7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bangalore

Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is not just a hub for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs but also a perfect base for digital nomads who like to blend work with travel. The city's strategic location offers an array of weekend getaways that cater to different tastes – from lush landscapes and historical sites to adventurous escapades. While some destinations are well-trodden by tourists, others remain hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here are seven fun weekend getaways from Bangalore, including both popular spots and offbeat locales.

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills, a classic favorite among Bangaloreans, is an ideal retreat for those looking to escape the city's hustle. The hills offer a cool climate and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the Nandi Fort, take leisurely walks through the well-maintained gardens, or paraglide to get an adrenaline rush. Sunrise at Nandi Hills is particularly spectacular and worth waking up early for.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Nandi Hills is by car or bike, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Bangalore.

Travel Tip: Try to reach before sunrise to catch the mesmerizing view and avoid the crowds that gather later in the day.

Where to Stay: There are a few guest houses and resorts around Nandi Hills, such as the Mount Palazzo and Discovery Village, which offer comfortable stays with scenic views.

Where to Eat: Nandi Hills doesn't have many fancy restaurants, but there are several small eateries where you can enjoy local South Indian cuisine, including the famous Karnataka breakfasts.

Coorg

Often referred to as the Scotland of India, Coorg is a lush green hill station known for its coffee plantations, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. It's a great place for trekking, bird watching, and simply unwinding amidst nature. The Abbey Falls and the Namdroling Monastery are must-visit attractions. For adventure seekers, white water rafting on the Barapole River is highly recommended.

How to Get There: Coorg is about a 5 to 6-hour drive from Bangalore. There are also buses available for those who prefer public transport.

Travel Tip: Visit a coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the freshest brews.

Where to Stay: Coorg has a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts like The Tamara to homestays that offer a more local experience.

Where to Eat: The Coorg Cuisine restaurant in Madikeri is known for its authentic Kodava dishes, such as Pandi Curry (pork curry) and Akki Roti (rice roti).

Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur is a lesser-known hill station with vast coffee and spice plantations, serene mountains, and a pleasant climate. It's a great spot for trekking, especially the railway bridge trek which is both unique and exhilarating. The Manjarabad Fort offers a glimpse into the region's history and architectural prowess.

How to Get There: Sakleshpur is about a 4-hour drive from Bangalore, making it an easy weekend destination.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk on the historic railway tracks that cut through the picturesque Western Ghats.

Where to Stay: There are several homestays and resorts nestled in the plantations, such as the Eka Resort or the Misty Hills Homestay.

Where to Eat: Most resorts offer local Malnad cuisine, which is a must-try. For a more casual setting, Patel's Hotel is popular for its vegetarian fare.

Hampi

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an open museum of history, architecture, and grandeur. The ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire tell tales of a bygone era, and the boulder-strewn landscape adds to the mystical charm of the place. Climbing up Matanga Hill for a sunset view or taking a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River are experiences unique to Hampi.

How to Get There: Hampi is about a 6 to 7-hour drive from Bangalore. Overnight buses are also available.

Travel Tip: Hire a bicycle or a moped to explore the ruins and the countryside at your own pace.

Where to Stay: Stay at one of the guesthouses in Hampi Bazaar for a budget-friendly option or choose a riverside resort in Hospet for a more luxurious stay.

Where to Eat: Mango Tree restaurant offers a relaxed ambience and a variety of cuisines, with a view of the river.

Kabini

Kabini, once a private hunting lodge for the British, is now known for its wildlife and serene backwaters. The Kabini River and the adjoining Nagarhole National Park are perfect for wildlife safaris where you can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of birds. The boat safari on the river at sunset is a tranquil experience not to be missed.

How to Get There: Kabini is about a 4 to 5-hour drive from Bangalore. There are no direct public transport options, so driving or hiring a taxi is recommended.

Travel Tip: Opt for an early morning safari for the best chances of spotting wildlife.

Where to Stay: The Kabini River Lodge offers a colonial-style stay, while The Serai Kabini and Red Earth Kabini provide luxurious accommodations with stunning views.

Where to Eat: Most resorts have in-house restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. The local cuisine, however, is best experienced within the resorts.

Agumbe

Agumbe, known as the 'Cherrapunji of the South', is a quaint village in the Western Ghats renowned for its rainforests and biodiversity. It's a haven for trekkers, nature lovers, and those interested in herpetology. The sunset view from Agumbe Sunset Point is breathtaking, and the numerous waterfalls in the area, like Jogigundi and Barkana Falls, are worth exploring.

How to Get There: Agumbe is about a 7-hour drive from Bangalore. There are also buses that travel to nearby towns from where you can take local transport.

Travel Tip: Visit the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station to learn about the conservation efforts and possibly participate in a guided night walk.

Where to Stay: Options are limited in Agumbe, but guesthouses like Dodda Mane or homestays provide a cozy and authentic experience.

Where to Eat: Local homestays offer traditional Malnad cuisine, which includes dishes made from locally sourced ingredients and forest produce.

Badami

Badami, the regal capital of the Chalukyas, is an offbeat destination known for its rock-cut cave temples and red sandstone cliffs. The Badami cave temples, with their intricate carvings and architecture, are a testament to the Indian rock-cut architecture. The nearby sites of Aihole and Pattadakal also offer a wealth of historical and architectural wonders.

How to Get There: Badami is approximately a 7-hour drive from Bangalore. Alternatively, one can take a train to the nearest station, Badami, and then a short auto-rickshaw ride to the town.

Travel Tip: Visit during the cooler months from October to March for the most comfortable weather for exploration.

Where to Stay: The Badami Court and Clarks Inn Badami offer comfortable accommodations close to the main attractions.

Where to Eat: While there are limited dining options, local eateries near the cave temples serve delicious vegetarian meals typical of North Karnataka cuisine.