15 Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore for Weekend Trips by Cab

What if one quick drive could reset our week and leave us with sunrise views, coffee estates, and starry skies?

We mapped the 15 best places you can reach from the city for a compact weekend getaway. Each destination is chosen for scenic routes, realistic hours on the road, and signature experiences like viewpoints, waterfalls, wildlife, or coffee and tea trails.

Our list focuses on smooth drives, clear drive-time estimates, and how a private taxi or cab can turn a tight schedule into an easy mini escape. We flag where sunrise runs make sense, which spots suit a one-night loop, and which need more time to soak in the vibe.

This intro previews practical tips on breaks, packing, and season timing so your trip stays simple and memorable. Scroll on to pick the best places that match your group, pace, and idea of a perfect weekend getaway.

Plan your weekend road trip: routes, ride times, and cab tips from Bangalore

With the right route and ride, a weekend trip can pack big scenery into small hours. We map short runs (1.5–2 hours), mid-range drives (3–6 hours), and long hauls (6–10+ hours) so you can pick a plan that fits your schedule.

Start early, around 5:00–6:00 a.m., to avoid city traffic and clear toll windows. For quick outings like Nandi Hills, Skandagiri, and Anthargange choose a hatchback or a small sedan. For ghat sections and groups take an SUV for ground clearance and comfort.

Deepam Taxi rates give a quick cost guide: hatchback ~₹10/km, sedan ~₹15/km, SUV ~₹20/km. Check one-way deals, tolls, and permit needs before booking. Carry basic safety things—spare tyre, jack, working lights—and plan breaks every 2–3 hours.

When a bus or rail leg shortens a long road stretch (for example, Salem toward Yercaud), combine modes. Otherwise, door-to-door cabs keep your itinerary tight and your trip stress-free.

Nandi Hills: classic sunrise escape within 2 hours

A pre-dawn run to Nandi Hills rewards us with crisp air and a dependable sunrise. The spot fits a half-day plan and works well for a quick reset without long travel.

Distance & travel time

Nandi sits about 61 kms from the city and takes roughly 1.5–2 hours on the road. Public options exist via a local bus, though most people prefer a cab for pre-dawn gate access.

Top attractions and light activities for a half-day getaway

Key attractions include the sunrise viewpoints, Tipu’s Drop, Tipu Sultan’s summer structures, and the Yoganandeeshwara Temple. We keep the plan light: a walk along the ramparts, photos at Tipu’s Drop, and a temple stop before breakfast.

We note parking windows and ticket stalls near the gate. Wear comfortable footwear; the short uphill sections are easy but uneven. For safety, use headlamps before dawn, watch for fog, and keep courteous spacing on narrow pull-outs. An early brunch on the way down keeps the rest of the day relaxed.

Skandagiri: night trek and dawn views near the city

A late-evening drive and a headlamp are all we need to trade city lights for a sunrise from the summit. Skandagiri sits about 62–63 kms from the city and takes roughly 1.5–2 hours on the road, making it ideal for a compact overnight adventure.

We plan a permitted night trekking slot so check-in and torch readiness are sorted in advance. The route is moderate and rocky in parts, so we travel light, pace ourselves, and follow basic safety steps.

What we pack matters. Bring a headlamp, spare batteries, a light snack, a rain shell in season, and grippy shoes. Layered clothing and water keep us comfortable during cool pre-dawn winds.

• Heritage stops: Papagani Temple and Tipu-era fort walls—spend a few minutes photographing respectfully.
• Post-trek plan: hot breakfast and a short rest before the return drive to keep total hours manageable.
• Permits and etiquette: pre-book permissions and avoid littering to protect the fragile hillside.

Anthargange: caves, short treks, and a quick cab sprint

Anthargange offers a compact burst of rocky scrambling and short cave passages that fit neatly into a half-day adventure. It sits about 67 kms from the city, with Kolar just 3 km away for easy access.

The terrain shows volcanic rock formations, natural springs, and narrow cave squeezes. We travel light with a small backpack, a headlamp, and firm-grip shoes. Early arrival helps beat the heat on exposed rock and leaves time for a late breakfast in Kolar.

• Safety basics: avoid cave runs in monsoon, wear good footwear, and hire a guide if you are new to rock passages.
• Attractions include a hillside spring and small temple stops that pair well with the cave segment.

We follow leave-no-trace rules to protect the fragile rock microhabitats. With simple planning, Anthargange makes a tight, rewarding escape and a satisfying dose of trekking for a weekend outing.

Horsley Hills: serene Andhra plateau with sweeping views

A smooth highway stretch leads us to open viewpoints, cool breezes, and easy walking trails for all ages. The drive is straightforward and uncluttered, making this a relaxed option for a quick weekend getaway.

Best time to visit and family-friendly stops en route

Horsley sits about 169 kms from the city and takes around 3–4 hours on the road. December through March gives the clearest skies and the crisp air families like.

• Arrive mid-morning for gentler sunlight at Highview Point and the small museum.
• Picnic-ready breaks under shady trees with mild gradients suit young children.
• Quick temple visits at Mallamma Temple add local colour without adding long delays.

BR Hills: wildlife sanctuary meets hill retreat

A wildlife edge where two great ranges meet offers a rare blend of forest, temple, and lookout we can reach for a long weekend. The Biligiriranga Swamy Temple and the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary sit about 217 km from the city, a 4–5 hour drive with final stretches along shaded road sections.

Start early to match sanctuary timings and entry norms. An early departure lets us visit the temple, take a short safari loop, and stop at a viewpoints without rushing meals or rest breaks.

• Respect wildlife corridors: keep windows up on forest stretches and avoid honking near crossings.
• Vehicle note: SUVs handle mixed surfaces and speed breakers more comfortably.
• Packing: binoculars, sun cap, water, and spare snack boxes to cut single-use plastic.

Mobile coverage can be patchy on the final approach. Save offline maps and share ETA with your group before entering the protected area.

Sakleshpur: coffee country along the Western Ghats

We take a long morning drive that turns into estate lanes and green ridgelines as we reach Sakleshpur.

Sakleshpur sits roughly 221 kms from the city and takes about 5 hours on the road. A dawn start helps us arrive by late morning, settle into an estate, and keep the afternoon free for short walks.

Must-do attractions include Manjarabad Fort, the Jenukal Gudda viewpoints, and relaxed estate tours through coffee and spice plantations. Jenukal Gudda has short approach paths; wear grippy shoes for the final stretch.

• Break the drive with a mid-route breakfast and a fuel stop.
• Choose a sedan or SUV for comfort on rolling range roads.
• Optional loop: Bisle viewpoints for sweeping Ghats views if skies clear.
• Respect plantation etiquette: stay on tracks and carry out all waste.

Yercaud: Shevaroy Hills, lakeside vibes, and loop road bends

A winding drive up the Shevaroy range opens into a calm lake, roadside tea stalls, and easy lookout points. Yercaud sits in tamil nadu about 229–230 kms from the city, roughly a five-hour run via Salem, making it a smooth weekend getaway for a two-day plan.

Why Yercaud works for a short escape

Arrive for a lakeside stroll and a quick boat ride, then catch golden light at Lady’s Seat or Pagoda Point. Time a morning trip to Kiliyur Falls for cooler, quieter trails.

We add a cultural stop at the Servarayan temple cave and sample tea at roadside corners on the 32 km Loop Road. The bends make for a fun drive, but sedans handle the tight parking and switchbacks best in the station core.

• Start at 5 a.m. to reach for late breakfast and full daylight.
• Follow a clockwise loop: lake → Lady’s Seat → Kiliyur Falls → Pagoda Point to avoid backtracking and limit extra kms.
• Pack light, carry water, and plan short snack breaks at local tea places.

Chikmagalur: Mullayanagiri peaks and coffee trails

We head to Chikmagalur when we want high viewpoints, quiet estate walks, and a few active hours on trails. The town sits roughly 245–250 kms from the city and takes about 4.5–5.5 hours on the road, so plan a relaxed two-day loop.

Distance & travel time

Expect 4.5–5.5 hours and about 245–250 kms of driving. Space breaks every two hours to keep energy up for afternoon walks.

Adventure and pacing

We drive up Mullayanagiri for sunrise or sunset and save the afternoon for estate tours and the coffee museum. On day two we pick either a Bhadra safari or the Kudremukh trekking option based on fitness and interest.

• Enjoy ridge drives along the Baba Budan range and short viewpoint pauses.
• Sample guided tastings to learn roasting and local varietals.
• Pack layers for quick mist and changing weather on peaks.

Vehicle choice

For multiple ghat segments or larger groups, we recommend an SUV for comfort and clearance. It reduces fatigue and makes estate lanes easier to handle.

Coorg (Kodagu): waterfalls, wildlife, and coffee estates

A few hours on the road brings us into Coorg’s coffee-scented valleys and river-edged trails. We plan a short, relaxed loop that packs a waterfall visit, an elephant interaction, and a monastery stop into a tidy two-day outing.

Distance & travel time

Expect roughly 265–276 kms and about 5–6 hours of driving. Topping up fuel and cash in Kushalnagar or Madikeri keeps interior estate runs smooth.

Nature and culture highlights

Key stops: Abbey Falls for quick walks and photos, Dubare for early-morning elephant activities, and the Namdroling Monastery (the Golden Temple) for calm cultural time. River rafting opens in season and adds a lively window to the plan.

• We pair Abbey Falls and Dubare on day one, add the monastery and an estate sunset on day two.
• October–April gives the clearest views and the best rafting conditions.
• Estate-road etiquette: slow speeds, careful turns, and greeting locals improves the experience and protects crops.

We savor coffee aromas during estate tours and recommend a bean-to-cup session to taste local varietals. Small, timed food breaks in Madikeri or Kushalnagar keep total hours predictable and the trip pleasant in South India.

Brahmagiri Hills and Nagarhole fringe: green escapes near Coorg

A cool, green ribbon of forest and ridgelines sits just beyond Coorg, ready for a slow, nature-filled day. This range blends quiet trekking and wildlife edges into a tidy outing we can cover in daylight.

We build a day trip: a morning trek to a viewpoint, a forest-fringe drive, and a calm lunch in a village hamlet. Pack binoculars and a light rain layer—micro-showers are common in this area.

• Plan a dawn start to boost wildlife chances and cooler trail segments.
• Arrange permits and a local guide when you approach protected zones; time the trek around safari windows.
• Stick to approved roads and avoid peak animal-movement hours for safety and low impact.
• Choose an SUV for mixed surfaces and better clearance near the range edges.

We travel slowly and keep expectations modest. The aim is a respectful day among green attractions that balances trekking, birds, and calm village turns.

Wayanad: Kerala’s misty ranges with lakes and wildlife

A two-day loop through Wayanad packs trekking, a heart-shaped lake, and cool evenings into one short trip. Chembra Peak and its heart lake are our morning goal; Meenmutty Falls and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary fit into relaxed afternoons.

Timing, route, and corridor rules

We take the Mysuru–Bandipur–Sulthan Bathery corridor. Expect about 267 kms and roughly seven hours on the road with wildlife speed checks and no-stopping zones in reserve stretches.

Practical tips for a tight weekend

• Start early to tackle Chembra trekking at first light and avoid crowds at the heart lake.
• Use tea stall pauses near Sulthan Bathery and Kalpetta as short comfort breaks.
• Carry ID and vehicle papers for interstate gates; drivers usually manage fuel and timed rest stops.
• Pack grippy shoes and a rain shell for mixed trails, especially in shoulder seasons.

Kemmangundi: Hebbe Falls and Baba Budan range breezes

A clear morning run to Kemmangundi opens up misty viewpoints and a jeep ride that leads to Hebbe Falls.

We plan a day that starts with a 4–5 hours drive and a timed jeep transfer to the falls. Visit Hebbe Falls before noon to beat crowds and keep the afternoon for ridge gardens and sunset light.

Trekking shoes help on wet steps and muddy stretches. If we want to link several viewpoints or handle rough approaches, an SUV makes the day easier and more comfortable.

• Morning: jeep to Hebbe Falls, short viewing window, return to base by early afternoon.
• Afternoon: relaxed garden amble, light picnic on the lawns, and seasonal flower-bed detours.
• Evening: start the descent early to avoid after-dark hairpins and reduce driver fatigue.

Weather note: mist pockets and drizzle are common, so pack a rain shell and a microfiber towel. We keep the plan simple, respect the landscape, and leave no trace when enjoying the station.

Kudremukh: rolling grasslands, orchids, and highland trails

Kudremukh rewards us with undulating grasslands and a day trek that feels far from city noise. The drive is about 341 km and usually takes around 6 hours, so plan an early start to arrive fresh at the trailhead.

Permits control access to the main route; we book slots in advance and aim for first-light departures. For fitness, expect steady switchbacks, stream crossings, and exposed ridgelines—pace conservatively and factor in rest stops.

We often overnight in nearby homestays to split the hours and enjoy calm evenings. Pack trekking shoes, a sun cover, layered clothing, and optional poles for steeper sections. Seasonal bursts bring orchids and butterflies, especially in the monsoon and early post-monsoon months.

Vehicle choice depends on group size and the distance from your base to the trailhead. A sedan works for short transfers; an SUV helps on rougher access lanes. On the return leg we recommend a coffee stop to sample local brews and support small producers.

Set a firm turnaround time on the trail so we descend with enough light and meet our pickup schedule. That simple rule keeps the day tidy and keeps us ready for the drive home or a relaxed evening at a homestay.

Coonoor: tea gardens, Sim’s Park, and toy-train ambiance

Coonoor unfolds as a quiet retreat of tea lanes, shady gardens, and soft viewpoints that suit a slow weekend. It sits in tamil nadu at a comfortable height of roughly 6,000 ft, which makes layered clothing and steady hydration sensible for short outings.

Best time and gentle walks for a relaxed weekend

October through March gives clear skies and cool mornings. We plan late-morning arrivals so mists lift and ravine views open up.

Walks through Sim’s Park are pleasant and low effort. Paths are shaded and well kept, ideal for a 30–90 minute wander.

Short overlooks like Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose reward minimal walking with big views. Compact cabs handle tight bends and parking at these places.

Pairing with Ooty or staying mellow in Coonoor

We can add a half-day toy-train segment for charm without dedicating the whole day to timetables. A short rail ride adds ambiance and quick photo windows.

For a mellow stay, we ramble tea plantations, enjoy a tasting, and visit local snack spots that pair well with tea. If we want variety, an afternoon dash to Ooty fits a two-day loop.

• Gentle walks: Sim’s Park, short estate trails.
• Viewpoints: Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose—easy access, high reward.
• Tea focus: guided garden walks and tastings in tea plantations.
• Practical tip: wear layers, sip water, and allow time for altitude adjustment.

Ooty: Nilgiri classic with lakes, gardens, and viewpoints

Ooty unfolds as a cool, classic escape where lakes, gardens, and high viewpoints shape a relaxed weekend. We plan a tidy loop that fits Doddabetta, the lake circuit, and the Botanical Gardens without racing across the town.

Iconic stops: Doddabetta, Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens

At dawn or dusk we visit Doddabetta Peak for clearer skies and easier parking at that height. A late-afternoon boat on Ooty Lake gives soft light for photos and calm downtime.

The Botanical Gardens work well mid-morning when paths are dry and flowers are open. We tuck a quick tea estates photo stop into the route to capture rolling tea plantations and scent.

Driving the ghat sections safely by cab

The drive from Bangalore to Ooty is roughly 374 km and takes about 7–8 hours via Mettupalayam. On ghats we use low gears on descents, gentle braking, and give uphill vehicles and buses right of way.

• Vehicle tip: choose an SUV for groups or bigger bags and for back-road side trips.
• Timing tip: cluster attractions by quadrant to limit cross-town driving on narrow lanes.
• Quick treat: book a short Nilgiri toy-train sector to taste the heritage without losing the day.

Agumbe: sunset point of the Western Ghats

For a compact nature escape, Agumbe gives us dramatic orange evenings and rainforest hush.

About 380 km and roughly 6–7 hours on the road, we plan to roll in with 60–90 minutes to spare before sunset. That window lets us reach the main viewpoint and watch the orange glow spill into the valleys.

Access runs through the Shimoga and Udupi corridors; buses and taxis reach nearby hubs, then a final road stretch brings us into the station area. Mobile and fuel options are limited, so we top up along the Shimoga axis and build a meal stop at Thirthahalli into our hours schedule.

• Short rainforest walks: wear grippy shoes and a rain shell; roots get slippery after showers.
• Clouds can build fast—stay flexible with sunset plans and pick alternate viewpoints.
• Morning trekking add-on: light trails to waterfalls or canopy clearings work well before the return run.

We respect research plots and wildlife work in the area. Keep noise low, avoid flash photography, and carry out all waste to protect this fragile rainforest habitat.

Kodaikanal: shola forests, lakes, and cliffside walks

An overnight run to Kodaikanal trades long road hours for misty walks, lake paddles, and cool forest paths. We plan a two-night stay so the long transfer feels like part of the trip, not just transit.

Distance and travel time

Kodaikanal lies about 449–465 kms from the city and takes roughly 8–10 hours by car. Expect a plains-to-ghat climb that rewards us with cooler air as we reach the town’s height.

What not to miss

Start day one with the Kodai Lake loop and an easy boat ride. Walk Coaker’s Walk at sunset for cliffside views and save Bryant Park for a calm morning among flowers.

• Group the lake, Coaker’s Walk, and Bryant Park so we walk between central attractions without calling the vehicle each time.
• Plan fuel and major food stops around Dindigul for a clean, timely ascent into Tamil Nadu ranges.
• Pack layers—mist, light showers, and cooler temps at height are common year-round.

Cab comfort tips for a long-haul run

Check seat position, carry extra water bottles, and keep a small blanket for chillier nights. Choose a sedan for tight town parking or an SUV if luggage and comfort matter more.

Munnar: tea-cloaked hills and Eravikulam vistas

After a full day on the road, Munnar greets us with cool air, layered plantations, and clear mountain outlooks. We plan a 2–3 night stay to make the long run worthwhile and to savor the slow pace.

Distance & travel time

Munnar sits roughly 492–520 kms from the city and takes about 9–10+ hours by car. Breaks for food and fuel every 200–250 kms keep driver energy steady.

Top picks and practical notes

• Eravikulam National Park: pre-book slots in peak months and time entry for best Anamudi views.
• Mattupetty Dam and Attukal Falls for calm afternoons and easy walks.
• Tea estate walks and curated tastings at dawn for better light and quiet photos.

We finish with a slow morning tea walk before checkout to score quiet trails off main roads. In south india this station rewards patient travel with wide, green views and lasting calm.

hill stations near bangalore by cab: how we choose the best fifteen

We picked these fifteen escapes so every long weekend and quick run rewards us with clear views and easy logistics.

Criteria: drive time, scenery, activities, and cab-friendliness

Our list spans Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu and balances under‑2‑hour dawn escapes with 10‑hour classics. We favored signature scenery and a mix of activities so each trip fits different tastes.

We weighted drive-time bands so a few picks work as quick sunrise runs and others justify a full weekend. Scenery scores cover lakes, cliffs, shola forests, tea and coffee estates, and wildlife to keep choices varied.

• We considered trek difficulty, family walks, boating, and heritage things so every group finds options.
• Cab-friendliness included safe approaches, parking near highlights, and clear meet points for drivers.
• Predictable weather windows, fuel and food availability, and efficient loops reduced travel stress on busy holiday runs.

We chose a mix of iconic names and quieter destinations so first‑timers and repeat travelers can pick the right getaway. This method keeps planning simple and the actual travel enjoyable in south india.

Conclusion

Smart timing and a reliable ride put more trail time and fewer logistics into every weekend getaway. We recommend leaving early, pacing breaks, and syncing your vehicle arrival with attraction windows so the day feels spacious and unhurried.

Choose trained taxis or a trusted taxi provider that offers roadside assistance and clear pricing. For longer ghat drives pick a vehicle that fits luggage and group needs so comfort and safety stay front and center.

A door-to-door cab saves time and gives people more hours on trails and viewpoints. Pack a small checklist—IDs, water, layers, snacks—and confirm your return before dusk on narrow stretches.

Travel gently, respect local rules, and book early to lock fares and schedules. Pick your next weekend, and let the plan do the work while we enjoy the views.