Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills – Places to visit near Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills, also known as Nandidurg, is a hill fortress located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, India. It is located approximately 60 kilometers from the city of Bengaluru and is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque views and historical significance. The hill is named after the Nandi temple located at the top, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The hill fortress was once a summer retreat for the rulers of the Mysore Kingdom and is now a popular spot for trekking, paragliding, and other adventure activities. The hills also have a number of temples and other historical monuments, including the Tipu Sultan’s Fort, the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, and the Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple.

Nandi Hills Trek

Nandi Hills trek is a popular trekking destination located near Bangalore, Karnataka, India. The trek starts from the base of the hill and takes you to the top where the Nandi Temple is located. The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The trekking trail is well-defined and passes through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep inclines. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

The trek is best attempted early in the morning or late in the evening, as the temperatures can get quite hot during the day. It is advisable to carry water and snacks, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear. It is also important to be aware of the local weather conditions and plan accordingly. Many trekkers also prefer to carry a flashlight or headlamp as the trek can be dark and challenging in night.

Additionally, one should also be aware of the COVID-19 restrictions and follow the guidelines. It’s always recommended to be prepared and take necessary precautions while trekking.

Places to visit near Nandi Hills

Tipu Sultan’s Fort:

Tipu Sultan Fort

This fort is located at the top of Nandi Hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was built by the famous Mysorean ruler, Tipu Sultan, and served as a summer retreat for him and his family. The fort is now a popular tourist destination and offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the various chambers and rooms of the fort, including the throne room and the queen’s chambers. The fort also has several cannons on display, which were used during the Anglo-Mysore Wars.

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple:

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple - Nandi Hills

This temple is located at the base of Nandi Hills and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered to be one of the most ancient temples in the region and is believed to have been built by the Cholas in the 9th century. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and architectural style, and is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva. Visitors can explore the various shrines and mandapams within the temple complex and also witness the daily rituals and pujas.

Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple:

Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple - Nandi Hills

This temple is located at the top of Nandi Hills and is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is considered to be one of the most important temples in the region and is believed to have been built by the Cholas in the 9th century. The temple is known for its unique architectural style and is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva. Visitors can explore the various shrines and mandapams within the temple complex and also witness the daily rituals and pujas.

Muddenahalli:

Muddenahalli

It’s a village located near Nandi Hills, known as the birthplace of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a renowned civil engineer and statesman of India. Visitors can visit the house where he was born and raised, which is now turned into a museum, showcasing his life and work. Visitors can also visit the Gandhi Bhavan, an auditorium located in the village which hosts various cultural events.

Avathi village:

It’s a small village located near Nandi Hills, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the tranquility of rural life. Visitors can take a walk through the village and interact with the local people and learn about their customs and traditions.

Skandagiri:

Skandagiri - Nandi Hills

It’s a hill fortress located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, located near Nandi Hills. It is popular among trekkers and hikers, who come to explore the ancient fort and the temple located at the top. The trek to Skandagiri is considered to be challenging but offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Shivanasamudra Waterfalls:

Shivanasamudra Waterfalls

It’s a waterfall located around 30 km from Nandi Hills, the waterfall is formed by the Arkavathi river and offers a great spot for picnics, trekking, and bird watching. It’s a perfect spot to spend a day amidst nature and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings.

Sathanur Dam:

Sathanur Dam

It’s a dam located around 40 km from Nandi Hills, the dam is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also take a walk along the dam and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Chikballapur:

Chikballapur - Nandi Hills

It’s a town located around 22 km from Nandi Hills, the town is known for its historical significance, the town has many ancient temples, forts, and monuments that offer visitors

Janapada Loka:

Janapada Loka

It’s a folk cultural museum located around 25 km from Nandi Hills. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state of Karnataka, through its collection of rural artifacts, costumes, and crafts. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and learn about the traditional customs, practices, and lifestyles of the people of Karnataka. The museum also features a village setting, where visitors can witness live demonstrations of traditional folk arts and crafts. Janapada Loka also has a beautiful garden and an open-air theater where cultural programs are organized regularly.

How to Reach

Nandi Hills is located in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, India, and is easily accessible from the city of Bengaluru. Here are a few ways to reach Nandi Hills:

  1. By Road: Nandi Hills is located around 60 kilometers from Bengaluru and is well-connected by road. Visitors can take a bus or drive down to the hills. There are also private taxis and cabs available for hire.
  2. By Train: The nearest railway station is Chikkaballapur, which is located around 22 kilometers from Nandi Hills. Visitors can take a train to Chikkaballapur and then take a bus or taxi to reach Nandi Hills.
  3. By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, which is located around 60 kilometers from Nandi Hills. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the airport to reach Nandi Hills.

It is recommended to plan the trip in advance and check the availability of transportation and also the COVID-19 restrictions that may be in place.

Best Timing

The best time to visit Nandi Hills is between the months of October and February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it the perfect time for trekking and sightseeing. The monsoon season, which starts in June and lasts till September, can make the trek a bit difficult and slippery. The temperature can also rise to uncomfortable levels during the summer months, so it’s best to avoid visiting during that time.

The early morning is considered to be the best time to trek Nandi Hills, as the weather is cooler and the visibility is better. The view of the sunrise from the top of the hill is breathtaking and is considered to be a must-see for visitors.

Additionally, one should also be aware of the COVID-19 restrictions and follow the guidelines. It’s always recommended to be prepared and take necessary precautions while visiting.

Nandi Hills is famous for several reasons:

  1. Trekking: Nandi Hills is a popular trekking destination and is considered to be one of the best in the region. The trek to the top of the hill is considered to be of moderate difficulty and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  2. Historical significance: Nandi Hills has a rich history and is associated with many famous rulers and dynasties. The hill fortress was once a summer retreat for the rulers of the Mysore Kingdom and is now a popular spot for trekking, paragliding and other adventure activities.
  3. Temples: Nandi Hills is home to several ancient temples, including the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and the Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and architectural style and are considered to be some of the most important temples in the region.
  4. Scenic views: Nandi Hills offers some of the most picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush green forests and the beautiful sunset. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife while trekking.
  5. Adventure activities: Nandi Hills is also a popular spot for adventure activities such as paragliding and rock climbing.
  6. Tipu Sultan’s Fort: The fort is located at the top of Nandi Hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was built by the famous Mysorean ruler, Tipu Sultan, and served as a summer retreat for him and his family.
  7. Peaceful surroundings: Nandi Hills offers a perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the tranquility of rural life. Visitors can take a walk through the village and interact with the local people and learn about their customs and traditions.
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