Nandi Hills: The Hidden Gem In The South That Proves Not All The Best Places Are On The Map

They say ‘the best places are often off the map’, and we don’t deny it at all. Discovered by tourists over the years, Nandi Hills in Karnataka is the perfect testimony to this and has become a famous holiday spot now. Though, surrounded with breathtaking views, spectacular attractions, and surreal experiences, this place is still a tiny hidden gem located in the south.

Top 6 Reasons For Visiting Nandi Hills

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Ideal for both a quick getaway and a long refreshing escape, Nandi is an absolute paradise to be in. But, if you’re still wondering if you should visit it or not, scroll down and take a look at everything from why you must visit the best places to see because you surely wouldn’t want to regret later.

This place is drop-dead gorgeous
It is just a road trip away from Bangalore
It is home to the site from where Tipu Sultan used to get his prisoners pushed off
All the prominent dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II, Mahatma Gandhi, and more have enjoyed a stay here
You can visit this place at any time of the year
Every view is worth a thousand Instagram likes

Must Read: 38 Best Places To Visit In Chikmagalur That Are No Less Than The Northern Hills

Best Time To Visit Nandi Hills

One of the best things about this place is that it can be visited at any time of the year. All you’ve got to do is pick a date and pack your bags. However, if you’re looking for the ideal weather, then plan your trip between October to May, since the temperature during this time ranges from 10 to 40 degrees Celsius. The remaining months, which are June to September often receive moderate rainfall, which keep the hills drenched throughout the time. Therefore, whenever you are planning to pack your bag for an exciting trip you can consider the places to visit in South India and if you are fond of travelling to hill stations then there is no other choices than choosing Nandi hills. Besides that, Nandi Hills weather can be enjoyed throughout the year.

How To Reach Nandi Hills

Being a small hill station in Karnataka, this place can be reached by all modes of commute, i.e. by air, train, and road, but not directly except by road. If you’re wondering how to reach Nandi Hills from Bangalore, well, the nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore from where you can hire a cab or taxi.

If you wish to experience the train journey, then the nearest station where you can deboard is Chikkaballapur from where both buses and taxis are available. But, if you’re looking for a short road trip, you can cover the distance of 60 km between Bangalore and Nandi by driving yourself.

Getting Around Nandi Hills

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The hill station has both auto rickshaws and taxis, which you can use for commuting within the city. However, the best way to witness its beauty in all its glory is to explore it on foot. If you’re coming by car from Bangalore to Nandi Hills, then you don’t need to worry, since you can go about in your private vehicle.

6 Places To See In Nandi Hills

Here are all the fabulous places to visit in this nature’s delight. Though there aren’t any specific Nandi Hills timings, these places have opening hours of their own that you need to keep in mind before visiting.

1. Tipu’s Drop

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Located on a hilltop on a cliff which is 600 metres above the elevated ground, Tipu’s Drop is one of the oldest and most famous tourist attractions in Nandi. While this place is known for being the cliff from where the prisoners were pushed off, it also offers a spellbinding view of the town. It is the best Nandi Hills view point for gazing at splendid views of the town below.

Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM

2. Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple

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Also known as Nandi Temple, this place which dates back to the 9th century is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka. Its beautiful complex set up at the base of the hills boasts a spellbinding architecture, which makes a visit to this place worth a dime and your time. This is amongst the most interesting places to visit on a Nandi Hills trip.

Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

3. Tipu’s Summer Residence

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Another popular place to see in Nandi is Tipu’s Summer Residence, which he also used to refer as Tashk-e-jannat. It is made mainly of wood and boasts carved arches and pillars along with beautifully painted walls and ceilings. This place is definitely a must-see on your trip.

Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: NA

Suggested Read: Seven Wonders Of India That You Should Visit

4. Brahmashram

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The cave was used by then Sage Ramakrishna Paramhansa for meditation, and now has become a popular tourist attraction. If you’re more of a peace seeker, then this place near Nandi Hills in Bangalore is the perfect spot to visit for rejuvenating your mind, body, and soul.

Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Timings: NA

5. Amrita Sarovar

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The Amrita Sarovar is a major source of water supply near the Nandi region. These perennial springs had formed what is known today as the Lake of Nectar, a stunning spectacle that you cannot miss out on your Nandi Hills trip in Karnataka. The shimmering waters of this pristine lake are a must visit after sundown when the moon and stars light it up!

Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

6. Muddenahalli

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Muddenahalli happens to be a tiny village located just 7 km from the Chikballapur district in Karnataka. The village houses a memorial dedicated to M. Visvesvarayya, a famous artist of Mysore. It also has a very popular museum that has a wide collection of writings, paintings, and photographs of him on display. You can also find the ancestral home of M. Visvesvarayya right next to the museum. Located alongside the museum is his samadhi that is a humble reminder of his great contribution to Indian art. Apart from these, one should also check out places like the Anjaneya Temple, Baanathi Bande, and Antharagange located close by.

Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Timings: Throughout the day

3 Things To Do In Nandi Hills

If you think all that this place has are tourist attractions, you’re mistaken. There’s also a lot of adventure that awaits for you. The following are the best things to do in Nandi Hills:

1. Cycling

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Be it biking or cycling, the spectacular landscape, terrific terrain, and the majestic altitude makes it a top thing to do in the hills. We can vouch that paddling amidst the breezy ambience of the hills would surely turn out to be the most soul-satisfying experience of your trip.

2. Take a walk along the hills

While there’s so much to see and do in Nandi, the best experience to have is to take a stroll on the walkway along the hills in the morning or evening. You would not only get to witness charm of the town, but also capture the beauty of nature with your eyes at its best.

3. Paragliding

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Being amongst the few places in the state, Nandi offers an extraordinary flying experience to travellers of all kinds. Paragliding amidst the lush green hills and serene valleys, you’d definitely have the time of your life. Just make sure, you have checked the weather beforehand and scheduled your flight accordingly.

Top 3 Hotels In Nandi Hills Near Bangalore

Nandi Hills has some amazing and super cheap accommodation options to ensure you have a comfortable stay and a relaxing holiday.

1. Nandi Hills Resort

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Surrounded with natural beauty in all its glory, this place one of the best Nandi Hills hotels that offer a true experiential stay. Luxury, comfort, and hospitality aren’t just words for them to impress their guests, rather attributes that are quite visible in their services.

Price: NA
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
Location: Nandi Foothills, Nandi Hobli, Chikkaballapur Taluk & District, Chikkaballapur, Karnataka
Website | Reviews

2. Nehru Nilaya

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Absolutely ideal for a budget stay in Nandi Hills, accommodation at this place is offered by the Horticulture Department as per the guest’s needs. The rooms feature the old-world charm, have homelike comfort, and are spacious enough irrespective of whether it’s a cottage or a suite.

Price: INR 1,000 and above (double-sharing and depends on the room type)
TripAdvisor Rating: 2.5/5
Location: Nandi Hills, Karnataka
Website | Reviews

3. Mount Palazzo

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If you’re looking for good hotels near Nandi Hills , then Mount Palazzo is the perfect place to stay. Nestled amidst picturesque hills, this hotel offers the best of hospitality and comfort for making your holiday memorable. From indulging in various indoor games to savouring their chef’s delectable cuisines, there’s a lot at this place that would pamper you.

Price: INR 1,999 and above (double-sharing)
TripAdvisor Rating: 3/5
Location: 42/1 Karahalli cross, Nandi Hills Main Road, Devanahalli Taluq, Bangalore, Karnataka
Website | Reviews

10 Tips For Visiting Nandi Hills

While you can visit this hill station at any time of the year, it is best to avoid a holiday during the monsoon.
If you come across monkeys or stray dogs, avoid feeding them anything.
Make sure the windows and doors of your car are shut at all the times.
Since this place has very limited food options, prefer carrying your own packaged food.
Try and get back to your hotel by 6 PM since it gets dark quite early.
If you’re traveling along with your family, keep a watch at your kids as most of the roads have very steep edges.
Don’t forget to carry your camera as there are a lot of picturesque places in Nandi.
If you’re driving to Nandi via your own car, prefer parking it at the parking (taxi or bus stand) and walk all the way up to the hills as it is more convenient and time-saving.
To avoid crimes, mostly all the places are closed for tourists around 6 PM. So, make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly and do not wander on the streets after that.
If possible, try and wake up early so that you can witness the beautiful Nandi hills sunrise.

Further Read: 35 Things To Do In Gokarna To Escape The Monotony Of Life

Nandi is a gorgeous place near Bangalore, and needless to say it is worth traveling to all the way for a refreshing holiday experience. So, don’t think further and get ready to head out on the road not taken! Book your trip to Karnataka right away and experience sheer bliss amidst nature.

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Frequenly Asked Questions About Nandi Hills

What is the best time to visit Nandi Hills?

The best time to visit Nandi hills is from March to May. In the winter months the temperatures are low and if you don’t mind the chill October till February is also a good time to be in Nandi Hills.

What is famous in Nandi Hills?

Nalli Hills is an ancient hill fortress in the southern India and is a famous and lovely hill station.

Is Nandi Hills Safe?

Nandi Hills, located in the Chickmagalur district of Karnataka is a perfectly safe place to visit in India.

How much time can we spend in Nandi Hills?

One can spend all day exploring Nandi Hills in the spring and summer months. PIcnics are a popular activity there.

Is Nandi Hills open at night?

The Nandi Hills remain open from morning 6AM to 10PM at night.

Are cars allowed in Nandi Hills?

You can drive up to Nandi Hills in your private cars. The parking fare for two wheelers is INR 15 and for four wheelers in INR 60.

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Reema Arora

A writer at heart with the soul of a traveler is pretty much who she is. Besides, she also loves treating her taste buds to different cuisines, binge-watching almost all sorts of series and movies, and indulging in new experiences every now and then. Also, languages and cultures fascinate her to a great extent, which is why currently she is brushing up her Spanish.