Best months
Per-day budget
₹190–380/day
Getting there
Nandi Hills is a hill station 60 km from Bangalore, at 1,478 m. It was the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan and the British. The hilltop has a fort, a temple and several viewpoints. The sunrise from Nandi Hills (5:30-6:30 AM) is the main attraction — you can see the entire Bangalore skyline and the Deccan plateau stretching to the horizon. The Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple is an 8th-century Chola-era temple. Tipu's Drop is a cliff where prisoners were thrown to their death. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups. The viewpoints in the area offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Local hospitality and food make the visit even more memorable.
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Why go
Nandi Hills sunrise is the main reason to visit — the viewpoint at the top opens at 6 AM. Tipu's Drop (a 600 m cliff) has a panoramic view. The Amrita Sarovar is a pond with a garden. The fort walls have views of the surrounding farmland.
How to reach
Nandi Hills is 60 km from Bangalore (1.5-2 hours). Buses from Bangalore (Kempegowda Bus Stand, ₹50-100) to Nandi Hills. The nearest airport is Bangalore. By bike/scooter from Bangalore, it's a scenic 60 km ride.
What a day costs
| Entry fee | ₹20–50 |
| Food | ₹100–200 |
| Bus from Bangalore | ₹50–100 |
| Parking (bike) | ₹20–30 |
When to go
October to February is best (cool, clear mornings). July-September is monsoon — misty mornings. Weekends are crowded. Visit early morning (5 AM) for sunrise.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Sunrise Trip
Start from Bangalore at 4 AM. Reach Nandi Hills by 5:30 AM. Watch sunrise. Visit Tipu's Drop and the temple. Return by 10 AM.
Student hacks
- ▸Entry fee is ₹20 — a cheap sunrise experience near Bangalore.
- ▸Bus from Bangalore costs ₹50-100.
- ▸Start at 4 AM from Bangalore to reach by sunrise.
- ▸Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Safety & permits
Entry fee ₹20-50 for Indians. The hill is safe. ATMs at the base.
FAQs
How do I reach Nandi Hills from Delhi?
Flight to Bangalore then bus (1.5 hours).
What is Nandi Hills known for?
Sunrise view, Tipu's Drop, weekend getaway from Bangalore.
How many days do I need?
Half-day — early morning trip from Bangalore.