Escape the City Buzz — 10 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Bangalore You’ll Fall in Love With

Life in Bangalore is fast-paced — endless deadlines, honking traffic, and long commutes. Sometimes, the best way to recharge is to simply get away. Luckily, Bangalore is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in South India — misty hills, tranquil lakes, heritage towns, and coffee-scented forests — all just a few hours’ drive away. Whether you’re craving adventure, peace, or a romantic retreat, these weekend getaways from Bangalore promise the perfect escape from the chaos of city life.

Here’s a guide to some of the most scenic and soulful short trips you can take — complete with travel tips, nearby attractions, and the best time to visit.

1. Coorg – The Scotland of India (Approx. 270 km | 6 hrs)

If you’re dreaming of misty mornings, emerald coffee estates, and waterfalls tucked deep in the woods, Coorg (Madikeri) is where you should head. This hill station in the Western Ghats is perfect for couples, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility.

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee from a local plantation, visit the Abbey Falls, and take in panoramic views from Raja’s Seat. Adventure seekers can go river rafting in Barapole or hike up Tadiandamol Peak, the highest point in Coorg.

Best time to visit: October to March for cool weather and coffee harvest views.

How to reach: A smooth 6-hour drive from Bangalore via Mysore Road. Buses and cabs are easily available.

Nearby attractions: Nisargadhama, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Bylakuppe Tibetan Monastery.

Coorg is ideal for a 2-night stay, offering a mix of comfort and wilderness — and a cup of coffee you’ll never forget.

2. Chikmagalur – Coffee, Clouds, and Calm (Approx. 250 km | 5.5 hrs)

Another coffee paradise, Chikmagalur is a serene hill station known for its rolling hills and waterfalls. Imagine waking up to birdsong and mist-draped plantations — it’s the perfect antidote to city stress.

Trek up to Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest point in Karnataka, or chase waterfalls at Hebbe and Jhari Falls. Visit a local coffee estate for a plantation tour or simply relax in a cozy homestay surrounded by greenery.

Best time to visit: September to February when the weather is crisp and pleasant.

How to reach: A 5–6 hour drive via NH75. Buses from Majestic to Chikmagalur run daily.

Local tip: If you love photography, don’t miss sunrise at Baba Budangiri Hills.

For a relaxed weekend itinerary, spend one day exploring the town and another hiking or waterfall-hopping.

3. Sakleshpur – A Hidden Gem of the Western Ghats (Approx. 220 km | 5 hrs)

If you want something offbeat, Sakleshpur is your spot. It’s a quiet hill town covered with coffee plantations, ancient forts, and forested trails. The Manjarabad Fort, built by Tipu Sultan, offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

You can camp near Bisle Viewpoint or try the Jenukal Gudda Trek, known for its sweeping valley views. Evenings are best spent around a bonfire, listening to the hum of crickets and the whisper of mountain winds.

Best time to visit: October to March. Avoid heavy monsoon months due to slippery trails.

How to reach: Around 5 hours by car from Bangalore via NH75.

Nearby attractions: Betta Byraveshwara Temple and Magajahalli Waterfalls.

Sakleshpur camping is a growing trend — ideal for those looking to combine nature, peace, and light adventure.

4. Hampi – Where History Meets Adventure (Approx. 340 km | 6–7 hrs)

For a mix of history, architecture, and offbeat adventure, Hampi is unbeatable. This UNESCO World Heritage Site transports you to another era with its ancient temples, boulder-strewn landscapes, and timeless charm.

Explore the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal. Rent a cycle or scooter to wander freely among the ruins. End your day with sunset views from Matanga Hill, where the entire valley glows gold.

Best time to visit: November to February for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

How to reach: Overnight train or drive from Bangalore to Hospet (13 km away from Hampi).

Nearby attractions: Anegundi village, Tungabhadra Dam, and Hippie Island across the river.

Budget stays, hostels, and riverside cafés make Hampi an ideal budget-friendly weekend trip for backpackers and history enthusiasts alike.

5. Kabini – Into the Wild (Approx. 210 km | 5 hrs)

For wildlife lovers, Kabini is pure bliss. Once a royal hunting ground, it’s now part of the Nagarhole National Park, known for its elephants, leopards, and even the elusive tiger.

Book an early morning or evening jeep safari for the best chance to spot animals. You can also take a boat safari on the Kabini River — it’s surreal to see herds of elephants cooling off by the water at sunset.

Best time to visit: October to May for safaris; summer increases your chances of sightings.

How to reach: About 5 hours by car via Mysore.

Nearby attractions: Nagarhole Park, Wayanad, and Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

Kabini is perfect for couples, families, or anyone craving a luxury stay amidst raw nature.

6. Nandi Hills – Sunrise Magic Just an Hour Away (Approx. 60 km | 1.5 hrs)

Sometimes, you don’t need a long trip to feel refreshed. Just an hour’s drive from the city, Nandi Hills is the go-to sunrise spot for Bangaloreans.

Reach early morning to watch the sun break through the clouds and paint the hills gold. Stroll through Tipu’s Drop, explore Nandi Fort, and enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the hilltop cafés.

Best time to visit: Year-round, but mornings are magical post-monsoon (August–November).

Local tip: Weekdays are less crowded — weekends can get packed by sunrise chasers.

If you’re planning a short day trip or a romantic morning drive, Nandi Hills never disappoints.

7. Budgeting, Travel Tips, and Safety for Weekend Trips

Most weekend getaways from Bangalore can be done comfortably under a ₹3,000–₹6,000 budget (including fuel, food, and stay), depending on the destination. Opt for homestays or hostels for authentic local experiences and affordable comfort.

Travel safety is simple: avoid night driving on ghats, carry cash for remote areas, and pre-book stays during weekends or holidays. For treks, always check weather updates and go with certified guides.

Pack light — a small backpack, comfortable clothes, water bottle, and power bank are your essentials. And of course, don’t forget your camera — the Western Ghats never fail to put on a show.

8. Planning Your Ideal Weekend Escape

If you love mountains and mist, go for Chikmagalur, Coorg, or Sakleshpur. For history buffs, Hampi is unbeatable. Wildlife enthusiasts will find paradise in Kabini. And if you’re short on time, Nandi Hills or Ramanagara (famous for rock climbing and Sholay shooting spots) make perfect day trips.

The beauty of living in Bangalore is that nature, history, and adventure are always within reach — you just need to pick a direction and drive.

Final Thoughts: Every Weekend Can Be a Mini Vacation

You don’t need a long holiday to escape — sometimes, a two-day break is all it takes to reset your mind and rediscover your love for travel. From misty coffee estates to wildlife safaris and ancient ruins, these weekend getaways from Bangalore prove that you’re never too far from nature, adventure, and peace.

So, pack your bags this Friday evening, hit the road, and let the weekend take you somewhere beautiful.

Because the best therapy isn’t found in the city — it’s found on a winding road, under open skies, with no meetings on your mind.