Nandi Hills is the most popular getaway from Bangalore and a very familiar destination for all Bangaloreans. Located around 60 KM from Bangalore & situated at a height of 4800 feet above the sea level. The hills are traditionally believed to be the origin of the Arkavathy River, Ponnaiyar River, Palar River, and Penna River. It was also the Tipu Sultan’s summer vacation place, We can see his summer palace on the top of the hill.
The sunrise above the clouds as the dawn breaks is a mesmerizing view from Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills may be one of my most visited places in Bangalore. Usually, I start between 5.00 to 6.00 in the morning, so that I reach before 7 AM. The entrance to the Hill opens only after 6 AM. Try to reach there before 6, so that you don’t miss the beautiful sunrise view from the top of the hills, through the enveloping mist of daybreak. For those looking for accommodation options, there is a government guest house and other private hotels that are reasonably priced. There are some private, resorts nearby too. Parking facilities are available at the top of the hills, so that is one less reason for worry. Parking ticket charges are minimal including the entry fee. Avoid Sundays as the place gets really crowded
Don’t miss Bhoga Nandeeshwar Temple and Yoga Nandeeshwar Temple in Nandi Hills. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consorts Nandi and Parvati, this temple is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka and is a beautifully designed work of architecture. It is situated at the base of Nandi Hills, around 15 km from Nandi hills and it’s twinned with the Yoga Nandeeshwar Temple, which is situated at the top of the hill.
We can see other spots like Amrita Sarovar, Tipu’s Summer Palace, Gandhi House and Nehru Nilaya – which is now converted into a guesthouse by the Horticulture department.
If you are in Bangalore or on a Bangalore tour, you can visit Nandi Hills in a half day. Reach there by 6 or 7 in the morning and you can leave from there by 10 to 11. A trip to Nandi Hills is an assured start to a happy weekend.
Please watch our Nandi Hills trip video.
