Nandi Hills, also known as Nandidurga, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bangalore. Nestled just 60 km away from the city center, this picturesque town is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and pleasant climate. Whether you’re a local seeking a short trip destination or a tourist visiting Bangalore, Nandi Hills is sure to leave a lasting impression. Take you through everything you need to know about Nandi Hills, from entry fees and timings to the best time to visit and the top things to do.
Nandi Hills Opening and Closing Timings
Nandi Hills is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day. The best time to visit Nandi Hills is early in the morning, when you can catch the spectacular sunrise and enjoy the cool breeze.
Nandi Hills Entry Fee
There is no entry fee for visiting Nandi Hills. You have to pay for parking your vehicle at the designated parking area. The parking fee is Rs. 15 for two-wheelers, Rs. 60 for four-wheelers, and Rs. 100 for buses.
Two-wheelers and cycles can be parked for INR 15 per vehicle, while four-wheelers can be parked for INR 60 per vehicle. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t have to pay any extra fees for carrying photography gear or mobile phones. Do keep in mind that travel guides and other adventure activities may have separate charges.
Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills
The best time to visit Nandi Hills is during the months of December to February. This is when nature is at its most enchanting, with misty hills and lush greenery creating a magical atmosphere. Plan your visit for a full day to make the most of the various activities and experiences Nandi Hills has to offer.
Best Places near Nandi Hills
Many attractions and activities to explore near Nandi Hills. Some of the nearby places are:
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple:
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is an ancient temple complex located at the base of Nandi Hills. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consorts, Parvati and Nandi. The temple has three shrines, each representing a different stage of Shiva’s life. The temple also has exquisite sculptures and carvings that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is open for visitors from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM every day.
Skandagiri:
Skandagiri is a hill near Nandi Hills that is famous for its night trekking and camping. The hill offers a panoramic view of the sky and earth that meet at sunrise with clouds at an eye-level height. The trek is about 10 km long and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. The trek is suitable for beginners and intermediate trekkers. The camping site is equipped with tents, sleeping bags, and bonfire.
Gandikota:
Gandikota is a small village near Nandi Hills that is known as the Grand Canyon of India. The village is situated on the banks of the Pennar River and has a deep gorge that cuts through the red granite rocks. The village also has a fort that dates back to the 13th century and has several temples, mosques, and granaries. The village is a perfect place for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs. The village is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. There is no entry fee for the village.
Kolar:
Kolar is a city near Nandi Hills that is famous for its gold mines and temples. The city was once the largest producer of gold in India and has a rich history and culture. The city has several attractions, such as the Kolar Gold Fields, the Kotilingeshwara Temple, the Someshwara Temple, and the Kolaramma Temple. The city is a great place for exploring the heritage and architecture of Karnataka. The city is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. There is no entry fee for the city.
Nandi Temple:
Nandi Temple is the main attraction of Nandi Hills, which is dedicated to Nandi, the bull mount of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be over 1300 years old and has a huge statue of Nandi carved from a single rock.
Tipu’s Drop:
Tipu’s Drop is a cliff on the edge of Nandi Hills, where Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, used to execute his prisoners by throwing them down.
Tipu’s Summer Residence:
Tipu’s Summer Residence is a palace built by Tipu Sultan as his summer retreat. The palace is made of stone and has elegant arches and pillars.
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple:
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is an ancient temple complex located at the base of Nandi Hills. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consorts, Parvati and Nandi. The temple has three shrines, each representing a different stage of Shiva’s life.
Cycling and Trekking:
Nandi Hills is a paradise for adventure lovers, who can enjoy cycling and trekking on the winding roads and trails. The hill has several routes that offer different levels of difficulty and thrill.
Nandi Hills Resort
To enhance your Nandi Hills experience, you can book a stay at one of the top resorts in the area. Some of the best options include Clarks Exotica Resort and Fantasy Golf Resort. These resorts offer comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities to make your stay unforgettable. For a detailed list of the best Nandi Hills resorts, including pricing, addresses, and more.
The resorts near Nandi Hills are:
Discovery Village Nandi Foot Hills: This is a resort that offers a range of activities and experiences for families, couples, and corporate groups. The resort has cottages, tents, and dormitories, as well as a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a spa. The resort also organizes adventure sports, team building games, cultural programs, and nature walks.
Mount Palazzo Resort: This is a resort that offers a luxurious and comfortable stay with panoramic views of Nandi Hills. The resort has spacious rooms, suites, and villas, as well as a multi-cuisine restaurant, a bar, and a coffee shop. The resort also has a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, and a banquet hall.
Silver Mist Club & Resort: This is a resort that offers a cozy and serene stay with a touch of elegance. The resort has deluxe rooms, cottages, and bungalows, as well as a restaurant, a lounge, and a terrace. The resort also has a swimming pool, a children’s play area, a badminton court, and a conference hall.
Signature Club Resort: This is a resort that offers a modern and stylish stay with a range of amenities and facilities. The resort has well-appointed rooms, suites, and apartments, as well as a restaurant, a cafe, and a bar. The resort also has a swimming pool, a tennis court, a squash court, and a fitness center.
Mount View Resort: This is a resort that offers a simple and affordable stay with a homely atmosphere. The resort has standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and family rooms, as well as a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace. The resort also has a children’s play area, a bonfire, and a karaoke.
Things to Do in Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is not just a pretty face; it’s a dream destination for travel enthusiasts looking for adventure and natural beauty. Surrounded by mist-covered hills and verdant valleys, there is no shortage of things to do in Nandi Hills. Here are some top recommendations:
Take up Cycling
If you love the thrill of cycling amidst scenic beauty and adventure, Nandi Hills is the perfect destination for you. The roads winding through this picturesque town offer an exhilarating experience for cyclists and biking enthusiasts. In fact, there are dedicated cycling and biking tracks that encourage visitors to not only enjoy cycling during their holiday but also incorporate it into their daily lives. So grab your friends and embark on a cycling adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Nandi Hills.
Go for Trekking
Nandi Hills is a paradise for trekkers, with its tall and short hills, dense jungles, and magnificent viewpoints. If you’re an adventure enthusiast who craves more than just a single adventure on your holiday, Nandi Hills is the place for you. Explore famous trekking spots like Skandagiri, Chinnagiri, Brahmagiri, and Hemagiri. You can either join one of the trekking groups that organize tours in Nandi Hills or plan your own trek with friends. Whichever option you choose, be prepared for an unforgettable adventure.
Take Paragliding Rides
No visit to Nandi Hills is complete without experiencing the thrill of paragliding. Among the few paragliding sites in India, Nandi Hills stands out as one of the most scenic. Imagine soaring above the mountains, hills, valleys, and skies, feeling like a bird enjoying a mesmerizing view from above. This unique experience will undoubtedly create memories that will last a lifetime. So don’t miss the opportunity to tick paragliding off your bucket list and set yourself free in the skies of Nandi Hills.
Enjoy Sightseeing
Nature is at its happiest in Nandi Hills, and you’ll find yourself wanting to stay forever in this idyllic paradise. Witness heart-melting sunrises and sunsets, especially from the famous sunrise viewpoint. Take a moment to close your eyes and experience the beauty that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Embark on short walks and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature surrounding you. Visit the bird spotting zones, gardens, and water bodies to witness the abundant flora and fauna in Nandi Hills.
Visit Temples
Nandi Hills boasts several significant historical monuments, temples, and shrines. If you seek a spiritual experience, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the temples in Nandi Hills. The Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple, situated at the foothills, is a prime example of architectural and artistic beauty. Seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Nandi Deva in this temple adorned with exquisite metal and stone artwork. Another must-visit temple is the Yoga Nandeeshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Muthathi Anjaneya Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Spend Time at Family-Friendly Places
Nandi Hills offers several well-maintained viewpoints where you can relax and enjoy quality time with your family. Muddena Halli is one such place that is open for public viewing throughout the day. There are also children’s play areas and gardens with swings, slides, and other fun activities for kids. If you’re seeking tranquility and solitude, the Brahmashram is the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the beauty of silence.
How to Reach Nandi Hills?
Now that you’re excited to visit Nandi Hills, let’s explore the various ways to reach this enchanting destination:
By Rail
If you prefer traveling by metro, you can head to the nearest metro station from your location in Bangalore. Dasarahalli Metro Station and Jalahalli Metro Station are the closest stations to Nandi Hills. From there, you can book a cab and reach Nandi Hills. The metro journey to Nandi Hills costs approximately INR 1200.
By Bus
For an affordable and convenient option, you can take a direct KSRTC-managed bus from the Majestic bus stop, also known as Kempegowda Bus Station, to Nandi Hills. There are three buses running throughout the day in both directions. This is a popular choice among travelers, with fares ranging from INR 50 to INR 200, depending on the type of booking.
By Car
If you prefer the flexibility of self-driving, you can drive from your location in Bangalore to Nandi Hills. Alternatively, you can also rent a car for the journey. While this option may be relatively more expensive, it offers convenience and the freedom to explore at your own pace. The cost of reaching Nandi Hills by car ranges from INR 2000 to INR 2500.
By Cab
For a hassle-free journey, you can easily book an Ola or Uber cab from any part of Bangalore to Nandi Hills. Offline cabs are also available from Kempegowda International Airport. Keep in mind that traveling by cab can be slightly more expensive due to Nandi Hills’ location on the outskirts of the city. Cab fares typically range from INR 2500 to INR 3000.
What is Nandi Hills Famous For?
Nandi Hills is famous for its stunning natural views, mesmerizing sunrises, and as a popular weekend getaway for adventure and fun activities. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or thrill, Nandi Hills has something for everyone.
Nandi Hills is a true haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and serene temples, it offers a perfect escape from the city. Whether you’re cycling through scenic roads, trekking through lush forests, or enjoying paragliding rides, Nandi Hills is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Nandi Hills.
