Sakleshpur
Sakleshpura, as it is locally known, is every millennial’s ultimate weekend getaway. Swaddled in the bounty of nature, this hill station offers the right dose of serenity and adventure, all at once. Nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Western Ghats, it’s coffee plantations and estates make for perfect camping sites. Get ready to be blown away by the beauty in its waterfalls, the stillness along Green Route, and the ancient majesty of the Manajarabad Fort.
Distance from Bengaluru: 221km Weather: Cool Best time to visit: November-April
Chikmagalur
Chikmagalur is the kind of place one would want to retreat to after a week’s boring chores. A walk through its coffee plantations and lush greens is relaxing and meditative to the senses. Several cottages await travelers amidst vast estates and towering trees. Chikmagalur is the right pick for every traveler, be it solo or family, to pull a chair out and enjoy a slow barbecue night. There are multiple tour agencies offering trekking guides and plantation tours.
Distance from Bengaluru: 244.7km Weather: Moderate Best time to visit: September-March
Ramanagara
A destination that is known for its picturesque appeal, Ramanagara is quite a sight for sore city-eyes. The beauty of this historical location has been alluringly captured in iconic movies like Sholay and A Passage to India. What more reason would we want to soak in the charm of this hilly landscape! For the adventurous lot, camping and trekking options are offered by various local tour groups.
Distance from Bengaluru: 54.5km Weather: Mostly windy Best time to visit: All year round
Yelagiri Hills
For the stargazers, the adventurous, the wild, and the young-at-heart, your heaven is here on earth. As far as your eyes can see, an ocean of greens and a breathtaking panorama awaits you here. Yelagiri was once home to British colonizers, and the cottages here still bear witness to the architectural aesthetics of the ers. For those traveling in groups, a lot of outdoor and indoor activities are in store.
Distance from Bengaluru: 159.7km Weather: Cool Best time to visit: November-February