Our journey began on a crisp morning as we embarked on a much-awaited day trip from Bangalore to the picturesque Nandi Hills. Located approximately 60 kilometers away from the bustling city, Nandi Hills promised a perfect escape into the lap of nature. With excitement in our hearts and cameras in hand, we set out to capture the essence of this serene hill station.
Day 1: Bangalore to Nandi Hills
- 7:00 AM: After a hearty breakfast, we departed from Bangalore by car. The drive was pleasant, and the roads were in excellent condition.
- 9:00 AM: As we approached the Nandi Hills region, the weather took a delightful turn. The surroundings became cooler and greener, indicating that we were close to our destination.
- 9:30 AM: We reached the entrance of Nandi Hills, where a nominal entry fee was charged per vehicle. The steep and winding road to the top was surrounded by lush greenery and offered breathtaking views of the valley below.
- 10:30 AM: Finally, we reached the summit of Nandi Hills. The panoramic views from the top were awe-inspiring. The famous Nandi statue and the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple were prominent landmarks we couldn’t miss.
- 11:30 AM: We spent some time exploring the ancient ruins at the hilltop, including the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, which added a touch of history to our visit.
- 1:00 PM: For lunch, we indulged in local delicacies at one of the restaurants near the summit. The flavorsome South Indian cuisine satisfied our taste buds.
Day 1: Nandi Hills Sightseeing
- 2:00 PM: After lunch, we decided to explore the surrounding areas. We visited Amrita Sarovar, a serene lake tucked away amidst the hills. The calm waters reflected the beauty of the surrounding landscape, creating a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
- 3:30 PM: Next on our list was the Tippu’s Drop, a cliff edge with a historical significance. Legend has it that Tipu Sultan used this spot to execute his prisoners by pushing them off the cliff. The view from here was breathtaking, but it sent a shiver down our spines, reflecting on the past events.
- 4:30 PM: We moved on to the Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, a beautiful temple complex dating back to the 9th century. The intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance made it a must-visit destination.
- 6:00 PM: As the day was drawing to a close, we made our way to the Nehru Nilaya viewpoint to witness the mesmerizing sunset. The hues of orange and pink painting the sky left us in awe of nature’s wonders.
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
- 7:30 AM: On the second day, we woke up early to enjoy the sunrise at Nandi Hills. The quiet and serene atmosphere made it a soul-soothing experience.
- 9:00 AM: After breakfast, we decided to go paragliding, which is one of the popular adventure activities at Nandi Hills. The adrenaline rush and the bird’s-eye view of the landscape were unforgettable.
- 11:00 AM: We visited the nearby Muddenahalli, the birthplace of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a prominent engineer and statesman. The memorial and the museum provided insights into his life and achievements.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch was at a local eatery, where we relished traditional Karnataka cuisine.
- 2:00 PM: On our way back to Bangalore, we made a quick stop at the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, one of the oldest temples in the region, known for its intricate architecture.
Conclusion:
Our trip from Bangalore to Nandi Hills was a rejuvenating experience, surrounded by nature’s bounty and historical gems. The tranquility of the hills, coupled with the thrill of adventure activities, made it an unforgettable journey. We returned home with cherished memories and a desire to revisit this serene hill station soon.