Beyond Bangalore: Where to Get That Weekend Break Around the Garden City
If you’re looking to make the most of that long weekend or flexible WFH schedule while living in Bangalore, these are our top picks for a leisurely holiday amidst nature.
Coorg:
Misty mountains, wafts of fresh coffee, and honey-combed forests.
All that and a range of other natural delights are always on offer across the region proudly known as Kodagu, or erstwhile Coorg. The imposing Western ghats carve up this small district into many hills and valleys, strewn with coffee plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and thriving cultural traditions of dress, food, dance and worship. This hilly land is also where the mighty Cauvery river originates, and its fertile soils remain lush, green and cool all year round.
With all-inclusive activities, from trekking and birding to quiet campfire evenings, a well-curated weekend in Coorg ticks all the right boxes. And, when it’s an easy four-to-five-hour drive away from bustling Bangalore, there are really no excuses to amp up that long weekend.
Plus, the many cultural, scenic and natural attractions that dot the region make it a picture-perfect holiday like no other.
Sakleshpur:
Coffee-laced rainforests, peppered with erstwhile history and many-an an undiscovered trails waiting to be found – it’s always the weekend in Sakleshpur.
And, the 4-hour road trip to Sakleshpur offers an array of cultural and historical sights across the many temples and Hoysala architectural delights en route.
It even offers plenty for the adventurous, with trekking and hiking trails of varying intensity levels, winding through waterfalls, peaks and forestland.
Chikmagalur:
Aside from its uninterrupted tracts of coffee plantations and wilderness, the soaring hills around Chikmaglur are filled with adventures for the outdoorsy traveller.
Nestled at the foothills of the lush Mullayangiri range, and flanked by the mighty Western ghats, this hill-station retreat promises coffee-green rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and a sense of being in a world untouched.
One of the best things about a short weekend trip to this coffee plantation district, other than the many cups of fresh brew always on hand, is the diverse range of vacation options it offers. Chikmagalur has something for everyone.
From trekking and hiking trails that wind across forests, waterfalls and plantations, to safari through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. And, if you’re in the mood for some history and architecture, the district of Chikmagalur is home to the birthplace of coffee at Baba Budangiri, and an array of Chola and Hoysala architectural delights at the temples in Belur, Sringeri and Belavadi.
Kabini:
The Kabini Forest Reserve is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka for its lush green landscape, river-edged forests and incredible wildlife sightings from tigers and leopards to the many bird-watching delights.
Situated on the banks of the Kabini River, the reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland, steep valleys, and water bodies. Once a private hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore, it is considered to be one of the best Wildlife National Parks in India, famous for its spectacular wildlife and birdlife.
Staying at any of the select resorts, safari lodges and boutique stays that sits at the edge of the wildlife sanctuary, offer a great way to unwind in the wild.
Bandipur:
With its winter skies in a palette of blinding blue and bright Gulmohar-laden trees that pierce through the mist, Bandipur is sure to be any nature-lover’s delight.
It is home to large tracts of protected forests marked by tigers and leopards and grazed by elephants, deer, bison, and over 250 species of birds.
Wake up to birdsong, take a stroll or safari through jungle paths to rejuvenate, and relax in the lap of nature.
The select jungle resorts that fringe the Bandipur National Park are ideal spaces to unwind and plugin. With the sounds of the forest in the background, and all your needs are taken care of, inspiration and motivation are all yours for the taking.