Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is a place that was once the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan and still reflects his influence. The breathtaking vistas of surrounding landscapes enhance the beauty of this hill station. The area takes its name from the famous Nandi Bull who is considered as the mount of Lord Shiva, the region is full of ancient temples and forts. The climate here is cooler than the vibrant city life and hence well favored among tourists seeking some solitude. More so, this place with ample richness of greenery and rolling hills in the pleasurable climate has transformed it into one of the most sought after spots for photographers and nature lovers.

Timings: Nandi Hills opens at 6:00 AM, and the closing time is at 10:00 PM. It is advised that one visits here early in the morning to see the brilliant sunrise.

Entry Fee: INR 20 per person. The vehicle parking charges are as followed ranging from the bike one which is around INR 30 to an INR 60 for cars.

Best Time to Visit: Nandi Hills is in the post-monsoon season, that is from the months of September to February, when the hill station will be covered in mist, but the greenery is at its peak.

The roads connecting Nandi Hills from Bangalore are good. Thus, it is accessible either by cab or even driving. Buses are available from Bangalore too. However, public transport in terms of buses is less frequent compared to private transport.

By Car or Bike: Drive up to Nandi Hills is an experience in itself as with roads winding up with sceneries that need to be glanced upon. The car or bike drive from Bangalore should take roughly about 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Chikkaballapur, a distance of about 10 km from Nandi Hills.

By Bus: Buses are available from the Majestic bus stand in Bangalore to Chikkaballapur, from where visitors can hire local transport for Nandi Hills.

The southern end of Nandi Hills is known for Tipu's Drop, the steep cliff offering views of the plains around. According to legend, people were actually pushed off from this cliff during Tipu Sultan's rule. The panoramic view from here, specially around sunrise, is terrific.

Situated at the foot of the hills, this ancient temple dates back to 6th century A.D. and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, thereby forming one of the oldest temples of Karnataka. The temple architecture is a fine example of Dravidian style and must visit for history enthusiasts.

This is a palace that was the summer place of the inspirational Tipu Sultan, but is now in ruins. The fort has remnants of the historical importance of the region.

It is also called the Lake of Nectar. It is a perennial lake that is in turn a source of water for the local flora and fauna. Lush greenery surrounds the lake, and so it is an ideal place to stroll or sit in silent contemplation.

This is a natural cave located on Nandi Hills, which is said to have been the meditation ground of Sage Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The cave offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and for the soul seekers as well.

Nandi Hills is also a happy hunting ground for adventure lovers. The paragliding enthusiasts come here to experience flying amidst the clouds. There are several trekking routes offered by the nearby hills and trekkers, which can enjoy the thrilling experience.

The hills offer rich flora and fauna, with a cool climate and thick forest attracting a large number of bird species to the area. So, you are likely to see some rare species like the Malabar whistling thrush, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and even the peregrine falcon. The region has high biodiversity comprising many species of monkeys and snakes.

While Nandi Hills is an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway, there are a few restrictions and guidelines that visitors should keep in mind:

Plastic Ban:

Nandi Hills has a strict ban on single-use plastics. Visitors are encouraged to carry reusable bottles and bags to help preserve the natural beauty of the region.

Timings:

The hill station closes by 10:00 PM, so overnight stays are not permitted unless you have a booking at one of the guest houses near the hills.

Monsoon Restrictions:

During the monsoon season, some trails and paths might be closed due to landslides or heavy rainfall. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a visit during this time.

Safety at Tipu’s Drop:

Given its steep drop, visitors are advised to exercise caution when visiting Tipu’s Drop, especially during the rainy season when the rocks can become slippery.

Parking and Traffic:

Nandi Hills can get quite crowded on weekends, especially early mornings. It’s best to arrive early to avoid traffic jams and ensure a parking spot.

There is not much accommodation available at the top, but there are some numbers of hotels, guest houses, and homestays. Suggee Resort and Mount Palazzo Resort are some of the best places for people who want high-class stays.

This hill station boasts a cool climate, historical charm, and adventure activities that provide an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore. From gazing into the beauty of Nandi Hills to taking off on a trekking adventure or discovering the history of Tipu Sultan's reign, Nandi Hills has it all. Situated within a short drive from Bangalore, this hill station boasts the ideal quality of serenity, adventure, and natural splendor, rendering it one of the must-visit locations for those out exploring Karnataka.