Hill stations near Karnataka are perfect for people seeking to take a beautiful road trip, with sceneries spanning from foggy highlands to deep forests. Whether you’re searching for a calm vacation in the hills or an exhilarating trek, these hill stations present the perfect getaway. These spots are away from the rush and clamour of urban life. Karnataka hill stations have something to offer for everyone, whether a hiker looking for adventure or a traveller looking for relaxation.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Karnataka
Here are the 10 best hill stations near Karnataka that one must visit when touring the state, all of which make for great one-day trips:
1. Coorg
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Coorg, also known as the “Scotland of India,” has rolling coffee plantations as well as mist-covered hills. Visit the beautiful Abbey Falls, take a trip to Dubare Elephant Camp, and experience the breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset from Raja’s Seat. Talakaveri, the source of the Kaveri River, gives a mystical element to this magnificent hill station. Visitors can also trek Tadiandamol Peak, Coorg’s highest mountain top. All these make Coorg one of the best hill stations near Karnataka.
Location: Kodagu
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Attractions: Abbey falls, Dubare Elephant camp, Raja’s Seat, and Talakaveri
2. Chikmagalur
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Chikmagalur is known for its coffee plantations and beautiful surroundings. You can visit the Mullayanagiri Peak for stunning views of the sunset. You can also visit the ancient Baba Budangiri range and the Coffee Museum. Be sure to visit the incredible Hebbe Falls, where the stream flows across prosperous biodiversity. It is a paradise for nature lovers. It is a perfect blend of nature and spirituality.
Location: Mullayagiri
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Attractions: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Coffee museum, and Hebbe falls
3. Sakleshpur
Photo: Iamg / Wikimedia Commons
Sakleshpur is a peaceful mountain town filled with fascinating history and phenomenal natural beauty. Visitors can explore the star-shaped Manjarabad Fort, enjoy the expansive panorama from Bisle View Point, and walk through delightful coffee fields. It’s a popular vacation destination due to the mild temperatures and appealing scenery. It is especially known for its mesmerising sunsets.
Location: Hassan
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Nearby Attractions: Manjarabad fort, Bisle View point, and coffee estates
4. Agumbe
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Agumbe, also known as the Cherrapunji of the South, is famous for its abundant rainfall and rainforests. It provides a quiet and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience. This makes it an excellent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The town is part of the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, which plays an important role in herpetological studies. The Agumbe Sunset Point provides an outstanding view of the sun descending in the sky, comparable to the Grand Canyon’s sunsets.
Location: Shimoga
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Sunset Point, Agumbe Rainforest, and Jogigundi Falls
5. Biligiriranga Hills
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Biligiriranga Hills, also known as BR Hills, is a peaceful hill station with a distinct combination of nature, wildlife, and religious places. It is known for its rich biodiversity and historical attractions. The hills are a part of the BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, which happens to be home to elephants, leopards, and several kinds of bird species. It is a piece of heaven for bird watchers and animal lovers, thus being one of the best hill stations near Karnataka.
Location: Chamarajanagar
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM every day
Nearby Attractions: Biligiriranganatha temple, BR Hills wildlife sanctuary, and Dodda Sampige Mara
6. Nandi Hills
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Nandi Hills, popularly known as Nandidurg, is a major hill station near Bangalore that gives visitors a refreshing getaway from urban life. It is situated at an elevation of around 1,478 metres. These hills are recognized for its jaw-dropping morning views, chilly environment, and historical value. The hill station, named after Nandi, Lord Shiva’s sacred bull, presents a combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Location: Chikkaballapur
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Nearby Attractions: Sunrise viewpoint, Nandi temple, Tipu’s Drop, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple \
7. Kudremukh
Photo: Dhruvaraj S / Wikimedia Commons
Kudremukh, named after its distinctive horse-face-shaped mountain top, is a peaceful hill station recognized for its diverse wildlife, colourful surroundings, and numerous trekking options. Aside from the hill shape, it is also famous for the national park that houses a variety of wildlife species. It is part of the Western Ghats region and is famous for its beautiful elegance, which includes hilly terrain, dense jungle, and staggering waterfalls. The place is perfect for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: Chikmagalur
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Attractions: Kudremukh peak, Hanuman Gundi falls, Kudremukh national park, and Sringeri
8. Kundadri Hill
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Kundadri Hill is a beautiful and lesser-known hill station in Karnataka that provides a peaceful getaway with incredible views and an exciting cultural experience. It is known for its gorgeous views and the ancient Jain temple located at the peak. The hill is part of the Western Ghats and presents an excellent chance for nature lovers and those seeking peace of mind and relaxation. The hike to Kundadri Hill is pretty straightforward and may be completed in a few hours. The path passes through thick woodlands, giving an enjoyable climb to the peak.
Location: Shimoga
Timings: 5:30 AM – 5 PM
Nearby Attractions: Agumbe, Jogi Gundi falls, and Sringeri
9. Anthargange
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Anthargange is a mesmerising hill station and hiking destination recognized for its unique volcanic rock formations, old caves, and breathtaking natural beauty. It lies in the Western Ghats and offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty and adventure. The region is well known for its trekking tracks, cave exploration, and calm surroundings. Anthargange is particularly famous for its natural caves formed from volcanic rocks. It is a must-see place for adventure seekers.
Location: Kolar
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Nearby Attractions: Kolar Gold fields, Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple, and Kolaramma temple
10. Sirsi
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Sirsi is a lovely hill station well-known for its abundant botanical life, flowing waterfalls, and peaceful surroundings. Sirsi, situated in the Western Ghats, is an inviting location that offers a refreshing natural break. The region is known for its heavy rains, deep forests, and lots of waterfalls, which make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Sirsi provides a lovely blend of natural beauty, historical attractions, and peaceful landscapes.
Location: Uttara Kannada
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Jog falls, Sathodi falls, Mirjan fort, and Yana rocks
Hill stations near Karnataka offer a wide range of experiences, from peaceful escapes to wild adventures. Each place has its distinctive charm and attractions, which make them great for road trips. Whether you are searching for calm landscapes, thrilling climbs, or historical monuments, these hill stations offer the perfect escape from your daily routine. Pack your luggage, take the road, and see the breathtaking sights that await you. Book your trip to the beautiful hill stations near Karnataka with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Srinivasa83 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only