18 Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore

From easy to intense, we have rounded up the best trekking spots in and around Bangalore for you to take a trek in your next vacation! Whatever destination you choose, we are sure you are going to have an enthralling experience that will ignite the adrenaline rush inside your body.

1.Skandagiri

Skandagiri is a stunning trekkers' spot that holds the tranquillity of the sun in the morning and the powerful energy of the moon at night. More popular for night trekking, Skandagiri trek starts from the Papagni Temple and has two routes to reach the base of the hill from the top. This ancient mountain once had Tipu Sultan's fort that lies in ruins at present.

Also known as “Kalavara Durga”, Skandagiri has strenuous terrains that will give you countless adventures along your way. This hill attracts many visitors just for bird watching and camping.

Due to some incidents, day and night treks were banned for several years. While the trek is open now, things change so better check before you go. Several trekkers who turn up without checking have had to return as the entrance is guarded. Skandagiri is popular for night trekking but it can be risky and not recommended. There are several organisers offering sunrise treks early in the morning - make sure you are with an experienced guide. If you are going on your own, start early and get there to be at the peak to catch the sunrise. Skandagiri is classified as an Eco trail by the Karnataka government so you need to take permission and go on the trip with a guide. As of June 2020, the permissions are not being given by the government due to the COVID-19 situation.

Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: Through the year (except monsoons)
Duration: Full day
Distance from Bangalore: 61 km
Highlights: Tipu Sultan Fort, Grover Zampa Vineyards
Elevation: 4750 fee

2.Savandurga Hills

Savandurga (or Rock of death) has the perfect challenging trekking trails that one needs to conquer the mountains. Counted amongst the large monolith hills in Asia, Savandurga attracts trekkers across India, especially early in the morning.

Savandurga comprises 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 Kempe Gowda, these hills were considered unconquerable until the British did. 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 with navigating. 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 an exciting sight. The terrain is mostly granite so better to start early and attempt during the winter period.

Savandurga is admired by the experienced rock climbers around the world for the sheer height and adventure.

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

3.Ramanagara – Ramadevara betta

Remember the rocky grey terrain in Sholay, if you've watched it? That’s Ramanagara! Ramadevara Betta Hill in Ramanagara is a beautiful stretch of short trekking trails. The Pattabhi Rama temple rests on the peak of the hill and is a power booster for trekkers after a day full of exploration and walking.

Just 55 kilometres away from the heart of the city, Ramanagara rewards adventurers with one-day treks and activities like bird watching, fishing, and camping. You may also explore various caves and endangered bird species along your way to Ramanagara.

You will also see giant rocky spires all around Ramanagara that are favourites for rock climbers in Bangalore.

Difficulty: Intermediate
Best Time to Visit: October to March (Pleasant temperature and lush vegetation)
Duration: One day
Distance from Bangalore: 55 km
Highlights: Ramadevara Temple, Janapada Loka, Ramdevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary
Elevation: 3000 feet

4.Nandi Hills

The Nandi Hills are power-packed with Lord Shiva's divinity and Tipu Sultan's history. The mesmerizing sunrise view from the Nandidurga is what attracts most of the visitors every day. Trek along the trails of Nandi Hills early in the morning to get a panoramic view of the sun and bring more spark to your mundane life.

Trekking along the lush greenery of Nandi hills will unfold mythological surprises for you. You would approximately need to cover 1200 steps on foot to reach the peak of the hills.

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

5.Devarayanadurga

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

6. Madhugiri

The name "Madhugiri" originates from "Madhu" meaning "honey" and "Giri" meaning "hill". Located in Tumkur district, the Madhugiri Hill is a famous trekking attraction due to its rugged, grassy but moderately challenging trail.

It is home to the Madhugiri Fort built by Hyder Ali, which nestled countless honey bee colonies at a time. The hilltop also perches the Gopalakrishna temple that you can reach in around two hours.

Difficulty: Intermediate
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Duration: 1 day
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
Highlights: Madhugiri Fort, Gopalakrishna temple
Elevation: 3930 feet

7. Kunti Betta

Kunti Betta comprises two rocky hills located in Pandavapura, Mandya. It is believed that Kunti, the mother of five Pandavas, stayed at this hill during their exile giving this place her pure name. You will witness sugarcanes, coconut trees, and paddy terrains on your way to the summit.

Beginners and amateurs find Kunti Betta a god's gift for trekking due to easy, rocky trails. The Kunti Temple is situated at the foothills where the pilgrims and trekkers usually seek blessings at, before starting their adventurous journey. People trek by night to watch the mesmerizing sunrise at dawn. You might want to carry your best camera to click pictures at the dawn of the surrounding forests, paddy fields, and the spectacular Thonnur Lake.

Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
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

8. Anthargange

Anthargange is a picturesque hill situated in Kolar, Karnataka. It is a trekking spot famous for volcanic rocks, small hillocks, and countless caves. Famous for night trekking, most of the trekkers at Anthargange are either pilgrims or cave explorers. Pitching camp in one of the caves can be a unique experience.

The name “Anthargange” originates from the Kannada language, meaning "The Ganges from the deep". A mysterious water spring flows through the statue of a bull in the Anthargange Temple. Ready to spot mystifying geology through numerous caves in Anthargange?

Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Duration: One day
Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Highlights: Anthargange Caves, Anthargange Temple, camping, night trekking
Elevation: 4050 feet

9. Makalidurga Fort

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 trekking enthusiast. It is one of the best treks in the vicinity of Bangalore. If you have a half a day to spare and fit enough to keep it fast, this trek is doable.

The ruin 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 (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. If you are lucky, you might also catch the odd train chugging by next to the hill which an exciting sight. There are no shops or stalls at the base or during the hike. Make sure you carry enough food and water. Carrying your DSLR will be very rewarding. The upcoming bouldering location Devarabetta is quite close to Makalidurga.

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

10. Kumara Parvatha

The dense forests and steep slopes of Kumara Parvatha make it a difficult destination for trekking in Bangalore. The Kumara Parvatha is also known as Pushpagiri and is located in the Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu district.

Kumara Parvatha trek is one of the longest and the most challenging treks in Karnataka. We wouldn’t recommend this trekking if you are a novice trekker. This trek rewards you with a scenic view of the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary once you reach the peak.

Difficulty: Intermediate to Intense
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Duration: Two days
Distance from Bangalore: 272 km
Highlights: Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Night & Day Trekking
Elevation: 4930 feet

11. Tadiandamol

Tadiandamol offers an exceptional but challenging trek journey as it is the highest mountain peak in Coorg. Also known as Thadiyandamol, it is located in the Kodagu district of Karnataka and is on the border of Kerala.

Panoramic views, dense vegetation, and lush greenery take you to an imaginary world of beauty and perfection. The word Tadiandamol has been derived from "thadi" meaning large, "anda" meaning belonging to, and "mol" meaning hill, eventually translating to "broad hill". If you are lucky, you could see elephant herds on the adjoining hills from the peak.

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

12. Channarayana Durga

A hilltop fort of a former kingdom now turned into an unfamiliar sight for many, Channarayana Durga is situated in the Tumkur District of Karnataka. This is a less explored trek that offers a serene and breathtaking view which makes it an ideal place for your weekend getaway.

Trekking at Channarayana Durga will take you back to the 17th century after seeing the fortress. The rocks along the way are pretty smooth and a rumour about hidden treasure amidst the hills makes the trail more interesting for trekkers. You can reach the summit in around half a day and explore the fortress. What makes this trek even more interesting and thrilling for adventurers is the absence of signboards from foothill to the top.

Difficulty: Intermediate
Best Time to Visit: September to December
Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
Highlights: Day trek, fortress, structures and temple inside the fort
Elevation: 3730 feet

13. Kabbaladurga

Kabbaladurga is another ideal destination for night trekking in Kanakapura, Ramanagar. It takes approximately four hours for a beginner to reach the hill summit, light bonfire, and set a camp to wait for the sunrise.

The trails are pretty smooth with medium vegetation and a safe pathway, making this scenic location a safe and enjoyable night trekking destination. The hill owes its name to Goddess Kabbalamma whose temple rests at the hilltop.

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
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

14. Mullayanagiri

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 Kannada 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

15. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is a famous hill located in Kanakapura and gets its name from "white rocks". Trekking on this hill is quite challenging because it is a massive granite rock with dense shrub forest.

Lord Ranganatha Swamy Temple rests on top of the hill and features ancient architecture in its structure. This hill harbours a large number of elephants due to which trekkers need to be extra careful and get permission from the Forest Department first.

Difficulty: Medium
Best Time to Visit: August to January
Duration: Full day
Distance from Bangalore: 75 km
Highlights: Lord Rangaswamy Temple, Elephants
Elevation: 3780 feet

16. Bheemeshwari

Bheemeshwari is located in Mandya district of Karnataka and is a popular trekking destination for fishing lovers. The hill is home to magnificent gorges, three waterfalls, Mahseer fish, and thick forests.

Many explorers and travelers call Bheemeshwari as a "bonanza" deal for trekking, fishing, and camping. You can trek to Chellurehill, Doddamkali, and Galibore from Bheemeshwari depending upon the distance you want to cover.

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Best Time to Visit: All year round
Duration: 1-2 days
Distance from Bangalore: 105 km
Highlights: Camping, fishing, trekking, bird watching, waterfalls
Elevation: NA

17. Kemmangundi

Kemmangundi is located in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka and is a mesmerizing blend of nature and architecture. This hill is home to the famous "Royal Horticultural Society of Karnataka" and some breathtaking waterfalls. Kemmangundi trek is short, moderately challenging, and exciting for all the visitors.

Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Duration: 1 day
Distance from Bangalore: 275 km
Highlights: Gardens, waterfalls
Elevation: 4705 feet

18. Brahmagiri

Bracketed between Kodagu in Karnataka and Wayanad in Kerala, Brahmagiri is a significant trekking attraction due to its beauty and culture mix of two states. The trek begins at Thirunelli in Kerala and through Irupu falls in Karnataka, allowing you to discover lavish greenery, scenic views, and the famous Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary along your way.

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Duration: Half-day
Distance from Bangalore: 252 km
Highlights: Temples, caves, streams
Elevation: 5276 feet

Some Tips to Supercharge Your Trekking Trip

Knowing the best trekking places around Bangalore is not only enough. You must also know how to make the most out of your trip. Preparing for your trekking adventure in advance is a very smart choice. From fitness to some essentials, here are a few things that you should take care of before heading out for your trekking journey.

Trekking is all about exploring the mountains on your foot for long periods of time. So, train your body a little before going for treks near Bangalore.
Work on exercises that build your strength and improve your aerobic fitness level gradually.
Focus on walking, training and leg exercises that strengthen your calf muscles and hips.
Do some leg presses, squats, or lunges to achieve a more stable core.
Practice walking on a similar terrain by carrying your back pain to get used to the weight you are going to carry while trekking in Bangalore.
Opt for waterproof trekking socks with sweat-wicking properties.
Invest in the best shoes that can protect your ankle and avoid blisters while nestling your heels through proper cushioned support.
If you don't drink enough water, take frequent sips of water throughout the day to learn to stay hydrated. For tips on hydration while trekking, read our blog here.
When you are trekking around Bangalore, hydrate yourself at regular intervals to maintain the oxygen supply in your body as temperatures can get quite high, particularly in summer. And in the afternoons..
Eat small but nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up while trekking.
If you smoke, avoid it. You must take care of your oxygen supply to conquer the mountains and control habits that defuel your lungs.
Read and research constantly to learn the unknown things about trekking near Bangalore.
Always go with experienced guides. Encounters with wildlife and unknown terrain can be extremely dangerous for the untrained trekker.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trekking around Bangalore

Nervous about what to do and what to avoid while visiting trekking places near Bangalore? Let’s answer some questions you have on your mind.

1. Which are the best places for night trekking in Bangalore?

If night trekking is your catch, Savandurga, Ramanagara, Skandagiri, Madhugiri, Anthargange, and Kabbaladurga are the best places for trekking near Bangalore.

2. Which are the most popular resorts near Bangalore?

Some of the most popular resorts near trekking places around Bangalore are:

Wonderla Resort near Savandurga
Shilhaandara Resort located on the foothills of Ramanagara
Mount Palazzo Hotel close to Skandagiri
Treebo Trend Pratham Inn Resorts near Madhugiri
Taj Bangalore near Anthargange, and
Amegundi Resort near Kabbaladurga

3. Is trekking allowed in Savandurga?

Yes. Savandurga is a popular destination for the day as well as night trekking in Bangalore. Trekking during these times might be problematic as locals might be wary of strangers. Get appropriate permission.

4. Trekking places near Bangalore within 100 km?

Some of the best trekking places near Bangalore within a distance of just 100 kilometres are:

Savandurga - 49 kilometres
Ramanagara - 56 kilometres
Antargange - 62 kilometres
Makalidurga - 62 kilometres
Narayangiri - 67 kilometres
Rangaswamy Betta - 78 kilometres
Kabbaldurga - 85 kilometres
Madhugiri - 100 kilometres

5. What are the best short treks around Bangalore?

If you are just a beginner in trekking, you can trek in Savandurga, Narayangiri, Ramanagara, Nandi Hills, Madhugiri, Makalidurga etc.

6. Is Kudremukh trek open?

Kudremukh trek is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. all year round. Check for updates during COVID times.

7. How do you book Skandagiri Trek?

Booking for Skandagiri Trek can be done in advance through any online travel portal. Make sure to take permission before ending up at the hills.

Summing Up

Trekking in Bangalore through any of these trails feels like rifling through the pages of “Bangalorean” medley of mountains and rivers. Rocky mountain ranges in grassy land under the blue sky compose a spellbinding view for anyone's eyes. From towering mountains to small hills, Bangalore offers a plethora of trekking options that can be conquered by amateurs.

Savandurga, Ramanagara, Antargange, Makalidurga, Narayangiri, etc. are thrilling spots within 100 kilometres distance from Bangalore. Trekking spots like Kabbaladurga, Madhugiri, and Skandagiri are also famous for night trekking. You may visit Mullayanagiri or Makalidurga if you want to find inner peace and strengthen your connection with nature.

If you want to go to any of the trekking places near Bangalore suggested above, schedule and book everything beforehand. Work on your fitness and don’t miss out on the important trekking tips shared by us. We hope we narrowed your search for the best trekking places near Bangalore and we hope you have an exciting experience with your clan sometime soon.

Also Read:

1. 15 Best Trekking Places In Karnataka

2. Things Required for Trekking - Trekking Essentials

3. Top 10 treks within an hour from Bangalore

18 Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore - Trekking In Bangalore

by Avathi Outdoors | Trekking

Trekking in Bangalore: Best Bet for Picturesque Adventures

Table of Contents

Instant Book Kabini River Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Discover Scuba Diving in Pondicherry

Geodesic Dome In Wayanad - Hipnoetic Stays

Instant Book Bandipur Safari Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Backyard Camp, a Pet-Friendly Lakeside Camp

Evolve Back, Kabini

Glamping in a Geodesic Dome - Birds Eye Estate, Chikmagalur

Wilderness Hideaway

Beginners Rock-climbing(Top Rope)- Private Group

Tambdi Surla Temple Visit near Mollem

1N/2D at a Luxurious Wellness Farm Stay

1N/2D at an Enchanting Heritage Home in Murudeshwar

1N/2D at a Cozy Homestay in Dandeli

Scuba Diving for Beginners at Havelock Island

Luxurious Vegetarian Resort near Bangalore Airport

Le Roma Gardenia Presents- The Boho Villa

Waterman Training in Mangalore

1N/2D at a Weekend Retreat in Dandeli

Tiny Cabins in Dandeli!

1N/2D at a Quaint Homestay In Dandeli

Single Day Scuba Diving in Pondi

Elegant Homestay in Vagamon

Charming Tent Stays in Gokarna

Open Water Scuba Diving Certification in Chennai

1N/2D at a Traditional Mud Hut in Bangalore

1N/2D at a Homely Farmhouse

Jungle Night Safari in Goa

A Traditional Organic Farm Stay Near Bangalore

Chorao Chillout Mangrove Kayaking

Luxury Tent Stays in South Goa!

Coconut Island and Nueti Experience

Stay at the Garden Boutique Stay

Early Morning Birding near Mollem

Divar Island Exploration

A Day Out at an Enchanting Nature Resort!

Bamboo Rafting through Forests

Cycle through the heart of Wayanad

1N/2D Cottage and Camping at Manga Lake View Farms

Snorkeling in Goa

1N/2D at a Rustic Homestay in Coorg

Experience Farm Stay at a Pet-Friendly Farm near Bangalore

Surfing Lessons in Pondicherry

Hike on the Mt. Ridges in Coorg

Stay in a French Heritage Villa

Scuba Diving for Beginners in Goa

Comforting Stay at a Gorgeous Resort in Havelock Island

1N/2D at the Mocha Estate

1N/2D at an Elegant Eco-Friendly Resort

1N/2D at a Beach View Resort in Gokarna

1N/2D at a Naturistic Amusement Park

A Fishing Trail at Aguada

Luxury Nature Stay at an Island Resort

The Christian Art Trail at Old Goa

Birding for Beginners in Coorg Forests

Stay at the French Marigold Retreat

Flyboarding in Goa! Discounted Package!

Instant Book Bhagawathi Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

1N/2D at an Elegant Backwater Homestay

1N/2D at a Luxurious Hillside Resort in Goa

Cozy Cottages in Sakleshpur

Birding for Experienced Persons

Kayaking to a Private Beach

Lunch on the Sea

Hike to the <3 Lake (Chembra Peak Range)

A Day Out at a Food Forest Farm

Riverside Stay at Riverside Inn

1N/2D at a Charming Heritage Bungalow

Stay at the Chigarimala Nature Camp

River-facing Cabin Stay and Water Activities

High Rope Activities in Coorg Rainforest

Stay in an Egyptian Tent House

1N/2D at a Fun Nature Resort in Dandeli

Longest Zipline in Wayanad, Kerala - Prices, Places, Best Time & More

1N/2D at Goa's Casa Baga!

Riverview Homestay in Udupi

1N/2D All Inclusive Camping and Watersports