Turahalli Forest Bangalore is a vast, lush forest that is about 20 km outside of Bengaluru and offers the ideal escape from the bustle and noise of the city. Huge rock boulders are scattered throughout the forest, creating the ideal location for relaxing as well as posing for stunning photos with the forest as the background. All vehicles are prohibited from entering the forest, with the exception of bicycles. There are many cyclists who come here, especially in the mornings, because of its great cycling tracks. There are also adventure seekers here due to the numerous rock boulders in the area.
About Turahalli Forest Bangalore
Image Credit: Panoramio for Wikimedia Commons
It is one of the nearest places to visit in Bangalore and is considered a quick hideaway from the city rush. This forest is just an hour’s drive away and situated at Hosahalli, Vajarahalli road off Bangalore—Kanakpura road. The place is quiet, scenic, and surrounded by nature, with a wide range of bird species that can particularly excite a bird watcher. The best way to enjoy Turahalli forest is to drive your vehicle up to the entrance and park it there. Head out for a walk into the forest and indulge in the rejuvenating environs of the forest.
Location: Thurahalli, Kanakapura road Bengaluru, Karnataka 560062, India
Price: Entry is free.
Timings: Opens 24 hours.
Distance from Kempe Gowda Bus stand: Around 20 KM.
Best Time to Visit: During the day after the offset of the monsoon season, it is green and beautiful.
Average time required to visit the place: 2 to 4 hours, if you wish to you can spend a day in the quietude of the forest.
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Beautiful Destinations To Visit Near Turahalli Forest Bangalore
The beautiful scenery of the place makes it a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, with serene paths winding around serene lakes and through verdant vegetation. People also love to visit nearby attractions like the national park, Botanical garden and other attractions. There are places where it is possible to walk around and see colourful water birds paddling on the water and birds of prey flying above, high up in the sky. Let’s look into few of them:
1. Bannerghatta National Park
A must-see location for those who enjoy the outdoors and animals is Bannerghatta National Park. This 25,000-acre park, which was founded in 1971, provides a wide variety of attractions, such as a zoo, butterfly park, and safari park, giving it a complete wildlife experience near Turahalli Forest Bangalore. One of the primary attractions is the safari park, which offers guests a special chance to see animals in their natural environments. You may witness magnificent tigers, lions, bears, and a variety of herbivores like deer and elephants in the safari’s separate zones dedicated to herbivores and predators. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and majesty of these animals up close during this exciting and enlightening up close contact with wildlife.
Another popular sight is the Butterfly Park, which is unique to India. It has a museum, an audio-visual area, and a conservatory for butterflies. The conservatory is a bright and enthralling experience as you stroll through and watch these fragile animals flying around. It is a humid, tropical habitat created to accommodate over 20 kinds of butterflies. There are many different kinds of animals, reptiles, and birds in the zoo at Bannerghatta National Park. It offers a wealth of information about the different species kept there and is kept up to date. Children particularly enjoy the zoo’s interactive exhibits and educational programs, which promote a greater awareness of wildlife conservation.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 22 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: November to June
2. Lalbagh Botanical Garden
One of Bangalore’s most treasured natural spots is the large and historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden, which is located around 13 kilometres from Turahalli Forest Bangalore. Lalbagh is a 240-acre botanical garden that was founded in the 18th century by Hyder Ali and later extended by his son Tipu Sultan. It is well-known for its vast array of tropical plants, immaculate lawns, and tranquil lakes. The glasshouse, which is fashioned after London’s Crystal Palace, is among the garden’s most recognizable elements. The carefully planned floral arrangements during the flower exhibits are a visual feast, showcasing the horticultural knowledge of the garden’s staff.
A wide variety of plant species, including some uncommon and exotic kinds, may be found at Lalbagh. With more than 1,800 different varieties of plants, trees, and bushes, the garden is a naturalist’s and nature lover’s dream come true. Among the notable plants are the magnificent Silk Cotton Tree, which is renowned for its remarkable look, and the centuries-old Lalbagh Rock, a geological landmark that dates back 3,000 million years. Visitors are encouraged to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the area by the well-kept grass and covered benches. Lalbagh is also a popular location for photographers, as its colourful vegetation and breathtaking landscapes offer countless chances to take breath-taking shots.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 13 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: January and August
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3. Cubbon Park
Located away in the bustling centre of Bangalore, Cubbon Park is a calm haven that provides a change of pace from the hectic metropolis. This lush, over-100-acre stretch of greenery enables visitors to fully immerse themselves in the embrace of nature and is near to Turahalli Forest Bangalore. With its serene lakes and winding paths beneath towering trees, parks offer a refuge for leisure, entertainment, and introspection. Families come for lively games and laughing as picnickers lay out their blankets on the plush grass and have unhurried dinners under the open sky. The park’s well-kept trails provide comfort to joggers and fitness enthusiasts, as the sound of footsteps combines with the rustle of leaves overhead. Here, in the peaceful atmosphere, one may forget about the cacophony of the city and rediscover the comforting embrace of the land.
However, Cubbon Park is more than just a haven of vegetation—it is also a storehouse of culture and history. Visitors find a variety of artistic treasures and architectural wonders within its walls. Strolling over the park’s lush walkways, one comes across monuments and statues honouring prominent personalities from Karnataka’s illustrious past. The statues serve as a constant reminder of the region’s rich history and lasting influence, ranging from the majestic presence of Queen Victoria to the recognizable visage of Sir Mark Cubbon, after whom the park is named.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 14 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: All year round, especially early mornings and late afternoons
4. Manchanabele Dam
Boasting its calm surroundings, Manchanabele Dam is located in a hilly area approximately 18 kilometres away from the sprawling Turahalli Forest in Bangalore. This lovely reservoir is a quiet place for tourists who want to enjoy their time in a park by having a picnic, observing birds or just to be with nature. The water in the dam remains relatively still with vegetation and rocks on the edges and perfect reflections of the surrounding sky. This non-intimidating setting hints at the guests to sit back and take in the tranquil environment that is around them. As it is located far off from the city, Manchanabele extends its beauty to the weary traveller who wants to spend time amidst the natural world.
The area around the dam is covered with marsh and therefore avian life is abundant and this area is of great interest to ornithologists. It is best to explore Manchanabele Dam in the cooler season from September to February to witness the scenic beauty of the place with the shades of fall. The melodious trilling of birds adds timbre to the whispering sound of leaves which when combined harmonise the soul to serenity.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 18 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: September to February
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5. Savandurga
Standing majestically 25 kilometres away from Bangalore, about 10 kilometres from Nelamangala, Savandurga mountain offers a thrilling experience to everyone willing to carve a travel path. Boasting of its wild charm and adventure, Savandurga is a perfect destination for trekkers and people who want to explore the potential of rock climbing. In its interior, one will find what is believed to be Asia’s biggest monolith; a giant rock which might be a little scary to climbers but a favourite challenge for adventurers. The land is rugged and sometimes hikers are able to conquer steep and dense areas before finally arriving at the top with a view of the countryside as their reward.
The ideal climate for exploring Savandurga is in the months of November to February, during which the verdant green surroundings are ideal for a delightful frolic. Besides thrill, it holds historical importance for many and is a spiritual centre for several communities. Undulating mountain range represents Karnataka state and carries many folklores and historical sites that include ancient ruins and temples.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 25 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: November to February
6. Wonderla Amusement Park
Located in Ramanagara district and built on a land area of 27 acres, Wonderla Amusement Park is one of the finest and most popular family entertainment destinations in Karnataka. Being one of the biggest amusement parks in India, Wonderla ensures the guests enjoy the activities and attractions that are designed to be adventurous and fun for visitors of all ages. They have thrilling theme rides like the roller coasters, scary water rides as well as family group rides in Wonderla. Groups can create priceless memories on the themed-attractions while the daredevils endure the plunges and turns of the exciting roller coaster. The availability of beautiful gardens and attractive flowers makes the environment move with lots of energy, creating a spirit of welcome and adventure at Wonderla.
People are instantly surrounded by games and rides as soon as they step on the territory – whether they are sliding through the water of the water park, flying on the gravity-facing attractions, or lying on the territory of a pool zone. During the month of September to February is cooler months that offer the best and most favourable conditions for visiting Wonderla and enjoying all the activities that the park has to offer without the scorching heat of the sun.
Distance from Turahalli Forest: Approx 30 kilometres
Best Time to Visit: September to February
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Plan a trip to Bangalore as it provides a cool respite from the city and is an essential green space for Bangalore. Nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone else looking for some time away from it will find paradise in its diverse range of wildlife, beautiful paths, and serene surroundings. Maintaining the ecological balance and guaranteeing that future generations can continue to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Turahalli Forest Bangalore depend on the preservation of this natural asset.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Turahalli Forest Bangalore
Are there animals in Turahalli Forest?
Yes, you can find several kinds of animals in the Turahalli Forest. Some examples include the spotted deer, wild boar, hares, jackals, lizards, mongooses, etc.
Which part can I take in conserving Turahalli Forest?
The ‘’ Leave no Trace’’ rules which are: always pack out your garbage, remain on established trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and give your support to organisations and causes that work towards protecting the forest.
What facilities can you enjoy in the forest?
Hiking is also challenging due to limited facilities; it is advisable to carry drinking water, food and other essentials with you. There are no restaurants and no lavatories in the woodland to mention several more everyday objects and services.
What is the best time of year to visit Turahalli Forest?
It’s recommended to go during the early morning or late in the afternoon when it is warm and one stands a better chance of coming across animals. To avoid the heat, do not visit at midday since the sun shines at its best during this time.
What kinds of activities in Turahalli Forest?
There are several things to do for the visitors at Turahalli Forest Bangalore including rock climbing, trekking, trail running or jogging, cycling, and bird watching. There are very many sights and sounds and quiet places that are ideal for having picnics or even taking nature snapshots.
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