Nandi Hills, (or Nandi Betta, Nandidurga), is an east facing hill station located some 60 to 70 km from Bangalore. Nandi Hills stands at an elevation of 1,478 meters. A very popular hill station, particularly on the weekends for people from Bangalore. It provides cool mountain air and great views of a magnificent sunrise.  It is a nice getaway from the city. You can drive there by yourself, use Tejas Travels for a guided tour, or use public transportation. It is a short trip away.

Why Should You Visit Nandi Hills?

Natural beauty & Insta-worthy vistas

Nandi Hills is well known for its scenic beauty and photo opportunities. It has thick rolling mist at times and has sweeping valley views at others. 

Historical significance

Nandi Hills is actually developed by the Ganga Dynasty and won the interest of Tipu Sultan as his summer retreat. There is historical significance in places like Tipu’s Drop and Tipu's summer palace to enjoy now. 

Biodiversity

Nandi Hills is a bird-lover's paradise. The hills host rare species such as the yellow-throated bulbul and Malabar whistling thrush. The combination of the rich flora and fauna of the hills makes your experience looking for this natural gem even better.

Year-round destination; ideal seasons: winter & early morning for sunrise

Nandi Hills is pleasant year round, however, in general, the most special time is early mornings in winter. This is where you'll find some of the clearest skies and most awe-inspiring views of sunrise.

Weather seasonal:

Summer (Mar–May): temperature between 23–38 °C. On summer days the hill top is relatively cool compared to Bangalore.

Monsoon (Jun–Sept): while trails become slippery, trails are stunningly lush green.

Winter (Oct–Feb): the best season is between 10 & 20 °C.

Timing tips:

If you want to get that 'wow' rise, make sure to arrive on or before 5:30 to 6 AM. This should allow time to get in before the crowd and allow you to secure the best viewing spots before the gates open.

Can You Drive or Ride to Nandi Hills?

Yes, you can, and the most viable route is NH7/Bellary Road. The travel time is 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic. As you get close to the top, plan on encountering about 40 hairpin bends and steep climbs.

Are There Direct Buses to Nandi Hills from Bangalore?

Yes, BMTC and KSRTC run daily buses (from Majestic Depot) to the hills. The direct bus leaves around 8:30 AM, with ticket prices ranging from ₹50-₹200. Alternatively, take a bus to Chikkaballapur (₹42), and from Chikkaballapur take a local bus to the hilltop (additional ₹30).

Is It Possible to Reach Nandi Hills by Train?

Yes; the nearest station is Chikkaballapur (it is about 9 to 10 kilometres away). DEMU trains take about 1.5 hours to get to Chikkaballapur from Bangalore. 

Tejas Travels can offer a selection of packages.

•Sunrise tours - Sunrise pickup time is early in the morning.

•Overnight treks and camping - You can enjoy the stars and morning mist.

•Guided experiences - It includes permits, transport and local guides.

All packages are designed for family, friends and corporate groups looking for a hassle free and managed trip.

Timings: 6 AM - 10 PM

•Entry fee: ₹5 per person

•Car parking: ₹60; bike: ₹15

•Weekend passes come with limit: be sure to grab your permits well in advance either at the counter or even online

An early start is a good way to avoid long queues and especially helpful for easy parking.

Where Can You Stay Near Nandi Hills?

•Hilltop stay - Cottages and dormitories offer a basic stay with hill top views.

•Foothill luxury - Mount Palazzo, Discovery Village, and Silver Mist -All partnered with Tejas Travels

•Golf and relaxing - Prestige Golfshire Club Deluxe stays with pool and fine dining.

Booking in advance is recommended if you are looking to enjoy a relaxing overnight stay.

A. Sunrise at Tipu’s Drop

Tipu’s Drop is a sheer 600-metre high cliff that has exquisite views of the sunrise. It is one of the most popular sites in Nandi Hills.

B. Historical Sites

•Tipu Sultan Summer Palace and Tashk-e-Jannat are the two historical landmarks that reflect the architectural taste of the ruler.  

•The Bhoganandishwara and Arunachaleswara Temples are built dating to the 9th and 10th centuries, which is one for the history buffs.  

C. Trekking & Adventure

•There are trekking paths via the road or the stone steps for beginner trekkers.  

•If you are an advanced trekker, there are many more trails with varying toughness where the Kalavara Durga (Skandagiri) is a good one for trekking.  

•There are other adventures and activities to do, such as camping, zip-lining, cycling and paragliding.  

•If you love birds, you are likely to see many endemic species while engaging in these activities.  

D. Relaxation & Sightseeing

•Have a look around Brahmashram Cave, Amruth Sarovar, Gandhi House, Nehru Nilaya.  

•For the afternoon, visit Prestige Golfshire Club for enjoying great food and spa treatments, or play a round of golf.  

Where Can You Eat or Have a Picnic at Nandi Hills?

•Hilltop food court: It only serves simple South Indian meals and snacks.  

•Nandi Upachar: Nandi Upachar is a vegetarian restaurant located downhill, with AC seating and very clean.  

•Tip for picnic: You may bring your own food, but lock it up properly. Monkeys and stray dogs are an issue, and they will steal the food if it is available!

•Try to leave before sunset. It can tricky to travel to Nandi Hills after the sun goes down.

•Make sure you lock your vehicles and put your food away - monkeys are notorious for breaking in.

•Keep an eye on children, especially when they are close to cliffs or ledges.

•Monitor the weather and think about sunrise times: If it just rained through a weekend monsoon storm do not go visit Nandi Hills.

Day Trip (by Tejas Travels)

•Pick-up by 3:30 AM

•Reach hill top by 5:30 AM

•Enjoy sunrise and follow with breakfast

•Heritage walk with an optional adventure

•Return to Bangalore by 4:00 PM.

Self-Drive + Hill-Stay

•Drive up the hill in the afternoon

•Enjoy sunset and stay in the hilltop cottage

•Relax for sunrise to trek temples and cancell

•Return after lunch

Adventure Trek Combo

•Pre-dawn trek up Nandi Hill

•Camp overnight


•Trek Skandagiri the next day for a complete adventure.

Are you looking for a stress free, scenic getaway? Book your Bangalore to Nandi Hills trip with Tejas Travels and you can enjoy a fully managed travel experience with all your needs covered, from early sunrise pickups , to guided heritage walks, to adventure planning.

What are the best transport options for sunrise?

If timely arrival is important to you, driving yourself or booking a sunrise package with Tejas Travels would be the best option. Most public transportation will arrive too late and you will miss out on the sunrise view.

Is Nandi Hills safe?

Yes, especially in the mornings and afternoons. You should avoid lingering after sunset! Just use some basic safety precautions and you will be fine. 

Should I book in advance?

Yes! Nandi Hills can get very busy on weekends and holidays. Tejas Travels packages can also fill up quickly, so it's good to book ahead of time!