Long weekends are basically mini-vacations in disguise- no work calls, no alarms (well, except for sunrise treks), and no endless city traffic. And if you’re in Bangalore, you’re in trekking heaven. Within a few hours, you can swap concrete for clouds, office chairs for rocky trails, and WhatsApp groups for actual conversations around a bonfire.
Here’s our pick of 10 awesome treks listed on Playo that’ll make your next long weekend way more exciting than just Netflix and chill.
1. Nandi Hills
Distance: ~60 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The OG of Bangalore getaways! Nandi Hills is where you go if you want an easy trek with maximum views. Start early (we’re talking 4:30 am early) and watch the sky turn into a canvas of orange and pink. You’ll also stumble upon Tipu’s Drop, Adi-yogi, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, and some fort ruins – history buffs, you’ll love it. The cool morning breeze is better than any coffee, and the lush green slopes dotted with mist make every step magical. Sunrise here feels almost cinematic, and the panoramic views stretch so far you can spot tiny villages below.
2. Skandagiri (Kalavara Durga)
Distance: ~62 km
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’ve never been to Skandagiri, you’re in for a treat. Located about 62 km from Bangalore near Chikkaballapur, this hill is all about dramatic views and that “we actually woke up for this” feeling. The trek takes you through rocky paths, forest trails, and the ruins of an old fort that once stood guard here. On a good day, you’ll be above the clouds, watching them roll past like slow-motion waves. Whether you start before sunrise or in the morning, the panoramic scenery and peaceful vibe make the climb worth every step.
3. Savandurga
Distance: ~68 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Asia’s largest monolith! Located about 68 km from Bangalore, Savandurga is all about climbing a giant granite rock and feeling like a boss when you reach the top. You’ve got two routes – Karigudda (tougher) and Biligudda (easier) – both rewarding you with killer views of Manchanabele Dam and the lush Arkavathi River valley. Along the way, you might spot ancient fort remnants built by Kempegowda, adding a dash of history to your climb. Your legs might complain the next day, but your camera roll and bragging rights will be totally worth it.
4. Makalidurga
Distance: ~60 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This one’s peaceful, scenic, and a little bit dramatic, because you start your trek walking along railway tracks like you’re in a Bollywood movie. Located about 60 km from Bangalore near Makalidurga village, the trail winds past rocky paths and patches of wildflowers before taking you up to a ruined fort with sweeping views of lakes and rolling hills. On clear days, you can even spot the winding River Arkavathi in the distance. It’s short enough to be done in half a day, so you can still make it back for a lazy Sunday afternoon nap and a well-earned cup of chai.
5. Coorg & Mandalpatti
Distance: ~260 km
Difficulty: Easy
This isn’t your usual huff-and-puff trek. Located about 260 km from Bangalore and 25 km from Madikeri in the heart of Coorg, Mandalpatti is more of an adventure ride than an exhausting climb. Most of the journey is a bumpy, thrilling jeep ride through Coorg’s misty hills, coffee estates, and winding trails, and you only trek the last stretch on foot. The payoff? A jaw-dropping 360° view of the Western Ghats, with layers of green hills fading into the horizon. On a misty day, it feels like you’re standing in the clouds. Pack your camera, because every frame here looks like it belongs on a postcard.
6. Bandaje Falls (Chikmagalur)
Distance: ~315 km
Difficulty: Hard
This one’s for the “no pain, no gain” crew. Tucked away in the Charmadi Ghat section of the Western Ghats, Bandaje Falls is a hidden gem about 315 km from Bangalore. Getting there means pushing through dense forests, crossing streams, and tackling some serious uphill climbs that will test your stamina. But the reward? A breathtaking 200-foot waterfall crashing into a lush green valley, with mist rising like nature’s own special effects. If you’re up for it, you can even trek further to Ballalarayana Durga Fort for panoramic views of rolling hills and endless greenery. Your sore legs will forgive you… eventually!
7. Gokarna Beach Trek & Camp
Distance: ~495 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Who says treks have to be in the mountains? Located along Karnataka’s stunning coastline, the Gokarna Beach Trek is all about hopping from one gorgeous beach to another – Kudle, Om, Half Moon, and Paradise – with the sound of waves as your soundtrack. The trail winds through rocky cliffs, sandy shores, and little forest patches, giving you a mix of adventure and chill vibes. Along the way, you can stop for a quick dip in the sea or grab fresh coconut water from a beach shack. End the day camping by the shore, stargazing, and maybe roasting a marshmallow or two while the waves lull you to sleep.
8. Shivagange
Distance: ~52 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Part pilgrimage, part workout, Shivagange is a hill located about 52 km from Bangalore near Tumakuru, and it’s shaped like a Shivalinga. The trek is dotted with ancient temples, freshwater springs, and little surprises like statues and carvings tucked into the rocks. Pilgrims visit for its religious significance, while trekkers come for the challenge and views. The last stretch is a steep climb with railings to help you pull yourself up, and once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and countryside. A mix of spirituality, nature, and leg day, it’s totally worth the sweat.
9. Karadi Kallu Betta
Distance: ~70 km
Difficulty: Moderate
If you hate crowded trails, Karadi Kallu Betta is your escape. Located about 70 km from Bangalore near Kanakapura, it’s quiet, green, and just challenging enough to make you feel accomplished. The trail winds through forested paths and rocky patches before leading you to a rugged summit with wide-open views of rolling hills and distant lakes. It’s a great spot for catching the sunrise, with golden light spilling over the landscape, and on most days, you might just have the whole place to yourself. Bring a flask of chai, because nothing pairs better with solitude and scenery.
10. Uttari Betta
Distance: ~80 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Uttari Betta is like the all-in-one trek, a bit of adventure, a touch of history, and views for days. Located about 75 km from Bangalore, this trail takes you through a stone archway straight into a mix of rocky paths and lush greenery. Along the way, you’ll pass small caves and the centuries-old Shankareswar Temple perched halfway up. The climb isn’t too intense, but the winding route and occasional boulder scramble keep it interesting. From the summit, you get sweeping views of surrounding hills and farmlands, making it the perfect spot to just sit, snack, and soak in the scenery.
Plan Your Trek with Playo!
Planning treks can be a headache, but Playo makes it easy for you. You get experienced guides, sorted logistics, and a structured itinerary, all in one place. No Googling “how to get there” or stressing about permits.
So, grab your backpack, round up your gang, and let’s turn that long weekend into an epic story you’ll be telling for months.
0 Comments