Nandi Hills Near Bengaluru: A Scenic Escape of Sunrise Views, Nature & History

Some places don’t demand attention — they earn it, slowly, the way dawn earns the sky. Nandi Hills is one of those rare landscapes. It rises gently from the plains of Karnataka, wrapped in mist, soft light, and long-held silence. Clouds drift at eye level, stone walls remember empires, and the air feels lighter, as if it has shed the weight of the city below. Just 60 kilometres from Bengaluru, this hill station feels far removed — a quiet pause where life slows and the senses begin to wander.

At Nandi Hills, mornings arrive calmly, carried on winds that smell of rain and wild grass. The land reveals itself in layers — winding roads, open valleys, and wide horizons that seem to stretch endlessly. Time doesn’t disappear here; it settles. History, mythology, and nature coexist with ease, making the hills feel less like a destination and more like a feeling.

The journey sets the tone. As the road climbs through sharp hairpin bends, Bengaluru fades away. Mist rolls in, valleys open wide, and green hills unfold in every direction. With every turn, Nandi Hills near Bengaluru shows why it has drawn travellers and rulers for centuries. Once the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, this hilltop sanctuary stands at 4,851 feet above sea level, its weathered stone walls holding stories of the past.

History lingers quietly. Known as Nandigiri during the Chola period, the hills later passed through Maratha and British rule. In 1791, Cornwallis’s army breached the Nandidurga Fort, marking a key moment in the region’s history. Over time, Mahatma Gandhi, Queen Elizabeth II, and even the first SAARC summit in 1986 found their way here. Yet Nandi Hills never feels weighed down by history — it carries it lightly, with calm and grace.

Mythology and nature deepen its character. Named after Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, the hill is crowned by an ancient Dravidian-style temple. Even more remarkable, Nandi Hills is the Origin of Five Rivers — the North Palar, South Pennar, Chitravathi, Arkavathi, and Papaghni — flowing outward to nourish lands far beyond the horizon.

At dawn, the hills reveal their magic. The Nandi Hills Sunrise Point glows as the sun rises through a sea of clouds, painting the sky in gold and amber. Silence fills the air. Ancient monuments, carved shrines, manicured gardens, and endless Nandi Hills viewpoints come together to create a place that feels both powerful and peaceful. Nandi Hills is not just a weekend getaway from Bengaluru — it is where history, mythology, and nature meet, inviting you to pause, breathe, and witness South India at its most serene.

Updated on: 30th, Jan 2026

Explored on: Feb' 2025

Table of Contents

• How to Reach Nandi Hills

• Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills

• Places to Visit in & Around Nandi Hills

• Where to Stay in Nandi Hills

• Entry Fee & Timings

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Tipu's Drop

• Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple

• Brahmashram Cave

• Nehru Nilaya & Gandhi Nilaya

• Tipu's Summer Residence

• Amrita Sarovar

• Bhog Nandeeshwara Temple

• Devyani Kund & Sharmistha Sarovar

• Adiyogi Bengaluru

• Trekking

• Other Activities at Nandi Hills

• Paragliding

• Cycling Expedition

• Rock Climbing & Rappelling

How to Reach Nandi Hills

Reaching Nandi Hills near Bengaluru is easy and scenic. The short journey feels like a gentle shift from city noise to hilltop calm, setting the tone long before you arrive.

By Road

Nandi Hills is about 60 km from Bengaluru and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Drive via NH 44 towards Chikkaballapur, then follow the uphill road to the entrance. Self-drive cars, taxis, and bikes are popular, especially for early morning Nandi Hills sunrise trips.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Chikkaballapur, around 9 km from Nandi Hills. It is well connected to Bengaluru. From the station, autos and taxis are easily available to reach the hilltop road.

By Air

Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, is the closest airport, located about 40 km from Nandi Hills. Taxis from the airport offer a convenient and direct route.

No matter how you travel, the final stretch is always by road — a misty, winding climb through green slopes and quiet bends, slowly revealing why Nandi Hills feels like a world apart.

Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills has a quiet charm in every season, but some months reveal its beauty more clearly and gently than others.

Winter (October –February)

This is the Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills. With cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, clear skies, and crisp mornings, winter is ideal for the Nandi Hills sunrise, sightseeing, temple visits, and slow walks along the viewpoints.

Summer (March – May)

While days grow warmer, the hilltop stays cooler than the plains below. Early mornings and evenings are the best time to explore, especially for sunrise trips when the air feels fresh and the views stretch far into the distance.

Mansoon (June – September)

During the monsoon, Nandi Hills turns lush and green, wrapped in mist and drifting clouds. Rain and fog may limit visibility, but the quieter atmosphere offers a peaceful, almost mystical experience for nature lovers and photographers.

For the best mix of pleasant weather and clear views, winter and early summer mornings are the most rewarding times to experience Nandi Hills near Bengaluru.

If you plan to stay overnight or slow down your trip, there are comfortable options on Nandi Hills, nearby, and in surrounding towns — depending on how close you want to be to the views.

On Nandi Hills (Closest to the Views)

Staying on the hill gives you early access to the Nandi Hills sunrise and a peaceful hilltop atmosphere.

• KSTDC Hotel Mayura Pine Top↗ – A government-run hotel at the Nandi Hills summit; advance booking is recommended. The nearby Nehru Nilaya and Gandhi Nilaya are quiet, colonial-style guest houses with limited rooms and old-world charm. Bookings are also managed through KSTDC Hotel Mayura Pine Top.

Near Nandi Hills (Resorts & Retreats)

A short drive away, these resorts offer comfort, greenery, and calm surroundings.

• Discovery Village↗, Mount Palazzo↗, Silver Cloud↗ – Mid-range to luxury stays set amid open landscapes, ideal for relaxed evenings.

In Nearby Towns (Chikkaballapur & Devanahalli)

For budget-friendly or convenient stays within 15–30 km of Nandi Hills, these areas work well.

• Chikkaballapur – Hotels like Hotel Sri Sierra↗, Royal Inn↗, and Gagan Delux Lodge↗ offer simple, affordable options.

• Devanahalli & Bengaluru Airport Area – Ideal if you’re connecting flights. Options range from Taj Bangalore↗ and DoubleTree by Hilton↗ to budget stays like Value Inn↗, Airport Residency↗, and Arrival Inn Transit Hotel↗.

Whether you stay right on the hill, at a quiet resort nearby, or near the airport, each option places you close enough to experience Nandi Hills near Bengaluru at an unhurried, comfortable pace.

Where to Stay in Nandi Hills

• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (may vary slightly).

• Parking: ₹35 for two-wheelers, ₹60 for cars, 40 for three-wheelers, and ₹ 150 for buses & Tempo.

• Timing: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (entry closes after 6 PM).

• Best Timing: Sunrise 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM.

Nandi Hills Entry Fee & Timings

Clouds brush shoulders, mist drifts low,
Nandi Hills wakes in a golden glow.
Tipu’s Drop whispers of centuries past,
Sunrise and sunset — moments to last.

Yoga Nandeeshwara, quiet, serene,
Monolithic Nandi, a sacred scene.
Brahmashram Cave, shadows and stone,
A meditative pause, a world of its own.

Nehru Nilaya, Gandhi Nilaya, calm retreat,
Colonial echoes where history and nature meet.
Tipu’s Summer Residence, painted walls gleam,
Amrita Sarovar shimmers, like a peaceful dream.

Bhoga Nandeeshwara, ancient stones,
Rivers begin here, flowing unknowns.
Adiyogi rises, silent and grand,
Tracing the path unknown, heart in hand.

Places to Visit in & Around Nandi Hills - Complete Travel Guide

Welcome to Nandi Hills — where clouds brush your shoulders, monkeys dart across stone paths, and peacocks wander as if the hill belongs to them. More than just a hill station near Bengaluru, it’s a space for adventure, a refuge for nature lovers, and a quiet escape from the city’s pace.

As you reach the top, you’ll find ample parking. A short walk and a few steps lead you to the main entrance of Nandi Hills, the historic Gateway of the Nandidurga Fort. This is where your hilltop exploration begins. Beyond the gate, the landscape opens into scenic Nandi Hills viewpoints, ancient structures, manicured gardens, and calm corners where time slows.

This section is your guide to the best places to visit in & around Nandi Hills — a collection of viewpoints, monuments, and natural spaces that together shape the timeless charm of this hilltop haven.

The gateway where Nandi Hills begins

Steps leading up to the summit

One of the most soul-stirring places to visit in Nandi Hills is Tipu’s Drop, the famous sunrise and sunset viewpoint that draws travellers in the early hours. From the main entrance of Nandi Hills, you can reach the spot by climbing well-laid steps or walking up the ramp. There is also a Local Bus Service available for a small fee.

Perched on a cliff nearly 600 metres high, Tipu’s Drop carries a layered past. It is believed that during Tipu Sultan’s↗ reign, prisoners were executed by being pushed from this cliff. Today, the place feels calm and expansive, offering one of the most breathtaking views in Nandi Hills.

At sunrise, the sky slowly awakens in shades of orange, pink, and gold. A thick blanket of mist often covers the valleys below, creating the surreal feeling of standing above the clouds. There is a proper viewing deck for sunrise, but the spot gets crowded quickly, so arriving early helps you secure a good view.

From the other side of the cliff, you can sit on the rocks and enjoy a peaceful Sunset at Nandi Hills, watching the light fade over distant hills. Whether you visit at dawn or dusk, Tipu’s Drop remains one of the most magical viewpoints on the hill.

Tipu’s Drop: Best Sunrise & Sunset Viewpoint

Where the hilltop meets the soft dawn mist

Sunrise painting the rocks in fire

Sunset spilling gold over distant hills

A quiet moment as the sun dips low

Just a short walk from Tipu’s Drop, the Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple offers a peaceful pause at the summit of Nandi Hills. Perched right on the hilltop, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in His Meditative Form, known here as Yoga Nandeeshwara.

The temples of Nandi Hills are more than places of worship. Whether you’re a devotee, a history lover, or a curious traveller, they add a deep cultural layer to the Nandi Hills experience. At the entrance of the temple stands a striking Monolithic statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, carved from a single piece of stone.

Believed to have been built during the Chola period and later enhanced by the Vijayanagara dynasty, the temple reflects centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. Known for its peaceful ambience, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful sunrise views, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple feels calm and grounding — a place where silence speaks louder than words.

Related Read: To see another awe-inspiring Monolithic Nandi, head to Karnataka’s heritage capital — discover the Monolithic Nandi of Hampi in our detailed Hampi blog ↗

Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple: Peaceful Hilltop Shrine

The sacred bull carved from a single stone

Hilltop Shrine, framed in ancient pillars

Steps carved in stone, leading to stillness

Brahmashram Cave: Spiritual Hideaway

A short walk from the main path leads you to Brahmashram Cave, one of the most peaceful and lesser-known places to visit in Nandi Hills. This natural meditation cave is believed to have been used by Ramakrishna Paramahamsa↗ during his visits to the region in the 19th century.

Carved into the hillside and surrounded by greenery and granite rock formations, the cave retains a raw, untouched charm. Inside, cool stone walls, soft natural light, and deep stillness create an atmosphere that invites quiet reflection.

Whether you’re spiritually inclined or simply curious, spending a few moments inside Brahmashram Cave in Nandi Hills offers a rare sense of calm, away from the crowds and noise. The cave is easily accessible and just a five to ten minute walk from the Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, making it a gentle pause in your hilltop exploration.

Nehru Nilaya & Gandhi Nilaya: Colonial Heritage Stays

A slow walk through the lush gardens of Nandi Hills leads you to two quiet heritage structures — Nehru Nilaya and Gandhi Nilaya. These Colonial-Era Bungalows, set amid manicured lawns and open views, feel gently removed from the busier viewpoints, offering a softer, more reflective side of the hill.

As their names suggest, Jawaharlal Nehru↗ and Mahatma Gandhi↗ once stayed in these bungalows during their visits to Nandi Hills. Built during the British period, the structures reflect simple colonial architecture, with wide verandas, high ceilings, and large windows that frame the surrounding greenery. Over time, both bungalows have been carefully preserved and are now used as Government Guest Houses, allowing visitors to stay within spaces that quietly witnessed history.

What makes these places special is not grandeur, but atmosphere. Surrounded by flowering plants, shaded paths, and gentle hill breezes, the area feels calm and unhurried. From the gardens, you can enjoy peaceful views of the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed walk, photography, or simply sitting in silence. It’s one of those corners of Nandi Hills where history blends seamlessly with nature, and time seems to slow on its own.

Related Read: For another destination where history lives on through heritage stays, discover the timeless palaces & havelis of Bikaner in our detailed travel guide ↗

A colonial bungalow resting in green

A small post office at the summit

Skandagiri seen from Gandhi Nilaya

Tipu’s Summer Residence (Rashk-e-Jannat): Historic Hilltop Palace

As you descend from the Nandi Hills summit, make time to visit Tipu’s Summer Residence, also known as Rashk-e-Jannat, meaning “Heaven’s Envy.” This historic palace is one of the most important landmarks connected to Tipu Sultan↗ in Nandi Hills.

Built in elegant Indo-Islamic architectural style, the residence stands out for its wooden structure, beautifully painted ceilings, and delicately carved arches. Inside, floral motifs and soft colours decorate the ceilings and walls, offering a glimpse into the refined aesthetics of Tipu Sultan’s era. Unlike grand stone forts, Rashk-e-Jannat feels intimate and graceful. Set against the calm surroundings of the hills, the palace once served as a peaceful summer retreat, allowing the ruler to escape the heat of the plains below.

Visiting Tipu’s Summer Residence in Nandi Hills adds depth to your journey — a quiet reminder of the hill’s royal past, where art, architecture, and nature came together in perfect balance.

Where Tipu’s summer dreams still echo in wood and stone.
(Image by Atudu, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Amrita Sarovar: Tranquil Stepwell & Scenic Spot

Just a few minutes’ walk from Tipu’s Summer Residence lies Amrita Sarovar, a beautiful stepwell in Nandi Hills, also known as the “Lake of Nectar.” Tucked away from busy spots like Tipu’s Drop, this quiet Pushkarni carries a calm, almost sacred presence.

Built during the reign of the Kings of Mysore↗, Amrita Sarovar is more than a water reservoir. It reflects traditional Indian engineering, where design worked in harmony with nature. The stepwell has long played an important role in the heritage and sustainability of Nandi Hills, collecting and preserving spring-fed water for the hilltop settlement.

Stone steps descend gently toward the water, bordered by flowering trees and cooled by the soft murmur of flowing springs. The space invites you to slow down — to sit, breathe, and simply observe the stillness around you.

Whether you’re resting after a morning walk, journaling in quiet solitude, or enjoying a peaceful picnic away from the crowds, Amrita Sarovar in Nandi Hills remains one of the most tranquil and overlooked places to visit on the hill.

Steps leading to tranquil waters

Where still waters meet stone steps

Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: Ancient Shiva Shrine

Located at the base of Nandi Hills, in the village of Nandi, the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka, believed to be over 1,200 years old. Situated about 5 km from the Nandi Hills summit, this ancient temple is among the top places to visit around Nandi Hills and is also a UNESCO World Heritage–nominated site.

Built across different eras — by the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara dynasties — the temple reflects the evolution of South Indian temple architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Bhoga Nandeeshwara, the complex beautifully represents the stages of life.

The temple houses three main shrines:

• Arunachaleshwara, symbolising childhood

• Bhoga Nandeeshwara, representing youth

• Uma-Maheshwara, signifying marriage

Built in 9th-century Dravidian style, the temple complex also features a sacred water tank known as the Kalyani, intricately carved stone pillars, and detailed sculptures that showcase exceptional craftsmanship.

Calm, spacious, and deeply spiritual, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple near Nandi Hills offers a grounding experience — a place where history, devotion, and architecture come together in quiet harmony.

Every carving tells an old story
(Image by Bikashrd, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

A quiet pause by sacred water
(Image by Krrish02, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

A moment of stillness inside the shrine
(Image by Bikashrd, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Adiyogi Bengaluru (Chikkaballapur): 112-ft Statue & Spiritual Experience

A relaxed 30-minute drive from Nandi Hills brings you to one of the most peaceful places in the region — Adiyogi Bengaluru, also known as Adiyogi Chikkaballapur. Located in Chikkaballapur district, this serene space feels far removed from the rush of Bengaluru, even though it’s only about an hour away from the city.

Part of the Isha Foundation, the Sadhguru Sannidhi↗ here is home to the magnificent 112-ft Adiyogi statue. More than a striking structure, Adiyogi represents stillness, balance, and a deep inner connection. Standing before it, the surroundings naturally invite silence and reflection.

Adiyogi Chikkaballapur is also known for its Instagram-worthy views, calming chants, and open spaces that create a powerful yet peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to spend a quiet evening or enjoy a sunset drive near Nandi Hills.

One of the most memorable experiences here is Adiyogi Divya Darshanam, a 15-minute light and sound show by the Isha Foundation. During the show, laser projections transform Adiyogi’s face into various forms, including Ardhanarishvara, while a moving story of yoga, transformation, and spiritual evolution unfolds. The experience is both visual and emotional — something you don’t just watch, but feel.

The Adiyogi Bengaluru Light Show Timings run daily from 7:00 PM. Entry to the complex is free, though parking charges apply.

A visit to Adiyogi Bengaluru pairs beautifully with a Nandi Hills trip — grounding, reflective, and quietly transformative.

The towering stillness of Adiyogi

Light and sound in quiet motion

Other Activities at Nandi Hills: Trekking, Cycling, Paragliding & Rappelling

Nandi Hills Trekking Trails:

Nandi Hills near Bengaluru offers scenic trekking routes through lush greenery, misty valleys, and granite hills. Trails suit all fitness levels — from gentle walks to challenging climbs — making it perfect for both novice and experienced trekkers.

Along the way, spot peacocks, monkeys, and flowering trees, while panoramic views of valleys and sunrise points add to the adventure. Trekking here is a refreshing, affordable way to connect with nature and enjoy the serene beauty of Nandi Hills.

Nandi Hills Paragliding Aerial Thrills:

For adrenaline seekers, paragliding at Nandi Hills offers an unforgettable experience. Soar high above the hills and valleys, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of this scenic hill station near Bengaluru.

With proper safety instructions and guidance, adventurers are taken to the take-off point, where the thrill begins. Flying with an open parachute, you can capture stunning videos and memories as you descend, feeling the rush of wind and freedom.

While slightly on the pricier side, the experience is worth it for the views, excitement, and unique perspective of Nandi Hills. Combining trekking, driving, and paragliding makes your visit both adventurous and memorable.

Nandi Hills Cycling Expedition:

Experience Nandi Hills near Bengaluru on two wheels with a cycling expedition that stretches across quiet, scenic trails of around 30 km. Pedal through winding roads, lush landscapes, and gentle hills while feeling the cool breeze and spotting rare birds and wildlife along the way.

Cycling here is a budget-friendly way to combine fitness, adventure, and nature exploration. The trails reveal peaceful corners, panoramic viewpoints, and hidden spots that are often missed by walkers or drivers. For both enthusiasts and casual riders, a cycling tour of Nandi Hills offers a refreshing, active way to experience the hill station from a new perspective.

Nandi Hills Rock Climbing & Rappelling:

The rugged granite terrain of Nandi Hills offers ideal spots for rock climbing and rappelling, making it a perfect adventure for thrill-seekers. These activities are best enjoyed with experienced guides or adventure tour groups who know the area well, ensuring safety while maximizing the fun.

Climb, descend, and explore the natural rock formations while soaking in panoramic views of valleys and hills, adding an extra dose of adventure to your Nandi Hills trip.

Some places don’t call out — they unfold quietly, like dawn brushing the sky. Nandi Hills rises gently from Karnataka’s plains, wrapped in mist, soft light, and calm. Just 60 km from Bengaluru, the hill station feels like a pause from life, where clouds drift at eye level, stone walls whisper history, and the air feels lighter.

From the thrill of trekking, paragliding, and cycling to exploring Tipu’s Drop, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Amrita Sarovar, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, every moment hums with the roaming rhyme, where footsteps trace secrets of the hills. Heritage stays like Nehru Nilaya and Gandhi Nilaya and the royal charm of Tipu’s Summer Residence hold stories, while Adiyogi Chikkaballapur invites quiet reflection.

Mornings here glow with gold at sunrise, mist drifts over valleys, and every turn feels like tracing the path unknown. Nandi Hills is more than a hill station — it is a timeless escape where history, mythology, nature, and adventure come together, leaving a lingering sense of calm and wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions – Nandi Hills Travel Guide

Q. What is Nandi Hill famous for?
A. Nandi Hills is famous for its breathtaking sunrises, misty valleys, historic Tipu Sultan landmarks, ancient temples, and scenic trekking trails. It’s a blend of history, mythology, adventure, and serene nature, just 60 km from Bengaluru.

Q. Is Nandi Hills open at night?
A. Yes, Nandi Hills is technically open at night, but only for guests staying at accommodations within Nandi Hills. General visitor entry usually closes after 6 PM.

Q. What is the ticket price of Nandi Hills?
A. The entry fee is very nominal — around ₹15–20 per person for Indian visitors and slightly higher for foreigners. Parking charges apply separately if you arrive by car or bike.

Q. What's the best time to visit Nandi Hills?
A. Winter (October to February) and early summer mornings (March to May) are the best times. The weather is cool, skies are clear, and sunrise views are spectacular. Monsoon visits are lush and misty, offering a magical, quieter experience.

Q. Can we visit Nandi Hills by car?
A. Absolutely! The hill is easily accessible by car from Bengaluru via NH 44 and Chikkaballapur. The drive itself is scenic, with hairpin bends and wide valley views along the way.

Q. Is food available in Nandi Hills?
A. Yes, several small eateries, restaurants, and local stalls offer tea, snacks, and simple meals near the hilltop. Resorts and hotels nearby also serve full meals if you plan to stay overnight.

Q. Is Adiyogi Bangalore worth visiting?
A. Yes, Adiyogi in Chikkaballapur is a serene escape, just about an hour from Bengaluru. The 112-ft statue, spiritual vibe, scenic views, and the Divya Darshanam light show make it a memorable experience for peace and reflection.

Q. What time is the Adiyogi show in Bangalore?
A. The Adiyogi Divya Darshanam Light and Sound Show↗ runs daily from 7:00 PM. It’s a 15-minute experience where visuals and music narrate yoga, transformation, and spiritual evolution.

Q. Can I go to Nandi Hills by scooty?
A. Yes! Scooty rides are a popular and fun way to reach Nandi Hills. The roads are mostly smooth, but hairpin bends require careful driving. Early mornings are perfect to enjoy the mist and fresh hill air.

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