Best Weekend Getaways from Bengaluru
A home is no doubt “the place” to keep you calm and help you carry on with your life, yet sometimes you need a break from everything that is a part of your routine. It has been very well said that “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us”.
Travel does not necessarily mean going on a holiday for a week or more. A short trip is just the right substitution for a lethargic weekend that you feel is great for some sleep and rest after working like crazy through the week. But if this 'weekday work' and 'weekend rest' get monotonous then you might encounter a time when you feel restless and seek alternative options. Even if you do not lie on your bed for a day and instead get out and explore something new, you will find yourself recharged to continue with your life on Monday.
PropGuide lists some interesting places around Bengaluru that could be your perfect weekend getaway.
One-day To and Fro Getaways
Nandi Hills: Nandi Hills, also known as Nandidurg, is a pristine location in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. A road trip to the place will take you approximately an hour and a half from Bengaluru. Located at a distance of 60 km, en route you can have a fantastic experience of tasting delicious cuisines at restaurants that line the way. Once you get there, go cycling or trekking and feel like a free bird going paragliding. Also, you can visit the famous Nandi Hills Fort and get an interesting historical perspective.
Ramanagar: Ramanagar is located just 50 kilometres from Bengaluru. The place is famous for trekking and its ambiance is filled with all kinds of sporty sprits. Be sure of carrying your trekking kit and seek help from the locals for help with directions. You will surely have a great experience amidst the natural surroundings.
Banerghata National Park: You can reach this spot after travelling a distance of just 22 kilometres from Bengaluru. The national park will introduce you to a lot of flora and fauna through its various sections such as a zoo, aquarium, butterfly house and more. One can also get the experience of a safari ride which is available with prepaid booking services.
Tungabhadra Dam: Built on the Tungabhadra river, a tributary of the famous Krishna River, the dam is a habitat for a large number of aquatic species and is a great source of irrigation. The place is perfect for a picnic outing. The dam is also close to other popular spots such as Shringeri Sharadamba Temple, Lotus Mahal and Archaeological Museum.
Two Days of Chill Pill: Longer Getaways
Mysore Palace at night (Flickr)
Mysore: Mysore is known as the cultural city of Karnataka. It is approximately 146 km from Bengaluru. You may opt to stay or take a return journey by Saturday night. The place is famous for palaces and temples. Some of the major spots are the Mysore Palace, Jagmohana Palace, Brindavan Garden, Rail Museum, Nanjangud Temple, Somnathapura and Chamundi Hill.
(Flickr)
Kochi: This Kerala city is located at a distance of 574 km from Bengaluru. The city hosts a cosmopolitan culture which has been influenced by historical trading connections with the Arabs, Portuguese, Japanese and Chinese. Food in the city is known for its vast variety. Some of the important landmarks of the city are the Dutch Palace, Pallipuram Fort, David Hall, VOC Gate, Hill Palace Museum and more.
Botanical Gardens, Ooty (Wikimedia)
Ooty: Ooty is said to be the queen of hill stations in the south. A beautiful place surrounded by picturesque scenery and a pleasing climate is the USP of the city. Spending a night in a hill station is itself a matter of joy. You can fall in love with nature's beauty at the Pyara Lake and also appreciate the diversity of the flora and fauna. It is located 270 km away from Bengaluru.
(Tirupati)
Tirupati: For those who find peace in pilgrimage, the pious city of Tirupati is surely going to check your spiritual wellness. The must visit spots here are the famous Venketeshwara Temple, Padmavati Temple, Sri Kondandarama Temple and Chandragiri Fort. Purge your spirits here and get home refreshed and replenished.
Rented Houseboat in Alleppey (Wikimedia)
Alleppey- Make a journey of 593 kilometres worthwhile and see the beauty of this beach city during the day as well as night. The fantastic experience of living in a houseboat will make your trip to Alleppey an unforgettable one. There are many options available on this. Feel the coziness of the midnight lake view and watch the stars till you sleep.