An ancient hill fortress made by Ganga Dynasty in southern India Nandi Hills or Nandi betta is, in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka state. It is 10 km from Chickballapur town and encompassing 60 km from the city of Bengaluru. The hills are near the town of Nandi. In folkloric belief, the hills are the origin of the Arkavathy River, Ponnaiyar River, Palar River, Papagni and Penna River.
Seeing the sunrise at Nandi Hills is famous with visitors. It is frequently said that 'the most desirable areas are off the beaten path', and Nandi Hills is a clear statement to that. Established around 60 kilometres off from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one such vacationist spot that has constantly been discovered by visitors over the years and has now become a popular weekend getaway. Situated at a height of 4851 feet above sea level, you can see a convoy of weekenders from Bangalore during early hours catching the glimpse of sunrise. Once used as the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, Nandi Hills is scattered with shrines and monument and is surrounded by mesmerizing views, making this place no less than a hidden paradise. Nandi Hills finds its place in antiquity as being recollective of the reign of Tipu Sultan, and the Tipu Sultan trail is a great historic performance of this place. The most well-known spot in this trail is Tipu’s Drop, a 600-metre-high cliff which was used during Tipu’s reign to hurl prisoners down to their demise. The entire place is blocked for safety and offers remarkable views of the surrounding scenery. Another must-see appeal is Tipu’s Summer Residence, which was described by Tipu himself as the Tashk-e-Jannat, meaning ‘the greed of heaven’. Emphasizing elegantly carved arches and noble pillars with intricately painted walls and ceilings, this place is a popular tourist spot.
Nandi Hills is dwelling to quite a few temples, and one such temple that you must attend is the BhogaNandeeshwara temple in Nandi village. Devoted to Lord Shiva and his associates Nandi and Parvati, this temple is one of the most venerable temples in the area and is a beautifully produced work of architecture.
Nandi Hills is a refuge for cyclists, and the high altitude united with the amazing terrain and the magnificent landscape makes cycling at Nandi Hills a complete adventure in itself. Cycling amidst the dense greenery and past barrette bends that introduced into jaw- dropping vistas, cycling tours in the Nandi Hills is a must-do activity for escapade lovers. Paragliding is also a very popular activity in Nandi Hills, and the practice of paragliding amidst the rolling valleys and the lush green hills is an experience that will make your adrenaline pumping. What is the most suitable time to visit Nandi Hills? Summer, winter and Monsoon are equally great to visit Nandi Hills, as it has pleasant weather throughout the year. However, afternoons could be sweltering during summers, so plan your trip either early in the morning late in the evening. Monsoons, are also be less advisable due to rainfall as the road could be slippery and it gets difficult to climb up the hill.
In the months starting from June to August, Nandi Hills receives moderate rainfall, and hence, the terrain remains drenched and might be slippery as well. So, rains might destroy your plan of examining the Nandi Hills and clicking some fantastic pictures. But, by any chance, if you are still thinking to visit Nandi Hills during these months, then we would suggest you carry a parasol and pack a sweatshirt for the breeze that comes along with the showers.
The supreme time to enjoy the surreal picture of Nandi Hills is during winters, starting from September which extends till February. The weather is pleasant around this time. You can pack a picnic to spread out a cosy rug under the shade of a giant tree and enjoy the sumptuous snacks with your family and friends here. The heat in winters is within 10 to 32 Degree Celsius.
If you are planning to postpone your trip to Nandi Hills during summer, imagining the unbearable heat, then we suggest that you do not have to worry at all. The heat from March to May ranges within 23 to 40 Degree Celsius. At all points in a day, a mild summertime breeze will permit you to unwind and enjoy the panoramic view of the lush green surroundings. If you are planning to spend much time after dawn, wear summer clothes, because it gets somewhat warm as the sun appears above.
The nearest railway station is at Chikkaballapur (9km), and the nearest airport at Bangalore (58km), from where taxis are available to Nandi Hills. Buses are also available from Bangalore.
The nearest airport is in Bangalore. You could take a bus from there to Nandi Hills. Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) Experimental return flight costs to Bangalore from major cities in India:
Buses are accessible from most nearby cities and towns to Nandi Hills. You could also hire a cab or self-drive.
The most approaching railway station is Chikkaballapur, from where you could drive, take a taxi or a bus to Nandi Hills. Local Transport in Nandi Hills Autorickshaws, as well as taxis, can be opted for by tourists to travel within the city. Most sites are best explored on foot.
