Have a long weekend this week? Planning a 2-3 day trip from Bangalore with friends, family or even a romantic getaway with your partner? Bangalore is surrounded by many cities and towns which will give you a look into pre-historic civilizations to beachside getaways, and even an escapade into the hills.
Halebidu
Distance from Bangalore – 211 km
Halebidu is located in Hassan District, Karnataka, it was the capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. These historic places are known for its Hoysala architecture. The Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara temples are a must-see when here, the intricate details of Hoysala architecture are clearly visible to this day!
Coorg
Distance from Bangalore – 276 km
Coorg or Kodagu a popular weekend getaway for most Bangaloreans, since it is so close by. Coorg is blessed with amazing views and landscapes. The hills are carpeted with lush velvet green gorgeous locales and serene hills perfect if you’re on a trip with your partner. Coorg is also dubbed as the Scotland of India, situated amidst numerous coffee plantations and is close by the Dubare Reserve Forest and River Cauvery. Make sure you tickle your taste buds with delicious local dishes that are divine!
Wayanad
Distance from Bangalore – 284 km
Situated at the southernmost tip of the Deccan Plateau part of the Western Ghats, the road leading to Wayanad is lusciously green and has a very soothing feel to it. Wayanad is home to a few resorts that offer you tree houses instead of your generic hotel rooms. Wouldn’t it be an experience worth having? The best drive that calms the body, mind and soul is a drive through the tea estates of Wayanad.
Ooty
Distance from Bangalore – 278 km
South of India, Ooty is the most famous hill station, located in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is famous for its pleasant weather, botanical gardens, and gorgeous landscape. Avalanche Lake, in Ooty, is surreal. The beautiful crystal clear waters and lush green hills as a backdrop make it a sight to see! The dams around Ooty are also worth a visit.
Pondicherry
Distance from Bangalore – 378 km
Former French colony is now a union territory and is often called the Europe of India. The best part of Pondicherry is that it retains its French heritage even today. Most buildings, churches, and statues are very colonial in style. Home to the world famous Auroville, Pondicherry welcomes many international tourists as well. Make sure that while you’re here to visit Paradise Beach, and go scuba diving there! There are many churches that are a must visit, even if you’re not religious you can go to admire the architecture.
Bylakuppe
Distance from Bangalore – 225 km
Dharamsala of the south, Bylakuppe is situated around situated 225 km and 90 km from Mysore. The small town is the home of the largest Tibetan population outside of Dharamshala in India. If you want a relaxed getaway this is the place for you! Whilst here, make sure you visit the Tibetan Golden Temple, and while at it make sure the spin the prayer wheels to get rid of your bad karma (no harm in trying it, is there?). Do indulge in the steaming bowls of thukpa or indulge in some delicious momos.
Hampi
Distance from Bangalore – 353 km
If art is something you love, then this is the place for you! Hampi is a village situated in the northern Karnataka, that’s rich in history. During the ancient times, Hampi was considered to be one of the largest and richest cities of the world. The ruins of Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The meticulously carved monuments are worth seeing at least once in your life. When you are here make sure you visit Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, and the Zenana Enclosure.
Gokarna
Distance from Bangalore – 490 km
Tired of Goa but want to visit the beach? Gokarna is home to the famous Om Beach. Known to have a wide variety of watersports, and if you are a thrill seeker then, Gokarna is the only destination you want to be at. Gokarna is also famous for its temples. You can even learn to ride the waves here at Cocopelli Surf School. Surfing, Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Paragliding, etc.; Gokarna has it all!
Munnar
Distance from Bangalore – 475 km
Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, and is situated at the confluence of 3 streams Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Known to most people as the land of tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes, Munnar making it a very popular destination. While on your visit to Munnar, do visit Eravikulam National Park, it’s the only place where you can see the endangered species, Nilgiri Tahr. Inside the park in the highest peak in the South of India called Anamudi Peak.
So which is your pick? Where are you Zooming to this weekend?
