Trekking in Bangalore

Coorg, known for its lush natural surroundings is often called the ‘Scotland of India’. With coffee plantations that stretch in front of you for miles, waterfalls that spout forth in glistening drops and hills that range from low-lying to majestic, trekking in Coorg is one of the best ways to view its natural wonders.

Tadiandamol is the third highest peak in Karnataka and is the highest in this lovely destination. Trekking in Coorg is incomplete without making your way to the summit of this hill and witnessing the emerald countryside from the top. Apart from Tadiandamol; Pushpagiri, Iruppu Falls, Galibeedu Peak and Kotebetta Peak are just some of the fascinating trekking spots in Coorg that are sure to enchant you.

Make your way to this trekking paradise and discover the beauty of Karnataka on foot.

Goa, a land of soft, golden beaches, tall green trees, rugged reddish cliffs and a relaxed ambience that makes for memorable vacations. Apart from visiting the night clubs or sprawling on the beach watching the sunset with a cold beer in your hand; trekking in Goa is one of the best ways to uncover the hidden gems of this enchanting coastal state. 

Trekking in Goa allows you to weave your way to majestic waterfalls, babbling streams, beautiful forests and ancient monuments with a rich history embedded in its brick and mortar. Slip on your trekking boots and hike your way to the infamous Dudhsagar Falls; a four-tiered waterfall that gushes forth in a cascade of milky water or make your way along Neuti Beach and uncover the undisturbed beauty of the beaches of Goa. 

Goa is much more than its reputation as a party state. Its captivating vistas and unique topography make trekking in Goa an activity that boosts your sense of adventure. 

Gokarna is synonymous with mesmerising blue beaches across a broad stretch of white sand. If you are looking for a blissful treat of meditation and spiritual calmness, Gokarna will give you a relaxed holiday.  Dotted with palm trees, coconut trees, clear ocean water and gleaming sand; Gokarna is one postcard image after the other.  

Gokarna is a beach destination but what’s unique about it is that one of the best ways to reach these beaches are to trek here. Trekking in Gokarna either begin at a beach or ends at the beach and proves to be a very satisfying experience. Imagine hiking up a scenic hill to be greeted by the waves when you come down. The treks here are beginner friendly and a perfect way to stay energised throughout your trip.  

Also known as Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is famous for the spectacular sunrise and sunset views from its summit that can be seen after trekking through strenuous trails. A popular spot for night trekking in Bangalore, Skandagiri is located approximately 61 kilometres away from the urban hub. It is one of the most visited spots for trekking in Bangalore, particularly for the younger crowd. The trek starts at the base of Papagni Temple and it has two routes to reach the summit. The ruins of Tipu Sultan's Fort rest at the mountain top along with several caves across the trail. Many people prefer bird watching and pitching a tent to camp after reaching the hilltop.

Skandagiri is famous for catching the sunrise from the hilltop but we only recommend night trekking with an experienced guide. The day and night treks were banned a few years ago and you need to take permission for this trek before making your plans.

•Difficulty: Moderate

•Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (except monsoons)

•Duration: Full day

•Distance from Bangalore: 61 km

•Highlights: Tipu Sultan Fort, Grover Zampa Vineyards

•Elevation: 4750 feet

Antharagange, is a peak in the Shathashrunga mountain range in Karnataka's Kolar district. In Kannada, Anthara Gange means 'Deep Stream' or 'Inner Stream.' It is approximately two miles from Kolar and 70 kilometers from Bangalore. Antharagange is well-known for its Sri Kashi Vishweshwara temple, also known as Kashi of the South. Lord Shiva is the patron of the temple. A pond in the temple receives a constant supply of groundwater from the mouth of a Basava (stone bull). Drinking water from the pond is thought to cure a variety of illnesses.

Trekking in Antharagange caves is moderate with a steep and narrow path that leads behind the Visheshwara Temple to the top of the mountain.  The caves are about 3-4 kilometers from the temple. After a visit to the temple, exploring these mysterious caves adds to your trekking experience as it unveils the hidden secrets of this enchanting hill. Trekking through the caves at night is very popular as well as pitching a tent at the foothills and sleeping under the sky.

·Difficulty: Easy to Medium

·Best Time to Visit: September to March

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

·Highlights: Anthargange Caves, Anthargange Temple, camping, night trekking

·Elevation: 4050 feet

A 5 km trek across dense plantations, Uttari Betta is a fascinating blend of scenic beauty and adventure. This trekking spot offers incredible views of the Western Ghats and has the Shankareswar Temple perched at its top.

Located 65 km away from Bangalore, Uttari Betta is one of the most popular places for trekking in Bangalore. This trekking spot attracts travelers and trekkers for its day trek and sunrise view. The Uttari Betta trek offers a mesmerizing view of watching the sun come out of its floating bed of clouds.

This trek begins at dawn to reach the top and watch the sunrise. This trek is divided into two levels, depending on your fitness levels, you can hike longer. The first hike starts from the foothills and marks a milestone once you reach the fort wall. After passing through seven majestic doors, you reach the Shankareswar Temple at the hilltop and enjoy a picturesque view from the first summit.

The second summit continues from the temple across a small jungle cave. Surrounded by giant boulders across dense grassland, the second summit gives you an aura of amazement and excitement. After spending 2-3 hours exploring the mountains, taking pictures and relaxing, you can start descending to the trek base point.

·Difficulty: Easy

·Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except monsoons

·Duration: 12 hours

·Distance from Bangalore: 65 km

·Highlights: Day trek, sunrise view, Shankareswar temple

·Elevation: 3,708 feet

We’re so used to whizzing by in cars or buses, watching the world go by in a hazy blur of greens and browns, that we often forget the magic of walking. On foot, the world unveils itself in different hues, showing us small secrets of nature that we miss while we’re driving past. To truly appreciate a new destination, we should travel on our own two feet, discovering trails that wind away from the traditional path, eateries that can’t be found anywhere on Google and vistas that make you feel as though you are flying, but without your feet leaving the ground.  

Hampi, on the banks of the Tungabhadra River was once the glorious ancient city of the Vijayanagara Empire. Trekking in Hampi can set your love of history soaring as you walk through its ruins, monuments, temples and palaces. A unique feature of the region is how cleverly the artisans have used the boulders that pepper the landscape in their architecture, splitting the rocks in the middle cleanly, and using these sheets in constructing walls and platforms. While trekking in Hampi, you can gaze down at the city from high rocky hills, taking in the reddish historical remains and the glistening river that lazily winds across the rugged countryside.  

A bag-packing paradise, slip on your hiking boots and embark on a journey through history with trekking in Hampi.  

Located in the Somwarpet Taluk of Coorg, Kumara Parvatha is also known as “Pushpagiri”. Boasting a height of 1,502 meters above the sea level, this peak is the second highest and the most challenging trek route in Coorg. If you are an experienced trekker, Kumara Parvatha or Pushpagiri is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore.

It is the highest peak in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and shares its borders with Dakshina Kannada. The scenery at Kumara Parvatha keeps changing on the trek and never fails to mesmerize. Not recommended for novice trekkers, Kumara Parvatha is a destination for people having prior experience of trekking in the Western Ghats.

The trekking distance at Kumara Parvatha stretches for approximately 22 kilometers. Located about 258 km away from Bangalore, this trek is meant for intermediate and expert trekkers. This demanding trek is usually completed in two days. This peak starts from Kukke Subrahmanya Temple in the Subrahmanya village. This is why the natives also call it Kukke Subramanya trekking.

·Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

·Best Time to Visit: October to March

·Duration: 2 days

·Distance from Bangalore: 272 km

·Highlights: Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Night & Day Trekking

·Elevation: 4930 feet

A hill fortress in Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a well known trekking spot that is great for beginners that are looking for a new thrill. The hill is home to Tipu Sultan Fort, a summer retreat that was constructed for the 18th century ruler after whom it was named after. This lovely fort features stone carvings and wall paintings that will delight any history buff.

The sunrise from the Nandi Hills is what attracts many visitors to its summit. To reach its peak, you would need to cover approximately 12000 steps on foot. However, the luxuriant greenery and verdant foliage that overflows on the ground makes it a pleasant hike and time passes by quickly until you emerge at the top.

Take a day trip to these beautiful hills and have an enjoyable trek under the sun.

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

Best Time to Visit: September to April (Moderate weather and lush green environment)

Duration: All day long

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Highlights: Sunrise View, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, 1000-year-old sculpture of Nandi, Tipu Drop, Tipu's Summer Residence

Elevation: 4850 feet.

75 km from Bangalore and 15kms from Doddaballapur, this trail is a moderate one with rocky terrain, wild shrubs, and dense vegetation, all of which make it a delight for the tre

Located just 60 km North of Bangalore, Makalidurga is a beautiful hill-station with the ruins of a fort at its summit. The trail is moderate with a rocky terrain, wild shrubs and dense vegetation, all of which makes it a delight for trekking enthusiasts. The best part of this trek is that it fits into a one day expedition.

Starting from a temple of Lord Krishna (Muthurayaswamy Temple), this trail is very photogenic as it winds its way up the hill covered with forests and you get a beautiful view of the lake nearby. You’ll also glimpse the odd train chugging by next to the hill. As there are no shops or stalls at the base of the hike, make sure you carry enough food and water for this spectacular trail.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, take your DSLR with you to click some memorable photographs of the vistas from the summit.

Difficulty: Intermediate

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Duration: One day

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Highlights: Fort ruins, night trekking, Lord Krishna temple

Elevation: 4430 feet

Tadiandamol, also known as Thadiyandamol, is the highest peak in the Madikeri Taluk of the Kodagu district in Karnataka. After Mullayyanagiri and Kudremukha, it is Karnataka's third-highest point. In the valleys of the range, there are lovely shola forests that spread out in thick green tufts. It is a 15 km journey to the peak of Tandiandamol.

Green and lush, Tadiandamol draws you with promises of a spectacular view from its summit. With tall trees, wildlife that gambols happily in their natural habitat and a beautiful sunset at its top, this famous hill is a must visit for trekking enthusiasts.

Although there are two routes to reach the Tadiandamol hills, the Honey Valley route is the most common and easiest. The Honey Valley Road is the perfect way to see the unique beauty of the Tadiandamol hills.

The Tadiandamol trek begins from Kakkabe, which can be reached from Madikeri or Virajpet. Kakkabe is about 35-40 kilometers from Madikeri. The initial point is 4 kilometers away from Kakkabe, and the nearby landmark to the point is Nalakanad Palace. The area is densely forested, with streams running through it.

·Difficulty: Easy to moderate

·Best Time to Visit: November to March

·Duration: 2-3 days

·Distance from Bangalore: 270 km

·Highlights: Wildlife-spotting, sunrise view

·Elevation: 5735 feet

Nestled in picturesque environs, Kudremukh is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Lush greenery, white floating clouds, dense forests, plenty of waterfalls, rugged trekking trails and bamboo bushes make Kudremukh one of the best trekking places in Karnataka. It is also a great option for those looking for a trek near Bangalore over the weekend.

As you walk up to the summit, the Kudremukh Peak reveals a spectacular view of the green landscape that looks like a lush carpet from above. The second highest peak in Karnataka, Kudremukh gives you a 360 panoramic view of Chikmagalur that is indescribable. Meadows, waterfalls and emerald forests dot your trekking trail from the Kudremukh Trek Base.

Upon reaching the hilltop, you can also occasionally spot some peacocks and Sambar Deer.

·Difficulty: Medium

·Best Time to Visit: October to May

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 340 km

·Highlights: Camping, meadows, day trek

·Elevation: 6207 feet

Kodachadri is the 13th highest mountain peak in Karnataka with thick, lush green forests and several waterfalls.

If you are passionate about challenging yourself through strenuous treks, pack your bags for Kodachadri the next time you plan an adventure trip. Located in the Shivamogga District, the hill derives its name "Kodachadri" from "Kodacha" meaning "Kutaja or jasmine flowers" and "adri" meaning "mountain" in Sanskrit.

It is a scenic hilly region full of dense forests and jasmine plants, refreshing the air with a lovely fragrance. The trekking trail is quite challenging and gives you occasional views of rustic Indian huts, agricultural grasslands, small streams and a few waterfalls.

The trek starts at the foothill and gets more difficult with altitude as the rocks get sharp and slippery. The Mookambika temple rests at the top of the hill, attracting a large number of pilgrims every year.

·Difficulty: Moderate to Intense

·Best Time to Visit:

·Duration: 2 nights

·Distance from Bangalore: 380 km

·Highlights: Hidlumane Waterfall, Mookambika temple, day & night trekking, sunrise view.

·Elevation: 4406 feet

Rocky hills, dense forests, pleasant weather - the trio makes a perfect combination for trekking.

Devarayanadurga Hill is rocky and surrounded by dense forests. You will spot many caves along your way and temples upon reaching the summit. The “Bhoga Narsimha" temple is dotted at the base of the hill whereas the “Yoga Narsimha” rests on the hilltop.

You will also spot idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana, and Goddess Sita on your way to the top. Namada Chilume, the spring that is believed to have served as a source of water for Ram, Lakshmana, and Sita, also flows from the Devarayanadurga Hills.

Difficulty: Medium

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Duration: One day

Distance from Bangalore: 72 km

Highlights: Namada Chilume, Sunrise View

Elevation: 3940 feet

Known as ‘honey hill’, Madhugiri is a single hill that grabs the rank of the second largest monolith in Asia. This makes it a little more challenging than other trekking places near Bangalore. At an elevation of 3,930 ft, this beautiful hill has the ruined temple of Gopalakrishna at the top.

A series of doorways leads to the hill and this adds a certain quaint charm to the monolith.

The highlight is a rock dome on which stands a fort. Although the climb can be steep, the summit rewards you with a lovely panoramic view of the green surroundings and nearby rock formations.

The difficulty level is moderate to difficult but you emerge at the peak feeling as though you have tested your limits and emerged victorious.

Ramanagara is a city in Karnataka that is famous for the majestic circle of hills that surrounds it. When the cult classic Bollywood film Sholay was filmed amidst the Ramanagara Hills, the granite hills received the

nickname ‘Sholay Hills’.

The Ramanagara region is famous for trekking and rock climbing in Bangalore with routes and lovely trails that wind to the top of summits that feature beautiful vistas. Ramadevara Betta and SRS Hills are both popular for trekking but the list does not stop there.

With a belt of rugged granite hills that spread out for miles, you can discover lesser known hiking routes in this trekking paradise.

Ramanagara is also a great place for camping, and kayaking at the nearby Manchanabele Dam.

Located in the Kudremukh National Park of Chikmagalur district, Kurinjal Gudda is a famous trekking trail in Karnataka. Steep hills and valleys full of rare species of flora and fauna make this trekking spot more unique for adventurers.

Kurinjal Gudda is a blessing for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts as a plethora of flora and fauna can be spotted across the trail. The rugged terrains are lined with mosses and orchids, making the place more breathtaking.

To start trekking, visitors should first reach Kudremukh National Park and get done with the required formalities. The rolling trek trails of high peaks are a perfect treat for adventure seekers. Along your trekking journey, you may spot the Kadambi and the Hanumangundi Waterfalls. Trekkers also enjoy activities like camping, bonfire and bird watching at Kurinjal Gudda.

·Difficulty: Easy to Medium

·Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 294 km

·Highlights: Kudremukh National Park, Kadambi Waterfalls, Hanumangundi Falls, & camping.

·Elevation: 3,596 feet

Famous for sugarcane, coconut trees and paddy fields, Kunti Betta derives its name from Kunti – the mother of the Pandavas.

Located in Pandavapura, Kuntibetta is just 25 km away from Mysore and widely famous as one of the best trekking places near Bangalore. Kunti Betta has a special significance to Hindus and encompasses two rocky mountains. The hill gets its name from Kunti, the mother of the five Pandavas who (it is believed) stayed here during her exile.

The Kunti Betta trail is along paddy fields and lined with sugarcane and coconut trees. Although the hills are majestic and have volcanic granite rock and boulders, the trail is easy for beginners. The Kunti Temple is located on the trek base allowing trekkers to spend some minutes seeking blessings before starting their journey to the summit.

Night trekking at Kunti Betta is great option to watch the enticing sunrise early in the morning. Beautiful pictures on a fresh morning with a hazy sunrise are great mementoes for life. Dense forests, bushy fields, and the magnificent Thonnur Lake make Kunti Betta trek even more exciting. Kunti Betta is also a good destination to try rock climbing.

·Difficulty: Easy to moderate

·Best Time to Visit: September to April

·Duration: 1-2 days

·Distance from Bangalore: 122 km

·Highlights: Kunti Kund, Kunti Temple, Night trekking

·Elevation: 2880 feet

Located in the base of Charmadi Ghat in Chikmagalur, Didupe and Ermayi Waterfalls trek are one of the most exciting treks in Karnataka. It is an unexplored gem with spectacular beauty and challenging slippery terrain.

The trail starts at the base of Charmadi Ghat where the multi-folded Didupe waterfall forms a serene pond structure. Quite challenging due to the steep climbs, the journey to the top is totally worth it. Beginners can rest at the Didupe falls and spend some time swimming and observing nature.

People who are more adventurous can reach the top of the trek at Ermayi Falls. Apart from swimming, travellers also enjoy camping here. Watching the sun cast a golden glow on the rocks and skittering frogs skimming across the streams is very satisfying after completing this challenging trek.

·Difficulty: Medium

·Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except for monsoons

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 320 km

·Highlights: Didupe Falls, Ermayi Falls, Swimming, Camping

Known as the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, the Narasimha Parvatha is a perfect hiking spot for experienced trekkers.

Deemed as the tallest peak in Agumbe Ghats, Narasimha Parvatha is an arduous trekking location in Karnataka. High mountain peaks, deep valleys, dense grasslands spread across miles in different shades of green and an inimitable assemblage of fauna– is there anything else you need for a fantastic trek?

The trekking route for Narasimha Parvatha starts at Agumbe but it is compulsory for trekkers to register their names at the Agumbe police station before getting on with the trek. On the route to the summit, you may spot the Barkana Falls and the Sirimane Falls.

Many people choose to camp upon reaching the hilltop. Night trekking is also very popular at Narasimha Parvatha. No signboards and thick forests across the trail make this trek challenging and difficult.

·Difficulty: Moderate

·Best Time to Visit: October to June

·Duration: 1-2 days

·Distance from Bangalore:

·Highlights: Barkana Falls, Sirimane Falls, Night trekking, Camping

·Elevation: 3780 feet

Nijagal Betta is located around 50 kms from Bangalore and has a rich history with ruins dotting its landscape. The hill is not a well-known spot amongst trekkers and this allows it be to free of crowds, giving you freedom to trek along its trails and experience a rare moment of serenity amidst nature.

The hill has steep, slippery terrains and passes through muddy pathways, thick bushes, small ponds and ruins of ancient temples. The route is also spotted with sculptures hailing from the Hoysala period.The trek continues towards massive boulders and ends up with a mosque on the hilltop. This place attracts devotees and heritage explorers annually. Pitching a camp at the top is a great idea to make this trek more exhilarating. Situated near Dobbaspet town of Tumkur, this hill is also known as Siddara Betta.

·Difficulty: Easy

·Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

·Duration: Half day

·Distance from Bangalore: 57 km

·Highlights: Hanuman Temple, Dargah, day trekking, rock climbing, camping

·Elevation: 4592 feet

Mullayanagiri derives its name from Saint Mulappa Swamy who meditated in the caves of this hill. Although a long trekking route, the Mullayanagiri peak is simple and will freshen you spiritually.

Famous for its scenic beauty and splendid view, Mullayanagiri attracts thousands of trekkers every year. It is located in the Chikmagalur Taluk and grabs the record of being the highest mountain peak in Karnataka.

A trek of around 265 meters, the trail of Mullayanagiri is well maintained and moderately rugged. The hill is known for its coffee plantations and is home to Lord Shiva's temple on the peak that boasts ancient architecture. You will also find water streams, some caves, and a statue of Nandi, the bull on your way.

Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced

Best Time to Visit: July to September and September to December

Duration: 1 day

Distance from Bangalore: 265 km

Highlights: Lord Shiva’s temple, Nandi’s statue, caves, coffee plantations

Elevation: 6,330 feet

Located just 60 km west of Bengaluru, Savandurga (Fort of Death) is considered to be amongst the largest monoliths in Asia. It has the perfect beginner trekking trails that one needs to build confidence in trekking.

Savandurga comprises of two hills known as the Billigudda and the Karigudda that attract a large number of pilgrims annually. Billigudda means white hill in Kannada while Karigudda means black hill. Named by the Magadi ruler, Kempegowda, these hills were considered unconquerable until the British did so in 1791 during the Third Anglo-Mysore War. The mantapa of the Nandi at the top marks the end of the trek.

Trekking across the Biligudda trail is more challenging than the Karigudda trail. Therefore, you can decide to trek between the two based upon your prior experience of trekking. The initial stretch is on bare rock with small boulders, but the way is quite evident. As you gain height, the Arkavati River, Manchanabele dam and the forests make for a spectacular vista. The terrain is mostly granite so it’s better to start early and attempt to complete the trek during the winter period.

If you’re a trekking enthusiast that loves to test their limits, Savandurga should be on your list, not just for its history but for the beauty that awaits you at the peak.

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Duration: Full day

Distance from Bangalore: 49 km

Highlights:  Night Trekking, Dawn View, KempeGowda Fort

Elevation: 4022 feet

Kabbaladurga, located in Kanakapura- Ramanagara, is a monolith hill popular for attracting night trekkers due to its easy route and enchanting magic. After reaching the hilltop in around four hours, trekkers are greeted by the beautiful vista of rocky spires of nearby hills, a green landscape seen from above and an unhindered blue horizon.

The trails across the hill are quite smooth and safe, making it easy and fun for beginners. The Temple of Goddess Kabbalamma rests at the hilltop, giving Kabbaladurga its name. The hill was once fortified and you can still find the ruins of this fort at the summit.

A great option for beginners, this fun and easy trek will leave you feeling triumphant as you conquer its trails.

·Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

·Best Time to Visit: February to May

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 70 km

·Highlights: Kabbalamma temple, fort ruins, night trek, dawn view

·Elevation: 3600 feet