Best Weekend Getaways from Bangalore: Destinations for Every Kind of Traveller

Living in Bangalore has its perks—the weather is pleasant, the city is vibrant, and there’s no shortage of good food or nightlife. But let’s be honest, sometimes the traffic and the constant buzz make you want to escape for a few days. The good news? Bangalore is perfectly located in the heart of South India, surrounded by hills, waterfalls, forests, and heritage towns—all within a few hours’ drive.

Over the years, I’ve taken countless short trips around the city, and I can confidently say that the options for weekend getaways from Bangalore are endless. Whether you’re craving a peaceful trek in the Western Ghats, a romantic stroll by a hill station lake, or a cultural dive into heritage temples, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s my personal guide to some of the best weekend destinations from Bangalore.

1. Coorg – The Scotland of India

If you ask any Bangalorean about their favorite quick escape, chances are Coorg (Kodagu) will top the list. Just 5–6 hours away, Coorg is a green paradise of coffee plantations, waterfalls, and misty hills.

I remember sipping a freshly brewed cup of filter coffee at a homestay, with rain tapping on the tiled roof, and thinking—this is exactly what I needed. Popular spots include Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Mandalpatti, and Dubare Elephant Camp.

Distance: ~260 km (5–6 hrs drive)

Best For: Nature lovers, couples, coffee enthusiasts

Best Time: October to March

2. Chikmagalur – Where Coffee Meets the Clouds

If Coorg is famous, Chikmagalur is its slightly quieter cousin. Known as the “coffee land of Karnataka,” this place is every trekker’s dream. The Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest in Karnataka, offers sweeping views of the Western Ghats.

The drive itself is a delight—lush estates, winding roads, and the smell of roasted coffee beans in the air. Trekkers can also explore Baba Budangiri Hills and Kudremukh National Park, while those looking for a relaxed trip can just chill in one of the many cozy homestays.

Distance: ~245 km (5 hrs drive)

Best For: Trekkers, road trippers, photography lovers

Best Time: September to March

3. Sakleshpur – Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats

If you want to avoid touristy crowds, Sakleshpur is your answer. Tucked between coffee estates and mountains, this little hill station is great for both adventure seekers and lazy weekenders.

You can trek to Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, Jenukal Gudda, or Manjarabad Fort, or simply book a riverside campsite for bonfire nights. I once camped here during monsoon—the sound of rain on the tent, mixed with the gurgling river nearby, was pure magic.

Distance: ~220 km (4.5–5 hrs drive)

Best For: Camping, offbeat travelers, friends’ trips

Best Time: June to February

4. Mysore – Heritage City with Timeless Charm

Not every weekend getaway has to be about hills and treks. Sometimes, culture calls—and Mysore never disappoints. Just a 3-hour drive from Bangalore, Mysore is home to the grand Mysore Palace, the lively Devaraja Market, and the peaceful Chamundi Hills.

If you’re planning during Dussehra, you’ll witness the city at its vibrant best with processions, lights, and festivities. Add a quick stop at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary or Srirangapatna on the way, and you have a well-rounded trip.

Distance: ~150 km (3 hrs drive)

Best For: Families, history buffs, photographers

Best Time: October to March

5. Kabini – For the Wildlife Enthusiasts

For those who love the call of the wild, Kabini is one of the best weekend getaways from Bangalore. Nestled on the banks of Kabini River, this place is famous for its wildlife safaris in Nagarhole National Park, where you might spot elephants, leopards, and if luck favors you—a tiger.

I still remember the adrenaline rush of watching a herd of elephants crossing the river during a boat safari. That moment is etched in my memory forever.

Distance: ~210 km (5 hrs drive)

Best For: Wildlife lovers, families, photographers

Best Time: October to May

6. Ooty – Queen of Hill Stations

If you’re in the mood for a slightly longer trip, Ooty in Tamil Nadu is worth it. Surrounded by the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is famous for its Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and of course, endless tea plantations.

The best part? The scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train ride from Mettupalayam or Coonoor. Even if you’ve been before, Ooty has a way of pulling you back with its cool climate and charming vibes.

Distance: ~270 km (6–7 hrs drive)

Best For: Families, couples, honeymooners

Best Time: October to June

7. Hampi – A UNESCO World Heritage Escape

If history and architecture excite you, Hampi is the ultimate weekend getaway. The ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, spread across boulder-strewn landscapes, feel like stepping into another world.

Cycle around the monuments, climb Matanga Hill for sunrise, and spend evenings by the Tungabhadra River. Trust me, two days won’t feel enough here.

Distance: ~340 km (6–7 hrs drive or overnight train)

Best For: History buffs, backpackers, photographers

Best Time: October to February

Travel Tips for Weekend Getaways from Bangalore

Start Early: To avoid traffic, leave Bangalore before sunrise. Trust me, it makes a huge difference.

Choose Stays Wisely: Homestays and eco-resorts around coffee estates or riversides often offer a more immersive experience than hotels.

Budgeting: Most trips can be managed under ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person for a weekend (including travel, food, and stay).

Safety: Always check road conditions during monsoon, and if trekking, carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

Final Thoughts

What makes weekend getaways from Bangalore so special is the sheer variety. Within just a few hours, you can go from sipping coffee in Chikmagalur to spotting elephants in Kabini, or from walking through Mysore’s palaces to hiking misty hills in Sakleshpur.

So the next time you feel the city chaos catching up with you, pack a bag, grab some friends (or go solo!), and head out. Because in Bangalore, the mountains, forests, and heritage towns are always just a weekend away.