15 Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore with Waterfalls 
Trekking Places Near Bangalore – The Adventure Awaits
Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is not just about startups and coffee shops — it’s a paradise for adventure seekers. Surrounded by lush hills, dense forests, and hidden waterfalls, the city is blessed with countless trekking places near Bangalore that promise both thrill and tranquility.
Whether you’re a weekend wanderer, a nature lover, or a trekking enthusiast, there are trails within short drives that lead you straight into nature’s lap. In this guide, we uncover the 15 best trekking places near Bangalore, especially those with waterfalls and breathtaking views.
So, lace up your shoes — adventure is calling!
1. Savandurga Hill – The Monolithic Marvel 
📍 Distance: 50 km from Bangalore
One of Asia’s largest monoliths, Savandurga Hill, offers a moderate trek with mesmerising views from the summit. The trail is rocky yet rewarding, ending with panoramic vistas of the Arkavathi River.
Highlights:
Perfect sunrise trek
View of Manchanabele Dam
Great for beginners
💡 Tip: Start your trek early in the morning to witness the mist covering the hills like a blanket.
2. Skandagiri – The Famous Sunrise Trek 
📍 Distance: 60 km from Bangalore
Also known as Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is famous for its pre-dawn treks. As you ascend under starlit skies, the sunrise from the top feels like a dream above the clouds.
Highlights:
Night trek experience
Historical ruins at the peak
Stunning sunrise views
💡 Tip: Carry a flashlight and jacket — it gets cold before sunrise.
3. Makalidurga – Hilltop Fortress Trek 
📍 Distance: 60 km from Bangalore
Set beside a serene lake and railway track, Makalidurga is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore for moderate-level trekkers. The trail winds up to a ruined fort, offering a scenic view of the valley below.
Highlights:
Great for photography
Railway-side trekking route
Peaceful and less crowded
💡 Tip: Visit post-monsoon for lush greenery and lake reflections.
4. Anthargange – The Cave Exploration Trek 
📍 Distance: 70 km from Bangalore
Known for its volcanic rock formations and natural caves, Anthargange combines trekking with cave exploration. The night trek here is an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights:
Unique volcanic rocks
Caving experience
Star gazing opportunities
💡 Tip: Opt for guided treks for a safe caving experience.
5. Chunchi Falls – Short Trek with a Scenic Waterfall 
📍 Distance: 90 km from Bangalore
If you love treks ending in waterfalls, Chunchi Falls is perfect. The short trek through rocky terrain and shrub forests leads you to a beautiful cascade on the Arkavathi River.
Highlights:
Stunning waterfall views
Ideal picnic and photo spot
Offbeat and peaceful trail
💡 Tip: Best visited right after the monsoon for full water flow.
6. Shivagange – Spiritual and Scenic Trek 
📍 Distance: 60 km from Bangalore
Shaped like a Shivalinga, Shivagange Hill blends adventure with spirituality. The moderate climb involves steps, caves, and temples along the way, leading to a breathtaking summit view.
Highlights:
Pilgrimage and adventure combined
Sacred springs and shrines
Great sunrise spot
💡 Tip: Carry water and wear good trekking shoes — the climb can be steep in parts.
7. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta – Forest Trail Delight 
📍 Distance: 75 km from Bangalore
Hidden in the Kanakapura region, Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta offers one of the most rewarding forest treks near Bangalore. The lush greenery and serene surroundings make it ideal for nature lovers.
Highlights:
Temple at the summit
Dense forest route
Panoramic hilltop views
💡 Tip: Ideal for monsoon and winter treks when the forest is vibrant.
8. Devarayanadurga – Forts and Fresh Air 
📍 Distance: 70 km from Bangalore
A combination of fort ruins, temples, and viewpoints, Devarayanadurga offers a pleasant trek surrounded by rocky hills and dense forest patches.
Highlights:
Historical fort remains
Bhoga and Yoga Narasimha Temples
Great for families and beginners
💡 Tip: Sunset from the hilltop is absolutely stunning.
9. Kabbaladurga – The Night Adventure Trek 
📍 Distance: 80 km from Bangalore
For thrill-seekers, Kabbaladurga Night Trek is one of the most adventurous options near Bangalore. The rocky terrain and starlit path lead to a fort ruin and panoramic sunrise view.
Highlights:
Night trek experience
Historical fort remains
Perfect for groups and adventure lovers
💡 Tip: Carry torches and water — the trail can be slippery at night.
10. Thottikallu Falls (TK Falls) – Quick Nature Escape
📍 Distance: 35 km from Bangalore
Popularly known as Swarnamukhi Falls, TK Falls is among the trekking places near Bangalore within 50 km. The short forest trail leads to a mesmerising twin waterfall that’s perfect for a refreshing break.
Highlights:
Close to the city
Easy trek for beginners
Ideal monsoon getaway
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm.
11. Madhugiri Fort – Second Largest Monolith in Asia 
📍 Distance: 100 km from Bangalore
A historical fort trek offering stunning views, Madhugiri Hill challenges trekkers with steep slopes and ancient ruins. It’s adventurous, scenic, and culturally rich.
Highlights:
Historical architecture
Challenging climb
Bird’s-eye view of the town
💡 Tip: Avoid during midday heat — the hill has minimal shade.
12. Hutridurga – The Fort Hill Trek 
📍 Distance: 70 km from Bangalore
A hidden gem, Hutridurga is a less-crowded trekking destination featuring ancient fort walls, stone gateways, and temple ruins — perfect for history buffs and hikers alike.
Highlights:
Offbeat location
Ancient fort and cave temples
Peaceful environment
💡 Tip: Great spot for photography and short hikes.
13. Narayanagiri – Sunset Trekking Haven 
📍 Distance: 75 km from Bangalore
Narayanagiri Hill near Ramanagara is one of the best trekking places near Bangalore for sunset views. The hill houses an old temple and offers panoramic views of surrounding villages.
Highlights:
Great sunset spot
Easy to moderate climb
Less touristy trail
💡 Tip: Carry snacks — there are limited shops near the base.
14. Bannerghatta Hill Trek – Wild and Refreshing 
📍 Distance: 25 km from Bangalore
Close to the Bannerghatta National Park, this trek takes you through forest trails, viewpoints, and streams. It’s perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights:
Close to the city
Spot wildlife like deer and peacocks
Great family trekking spot
💡 Tip: Early morning treks offer the best chances for wildlife sightings.
15. Kunti Betta – The Adventure Hotspot 
📍 Distance: 125 km from Bangalore (Near Pandavapura)
A trek filled with mythology, rocks, and stunning landscapes, Kunti Betta offers one of the most adventurous night treks near Bangalore. The view of Thonnur Lake at sunrise is breathtaking.
Highlights:
Night trekking adventure
Panoramic lake views
Ideal for adventure seekers
💡 Tip: Recommended for those with basic trekking experience.
Best Time to Visit Trekking Places Near Bangalore
October to March: Pleasant weather, best for long treks
June to September: Waterfalls are in full flow during the monsoon
April to May: Early morning treks are recommended to avoid the heat
Travel Tips for Trekkers
Always carry water, light snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
Wear proper trekking shoes with good grip.
Check local permissions for night treks.
Respect nature — avoid littering.
Carry rain gear during monsoon months.
Conclusion: Discover the Wild Side of Bangalore
From misty monoliths to hidden waterfalls, Bangalore’s surroundings offer an unbeatable mix of adventure and beauty. Whether you’re trekking through dense forests or climbing rocky hills, every trail reveals a new side of Karnataka’s landscape.
So, the next time you crave a weekend escape, explore these best trekking places near Bangalore with waterfalls — where every step leads you closer to nature’s heart.
FAQs
1. What are the best trekking places near Bangalore within 50 km?
Savandurga, Thottikallu Falls (TK Falls), and Bannerghatta Hill are perfect short-distance treks.
2. Which treks near Bangalore have waterfalls?
Chunchi Falls, TK Falls, and Bannerghatta Hill offer trails with scenic waterfalls.
3. Are there night treks near Bangalore?
Yes, Skandagiri, Kabbaladurga, and Kunti Betta are popular for night treks.
4. What is the best time for trekking near Bangalore?
October to March offers the most comfortable weather for trekking.
5. Can beginners go trekking around Bangalore?
Absolutely! Trails like Devarayanadurga, TK Falls, and Bannerghatta Hill are great for first-timers.