5 Weekend Getaways from Bangalore That Will Soothe Your Soul

Let me tell you a little secret—some of the best trips I’ve taken weren’t long vacations. They were short, spontaneous weekend escapes from Bangalore. Sometimes, it was just me and a backpack; other times, it was a car full of friends and music that didn’t stop. But every single trip had one thing in common—they made me feel alive again.

If you live in Bangalore, you don’t need weeks to plan or cross-state flights to unwind. Just a tank full of fuel, a bit of curiosity, and a free weekend can take you somewhere peaceful, scenic, and unforgettable.

So, here are five weekend getaways from Bangalore I’ve personally fallen in love with—each with its own magic, each worth your next escape.

1. Agumbe – The Cherrapunji of the South

Distance from Bangalore: ~380 km

Best for: Monsoon chasers and rainforest lovers

If you dream of misty mornings, waterfalls that look like they belong in fairytales, and lush green canopies that hum with life, Agumbe is your escape. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it’s one of the wettest places in India and home to the King Cobra.

Why go?

Agumbe is a paradise during the monsoon. Trek to Barkana Falls, watch the sun dip behind endless hills at Sunset Point, and explore Kundadri Hills if you enjoy solitude and silence. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot rare wildlife in the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station.

Best time to visit: June to November (monsoon and post-monsoon magic)

How to reach: An 8-hour drive via Shimoga. You can also take a train to Udupi and hire a cab.

Local tip: Stay at a forest homestay and wake up to the sound of frogs and rain on the roof—it’s like music you never knew you needed.

2. Hassan & Belur – History and Hoysala Marvels

Distance from Bangalore: ~190 km

Best for: Culture lovers and architecture enthusiasts

Sometimes, beauty lies in the details—and Belur and Halebidu will prove that. These twin towns near Hassan are treasure chests of Hoysala architecture, intricately carved temples, and timeless serenity.

Why go?

The Chennakeshava Temple at Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu are jaw-dropping in their craftsmanship. The carvings tell stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and you can easily spend hours tracing the tales with your fingers.

Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and clear skies

How to reach: A 4–5 hour drive via NH75. Roads are smooth and well-maintained.

Itinerary tip: Combine with a short detour to Shettihalli Rosary Church, a partially submerged gothic church by the river—a hauntingly beautiful spot especially during the rains.

3. Shravanabelagola – A Spiritual Trek with a View

Distance from Bangalore: ~140 km

Best for: Spiritual seekers and peaceful solo trips

Perched atop Vindyagiri Hill, the 57-foot monolithic statue of Gommateshwara (Bahubali) stands tall, calm, and powerful. Whether you're religious or not, the aura of Shravanabelagola touches you deeply.

Why go?

Climb the 600+ stone steps barefoot—it’s tough, but the panoramic view from the top and the silence around the statue feel sacred. It’s a place for quiet thoughts and big realizations.

Best time to visit: Early morning in winter (November to February)

How to reach: A 3-hour drive from Bangalore. You can also stop here en route to Hassan or Belur.

Local tip: Carry water and go early to avoid harsh sun on the stone steps.

4. BR Hills – Where Forests and Hills Collide

Distance from Bangalore: ~180 km

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and quiet forest escapes

Nestled between the Western and Eastern Ghats, the Biligiriranga Hills (BR Hills) are one of Karnataka’s lesser-explored gems. It’s where jungles meet mountains and peace meets adventure.

Why go?

Take a safari in the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, visit the ancient Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple, or simply sit under the stars in a forest resort. This place is about tuning out and breathing deep.

Best time to visit: October to May (dry and cool)

How to reach: Around 5 hours by road via Kanakapura or Mysore. Roads pass through scenic rural stretches.

Travel tip: Opt for eco-lodges—they offer basic comforts, but the forest experience is worth it.

5. Skandagiri – A Midnight Trek to a Glowing Sunrise

Distance from Bangalore: ~70 km

Best for: Night owls and photography lovers

There’s something magical about hiking in the dark with only stars and torchlight guiding you. Skandagiri is one of the few places near Bangalore where you can do a night trek that ends in a cloud-covered sunrise view.

Why go?

The trek is moderately tough and takes 2–3 hours. But the moment you reach the top and watch the first rays of sun pierce through the floating clouds? You’ll forget your aching legs.

Best time to visit: November to March for clear sunrises

How to reach: A short 2-hour drive to Kalavara village, followed by the trek

Important tip: Trekking is allowed only with permission—book in advance via Karnataka Forest Department or guided tour providers.

Final Words: Escape to Discover, Return to Reflect

Every time I leave Bangalore for a weekend and head into nature, culture, or silence, I return a little different—calmer, clearer, and more grateful. These weekend getaways from Bangalore aren’t just places; they’re experiences that give you exactly what you didn’t know you needed.

So go ahead—book that ticket, charge your camera, or just throw a few clothes in a bag and drive. The road is waiting, and the escape is worth it.

FAQs:

Q. Which weekend getaway near Bangalore is best for monsoon?

A. Agumbe, BR Hills, and Chunchi Falls are stunning during the rains, but check road conditions before traveling.

Q. Can I do these trips solo?

A. Yes! Especially places like Skandagiri, Shravanabelagola, and Belur are safe and ideal for solo travel. Always keep someone informed.

Q. Are these trips budget-friendly?

A. Definitely. Most places offer homestays or basic lodges. Transport by bus or carpooling helps reduce costs too.

Q. Do I need to book stays in advance?

A. During long weekends or peak season (October–January), yes. Otherwise, walk-in stays often work in quieter towns.