Overview
Did you ever want to visit the amazing places you saw on Windows desktop’s wallpaper? Say no more, pack your bags and wave goodbye to your house. No more staring at these wonderful landscapes through a screen, it is time you live it. There are tons of fun things to do if you have explored the city of Bengaluru. If you are looking for gastronomical ventures, there are some fine wineries near Bengaluru where you can relax and have discussions over fine wine and cheese. The recommended vineyards are Heritage Sula, Big Banyan and Soma Vineyards. All of these places include fun activities like wine tasting, visit to wine factories and grape stomping. These vineyards are not more than 100 kms away from Bengaluru.
For adrenaline junkies, there are a handful of trek trails around Bangalore like Nandi hills, Kunti Betta, Anthargange trek, Kudremukh trek, etc. there are camping sites at the foothills Nandi hills called Vagabond Base camp where you choose to stay in tents and enjoy the view. For a quiet quality family time and games, there are family resorts which provide day out and stay packages that include meals and fun activities like rope line, zip line, zorbing ball, cave explorations, paintball and many more.
Madikeri (Coorg)
This calming hill station is located 264 kms away from Bengaluru. Also commonly known as Coorg, this place is famous for its nature, serene beauty and exquisite coffee plantations. There are a couple of things you could explore while you are touring this hill station. One could explore the local sightseeing spots like Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, Abbey Falls, Namdroling monastery, Nalkunadu Palace etc. Dubare Elephant camp is an ideal location for families with kids to enjoy. There is also a camping facility in this elephant camp. Visit coffee plantations and get an opportunity to handpick coffee fruits and be a part of the coffee grounding process. For all the thrill seekers, there is a lovely trek trail near Madikeri called Tadiandamol. One can start their trek from Virajpet to reach the Tadiandamol hilltop.
Bannerghatta National Park
This National Park was established in 1974. The national park preserves and protects wildlife species and flora and fauna of the region. The national park is just 21 kms away from Bengaluru. For a total jungle safari experience, do pay a visit to this mesmerising park. There are various jungle lodges, cottages, and camping areas in and around this national park. Experience the sheer beauty of the lives in the wild by going on a safari tour.
Kodachadri Trek
Kodachadri hills are at a whopping 413 kms distance from Bengaluru. The place’s surrealism makes it worthy of travelling so far. The hills are located in western ghats in close vicinity of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. The recommended way to reach Kodachadri is by roadways. There are numerous local buses which embark from Bangalore to Kollur and Kodachadri. Nittur village is an alternative spot to start your trekking journey and also a spot to hire jeeps for the onward path. The nearest and viable town would be Kollur which is 9 kms away from Kodachadri. The trek trail can be bumpy and tricky for some budding trekkers. Do take your blessings at Moola Mookambika temple, enjoy the Hidlumane falls and explore the Ganpati Caves. Take a seat in the clouds and enjoy the awesome sunset.
Bheemeshwari
Bheemeshwari is famous for its beautiful hillocks, excellent location and nature camps. The Cauvery Wildlife sanctuary is in close proximity where you can observe the well maintained biodiversity of the region. You can also bring your fishing rods to fish in this beautiful river. If not fishing, you can hike for 6 kms and come across Bheemeshwari peak and watch sunsets with your loved ones. The trek is not so difficult as it is more like a leisure stroll. There is also a park nearby where there are facilities for children to play and have a one day picnic with their families or have team outings.
Mysore
This former princely state was known to be Tipu Sultan’s Province until Independence. Mysore is the second largest city of Karnataka which currently covers one third of the state. It is 140 kms from Bengaluru and is famous for its royal history and royal architecture. The city was named after the demon killing goddess Mahisuru. The major places to visit are The Mysore Palace, The Maharaja residence, Chamundi Hill, Karanji lake, Iruppu falls, Brindavan Gardens and many more.
