Bengaluru’s best kept secrets: 7 hill stations for that perfect road trips

Bengaluru—where traffic signals last longer than you can imagine, and filter coffee fuels the city’s workforce. But beyond the concrete jungle and buzzing IT hubs, there are scenic hill stations that are just more than perfect for a weekend escape. Forget the usual Nandi Hills, we’re talking about offbeat, stunning, and (mostly) crowd-free destinations just a road trip away.

If Nandi Hills is a crowded cafe, Avalabetta is the quiet bookstore next door. Just 90 km from Bengaluru, it offers breathtaking cliffside views, fewer selfie-seekers, and a peaceful temple on top. The scenic trek is short, making it perfect for lazy adventure-seekers. Plus, the drive itself is a visual treat with misty roads and open countryside.

Wildlife and nature lovers come together at Biligiriranga Hills, also known as BR Hills. The BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, located around 170 miles from Bengaluru, is a hidden gem where, with luck, you may see sloth bears, elephants, and leopards. For those seeking a respite from the bustle of the city without sacrificing excitement, this location provides the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.

Male Mahadeshwara Hills, often known as MM Hills, is encased in legend and thick forests and is almost 210 km away. The actual drive is a wild ride filled with foggy roads, lush vegetation, and sporadic sightings of deer. Hiking up to the MM temple provides you with expansive vistas and a refreshing atmosphere that helps you forget about Zoom calls and deadlines.

If your idea of heaven is lush greenery, endless rain, and the scent of wet earth, Agumbe (350 km from Bengaluru) is calling. This tiny hill station receives some of the highest rainfall in India and is famous for its stunning sunsets, King Cobras (don’t worry, they don’t chase tourists), and dreamy trekking trails. Visit during monsoons, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary.

At just 215 km from Bengaluru, Yercaud is often overshadowed by its famous cousin, Ooty. But this underrated hill station boasts beautiful coffee estates, a serene lake, and viewpoints like Pagoda Point that offer mesmerizing sunrise views. Bonus: it’s budget-friendly and has fewer tourist traps than the mainstream hill stations.

If your idea of relaxation involves sipping freshly brewed coffee amidst rolling green hills, Chikmagalur is the place for you. Located around 245 km from Bengaluru, this hill station is famous for its sprawling coffee plantations, scenic trekking trails like Mullayanagiri, and breathtaking waterfalls. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Just 220 km from Bengaluru, Sakleshpur is a lesser-known but equally stunning hill station. Known for its lush coffee and spice plantations, misty hills, and hidden waterfalls, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers. The Manjarabad Fort offers panoramic views, while the numerous trekking trails ensure there’s plenty of adventure.