Table of Contents

Introduction
Are you a travel enthusiast with an insatiable love for exploring new places? If so, why wait for a holiday to embark on a new adventure? Bengaluru has some hidden gems that are easily accessible and perfect for a short getaway. From picturesque landscapes to tranquil surroundings and thrilling activities, these weekend getaways from Bengaluru are perfect for all types of explorers. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover these underrated spots – pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Getaway 1: Muthyala Maduvu
Muthyala Maduvu, also known as Pearl Valley, is a picturesque picnic spot well-known for its waterfall, which is over 100 ft high. It is located 40 km away from Bengaluru and takes around 1 hour to reach. The place is famous for its trekking trails, nature walks, swimming, and picnics.
You must also visit the Nilgiri Plantation, located at the top of the Muthyala Maduvu Falls. You will be enchanted by the breathtaking view of the plants swaying in the wind. But that’s not all! On top of the waterfall, you will also find an ancient temple of Lord Shiva. Every day, many devotees visit this temple to take part in the morning puja that is performed for the Lord.
On the way to Muthyala Maduvu, you can visit a smaller-scale replica of the iconic Taj Mahal located in Bangalore itself. This amazing masterpiece was created by a 56-year-old artist from Malaysia, Sekar. You can find this mini replica near Jayadeva Hospital on Bannerghatta Road.
Modes of transportation: Bus, car

Getaway 2: Makalidurga
Makalidurga, at an altitude of 1350 m above the base of the sea level, is a charming little village that is steeped in history. It is famous for its magnificent fort that the Vijayanagara kings built. This place is located just 58 km away from Bengaluru, and it takes a mere 1.5 hours to get there by car.

Once you arrive, get ready to witness an awe-inspiring birds-eye view of valleys and be able to indulge in many thrilling adventure activities, including day and night trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing. Camping at the summit of Makalidurga Hills at night is a must to enjoy the clear, starry sky and sunrise in the morning.

You can also visit one of the many vineyards for a day of wine-tasting just a few kilometres away from Makalidurga, such as Grover Zampa Vineyards, Rico Vineyards & Winery, and Kinvah Vineyards.
Modes of transportation: SBC Nanded Express Train or Kacheguda Express Train (1.5 hrs), bus, car

Getaway 3: Bheemeshwari
Bheemeshwari, a hidden gem in Halagur, Karnataka, is a tranquil and picturesque destination that every nature lover must visit. It is conveniently located just 102 km away and a 2.5-hour drive from Bengaluru. The place is blessed with natural beauty, nestled on the banks of the Kaveri River, with its gushing waterfalls, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife.

Bheemeshwari is one of the best weekend getaways from Bengaluru for family trips because it offers a wide range of activities suitable for people of all ages and interests. You can camp under the stars, go river rafting, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, coracle riding, and indulge in wildlife spotting. Cauvery Sangama, the confluence of the Cauvery and Akravati rivers, is also located just a few kilometres away. Moreover, if you visit Bheemeshwari, make sure to try out the local cuisine, which includes dishes like bisi bele bath, kesari bath, and ragi mudde.
Modes of transportation: Mysore Express, Bangalore Mail, Karnataka Express or Udyan Express Train (2.5 hours), bus, car

Getaway 4: Shivanasamudra
Shivanasamudra is a tranquil town on the banks of the Kaveri River in Karnataka. It is just 133 km from Bengaluru and can be reached by car in 3.5 hours.
Shivanasamudra is home to many migratory birds and is hence known for bird watching. Also, the first hydroelectric power plant in Asia was built in Shivanasamudra in 1902. You can visit the power station with special permission through Karnataka Power Corporation, where you just have to mail them about your interest in visiting the place.
If you are a wildlife lover, you must try visiting the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary for fishing and trekking, located a few kilometres away from Shivanasamudra. On the other hand, if you want to spend time in peace, you should visit Pyramid Valley International. This international meditation centre houses the tallest pyramid structure in the world, created specifically for meditation.
Modes of transportation: Bus, car

Getaway 5: Yercaud
Nestled among the beautiful Shevaroys Range of hills in the Eastern Ghats, the picturesque hill station of Yercaud is a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is located at a distance of 228 km and approximately 4.5 hours drive from Bengaluru.

The place is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and you can indulge in exciting activities such as boating, trekking, spice plantation tours, and cave exploration. The hills surrounding Yercaud are home to the spectacular Kiliyur Falls. You’ll need to cross a small forest to reach this waterfall, which is an adventure of its own. If you want to do something more adventurous than just enjoy the beautiful surroundings of this hill station, sign up for the ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) trip. There are many adventure parks where you can rent the latest ATV models and enjoy off-roading.
Modes of transportation: Bus, car

Conclusion
These beautiful destinations offer a perfect chance to enjoy a serene and peaceful time. Make the most of your time by heading to these idyllic getaways around Bengaluru and indulging in a truly rejuvenating experience.