Nandi Hills Camping: A Magical Escape Just Outside Bangalore

When city life starts to feel overwhelming and your heart craves fresh air, starry skies, and a touch of adventure, Nandi Hills camping offers the perfect weekend remedy. Located just about 60 km from Bangalore, this scenic hill station isn't just famous for sunrise views anymore—camping at Nandi Hills is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to enjoy its charm more intimately.

I did it on a whim one Friday evening—packed a bag, booked a tent, and by midnight, I was watching the stars twinkle above my head with a warm bonfire crackling nearby. Here’s everything you need to know for your own camping experience at Nandi Hills.

Why Camp at Nandi Hills?

You’ve probably heard of the Nandi Hills sunrise viewpoint—hundreds of people drive up early in the morning to watch the sun break through the clouds. But if you really want to escape the crowd and feel connected to nature, camping overnight is the way to go.

Camping allows you to:

Watch the sunset in peace before the early morning crowd arrives

Sleep under a starry sky with cool hilltop breezes

Wake up to chirping birds and mist-covered views

Enjoy a bonfire, BBQ, and games with friends or fellow campers

It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, groups of friends, or even families with kids who want a short yet memorable getaway from Bangalore.

Best Time for Nandi Hills Camping

Nandi Hills is a year-round destination, but the best months to camp are from October to March, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid peak monsoon (June to September), as heavy rain can spoil your camping experience.

In winter, especially November to January, temperatures can dip to 10°C or below at night, so make sure to carry warm layers and a good sleeping bag.

How to Reach Nandi Hills

Getting to Nandi Hills is easy and scenic, especially if you enjoy a drive or bike ride:

By Car/Bike: It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Bangalore city. The roads are smooth, and early morning drives are incredibly beautiful with fog and sunrise.

By Bus: You can take a bus from Bangalore to Chikkaballapur and then a local taxi to reach the campsite.

By Train: Nearest railway station is Chikkaballapur (around 9 km from Nandi Hills).

Most camping sites are located a few kilometers before the hilltop, so check directions with your host before you go.

The Camping Experience: What to Expect

There are several private campsites near Nandi Hills, offering tents with basic amenities, meals, and organized activities. Some even include cottages or luxury glamping options.

A typical Nandi Hills camping package includes:

Evening tea and snacks

BBQ dinner or buffet meals

Bonfire with light music

Tented stay (with sleeping bags/mattresses)

Next morning breakfast

Optional: trekking, indoor/outdoor games, or movie night

Some campsites are pet-friendly, have clean washrooms, and are set up with safety in mind. If you're going on a weekend, make sure to book in advance as it gets sold out quickly.

Budget & Booking Tips

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy camping near Nandi Hills.

Budget: Camping packages typically range from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per person (inclusive of meals, stay, and activities).

Where to book: You can find listings on platforms like Thrillophilia, BanBanjara, or directly from local eco-campsites.

What to pack:

Warm clothes

A torch or headlamp

Reusable water bottle

Toiletries and personal items

A camera (trust me, the sunrise is worth it)

If you prefer a DIY experience, you can carry your own camping gear and get permission to camp at select spots, though this requires advance coordination with forest authorities or private landowners.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you have a little extra time, turn your camping trip into a full weekend retreat by visiting:

Nandi Fort & Tipu Sultan’s Summer Residence – Dive into history and take in panoramic views.

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple – A 9th-century temple near the base of Nandi Hills.

Skandagiri Sunrise Trek – For those who want an even more adventurous early morning hike.

Grover Zampa Vineyards – Just 30 km away, great for wine tasting and lunch before heading home.

Final Thoughts: A Weekend That Recharges the Soul

Camping at Nandi Hills is more than just staying in a tent—it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and soaking in the beauty of Karnataka’s hills in a peaceful setting. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire, waking up to foggy sunrises, or simply laughing with friends under the stars, this little hilltop retreat offers moments you’ll want to relive again and again.

So the next time you’re staring at your laptop on a Friday evening and thinking, “I need a break,” you already know what to do.