to Stay in Kabini

Top Experiences To Do in Kabini

Bangalore to Horsley Hills (250 Kms)

A beautiful hill station in Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills seem to almost kiss the clouds above. Located at an altitude of 4,000feet above sea level, the road leading to Horsley Hills bestows panoramic vision of the surrounding hills. The path is extremely scenic with Mahogany, Gulmohar, Sandalwood, and Eucalyptus trees lining the road and culminating into dense verdant forests. As a Bangalore road trip, this is a perfect destination to lose oneself in nature, experience thrills of adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing and rappelling. Distance from Bangalore:  250 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Hoskote -  Chikballapur - Madikere - Gownipalli - Marasanapalli - Gattu - Horsley Hills Attractions:   Places to Visit in Horsley Hills: 

Best of Hampi

Bangalore to Agumbe (280 kms)

Agumbe is widely known for its rain forests and perpetual wet weather. Nestled in the most beautiful part of Karnataka, Malnad the region lies in Shimoga district. Approach the highway from Bangalore towards Tumkur. This road trip from Bangalore is for the true lover of nature. Driving through some of the most pristine locales of the state to reach Agumbe is sheer pleasure. Known as a great prospect to trek, Agumbe is replete with high hills, waterfalls, green thickets of the Western Ghats, and some refined flora and fauna. This hidden paradise is also known as green gold in the local dialect. So evocative is the landscape that it formed the backdrop for Malgudi Days, the popular RK Narayan epic. Agumbe attracts outdoor activities and is surrounded by spots such as sunset point from where one can sight the Arabian Sea on a clear day, Shringeri (20km), 14th century temples, and several waterfalls - Onake Abbi, Jogigundi, Koodlu Theertha, Kunchikal and Barkana Falls. Distance from Bangalore:  280 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kunigal - Hassan - Belur-  Chikmagalur - Agumbe

Road Trips From Bangalore Within 500 Km

Bangalore to kudremukh (331 kms).

Enhance the adventure of road trips around Bangalore by adding the thrill of trekking to a mountain peak boasting an altitude of 1,894 metres. Kudremukh, with vast grassy meadows and tropical wet evergreen forest, is claimed to be one of the most picturesque hill destinations in the entire state of Karnataka. And a road trip from Bangalore to this mountain range is a memorable encounter with nature and adventure, as you take several halts en route to capture the surreal landscapes. Adventure junkies can, without a second thought, indulge in the trekking expedition to climb the mountain top. As for holidayers, the most prominent attractions in the region are Kudremukh National Park, Hanumana Gundi Waterfalls, and Lakya Dam.   Distance from Bangalore: 331 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Kunigal - Hassan - Belur - Mudigere - Kudremukh Attractions:   Places to Visit in Kudremukh Activities:  Things to do in Kudremukh Where to Stay:  Best Places & Resorts to Stay in Kudremukh Check Out:  10 Best Resorts near Bangalore airport road 

Best of Shimoga

Bangalore to Hampi (350 Kms)

Hampi is now a sought-after destination for a bike trip from Bangalore. You will be using the NH4 from Bangalore to Chitradurga. From here take the bypass to Hospet leading to Hampi. The road taken is dry, arid and not something to rave about. But at the journey’s end lies the fabled city of Hampi; one with a golden era, of richness and pride, of culture and thriving trade. A world heritage site, Hampi is set against a striking landscape made of large rocky boulders and dotted with banana plantations. Surreal and enthralling, the city’s past paradise and glory can only be imagined from the splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city. Very difficult to single out a few monuments to add to the checkout list, but the enamouring Stone Chariot, towering Virupaksha Temple, innumerable royal units, and mindboggling stone statues make it a superb gem in what South India has to offer to the world. Distance from Bangalore:  350 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Tumakuru - Chitradurga - Kudligi - Hampi Attractions:  Places to see in Hampi Activities:  Things to do in Hampi Where to Stay:  Homestays in Hampi

Top Experiences To Do in Hampi

Bangalore to Calicut (357 Kms)

There are several options for long drives around Bangalore that will take you to a sea-coast, and one such destination is Calicut. Locally known as Kozhikode, this city in Kerala is set on the southwest coast of the Arabian Sea. An overnight journey – where you pass through several scenic parts of Karnataka, then drive through Tamil Nadu, and finally enter Kerala – is what it takes to get to this pleasant city. If you are a fan of beaches, Beypore, Kappad, and Kozhikode are the major beaches here, which are extremely picturesque and calm. Furthermore, the city also proudly cradles several architectural gems from the past such as Mother of God Cathedral and Kuttichira Mosque. Distance from Bangalore: 357 km Route Map: Bangalore - Mandya - Gonikoppal - Wayanad- Kalpetta - Vythiri - Thamarassery -Calicut Attractions: Places to visit in Calicut Activities: Things to do in Calicut Where to Stay: Places to stay in Calicut

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Best of Kabini

Bangalore to Badami (400 Kms)

This one is a long-drive and requires grit and determination with absolute focus on the destination. Driving through North Karnataka is not as picturesque as its greener siblings such as Shimoga, Hassan, Chikmagalur, which are more popular. If you are one to revisit an era gone by, take on history, understand the engineering skills of empires gone by and then head to Badami. It’s not disappointing. Capital of the famous Chalukya Dynasty that ruled Karnataka from 6th – 12th century, Badami is situated at the mouth of a beautiful ravine, flanked on either side by beautiful sandstone hills. These hills are studded with a set of four cave temples carved out of soft sandstone. Of the four caves, three are dedicated to Hindus and the fourth is a Jain Temple. Distance from Bangalore:  400 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Tumakuru - Devanagere - Hubbali - Badami

Bangalore to Shimoga (301 Kms)

If you are one of those city-dwellers who keep their weekends reserved for long drives around Bangalore, you are recommended to add Shimoga to your bucket list now. It is a town in the state of Karnataka which has witnessed the rule of multiple dynasties. Hence, one can expect to find some unthinkable historical attractions on their visit to Shimoga. However, what most visitors love about the town is its scenic beauty, as it houses some majestic waterfalls, dense forests, and undulating hills enveloped in mist. The nearly 6-hour long drive to this place from Bangalore will take you through pretty hilly regions and forested plains, filling your heart with joy.  Distance from Bangalore: 301 km Route Map: Bangalore - Tumakuru - Tiptur - Kadur - Bhadravati - Shimoga Attractions:   Places to Visit in Shimoga Activities:   Things to do in Shimoga Where to Stay:   Best Homestays to Stay in Shimoga Popular Reads:  12 Best Waterfalls in Shimoga for an amazing family picnic.

Top Experiences To Do in Shimoga

Best of Nandi Hills

Bangalore to Kodaikanal (465 Kms)

Road trips near Bangalore cannot get better than a trip to Kodaikanal – an exquisite hill station in Tamil Nadu. Take your buddies along, and embark on a journey to find peace and solace in the magical domain which is rich with sights of lush green valleys hiding beneath a cloak of clouds. Driving on a long stretch of twisting roads before you reach this destination at a whopping height of 2,133 metres, will fill your heart with a sense of adventure. Kodaikanal is dotted with lakes and scores of waterfalls plummeting from granite cliffs, ideal for some easy moments with people you hold dear. Furthermore, there are too many choices of hotels and resorts to host you and pamper you with luxuries. Distance from Bangalore: 465 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Namakkal - Dindigul - Batlagundu - Kodaikanal Attractions:  Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Activities:  Things to do in Kodaikanal Where to Stay:   1.  Resorts in Kodaikanal                            2.  C ottages in Kodaikanal Suggested Read:  20 Super Resorts Near Bangalore for Weekend  

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Bangalore to Kochi (500 Kms)

The very fact that Kochi means several things to most Bangaloreans, is why the serene city makes its mark felt. This road trip from Bangalore gives a stiff dose of regular stretches to wonderful patches to greenery distinct to God’s Own Country. The highway has its own trademarked pit stops encouraging the long journey. The drive would take over 10 hours. Kochi is chequered with a contemporary metropolis appeal with a deep historic rooting. Alongside the commercial trendy outlook, Kochi is a fine destination to explore. The tropical coast boasts of Portuguese, Jewish, and British culture evident in key places like Fort Kochi. A Jewish settlement with a typical setting is famous for its Pardesi Synagoge (1568), Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets and more exuding an aura unlike the usual. Distance from Bangalore:  500 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Dharmapuri - Salem - Coimbatore - Palakkad - Thrissur -  Ernakulam - Kochi Attractions:   Places to Visit in Kochi Activities:  Things to do in Kochi Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Kochi

Top Experiences To Do in Kochi

Best of Nagarhole

Bangalore to Karwar (525 Kms)

One of the most fascinating long drives around Bangalore, a journey to Karwar is an experience every explorer residing in the city must undergo. It usually takes around 9 to 10 hours to reach this coastal city in Karnataka from Bangalore, and the route is scenic throughout. Unspoilt beaches with golden sands, featuring clusters of coconut trees, are the major highlight of the city. Whether you want to sail on the sea, sunbathe on the beach, or indulge in water sports like snorkelling, surfing, swimming, and diving, this place is apt for all kinds of vacationers. Thanks to its interesting history and rich cultural diversity, a number of beautifully designed mosques, churches, and Hindu temples dot the city, adding to its charm. Distance from Bangalore: 525 km Route Map:  Bangalore - Tumakuru - Chitradurga -Devanagere - Yelapur - Ankola - Karwar Attractions: Places to visit in Karwar Activities: Things to do in Karwar Check Out:  20 Best Resorts around Bangalore for a fun-filled family day outing

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Lalbagh is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India and is also a major tourist attraction in South India. Located in South Bengaluru, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden is not only one of the largest botanical gardens in India, but also the first of its kind, with planned routes, glasshouses and ornamental flowers growing throughout the property.The garden itself is spread over an area of 240 acres and its construction was commissioned by the famous ruler Hyder Ali. It was finally completed by his son- Tipu Sultan- who designed the gardens keeping in mind the beautiful gardens of Sira in Tumkur District in Karnataka.Lalbagh is home to exotic flowers that were imported by the Sultan from countries like France, Persia, Arabia, Afghanistan, etc. Therefore, flowers that were previously never seen in India were first witnessed in this historical garden. Trees that were imported by Tipu Sultan from all over the world can still be found growing here.Apart from the exotic trees, visitors can also catch sight of some rare birds such as the Myna, pond heron, purple moorhen, parakeets, Brahminy kites, the common egret and much more. Apart from the stunning flora and fauna of the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, it has another striking attraction, which is the Lalbagh rock. This rock, which is said to be over 3000 years old, is one of the oldest rocks in the world and can be found in the center of the garden.

At the intersection of MG road and Residency road lies Brigade road which is considered a shopping paradise for the city dwellers. There is a long stretch of standalone shops, individual retailers, and outlet selling almost everything you need making it one the best Bangalore sightseeing. This commercial hubs houses myriads of global brand outlets as well and it has been a hub for celebrating New Year in the almost every year.

In the technology-driven, futuristic Silicon Valley of India, monuments of historical significance boasting of a glorious past are also abundant. The historical heritage of the city is so magnificent and eminent that it rises to prominence on its own. One such landmark is the Tudor style Bangalore Palace.The Palace is a perfect representation of the lavishness and splendour with which India's most resilient dynasties ruled. Famous for its opulent architecture and amusement activities, the Palace is visited by several visitors every day. The colossal Palace boasts of massive courtyards, bright interiors, kingly grounds, splendid spiral staircases, stately towers and a luscious garden in a proud display of posh regality.Anyone who admires classic architecture and artistry would be delighted to experience it first hand at this Palace. It also houses an amusement park in its enclave to the delight of many younger visitors. Having been a private residence to the Wodeyar family, Bangalore palace offers a linear perspective into the royal life of the forepassed era. It is plush with a vibrant and varied collection of ancient royal artefacts, paraphernalia, hunting trophies and family photos.The Palace houses some of the most famous paintings of the 19th Century, including the works of one of India's most celebrated artists Raja Ravi Verma. The Palace grounds very often become venues for concerts and festivals. World-renowned artists like Enrique and Guns N' Roses have graced the palace grounds with their talent and presence. The Palace hence combines the richness and luxury of royal history with the vivacious and exuberant demeanour of the youth. Bangalore Palace HistoryOriginally a property of Reverend J Garrett, the principal of a school in the cantonment town at that time, the area where the Palace is now located was purchased from him by the British Guardians of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar for 40,000 rupees. The construction of the palace began in the year 1874. Mr John Cameron of Lalbagh was assigned the task of landscaping Palace along with its surroundings. The complete construction of the palace was completed in the year, 1878.The Palace saw many additions and modifications in its architecture in subsequent years. Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar added a few portions like the twin external staircase, the platform for musicians etc. outside the Durbar Hall. In 1970, HH Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar transferred ownership of the property to two companies, Chamundi Hotels and Shree Venkateshwara Real Estate Enterprises. However, this transaction was later shown to be fraudulent. A legal battle followed between this deal and Jayachamarajendra's son, Srikanta Datta. The five sisters of Srikanta Datta are now in possession of sections of the 28 acres of the Palace. In the year 1990 Srikant Datta finally compromised with the Chamaraju group and got back his part of the property including the main Palace except for 45 acres that the Chamaraju group still retains. Architecture:The Palace showcases exquisite wooden interiors surrounded by pristine walls. The Palace is enclosed within beautiful gardens. The architecture is a medley of Tudor style and Scottish style and has gothic undertones. A lot of physical artefacts inside are of British origin. It is said that the architecture of this building is inspired by that of the Windsor Castle and other architectural marvels of England and Normandy. The most prominent features of the Palace like the two-level granite structure of the fortified towers and turreted parapets take direct inspiration from the Tudor building styles. The entrance is decorated with grand Roman arches. The exterior of the building is covered in eccentric shapes and angles. The exterior walls are of a blushing cinnabar shade that gives the building a quaint Victorian vibe. The floor of the open courtyard of the Palace is adorned with granite seats covered with azure ceramic tiles. The ground floor also contains a beautifully decorated ballroom.The first floor of the Palace has a distinct chamber known as the Durbar Hall attached to an ornate staircase.This hall is famous for the enormous elephant head that is mounted in it and its gothic style tinted glass windows.  

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