Known as the IT hub of India, Bangalore also boasts a rich history of adventure and a great community of outdoor people. In addition to nightlife, Bangalore is the perfect place for youngsters to enjoy adventure sports and engage with nature. With its lovely weather and a variety of adventure activities, Bangalore truly stands out as the adventure and outdoor capital of India. If you are an outdoors or adventure enthusiast and looking for the best things to do in Bangalore this weekend, you are in the right place.
From Camping, Trekking, Rock Climbing, Wildlife tours, Kayaking and other water sports - Bangalore has amazing things to do for you this weekend. Check out our list of top things to do in Bangalore on weekends or weekdays. Don't forget to check out our curated experiences while you are on the page.
Famously known as the Silicon Valley of India, the city of Bangalore has grown exponentially in terms of population and infrastructure over the past few decades. However, Bangalore is not only a popular destination because of its nightlife and shopping malls, this urban hub is also a major center for adventure sports in the country. Amongst all the options for adventure sports to pick from, rock climbing in Bangalore sits high up on our list of fun ways to spend your weekends in the city.
Rock climbing is not just a physical activity but also involves problem-solving. Push your body as well as your decision-making skills to the limit by scaling your way up some natural boulders or artificial climbing walls. In addition to this, the city has a rich history of the outdoors and rock climbing and has a very active and supportive rock-climbing community. Interact with like-minded individuals and build a strong network with fellow adventure enthusiasts. Rock climbing in Bangalore is the perfect way to rid yourself of the stress you’ve been bearing all week at your regular 9-5, whilst also making some unforgettable memories and cherished friends along the way.
However, rock climbing in India can seem challenging for a beginner. There is not enough information on where to climb in Bangalore, how to climb, where to buy climbing gear, and how to find partners in the city. At Avathi, our mission is to simplify this process. We help you get introduced to rock climbing by curating the best rock-climbing workshops from beginners to experienced rock climbers. These workshops are run by the best rock climbers in the country. Not only will you learn skills the right way, but you are also inspired by their passion to follow the sport.
So, strap yourself in for an unforgettable experience of rock climbing in Bangalore!
Bangalore is so much more than its vibrant city life. Amongst travellers and locals, the key draws of this urban hub seem to be its diverse shopping localities, rhythmic nightclubs and pubs with a laid-back ambience. However, if you love spending your days soaking up the sun in the midst of nature, trekking in Bangalore should be at the top of your list.
If you are a trekking connoisseur or simply a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of options for trekking in Bangalore. Make your way to the summit of spectacular rock formations that give you a birds-eye view of the city’s rich, vibrant landscape. Looking for a one-day trip out of the city? Trekking in Bangalore can be completed over the weekend with your loved ones. As a bonus, you could even pack a picnic and feast on home-made food in the enchanting outdoors.
Bangalore is often mistakenly identified as just another urban hub filled with nightclubs, pubs, and shopping centers. However, the city is surrounded by areas of wide grasslands, dense forests, meadows, and rocky spots, that invite you to snooze in its arms.
Camping in Bangalore is one of the most popular things to do for adventure enthusiasts, naturalists, trekking buffs, or people looking for a fresh new twist on their holidays. While vacations are normally associated with luxury hotels and spacious rooms, night camping in Bangalore under a sky adorned with glittering stars is an experience that can recharge the heart and soul of any weary traveler. Gather your friends, family, or even colleagues and come experience the great outdoors in all its beauty. As night falls the only sounds to be heard are the occasional chirping of crickets and the crackling of the campfire.
Pitching a tent in wide open spaces away from throngs of people has always been one of the best ways to connect with nature. Camping in Bangalore allows you to dip your feet in a world of outdoor adventure activities such as kayaking, rock-climbing, canoeing, paragliding, and more.
So why stay in a stuffy hotel room when you can stay in nature as its very own guest?
Pack your bag and take your pick from our list of campsites in Bangalore!
Are you looking for some fun activities with your family over the weekend? Manchanabele is one of the best places for camping in Bangalore. Located just 40 kms away from Bangalore, you can take part in adventure activities as you kickback beside Manchanabele Lake. With the majestic Savandurga Hill as a backdrop and sparkling blue water, you can have an authentic camping experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Unplug from technology and tap into the best nature has to offer on your mini vacation. As a bonus, a light pollution free sky hangs above you for a beautiful stargazing experience at night.
Located on the banks of the Arkavathi River in South Bangalore, the small town of Kanakapura is known for its lush, green fields, stretches of woodland and rock formations that invite rock climbers to clamber up its sides.
Camping in Kanakapura gives you a quick weekend getaway from the city amongst cooling greenery, open skies and bubbling streams that reflect the shimmering rays of the sunlight. Trekking to the peak of Kabbaladurga, hiking around the spiky shrubbery of Mekedatu, gazing upon the splendor of Chunchi Falls or sitting beside the Arkavathi River are just some of the wonderful things to do while camping in Kanakapura.
Camping in Kanakapura is the perfect way to replenish your body and mind before heading into another hectic work week. So pack your bags, hop into your car and drive down to this lovely, rustic destination
Bangalore is a fast-paced urban hub that receives travelers from all over the world looking to sample its vibrant culture and beauty. With multiple 5-star hotels around the city and motels with luxury amenities, there are a variety of options for a comfortable stay within city limits.
However, home is where the heart is, and finding a place to stay at that warms the body and soul can be tough. This is why we have curated a list of homestays in Bangalore that give you the dose of comfort you need combined with a heartwarming experience!
The homestays in Bangalore are equipped to provide for every traveler. Discover sprawling rustic homestays near Bangalore to relax at with your pets or quaint villas fully furnished for your every need. Love the outdoors? Check into homestays that offer organic farming, delicious homemade food and a sparkling sky to pitch your tent under. Whether you’re a traveler or a city dweller looking for a change of scene, the homestays around Bangalore gives you a wonderful stay experience.
When it comes to rest and relaxation, treating yourself to a stay at the resorts in Bangalore should be high on your list of self-care. It can be tough to find a resort that suits our expectations of a great stay. Some of us prefer low-key resorts with small luxuries, others prefer high-end resorts that come complete with swimming pools, spas, delicious cuisines made by expert chefs and a few of us are looking for resorts in Bangalore with adventure activities and sports to leave us with an endorphin high!
With the wide variety of resorts in Bangalore, how do you choose the one you should stay at? Our list of resorts is handpicked to make sure your stay is memorable, comfortable and unique. Take a dip in a cool swimming pool, go ziplining across gorgeous vistas or get pampered with a massage. Love quirky resorts with creative décor? Some of the resorts in Bangalore are created on enchanting themes with interiors that will bring a wide smile to your face.
A great holiday begins with a comfortable stay. Take your pick and start planning your vacation!
Working 9-5 jobs, hanging out at the same ol’ hangout spots, or working from home can leave us craving for a unique thrill. However, it can be difficult to plan long vacations or travel far out of the city when we have other responsibilities at hand. As the mundane routine sets in, week in and week out, you find yourself feeling burnt out and exhausted. Well, rather than giving in to this monotonous cycle of dullness, have you ever considered giving yourself an endorphin rush at one of the adventure resorts in Bangalore?
Bangalore has a lot more to offer than meets the eye with a wide range of adventure activities guaranteed to give you an adrenaline kick. When it comes to adventure resorts in Bangalore, there are a host of sports and activities for you to choose from. From ziplining, outdoor foosball, rock-climbing, rappelling to trekking and even kayaking; the adventure resorts in Bangalore give you the dose of exhilaration you need without having to travel long distances out of the city.
These resorts are also great for company retreats, with tons of team-building exercises and fun activities, offering everyone a much-needed respite from city life that’s bound to boost the office morale. In addition to this, you’ll be introduced to a strong community of adventure sports enthusiasts from all over, enabling you to pursue your passion for adventure with like-minded individuals.
Come and treat yourself to some of the most exhilarating experiences offered at the finest adventure resorts in Bangalore.
Indoor wall climbing gyms (or climbing gyms as they are known commonly) are one of the most popular ways to try climbing for the first time. They are also a great way to train for rock climbing outdoors. An indoor climbing gym has artificial holds (that mimic features found outdoors on rocks) that are set up on the wall.
The routes usually are colour-coded and are set in a way that forces a particular movement. A climbing gym usually will have a few routes in different grades (difficulty levels) and these routes are reset once every few months! Indoor walls usually have bouldering, top rope climbing, lead climbing and speed climbing.
Bangalore has had an arduous, long history but with the fast-paced development we see in this city, it is easy to forget what it once looked like. As a city, it was founded by Kempe Gowda I who built a mud fort in 1537 and 4 watchtowers to demarcate the boundaries of the then small town. These towers are still preserved and can be seen deep within the heart of the city at Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Kempambudhi Tank, Ulsoor Lake and Mekhri Circle. In the many lovely distractions and life this city has to offer, it is possible we forget the important structures among us that serve a larger purpose.
Bengaluru has without a doubt grown to be India’s tech hub and heritage tours in Bangalore will include a glimpse into structures that made this possible. It is also the site of many wars, a seat of erstwhile British power and as many of our grandparents' will vouch- a once beautiful garden city famed for its lakes and parks. To look below the surface of this lively, cosmopolitan city so that your travel experiences are enriching and noteworthy, opt for heritage tours in Bangalore. Heritage tours in Bangalore allows you to not only encounter the city’s past but also chart this to the present. Heritage tours in Bangalore will include walking through the lovely streets outside the Vidhana Soudha, a quick visit to the public library, a stop at church street as a hub for all things shopping and some delicious food, a look at Bangalore Palace and so much more.
There’s nothing quite like setting sail in your own little watercraft as you discover the world from a new perspective atop glistening water. Kayaking in Bangalore is one of the best ways to dip your feet into the electrifying world of water sports as you immerse yourself in the outdoors. After a hectic week at the office, find yourself taking in the picturesque views surrounding you as you row across timid blue waters.
Known for its nightlife and bustling city culture, kayaking in Bangalore often falls off our list of things to do in the city. However, there are plenty of beautiful spots for you to paddle around and create new memories. Discover blue lakes, azure dams and gently flowing rivers close to this urban hub that make kayaking in Bangalore exhilarating and easily accessible. Kayaking in Bangalore is an exhilarating way of experiencing the great outdoors without having to travel hours away from your home in the city.
If you haven't given kayaking a try yet, you can learn the ropes at workshops conducted by experienced instructors, or if you’ve been tried and tested by the gushing rapids before, there are plenty of spots around the city where you can push yourself to the limit and get the adrenaline pumping through your veins.
Go through our list of exciting places and get ready to paddle towards an exhilarating new adventure!
Bangalore or Bengaluru is the capital and largest city of Karnataka. Widely regarded as the ‘Silicon Valley’ of India because of its role as the country’s leading information technology (IT) exporter, this urban hub is also lovingly called the ‘Garden city’ because of its iconic parks filled with lush greenery.
To get to the heart and soul of this city, its important to customize your list of things to sightsee in Bangalore. Apart from its thriving nightlife and shopping centers, the pleasant climate is perfect for things to do in Bangalore set in the enchanting outdoors. Swing by Lalbagh Botanical Garden and feast your eyes on colorful, vibrant blooms placed in creative structures. Sprawl on a picnic blanket on the soft grass of Cubbon Park and identify the trees that date back for decades.
If you’re a history buff and you’re looking for sightseeing in Bangalore to satiate your love for stories through the ages, the city is home to beautiful temples, buildings and palaces that are rich with cultural heritage. Make your way to Karnataka’s best loved city and discover its thrumming pulse for a unique travel experience.
When you think of Bangalore, the first image that comes to mind is of concrete buildings, a buzzing nightlife and numerous shopping centers that dot the city. One might even believe that there are no wildlife tours in Bangalore. However, the city is at the nexus of beautiful spots rife with exotic species of wildlife that thrive in their undisturbed natural habitat.
If you’re looking for wildlife tours in Bangalore, pack your travel bags and binoculars and travel to the various biodiversity hotspots that surround the capital city of Karnataka. From the Nagarhole National Park and Tiger Reserve amidst the emerald hills of Coorg to the lush Bandipur National Park - sight the grey langur, Indian elephants, gaurs, tigers, sloth bears, four-horned antelopes, jackals and dholes.
A little experience of wildlife tours in Bangalore can be found within the city itself at the Bannerghatta Biological Park. This park is filled with over 2300 animals belonging to 103 species that are being protected in a naturalistic environment.
Bengaluru has recently topped the charts on rapidly growing metropolitan cities. This city is remembered mostly for its traffic, weather and commercial architecture but there is more than meets the eye here! The downside to having so many places to pick from is the confusion that stems from it. There are over 200+ shopping malls and while you think your options for shopping in Bangalore end here - you might be surprised!
Shopping is instant therapy and shopping in Bangalore, even more so. All the vendors, owners and staff are very kind and engage in great conversation here and the shopping realm is Bangalore is a perfect blend of the old and the new! The best purchases you will make while shopping in Bangalore will come from the lovely local shops here. Shopping in Bangalore can be a fun and unique way to give you a sense of the culture in the city. Take a look at the list curated and plan accordingly.
If you take to water like a fish then scuba diving is a great adventure activity for you to try for the first time or explore further. When it comes to scuba diving in Bangalore, it can be difficult to find options as the city is landlocked and primarily known for its city culture and bustling clubs and pubs.
However, this shouldn’t stop you from splashing into this water sport and exploring the astounding aquatic world that lies beneath the surface of the ocean. Around the city lies captivating spots that draw you into the world of scuba diving and give you experiences that make scuba diving in Bangalore worthwhile. Travel out of the city for a quick weekend to boost your dose of dopamine for the week of work ahead!
Bangalore as a city has grown exponentially in the last few years and a lot about this city has changed. What hasn’t changed is our love for fun and a thrill. Karnataka has in and around it some of the best trekking, climbing, beach and sightseeing locations but if you’re not up for packing a whole bag and leaving the city, Bangalore has you covered. Amusement parks in Bangalore have been around for a while but have gone through a big upgrade in the last few years. These amusement parks have something for everybody and can be enjoyed by everyone who comes. All the amusement parks in Bangalore are absolutely safe and the rides and overlooked and controlled by trained certified professionals. Though some of them are not exactly in the city, every single one of them make for great one day trips. Most of this carry both land and water rides that make for an exhilarating experience. If you feel like doing something that breaks your everyday routine and devouring some cotton candy, amusement parks in Bangalore will not disappoint.
Which are the popular places to visit in Bangalore with family?
Nandi Hills: Visit the Nandi Hills on a cloudy. Although Nandi hills can be crowded sometimes, the experience is breath taking on a cloudy day. We recommend you avoid visiting on weekends if you like peace and quiet.
Bannerghatta National Park: Located half an hour on the Bannerghatta road, the national park is an amazing place to go for families. Spread over 100 acres, the park has a variety of animals and birds. This is one place where animal sightings are guaranteed. Although, technically held captive, seeing tigers and lions freely walking around is an exhilarating experience for kids.
Avathi Hills for Rock climbing: Go rock climbing at Avathi Hills. Rock climbing is the one of the most popular activities for kids and families in Bangalore. Regular workshops are conducted in Avathi hills (and at different locations in Bangalore). As India’s best and friendliest professional climbers supervise the kids, all safety protocols are followed while keeping it fun. Not only do families enjoy the challenge of scaling short rocks, they also are exposed to nature in a safe environment.
Kanakapura Ramanagara area for Nature exploration: Explore nature at the region between Kanakapura and Ramanagara. The Ramanagara-Kanakapura area offers innumerable opportunities to engage with Nature. Try rock climbing, hiking or visit one of the amazing nature resorts and camps for a comfortable outdoor experience.
Bangalore Palace: If your family likes history, then do visit the Bangalore palace. Admire the architecture of the city. Although Bangalore is not an old city like Delhi, there are lots of interesting things to learn. Try out one of the cultural tours that combine the Palace tour along with a visit to the forts, temples, and other historical monuments around Bangalore.
Shivanasamudra: Shivanasamudra is particularly mesmerising during monsoons. Just a 3-hour drive from Bangalore, Shivanasamudra is actually an island. From here you can watch the Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls which is spectacular. Also visit some of the temples around the village for a truly local experience.
What are the amazing things to do in Bangalore?
Forget the pub hopping and café hunting – Bangalore has amazing things to do outdoors. Because of the moderate weather, you can access these outdoor activities throughout the year.
Rock climbing is our most favourite thing to do in Bangalore. Although an adventure activity, it is also beginner-friendly as there are workshops run by very experienced rock climbers every week. Bangalore also has the most active rock-climbing community in India.
Bangalore has an even bigger trekking community and hundreds of accessible trekking routes that can be done over the weekend.
If you like a quiet evening out with friends and family, go camping at some of the best campsites around Bangalore.
If you are more of a water person, don’t forget to try out Kayaking or Stand-up paddle boarding as it is a really exciting and fun activity.
Which are the best treks in Bangalore?
Skandagiri: 61 kms from Bangalore, this is a top choice of the expert trekker. The trek is quite rough, but enthralling and you will come across two mesmerizing caves on the trail. It is also ideal for road trips. Beginning from Papagani Temple, this is a moderately difficult trek (the novice would be advised to be accompanied by someone experienced who knows the trail well) which is great for a night camp and a weekend getaway.
Makali Durga: 75 kms from Bangalore, this trail is a rough one with rocky terrain, wild shrubs, and dense vegetation, all of which make it a delight for the trekking enthusiast. It is one best treks in the vicinity of Bangalore. The ruins of a fort at the top of this hill is a fitting destination for trekkers who have braved the wilderness of the trail. Starting from a temple of Lord Krishna, 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 might also catch the odd train chugging by next to the hill. Carrying your DSLR will be very rewarding.
Savandurga: 70 kms from Bangalore, this massive monolith, one of the largest in Asia, is very popular among the trekking buffs. This has two trekking trails, namely Karigudda and Billigudda, both of which are very popular and take you through the fort of Kempe Gowda. Lots of people hit this trail at night, that would be risky.
Antharagange: Rocky hillocks and caves have made this a very charming trek which is about 70 kms from Bangalore. It is of moderate difficulty and even a beginner can easily undertake this trek. The 3-km long trail offers gorgeous panoramic views of nature and irresistibly draws trekkers of all ages. Rocks, caves, hillocks – this trail has it all if you are looking to combine some exploration along your trail. Pitching camp in one of the caves at night can be a unique experience.
Devarayana Durga: 72km from Bangalore, this tantalizing trail cuts through lush forests and, en-route, you will find an ancient cave with statues of Ram, Laxman and Sita. Also, along the way you will find two temples, Bhoga Narsimha and Yoga Narsimha, and several undulating natural springs. This trail attracts the pilgrims and the adventurous trekker alike.
Madhugiri: This is a beautiful monolithic rock about 100 kms from Bangalore. Its claim to fame is the Madhugiri Fort constructed by Hyder Ali, well-known for the honey- bee colonies that infested it in ancient times.About 100 kms from Bangalore, this trek can be arduous for the inexperienced trekker, but the ruins of the Gopalkrishna Temple atop the hill would be well worth it.
What are some good ways to spend weekends in Bengaluru?
a. Rock climbing at Avathi Hills: Learn Rock climbing, Bouldering from the best rock climbers in India. Beginner and advanced workshops are conducted almost every week. Rock climbing therefore is a must-do activity if you are visiting Bangalore for a short period or even if you are new to the city. The beginner bouldering workshops are conducted at Avathi hills and around different parts of the city which are easily accessible within an hour. The workshops are conducted by the leading climbers in India and are safe and fun for beginners. The events are also very social, so you get to meet lots of interesting people.
b. Camping and Kayaking at Manchanabele dam: If you are a water person, do not forget to try out Kayaking and Stand up Paddle Boarding this weekend. Kayaking is still a small sport in India but there are lots of good quality workshops offered in Bangalore. Run by some of the most professional leads the events are safe and match up to international standards. Many of these events are also combined with fun camping experiences which make it a great experience for the entire family and are great vacation ideas. If you would like to try something less adventurous, you could try Stand Up paddling.
c. Trekking around Bangalore: Bangalore has countless day treks and they are best for the current times. The most popular places to trek are at Skandagiri - where you can catch amazing views of the sunrise above the clouds. Savandurga, the largest monolith in Asia is another popular trekking option in Bangalore. The Kodachadri Trek is another very popular trek for long weekends. This trek is a longer one but offers amazing variety, from wildlife, waterfalls, and camping options. Like the Kodachadri Trek, Gokarna is another popular trekking location for longer weekends. In addition to the above, there are several popular treks around Bangalore like Tadiandamol in Coorg, Kunti Betta near Mandya, and Antharagange trek near Kolar.
d. Nature and Wildlife camps around Bangalore: Bangalore is rich in biodiversity. There are many beautiful camps and locations around Bangalore with incredible wildlife and offer lots of opportunities to spot several hundred species of birds, elephants, tigers, sloth bears, deer, and other rare species in India. If you are up for an adventure, Bangalore offers lots of opportunities for interesting adventure activities. If you rather prefer a quite walk in nature or just staring at the starry sky in the night, these are lots of options to plan a perfect getaway for you.
What are some of the best adventure spots to visit in Bangalore?
a. Avathi Hills: Try Rock climbing, Mountain biking or trail running.
b. Savandurga/Manchanabele dam: Head out to Savandurga for a day hike. Visit the nearby Manchanabele dam to learn kayaking or Stand up paddle boarding from the experts.
c. Big Rock dirt Park: Learn moto-training on dirt bikes by experienced riding coaches in the country. BigRock is an off-road moto-training academy. The park was conceived by CS Santosh, India’s leading off-road Rally Raid pilot who has competed in multiple editions of the Dakar Rally. It does not matter how experienced you are – all kinds of drivers & riders can go there to sharpen their skills here and have an awesome adventure.
d. Gandikota: 270 Kms from Bangalore: Enjoy the Grand Canyon of India and history. Experience rock climbing and trekking with a beautiful backdrop of the gorges.
e. Sakleshpura: 225 Kms from Bangalore. The most popular starting point for many popular treks in the Western Ghats.
f. Hampi: Hampi is a bouldering paradise. If you have a long weekend, head out to experience this magical place that combines adventure, nature, and history.
g. Badami: Badami is the best place to climb on ropes in India. The rock is soft sandstone and has a beautiful colour and texture. Adventure and excitement guaranteed. You can also visit the historical sites as a bonus.
How to know about the events happening in Bangalore?
Look up Avathi.com for the best adventure and outdoor events in Bangalore.
What are the best places for kayaking & canoeing in Bengaluru?
If you are serious about skills and learning from international grade Kayakers, you should check out the Kayaking, SUP and Camping event hosted at Manchanabele dam. In addition to that, there are several resorts/campsites that offer short kayak/canoe ride as a leisure activity e.g. Area 83 resort.
What are the top sightseeing places in Bangalore?
The top sightseeing places in Bangalore are Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park, MG Road, Lalbagh, Bannerghatta National Park and UB City Mall. If you like less crowded places, look up avathi.com for the most unique and best things to do in Bangalore.