Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore) the capital of the State of Karnataka is one of the finest cosmopolitan cities in India also known as the silicon valley of our country due its tech savvy environment and developed industry. It has plenty of spots to travel throughout its neighbouring areas and is surrounded by attractive natural and scenic environments and places of historic importance. With a moderate climate throughout the year such travel destinations are a pleasant escape from the hectic schedule of a modern day life and just the right thing for your perfect holiday. We have picked ten such tourist locations out of the many places you can visit around Bangalore when you plan for your next trip this summer.
Nandi Hills – Located at just about 60 kms from Bengaluru is a favourite among nature lovers and the adventurous alike which has a very scenic viewpoint with peace and tranquility all around. It is a photographer’s paradise with beautiful environments encompassing the area. There are few temples at the Hills devoted to Sri Bhoga Narasimha, Sri Ugra Narasimha and Sri Yoga Narasimha with plenty of trekking opportunities and even cycling trips and adventure sports such as paragliding. With several nearby places for sightseeing near Nandi Hills one of them being the famous Tipu Sultans Fort this is a great retreat.
Mysuru (formerly Mysore) – It is the second largest city in Karnataka and a rapidly developing metropolitan, rich in its heritage and a place having historical significance. It was once ruled by the Maharajas of royal families with the palaces, heritage buildings and temples still existing today representing the traditional charisma of the place. Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill Temple and Mysore Zoo are few places which are popular among tourists.
Ooty (short for Ootacamund) – It is a beautiful hill station in the State of Tamil Nadu also known as the ‘Queen of the Nilgiris’. There is a travel of around 5-7 hours away from Bengaluru and people are often welcomed by its sprawling tea-estates in and around the location. The weather is very pleasant throughout the year averaging at 15-20 degrees and even dropping to 0 degrees in winter. Some of the must to go places in Ooty are Ooty Lake, Pykara, Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Gardens, Fern Hill Garden, Rose Gardens and Pine Forest.
Yercaud – A hill station in the State of Tamil Nadu located in the Shevaroy Hills with untouched natural beauty and serene environments filled with diverse flora and fauna is a delight for nature admirers. A few of the places that you can visit here are Kiliyur Waterfalls, Lady’s Seat, Nortons Bungalow, Heavens Ledge, The Grange and Retreat.
Horsley Hills – Only a 3 hour journey from Bengaluru makes for a perfect short trip on a weekend, also known as ‘Andhra Ooty’ is the only hill station in the State of Andhra Pradesh. It is a small hill station with dense forests and beautiful landscapes. There are lakes, environmental parks to visit with trekking being of one of main activities here.
Coonoor – This is a hill station in the State of Tamil Nadu and is located at a distance of just around 18 kms from Ooty. Lamb rock is a popular trekking destination along with Sims Park, St. Catherine Falls and Dolphins deserving a mention among the places worth visiting here.
Puducherry – A union territory being under French Rule until the mid twentieth century. The beaches, temples, churches, forts and ashrams provide a unique combination for a memorable and enjoyable travelling.
Munnar – Is a hill station in the State of Kerala and was a summer retreat for the British during its colonial rule in India. It is rich in natural diversity with varied flora and fauna, one of the very exotic floras named Neelakurinji blooms once in every 12 years and will do so again in 2018. A few places that are worth a visit are Mattupetty, Anamudi Peak, Pallivasal and Eravikulam National Park.
Kodaikanal – A gorgeous hill town in the State of Tamil Nadu and is located around 8 hours from Bengaluru. The weather is pleasant throughout the year and has many places to visit like Pillar Rocks , Bear Shola Falls , Silver Cascade, Bryant Park, Coaker’s Walk to name a few.
Coorg – Also known as the Scotland of India is one of the places with the highest rainfall and is a district in Karnataka. The beautiful forests, the enchanting hills and breathtaking sights make it a much cherished holiday destination.