Places To Visit Near Nandi Hills: A Guide For Travellers

A panoramic shot of Nandi Hills captured during the rainy season.

Amidst the tranquil beauty of Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a favourite getaway spot for its gorgeous sunrises and historical significance. While Nandi Hills has its scenic charm, the offbeat places around the hill are full of lovely little towns, old temples, nature, and exciting activities. Whether you are a nature lover, a history seeker, or a person looking for a calm environment, the places in the surroundings of Nandi Hills cater to each kind of traveller. In this article, we will list the top attractions that will help you with your travel plans to Nandi Hills.

10 Places To Visit Near Nandi Hills

Here’s a curated top-picked list of ten places to visit near Nandi Hills and make your trip to Karnataka memorable.

1. Makalidurga

The peak of Makalidurga, one of the places to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: Sanjeevengineer / Wikimedia Commons

Makalidurga is a well-known hilltop trekking site located approximately 26 kilometres from Nandi Hills. The place offers challenging rocky pathways, and the entire trek is filled with beautiful views of forests, rocky patches and greenery surrounding the hills. On top of the hill is Makalidurga Fort, an age-old fort which serves an amazing view, especially the Gundamagere Lake. The trek offers moderate levels of difficulty, hence it is suited for sports lovers. Crowned with a temple of Lord Shiva, the peak is also of historical importance and culture, the temple drawing several devotees. Makalidurga is well known for the early morning treks, the time is ideal for a quiet trek and enjoyable for the hikers.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 26 km
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

2. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace

A view of Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, one of the famous places to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, located a short distance of just 2 km from Nandi Hills, is a site rich in historical culture, especially architectural designs of the 18th century. Tipu Sultan built the palace inspired by Indo-Islamic architecture and is famous for its elaborate wooden pillars, colourful paintings, and beautifully carved arches. The two-storied building is encircled by beautifully maintained gardens, creating a peaceful environment that calls the urge in every visitor to its layers of history. The palace was constructed as a summer retreat for Tipu Sultan and depicts his passion for landscaping and artistry. A look at this palace provides a peek into the lifestyle of one of the most powerful emperors of India.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 2 km
Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM

3. Nrityagram

Nrityagram, a place to visit near Nandi Hills that has lively residential area.

Photo: Tim Schapker / Wikimedia Commons

Nrityagram Dance Village is a dance village, located approximately 46 km from Nandi Hills. It was founded by a famous dancer, Protima Bedi. The village is completely devoted to the art of several Indian classical dance forms such as Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, etc. The guests can observe the ongoing dance practice sessions, appreciate the calmness of the place, and understand the dedication of classical dance training. Nrityagram is not only a hub of different activities but also a serene location, encouraging artists, as well as those with a tilt towards Indian culture.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 46 km
Timings: 10 AM to 2 PM (Closed on Mondays)

4. Chikkaballapur

A beautiful capture of Chikkaballapur town, amongst the popular places to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons

Chikkaballapur is also beautiful small town located approximately 19 km from Nandi Hills, famous for its beautiful views and peaceful surroundings. The place is located between five hills and perfectly combines nature with adventure. The town is a perfect introduction to several trekking places including the Nandi Hills, Skandagiri, and Makalidurga. Ancient temples like Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and tranquil water bodies like Chikkaballapur Lake also reside within the town, making it ideal for all nature lovers looking to escape the busy cities. Though the town does not offer many activities, there are numerous places for trekking, thus making it suitable for all the tourists visiting the Nandi Hills region.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 19 km
Timings: 24*7

5. Nehru Nilaya

A statue placed in front of Nehru Nilaya, a place to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: Vipul ji / Wikimedia Commons

Nehru Nilaya is a beautiful colonial bungalow which is embellished with beautiful, calm gardens and greenery. This historical edifice was previously the summer residence for British officials and later it became the place where the former prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru stayed during his visits. The structural design features a perfect combination of Indian and British styles, thus allowing the visitors an insight into the colonial period. Presently, it is repaired and used as a government guest house under the control of the horticulture department. The serene surroundings and the old-world ambience make this place quite attractive for tourists visiting Nandi Hills.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 2 km
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

6. Ghati Subramanya Temple

The entrance of Ghati Subramanya Temple, a place to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: Pramath / Wikimedia Commons

Ghati Subramanya Temple, approximately 36 kilometres from Nandi Hills, is a famous Hindu temple and shrine devoted to Lord Subramanya and Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. This temple is famous for its East-facing idol of Subramanya, while the idol of Narasimha is west-facing and can only be viewed in a mirror behind the main figure of worship. Surrounded by a peaceful environment, the temple welcomes numerous devotees from all over the country. It also serves as a calming place for those who wish to reconnect with the Divine. The temple draws numerous pilgrims due to its impressive cultural and religious values.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 36 km
Timings: 6:30 AM to 9 PM

7. Hesaraghatta Lake

A serene view of the pump house located in Hesaraghatta Lake.

Photo: Gutam2000 / Wikimedia Commons

Hesaraghatta Lake, situated at a distance of 47 km from Nandi Hills, is a man-made reservoir of freshwater peppered with beauty and calmness. It was constructed in the 19th century to provide water for Bengaluru but today the place has evolved into a natural reserve, attracting many nature lovers and ornithologists. The expansive lands around the lake are well suited for family gatherings, flat walks and bicycles rides. Even though the level of water in the lake keeps on varying, the quietness of the lake and the greenery surrounding it are the main escapes for people tired of the monotonous urban life.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 47 km
Timings: 24*7

8. Skandagiri

A stunning view of clouds covering the peak of Skandagiri.

Photo: Aranyaparva / Wikimedia Commons

Situated at a distance of 17 kilometres from Nandi Hills, Skandagiri, popularly known as Kalavara Durga, is one of the famous trekking spots near Nandi Hills. This trekking site is popular for its adventurous night treks, where the adventurers can enjoy the beautiful views of the sunrise from the top. The path goes through several boulders and vegetation and towards the remains of a fortress that had been a military base for Tipu Sultan. The trek lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with views of tall peaks and deep valleys covered in a thick layer of mist.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 17 km
Timings: 4 AM to 4 PM (for trekking)

9. Venkateshwara Swamy Temple

A shot of Venkateshwara Swamy Temple, a place to visit near Nandi Hills.

Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons

Venkateshwara Swamy Temple located in Vidurashwatha, nearly 45 km from Nandi Hills, situated in Telangana is just a short drive away. It is a famous pilgrimage site also known as the “Second Kashi”. This temple is erected in honour of Lord Venkateshwara where many worshippers come in search of blessings. The temple is set in picturesque surroundings, providing a healthy environment for praying and meditating. Moreover, Vidurashwatha has a historical significance to the battle for freedom in the country, which enhances the temple dwelling appeal. Visitors are encouraged to attend this temple both to overcome fatigue and for some excursion.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 45 km
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM

10. Nandi Lake

A beautiful rainbow over the lake during daytime, just 5 km from Nandi Hills.

Photo: Vaido Otsar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Nandi Lake lies about 5 km from Nandi Hills. Nandi Lake is a beautiful outstretching water body source with water plants and is surrounded by lush greenery. It is the best place for natural seekers as this lake has a quiet and calm environment which is good for one’s health and for a casual walk. The location, and lakeside activities such as a boat ride, and picnic are ideal for relaxation with family and friends. The view includes beautiful hills surrounding the lake, and greenery which adds to the beauty of the water body creating the ideal spot for pictures.

Distance From Nandni Hills: 5 km
Timings: 24*7

Visiting Nandi Hills and its nearby attractions is an amazing experience. The rivers, dams, ancient temples and mesmerizing architecture are a must-visit. Plan your visit to places near Nandi Hills today and learn about the rich history and beautiful architecture. If you are a history lover, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday then places near Nandi Hills have something for everyone. Plan your trip with TripXL and book your tickets now for a memorable experience.

Cover Photo: Wise Droid / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Nandi Hill is approximately 60 kilometres from Bangalore, hence it is a popular destination for weekend trips.
The best period to visit is between October and March when the temperatures are moderate and comfortable.
Most of the temples such as Ghati Subramanya Temple and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple are generally open from early morning to evening between 6 AM to 8 PM.
Yes, Nandi Hills is well-connected by buses and taxis from Bangalore and other nearby towns. One can also book a train ticket to the nearest station.
Yes, there are many tour and travel agencies which conduct tours to places such as Nandi Hills and certain activities like trekking and visiting historical places.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month