Wondering whether to go on an impromptu solo trip or ditch all the stress and go to Koramangla? If you are chasing for that wanderlust vibe then dump that palace visit to Mysore or the Coorg coffee plantation tour. These top 7 weekend getaways can be the wifi-free reality check you need.
After all, a secret escape to the mountains and no Monday morning zoom calls will make that burnout disappear in an instant.
This dreamy village is a monsoon drenched magic. We are talking endless rains and thick canopies among the Twilight Zone of Karnataka. Agumbe is a high-altitude village in the southwest region of Karnataka. Lush rainforests along with the Western Ghats surround this region. You can relive Malgudi Days, try to spot king cobras from a fairly safe distance or even visit the Rainforest Research Station. This trip to the peaceful nature will cost you rupees 2,000 - 5,000 per person. Just remember, this trip is not for the faint of fashion or heart.
Distance from Bengaluru - 346 km
Best way to travel - KSRTC bus which takes 8 hours from Benguluru to Agumbe and tickets can be booked on AbhiBus.
If your idea of a weekend getaway involves at least one trip to the Art Museum or the National Gallery of Art, then Lepakshi will meet you with a wonderful surprise. A blend of mythology with architecture straight from the 16th century, this place is a treat for all types of history lovers. Checking out the Floating Pillar, Veerabhadra Temple and the Lepakshi Nandi is a must. Make sure to pack snacks or if you want a real taste of the temple ritual, grab a plate of hot idlis and filter coffee. This quiet and artsy trip will cost you between rupees 1,500 - 3,000 and later you can go back to Bangalore or have a night stay at Haritha Hotel.
Distance from Bengaluru - 124 km
Best way to travel - Can travel by road using own vehicle or booking a taxi.
If you are looking for a scenic escape which is pocket friendly with a package deal of pastel cafes, beach breezes and cobbled streets, then look no further than Pondicherry. The moment you step into Puducherry, you’ll feel like you accidently booked a flight to Europe. The French Quarter is a haven for art lovers. You’ll be mesmerized by beautiful colonial buildings and art galleries. Book your hotel rooms in advance because boutique hotels fill up faster than the weekend ending in a blink. If you want to explore Pondicherry, then rent a scooter and explore the boutique stores, cafes and beaches like a local. A weekend getaway here will fall within the range of rupees 3,000 to 5,000.
Distance from Bengaluru - 345 km
Best way to travel - Direct flight to Pondicherry from Kempegowda Airport to Pondicherry Airport in 1 hour with ticket prices ranging from ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 7,000.
Once known as the capital of Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is now an underrated gem among frequent wanderlust explorers. If not the historic ruins, the perfect golden hour glow will surely convince you to visit this place. Virupaksha temple should be a must visit place in your list because that captivating architecture and the spiritual energy will make you want to take another trip. If you are looking for a good way to end your trip to Hampi then a trek to Matanga Hill for sunrise will make your instagram feed thank you.
Distance from Bengaluru - 340 km
Best way to travel - One can take a direct flight from Kempegowda Airport to Jindal Vijayanagar Airport with flight ticket prices ranging from rupees 4,000 to 20,000
Walking among the clouds is a dream-like experience. These hills are popularly also called Kalavara Hills and sit at an elevation of 1,450 m above sea level. The trek covers a distance of 8 km overall and within 12 hours you will be greeted with a sky full of stars. Among the mountains, not only are you away from the fast paced world but as you trek, you get to chase the first rays of sun.
Distance from Bengaluru - 61.6 km via Bellary Rd.
Best way to travel - Joining a group trek package will provide round trip facilities from Benguluru to Skandagiri along with trek guides and forest permits. Going by road using your own car or a rental vehicle will be a 2.5 hour journey and make sure to travel early in the morning for less traffic.
Yercaud is a hill station which is a charming, calm and cozy hill station based in Tamil Nadu. Perched in the Shevaroy Hills, misty valleys and lush green surroundings give a beautiful touch to this hill station’s visual appeal. Pagoda Point’s sunrise is a non negotiable because no other place makes sunrise look like a carefully produced sonnet. Lady’s Seat is a vintage viewpoint with its cliff-side breezes. Make sure that this journey has the perfect playlist, cozy sweaters and a balcony view that puts a Folklore album song to shame.
Distance from Bengaluru - 230 to 250 km
Best way to travel - Travelling by bus is the best mode of transport for solo backpackers or people conscious about budget. Opt for KSRTC bus from Benguluru to Salem and then a taxi from Salem to Yercaud.
Munnar can be the next option on your ‘Places to Visit List’ after Nandi Hills. If Coorg is the queen of coffee, then Munnar is the tea-drinking main character. Away from soaring temperatures and among the clouds, Munnar feels like a warm hug. An overnight train with a budget of rupees 5,000 - 9,000 is the perfect way to enjoy your getaway. Make sure to check out Saravana Bhavan if you are craving a filling vegetarian thali. Rapsy Restaurant is a must visit to enjoy budget friendly Kerala meals.
Distance from Bengaluru - 475 km
Best way to travel - Direct flight from Kempegowda Airport to Cochin Airport and then taking a taxi to Munnar is the best option for travelling.
Conclusion -
Whether you are climbing hills in Hampi or walking through the lush tea gardens of Munnar, these weekend getaways from Bangalore are the best ways to romanticize the next 48 hours. A little travel and break from the chaos is cheaper than therapy and twice as effective for your soul.
Remember, life’s short but weekends are shorter.
