Bangalore, also named Bengaluru is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka. Located on the Deccan Plateau in the southeast of Karnataka, it is renowned as the “silicon valley” of India and is the IT capital of the sub-continent. The city is a showcase for the modern, industrial, high-tech and fast-developing India. For these reasons, Bangalore attracts lots of business people from many countries across the world. Although not a major attraction for tourists, Bangalore is a pleasant and modern city with a marvelous new international airport and good transportation including a metro. Also, there are nice gardens, cinemas, good nightlife, dining, shopping malls and markets to visit whilst in Bangalore.
For visitors who want to go further afield from the main area of Bangalore, there are a plethora of things to do which the India Travelz has foraged for you from local sources.
Best time to visit: Bangalore and all the places to visit near Bangalore are best visited during wintertime – from the end of October till the beginning of March.
THE NATURE GETAWAY:
Nandi Hills: This is the perfect place if you had too much of the city and you want some fresh air for your lungs, and green hills and blue water for the eyes. This is a local favorite and the Bangaloreans like to go there to see the sunrise and set and for relaxing peace. But this is not a commercial tourist spot whatsoever as only a few foreigners get here and are off the beaten track for Western tourists. It is well worth the detour. There are some old temple remains in that area as well some vineyards, good hiking, trekking options, viewpoints, historical relics and more. There are some nice homestays available as well if you would like to spend a night. This is the best nature escape near Bangalore.
Practicalities: 60 KM north of Bangalore, good road and easy to reach by taxi or bus from the central bus stand (approx. 2 hours’ drive, 50 Rupees. (Rs) ). Opening hours are 6 am to 10 pm, admission is 5 Rs.
THE ACTION GETAWAY:
Savandurga: is one of the highest monolithic hills of Asia. Standing 1,226 meters tall, with peninsular gneiss, granite dykes, and other rock formations. This is a great short trek and climbing activity for a day. It’s nearly a 300-meter climb and can be done in around 2 hours. The view from the top is insanely awesome.
Practicalities: Savandurga Situated on Magadi Road about 33 km from Bangalore. Bring enough water and supplies with you before climbing.
Anthargange: Another rocky haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts is Anthargange. The interesting volcanic rock formations and the numerous caves and springs make Anthargange a perfect weekend getaway and the adventure-filled off-beat trip around Bangalore, providing exotic sites for camping, rock climbing, rappelling, high rope traversing, caving, and mountaineering. The place is situated at a distance of 68 km from Bangalore and has excellent roadways and connectivity options.
THE SPIRITUAL GETAWAY:
Shri Ravishanker Ashram: If you into Philosophy, yoga, meditation, spiritual self-growth and finding the secrets of the art of living, you came to the right place. The Ashram holds many programs and events for inspiration. This is one of the most famous and renowned ashrams in India and many
people are coming to it from all over the world. But even if you are not into all of this, the Ashram is still one of the greatest places to visit near Bangalore. It’s an impressive architectural monument with Asia’s largest dome, shops, serene gardens, and even an Ayurvedic pharmacy and Ayurvedic wellness and spa center.
Practicalities: The Ashram is about 30-40 Km from Bangalore center and easy to reach from the city. More info about the Ashram here: http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram
LUXURY GETAWAY:
And lastly, an accommodation tip which is a real treat: Our native village
http://www.ournativevillage.com/
A resort with a different theme – eco-friendly and in a rural setting. A great place (but not cheap…) for relaxation in style and to enjoy slow and authentic village life in great comfort.
