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While Bengaluru in itself may be a place to relax and experience great weather, its residents are always on the lookout for weekend getaways to someplace more adventurous, serene or essentially any place with no traffic.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still looming over us, our wish to get a taste of faraway lands stands denied. However, the ensured safety of our loved ones and the ones around us is the only way to make sure our travel dreams come true sooner than later!
The city of Bengaluru is situated close to various types of getaways — you’ve got mountains, rivers, and waterfalls not too far away providing you with an array of options to choose from. We put together our top picks for a short yet satisfactory escape from the circus that is a blend of work from home and barrage of family time.
I. Belur
Distance: 220 km (approximately a 4-hour, 30-minute drive)
For a getaway filled with exposure to heritage and history, Belur is the place to be. What used to be the capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 11th century is now a leading attraction, thanks to its wondrous temple architecture. The Yagachi dam across the river Yagachi, a tributary of the river Kaveri, adds to the marvel of Belur. The region is more than meant for sightseeing — its temples and religious spots add a sense of spirituality to the environment.
If you are one to crave adventure, Belur is all set to cater to those needs too. The Yagachi Adventure Sports Centre was established to provide tourists with the opportunity to go on banana boat rides, kayaking, jet-skiing, and so much more.
II. Chikmagalur
Distance: 243 km (approximately a 4-hour, 40-minute drive)
Heavy on physical activities, Chikmagalur is a great spot for those who are fans of mountains and trekking. It provides one with a wholesome experience complete with camping out in tents. Kudremukh trek and Mullayanagiri trek are a couple of the most popular ones – the scenic beauty one would witness throughout these treks is unbeatable.
Adding to the picturesque vision of Chikmagalur are the Jhari and Hebbe waterfalls that can be accessed by personal vehicles or hired jeeps. One may also choose to go river rafting on the Bhadra river, or conversely, go the more salient route an take a walk through the tea and coffee plantations.
III. Chunchi Falls
Distance: 89 km (approximately a 2-hour, 30-minute drive)
A day trip to Chunchi falls makes for a perfect one-day getaway. The location provides more than just a view of the waterfall and allows visitors to take in the beauty of the surrounding hills and forest. One must visit the falls during late monsoons in order to catch the waterfall at its fullest. Additionally, visiting this spot early in the morning makes for a wonderful view, an enhanced environment and an overall brilliant experience.
IV. Hogenakkal Falls
Distance: 127 km (approximately a 3-hour, 10-minute drive)
In the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu sit the Hogenakkal Falls, that just like Chunchi Falls, is apt for a single-day trip. The region makes a natural border between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and is also a creation of the river Kaveri.
There are two standout activities that every Hogenakkal visitor must indulge in – first is the coracle ride that is difficult to find in other spots. A group of (maximum) four people are allowed onto the coracle for INR 750 for the maximum duration of one and a half hours which is more than enough time to take in all that surrounds you. The second task one must do is eat locally cooked seafood procured from the surrounding waters – it does not get fresher than this!
V. Kabini
Distance: 150 km (approximately a 3-hour, 30-minute drive)
A two-day visit to Kabini would result in an activity-packed trip. Boating, bike riding, jungle safari, trekking, cycling, bird watching, shopping – the to-do list is a long one. Kabini is able to offer the best of various spheres that will give you ample time to thoroughly enjoy a variety of activities. If the adventure sports tire you out, you will always have the option to sit back and relax, all while you take in the serenity of Kabini. The range of flora and fauna that thrives here is one that deserves admiration.
VI. Lepakshi
Distance: 123 km (approximately a 2-hour, 30-minute drive)
The drive to Lepakshi is one of the main reasons one should visit this location – great roads with better views. Once there, visitors can choose to visit the temples and various spots that truly show off the architecture of the past – which also make for great photo opportunities! The sculptures and paintings found here are sure to make you stop and stare.
The Veerabhadra temple is the most well-known one, owing to the fact that it is one dedicated to Veerabhadra – a frightening form of Lord Shiva. The paintings found on the ceilings of the Natya and Ardha Mandapa are depictions of instances from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Puranas.
VII. Manchanabele Dam
Distance: 40 km (approximately a 1-hour, 30-minute drive)
The nearest getaway spot on our list is the Manchanabele dam that is built across the river Arkavathi. What makes for a great getaway for family and friends is the scenic view of the adjoining reservoir which is used for farming and irrigation purposes. The reservoir, however, led to the formation of a lake which attracts most of the visitors.
This spot is perfect to escape to when one wants to unwind and let go of the weight on their shoulders – the combination of the greenery, the lake and the reservoir create a calm environment, perfect for your much-required break.
VIII. Ramanagara
Distance: 50 km (approximately a 1-hour, 50-minute drive)
Nestled in the rustic town of Ramanagara is a vineyard that facilitates wine tours for visitors. Apart from taking in the sprawling greens of the vineyard, the tour creates an informative and immersive experience. From cultivation to fermentation, the tour covers all bases of wine-making, which of course, includes tasting (for individuals above 21 years).
Apart from the fact that one gets to tour a vineyard and taste its product, Ramanagara makes for a great one-day trip. Not too far from the city, it is also accessible by public transportation.
IX. Sangam & Mekedatu
Distance: 100 km (approximately a 3-hour drive)
Sangam is where the river Kaveri and river Arkavathi meet – which is what makes it a popular spot for tourists. With not much apart from the coracle ride there, most visitors usually spend half a day to relax and appreciate the view.
Mekedatu is approximately 5 km from Sangam. Surrounded by dense forests, one can more than clearly hear the river Kaveri gushing away in its path. A narrow crevice through which the river passes is considered popular – it is narrow enough for goats to leap over it, which led to the name ‘Mekedatu’ (meaning Goat’s leap).
X. Skandagiri
Distance: 61 km (approximately a 2-hour drive)
The Skandagiri hills are most popular for their day and night treks that give a great view once you reach the top. However, the hills are more historically significant as Tipu Sultan’s forts existed there – he used them as cover and to fight against the British. While only ruins remain today, some parts of the forts are still recognisable.
The Papagni Mutt is a temple that is erect at the base of the hills, and a Shiva temple exists at the top. Along with the significant greenery that is housed by the hills, these two establishments are popular tourist attractions as well.
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