If you’re planning a perfect weekend in the lap of nature and hills, Nandi Hills, Bangalore, can be the best spot to visit in August for you and your family. The place is located at an altitude of 1,450 meters and is highly known for its greenery and panoramic views.
Also known as “Nandi Durg,” the place was used by Tipu Sultan as a summer retreat. Various beautiful temples, shrines, and monuments add a flavor of historical and religious significance to this hill station. Just like Nandi Hills, there are many other great hill stations in India located at numerous beautiful locations.
The place is not only limited to one thing, as it serves as a wonderful destination for adventure enthusiasts as well. Cycling and trekking through green pathways, camping to connect with nature, and paragliding in Nandi Hills to get a bird’s eye view of the town. In short, Nandi Hills is a full-fledged package for all types of visitors.
5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Nandi Hills
If you want to rejuvenate your body and mind in a tranquil location, Nandi Hills welcomes you with its full beauty. This hill station will make your weekend an unforgettable experience. Here is a brief guide about Nandi Hill’s location, timings, and others to make your trip more pleasant and smooth.
Location
The first question that may arise in your mind is where Nandi Hills is located. This small town is located in Karnataka and is 60 km away from Bangalore, the capital of the state. The hill station is just 10 km far from Chikkaballapur, the city of grape, grain, and silk cultivation.
How to Reach?
Despite being a small hill station in Karnataka, Nandi Hills is well-connected to other major cities of the state. As we have mentioned, Bangalore to Nandi Hills distance is just 60 km, so it can be easily covered by road.
Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, is the nearest airport and Chikkaballapur is the nearest railway station to the town. From both of the places, you can easily find the buses and cabs. The best and preferable way to reach the place is by using your vehicle.
Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills
If you want to beat the heat this summer, you can plan your trip to several summer holiday destinations in India with family or friends. And the one that takes the spot on the list is Nandi Hills!
Nandi Hills’ timings make it one of the best tourist destinations in Bangalore. It can be visited at any time during the year. However, if you want to witness the beautiful weather, you can visit here from October to May. Since the temperature is quite low during this period.
If you want to witness the monsoon and lush greenery at its peak here, June to September can be the best time for you. But you’ve to take extra care during this season.
Nandi Hills Ticket Price
There are various tourist attractions in Nandi Hills where ticket prices or entry fees may vary. At some places, entry is free, while at some others, the charges are less up to Rs. 5 only. However, you may have to pay extra for the parking.
Nandi Hills Opening Timing
Nandi Hills is a town filled with so many attractive and blissful locations. Some of these locations may open early in the morning so that the visitors can witness the beautiful sunrise, while others may open a little late. To get the complete details about the opening and closing timings of various tourist attractions in Nandi Hills, you are advised to read the article further.
Top 5 Tourist Spots and Activities in Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is a soul-satisfying and pocket-friendly destination. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family trip, a friend’s trip, or a solo trip, this hill station will never leave you unsatisfied. The place has something for everyone. Nandi Hills sunrise viewpoints are also a point of attraction for visitors, where they can get a kiss from the sun and enjoy the gentle breeze touching their cheeks.
There are so many famous historical places in India that you can check out to witness their beauty. Some of the most popular tourist attractions and activities in Nandi Hills are given below to make your trip easier and more memorable:
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
It is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka, located at the top of the mountain. This Hindu pilgrimage site is dedicated to Lord Shiva, his wife Devi Parvati, and his sacred bull Nandi; it is also known as Nandi Temple.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is designed in Dravidian style. Its beautiful complex, supported by gigantic pillars, makes it an amazing specimen of architectural importance, craftsmanship, and handicrafts.
The walls and interiors are designed with stone carvings and spellbinding metalwork.
There is also a pond outside the temple named Sringeri Teertha. Apart from this sacred temple, you can also visit some other nearby temples, such as Sri Yoga Narasimha, Sri Urga, and Sri Bhoga Narasimha.
| Opening Hours | 6:00 am to 7:00 pm |
During your trip to South India, you can also visit several other famous temples in Tamil Nadu.
Brahmashram
This is an ancient cave in Nandi Hills, a popular pilgrimage site. The ashram was used as a meditation site by the Sage Ramakrishna Paramhansa, an ardent devotee of Goddess Kali. Brahmashram is well known for its religious significance and distinctive structure. If you want to spend some time in silence and solitude, you should not miss this spot during your trip. It is one of the less touched places of Nandi Hills.
| Opening Hours | 7:00 am to 7:00 pm |
Tipu’s Drop
Tipu’s Drop is a steep rock that is located 600 m above the ground. The place was historically used by Tipu Sultan to punish the prisoners by dropping them from the hilltop. It is among the oldest and most popular sites in Nandi Hills, Bangalore. From the cliff of the mountain, you can get a panoramic view of the town, which is enough to give you goosebumps. Tipu’s Drop is among the best place in the town to experience a splendorous sunset.
| Opening Hours | 6:00 am to 6:30 pm |
Amrita Sarovar
The stunning view and shimmering water of Amrita Sarovar make it a must-visit place during your Nandi Hills trip. The Sarovar is a major source of freshwater supply in the region. The place is encompassed by steps like structures, and archways.
These perennial streams are today known as the Lake of Nectar. The best time to visit the place is after sunset when the shimmering of moonlight can be seen in the water’s reflection.
| Opening Hours | 9:00 am – 6:00 pm |
Various Activities
Whether you want to explore majestic altitude and spectacular landscapes, capture plenty of picturesque locations, fly through serene valleys, or do anything else, Nandi Hills Bangalore is the best fit for you.
You can enjoy several activities such as camping, cycling, trekking, and paragliding in Nadi Hills with your traveling companions or even alone.
Top 5 Hotels and Restaurants in Nandi Hills
To ensure relaxing and budget-friendly holidays, we have provided some of the best picks of hotels and restaurants near Nandi Hills for your comfort.
Mount Palazzo
Surrounded by lush green mountains and serene beauty, this resort is known for its luxury, comfort, and hospitality. Their on-site restaurant, Spice and Spirits, will refresh you with their delightful cuisine.
| Address | 42/1, Karahalli Cross Devanahalli Taluk, Bengaluru-562110, Karnataka |
| Price | INR 2,100 and above per night |
| Amenities | Free parking Free Wi-Fi Bar/lounge Gym Swimming pool Game room Bicycle rentals Indoor play area for children |
Nehru Nilaya
This budget-friendly stay is run by the horticulture department of the town. This hotel will give you vintage vibes and home-like comfort in its cottage and suite.
| Address | 9MCP+735, Nandi Hills, Bangalore-562103, Karnataka |
| Price | INR 1,000 and above per night |
| Amenities | Online booking available Free cancellation Best for history lovers |
Village Studio Resort and Spa
This resort offers you a complete package with well-equipped rooms, a great meal, a spa, a massage, etc. So, if you want to have a staycation with full comfort and beautiful nature, Village Studio Resort and Spa can be the best choice for you.
| Address | No 143/2A, Nandi Hills Cross, Heggedehalli Village, Tubgere Post, Doddhaballapur Taluk, Bangalore-561203, Karnataka |
| Price | INR 7,000 and above per night |
| Amenities | Bonfire Swimming pool Water sports Parking Restaurant Kid’s Meal Barbeque Laundry Service |
Olives Fine Dining Restaurant
If you want a luxurious dining experience along with natural beauty, Olives Fine is the best choice for you. This famous restaurant serves a multitude of cuisines without compromising taste or quality.
| Address | 9M69+8P8, Nandi Hills Main Rd, Heggadahalli, Bangalore – 561205, Karnataka |
| Cost for two | INR 500-1000 approx |
| Amenities | Outdoor seating Open for 7 days |
Tribal Café
This restaurant offers some delectable food options along with beautiful surroundings. The best thing about Tribal Café is that it remains open 24×7 to treat your late-night cravings.
| Address | Nandi Hills Road, Opposite KPN Farm, Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| Cost for two | 500 approx |
| Amenities | Credit card accepted Outdoor seating Take Away |
Now you won’t have a hard time looking for hotels and restaurants with yummy food on your visit to Nandi Hills! But wait, there’s more…
Tips for Having the Best Vacation in Nandi Hills
If you want to avoid any type of hassle and want to make your weekend trip to Nandi Hills in Bangalore memorable, there are certain tips for planning an exciting mountain trip that you should remember throughout your journey:
- Though the whole year is the best time to visit Nandi Hills, it is advisable to avoid visiting during monsoon. As the place can be muddy and slippery. Also, several activities will not be open during this season.
- You are advised to keep some packaged food items with you, especially if you are traveling with family and children, because there are limited food options available at the place.
- Don’t forget to add a raincoat and jacket to your packaging, as the weather can change anytime here. You should also keep your camera, medicines, and other things of primary importance handy.
- You should wake up early to get a splendid view of the sunrise from some of the best Nandi Hills sunrise viewpoints.
- Since it gets dark early here and due to safety concerns, it is advised to reach the hotel by 6:00 pm.
So, if you’re looking for a peaceful weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city in the surrounding verdant hills, green valleys, and magnificent views with exuberant rainforests, Nandi Hills can be a part of your India travel guide. This hill station will give you a lifetime experience and so many unforgettable memories and photographs.
