Nandi Hills Travel Guide: History, Getting There, Best Seasons, Accommodation, and Top Activities
Are you looking for a short trip? A revitalising escape surrounded by the splendour of mountains and rich vegetation? Then, there is the traditional hill fortification in Chikkaballapur, the Nandi Hills, sometimes known as Nandi Betta. For Bangalore’s residents, it’s a short trip among the hilltop splendour. Residents enjoy its natural beauty, historical significance, and comfortable climate 60 kilometres from Bangalore.
From 1,478 meters above sea level, Nandi Hills offers stunning countryside views. Residents and visitors consider it a popular hideout.
How does Nandi Hills' history begin?
The history of Nandi Hills is vibrant and spans the 9th century and the Chola dynasty when several kings presided over the land. Every one of the leaders, from the Gangas to the Cholas to the Hoysalas and Vijayanagara, had a significant influence on the Nandi Betta or hills. Tipu Sultan also used it as his summer vacation.
The magnificent Nandi Temple, located here, honours Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, earning Nandi Hills its name. The temple’s historic appeal stems from its ancient inscriptions and construction.
Why should one visit Nandi Hills?
More reason to visit Nandi Hills: the stunning temples that exude spirituality and peace. Other reasons include watching the sunrise or sunset with the cool breeze and lush vegetation. In addition, the Nandi Hills offer several sports, including paragliding, cycling, trekking, camping, and more, as you visit here.
Once Tipu Sultan lives, you can also visit his summer fort and palace. Nandi Hills combine exciting activities to keep you company with historical relevance and natural beauty. Keep reading to learn everything necessary to make sure your brief trip to Nandi Hills is nothing less than a magical experience, should you be planning a visit here.
About the Nandi Hills Temple
Apart from being a place of leisure and hiking, Nandi Hills temples draw a lot of visitors annually. Two old temples pay tribute to Lord Shiva. One is the Chola-style Yoganandishwara Temple perched on Nandi Hills. The temple opens in garbhagriha form with doors on both sides and ornamental brass-covered dwarapalakas. According to legend, Vijayanagara’s king, Kroshmadevaraya, bestowed upon the doorkeepers.
Close to Nandi Betta, in Nandi Grama, the second temple is Bhoganandishwara. Although the temple was first constructed in the ninth century, some architectural additions occurred later. There are two unique garbhagrihas in the temple arranged in one line. Their separate Nandimantapas are: Whereas the southern temple honours Lord Arunachaleswara, the north temple honours Lord Vishnu.
What is the optimal time to visit Nandi Hills?
Nandi Hills presents beautiful scenery all year long and radiates brightness. Thus, visiting Nandi Hills is best done throughout the year. Here, the average temperature most of the year falls between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. Anyone can walk, chill, and rejuvenate in a mild and pleasant temperature. Here is Nandi Hills’ weather for every season.
Winters: Nandi Hills:
Nandi Hills are lovely in the Winter, between September and February. The location is perfect for everyone because of the thick clouds, mists, tall green trees, and dense fog. Here, the winters make one feel as though they are in heaven as the frigid temperature and cool breeze envelop you. Conversely, the winter sunrise seems to be a magical event. Perfect outdoor activities for this kind of weather are paragliding, hiking, and camping. Pack appropriately since the winter temperature falls between 10 and 22 degrees Celsius.
Summers: Nandi Hills:
Given the temperature ranges between 25 and 40 degrees Celsius, Nandi Hills, in the summer, feel somewhat hot. Still, exploring the hillock is quite pleasant. Trekking to the summit and savouring a breathtaking and unforgettable sunrise would be best timed for the early morning cool breeze. Plan your treks and camping visits early in the morning or late in the evening; the daytime is somewhat humid, so the evenings are relaxed and comfortable only. One memory you will always carry with you is seeing the summer sunset while drinking your coffee. If you visit Nandi Hills in May, be sure you steer clear of any indoor pursuits.
Monsoon: Nandi Hills:
Do you love the rainy season? Visit Nandi Hills during the monsoon season between June and August. During the monsoon, Nandi Hills boasts lovely surroundings, with black clouds hovering over the whole hillock. The temperature is between 22 and 40 degrees Celsius, and here, the beautiful walk or indulgence in other activities is made possible by the alarming rate of wind. Just be careful driving or walking the steps towards the summit since it is slick.
When does Nandi Hills open/close?
Everyone can go to Nandi Hills starting at 6 a.m. every day to 10 p.m. Usually, sunrise at Nandi Hills is at 5:53 am and sunset is at 6:47 pm. Before you climb to the top of the hills, you should check the times again to make sure you get to see the beautiful sunrise or sunset.
The Nandi Hills is open from 6am to 10 p.m. every Sunday, so make sure your trip is planned around those hours.
How can one reach Nandi Hills?
It only takes 60 kilometres to get to Nandi Hills from Bangalore, Karnataka. They are 61.5 km away from Bangalore and can be reached by plane, bus, or train if you want to go there. Not only does Nandi Hills have beautiful views, but it also has fun things to do like paragliding, ziplining, camping, and more.
By train:
Only 9 miles away and closest to Nandi Hills is Chikkaballapur railway station. You can catch the fastest train—Kolar DEMU—from Bangalore Kempegowda train station. It will get you to your goal in one hour and 34 minutes. To get to the hills, all you have to do is take a taxi from Chikkaballapur station.
By Bus :
Bangalore to Nandi Hills is served by two KSRTC buses that leave from the Kempegowda bus station. One bus leaves Chikkaballapur at 7 a.m. and gets to Nandi Hills by 9:13 a.m. Starting from the bus stand at 8:15 am, the second bus arrives at the destination by 10:05 am via Doddaballapur.
By Car:
Bellary Road, 65km long, is the best and fastest path you should follow if you are driving; depending on how many stops you make, you can cover it in about two hours.
Activities Worth Doing at Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills Camping:
Camping under the lap of nature is best done at Nandi Hills. Select the overnight camping trip to savour a unique experience under the starry sky. Because the campsite is in the foothills, you can also enjoy a lot of events, including zip line, rope activities, and more.
Paragliding in the Nandi Hills :
Would you like to soar far above the ground and see the enchanted western ghats? Paragliding in Nandi Hills is then an activity you should look for. The excitement of falling from the heavens and being surrounded by the most breathtaking views. Participating in this sport is safe since professionals guide you correctly with appropriate directions. You will leap off the cliff after reaching the top and return carrying an open parachute attached.
Biking and Cycling :
Are you a big bike or cycling enthusiast? Then, riding and cycling here will help you to let all the tension pass. Bring your bikes to Nandi Hills and enjoy riding on a peaceful road, seeing rare birds, pleasant winds, and different animal species. Cycling is the best approach to exploring the area if you wish to do so.
Nandi Adventure Park:
Thrilling Nandi Adventure Park in Bangalore boasts an extensive array of activities meant for adventure seekers of all ages. While the high rope course and wall climbing test your strength and agility, the park presents fascinating choices, including paintball and quad biking, for exhilarating fun. Either guests can enjoy the unique experience of a cricket simulator or practise their aim with archery and rifle shooting. MTB hoppers and a pump track give riding enthusiasts the ideal terrain to hone their skills. The park also offers Segway rides and a bungee trampoline, adding to the range of activities that are accessible. Nandi Adventure Park is the perfect place for groups seeking to connect via adventure among the breathtaking scenery of Nandi Hills by means of committed team-building events.
Best Resorts Near Nandi Hills?
The top choice in Nandi Hills, Quad Club Resort and Spa provides visitors with the ideal mix of luxury, environment, and peace. Nestled on breathtaking hilltops, the resort offers panoramic views of the lush surroundings, so providing a perfect haven from city life. All of the rooms are tastefully decorated, combining modern comfort with natural beauty. The dining experience is great because the gourmet menu has everything from local specialities to flavours from around the world, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
There are also many things to do at the resort, such as guided walks and nature trails, a modern fitness centre, and a nice outdoor pool. Its dedication to environmentally friendly methods appeals especially to those who are concerned about the surroundings. Quad Club Resort and Spa is the best option for a unique stay in Nandi Hills since it offers combined comfort, excitement, and natural beauty.
Conclusion:
Beautiful views and a great weekend escape from Bangalore abound from Nandi Hills, a hillock. Travellers find great appeal in its gorgeous past, Lord Shiva shrines, hiking path, and more permanently. If you live in Bangalore, don’t miss visiting this enchanted location to find peace while savouring the breathtaking views of the western ghats. If you are planning for a destination wedding near Bangalore or a getaway this winter, then Quad Club Resort and Spa is the place to pamper yourself, and for more adventure, one can enjoy the Nandi Adventure Park right next to the resort.