Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore: Top Trails for Weekend Adventures

If you’re living in Bangalore or just visiting the city, you’re in for a treat—not just for its vibrant culture and weather, but also for the wealth of trekking opportunities nearby. Nestled close to the Western Ghats and surrounded by hills, forests, and lakes, Bangalore is perfectly located for quick getaways and exhilarating treks. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking for an outdoor escape, there’s something for everyone within a few hours’ drive.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best trekking places near Bangalore that promise breathtaking views, thrilling trails, and unforgettable experiences.

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Why Trekking Near Bangalore Is So Popular

Bangalore’s geographical advantage places it within proximity to the Eastern and Western Ghats. The natural terrain around the city features rugged hills, dense forests, waterfalls, and ancient forts—making it ideal for trekking enthusiasts. What’s more, most of these trails are perfect for weekend trips, allowing city-dwellers to connect with nature without traveling too far.

Whether you prefer sunrise treks, night hikes, or two-day camping adventures, the treks near Bangalore offer varied experiences suited to different fitness levels.

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1. Savandurga Hill Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

Savandurga is one of the largest monolith hills in Asia and a favorite trekking destination near Bangalore. The trail takes you through a mix of rugged paths and steep rock surfaces, making it both exciting and moderately challenging. At the summit, you’ll find a small Nandi temple and panoramic views of the Magadi forest and Arkavathi River.

Highlights:

• Panoramic sunrise views
• Historical ruins of a fortress at the top
• Rock climbing opportunities for adventure lovers

Video By: Hopping Bug

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2. Nandi Hills Sunrise Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 61 km
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Trek Duration: 1-2 hours

Nandi Hills is a well-known tourist spot, but it also offers an easy and scenic trekking experience. Most people drive up the hill, but trekking gives you the chance to soak in the beauty of the landscape, the misty atmosphere, and the rising sun. It’s ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed weekend outing.

Highlights:

• Glorious sunrise views
• Tipu Sultan’s fort
• Bird watching and photography

Video By: MadTrails

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3. Skandagiri (Kalavara Durga) Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 62 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

Skandagiri is famous for its night trek and “walk above the clouds” experience. The trail leads through forest patches and rocky terrain to the ruins of an old fort. Starting the trek around midnight lets you reach the peak just in time for a magical sunrise view, often above the cloudline.

Highlights:

• Night trek with headlamps
• Stargazing on clear nights
• Ancient fort ruins at the top

Video By : Little Detours

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4. Ramanagara Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 50 km
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 2-3 hours

Ramanagara is famously known as the filming location for the Bollywood movie Sholay. But beyond cinema, it’s a rock climber’s paradise with short treks that involve scrambling up granite hills. The area is also rich in birdlife, making it a good destination for nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Iconic Sholay filming site
• Adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling
• Beautiful boulder-strewn landscape

Video By : Folks On Wheels

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5. Makalidurga Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

The Makalidurga trail winds through granite rock formations and lush vegetation, leading up to a fort situated at the top. The trek is particularly scenic post-monsoon, when the surroundings are green and the weather is perfect for hiking. The railway track that passes nearby also adds a unique charm to the area.

Highlights:

• Trekking along a railway track
• Ancient fort with panoramic views
• Night treks and camping available

Video By : BongBisht

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6. Anthargange Trek and Cave Exploration

Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trek Duration: 2-3 hours

Anthargange offers a mix of trekking and cave exploration through volcanic rock formations. The terrain consists of steep stairs and rocky patches that take you through mysterious caves and hidden chambers. This trek is especially popular among adventure seekers and weekend groups.

Highlights:

• Volcanic rock caves
• Night treks and bonfire camping
• Ideal for groups and beginners

Video By : Life2Wander

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7. Kunti Betta Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 125 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

Kunti Betta is a twin hillock located near the town of Pandavapura. According to mythology, it is believed that the Pandavas and their mother Kunti spent time here during their exile. The trek involves climbing steep slopes and boulders, rewarding you with stunning views of the surrounding paddy fields and lakes.

Highlights:

• Mythological significance
• Scenic views and adventurous boulders
• Ideal for sunrise or night treks

Video By : TheWhiteCollarCouple

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8. Devarayanadurga Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 70 km
Trek Difficulty: Easy
Trek Duration: 1-2 hours

Devarayanadurga is a scenic hill station with temples, forested hills, and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect for a quiet nature walk rather than a strenuous trek. The trail passes through two temples—Bhoga Narasimha and Yoga Narasimha—and offers incredible views from the summit.

Highlights:

• Ideal for spiritual and nature lovers
• Quiet and less crowded
• Bird watching and picnic spots

Video By : TEECEE ENTERTAINMENT

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9. Channarayana Durga Trek

Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

Channarayana Durga is a lesser-known fort trek that offers solitude, history, and adventure. The trail involves trekking through rocky terrain and forest paths to reach the top, where you’ll find fort ruins and expansive views. It’s a great alternative if you want to avoid the crowds.

Highlights:

• Fort ruins from the 17th century
• Fewer tourists, peaceful setting
• Great for photography

Vidoe By : Akshay Joshi Films

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10. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

Distance from Bangalore: 75 km
Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

This is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore for nature lovers and solitude seekers. The trail takes you through dense forest, leading up to a hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha. The summit offers a panoramic view of the Kanakapura forest and nearby hills.

Highlights:

• Dense forest trail
• Spiritual destination
• Quiet and peaceful

Video By : Sudeesh Kottikkal

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Best Time to Go Trekking Near Bangalore

While many treks around Bangalore are accessible year-round, the best time to trek is during the post-monsoon season (September to February). The weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and the greenery is at its peak.

Avoid the peak summer months (April to June) for difficult treks, as the heat can be unforgiving. Night treks and early morning treks are great alternatives during warmer months.

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Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trek

• Start Early: Beat the crowd and catch the sunrise.
• Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, headlamps, first-aid, and a power bank.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear trekking shoes and comfortable clothes.
• Check Permissions: Some treks require prior permission or guided tours.
• Respect Nature: Do not litter and avoid loud music on the trails.

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Final Thoughts

Trekking near Bangalore is more than just a weekend activity—it’s a gateway to rediscovering yourself through nature, history, and adventure. Whether you’re scaling the rocky cliffs of Skandagiri, exploring ancient caves at Anthargange, or watching the clouds roll over the hills at Nandi, these trails offer something unique for every traveler.

So the next time you’re yearning for a break from city life, remember that the best trekking places near Bangalore are just a short drive away, waiting to offer you serenity, thrill, and unforgettable memories.

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FAQs About Trekking Near Bangalore

Q: What are the best trekking places near Bangalore for beginners?
A: Nandi Hills, Anthargange, and Devarayanadurga are great for beginners due to their easy trails and accessibility.

Q: Are night treks allowed near Bangalore?
A: Yes, night treks are popular at Skandagiri, Kunti Betta, and Anthargange, but check for local regulations and permissions.

Q: Is trekking near Bangalore safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes, but it’s always better to go in groups or with guided treks, especially for night hikes.

Q: Do I need to book in advance for these treks?
A: Some treks like Skandagiri and Makalidurga require prior booking through the Karnataka Forest Department or local tour operators.

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Ready to plan your next trek? Share your trekking experiences with us at mytravelstories.in and inspire fellow explorers!