Ever had one of those weeks when the feeling of your phone glued to your hand is permanent and the most stimulating view you have is the blinking cursor? Yeah, I have, too. And that’s when it strikes—the sudden, unavoidable need to just… go. To replace the soundtrack of traffic with peaceful mountains and swap fluorescent lights for the stars.
If you live in Bangalore, you are familiar with this feeling. You may be experiencing this restless energy that builds up until you absolutely have to get out of the clutches of the city. The good news is that you don’t need to go far—the city fades into hills packed with mist, trails older than you can fathom, and horizons that remind you how to breathe.
This is not just about trekking. This is about retrieving your weekend, your peace of mind and that sense of discovery and childhood amazement when you wander into something new. So grab your shoes, it is time to discuss trekking trails near Bangalore because there are adventures just beyond the city.
Why Go Trekking Near Bangalore? Your Quick Guide to Adventure
Every trek is unique, which is what makes it beautiful! If you are putting on trekking boots for the first time or if your passport has well-worn use, there is a trek calling your name. We broke down these spectacular trekking destinations near Bangalore for you based on what you are looking for! Think of this as your menu for adventure, and you just have to choose your flavour.
1. The Legend of Kudremukh
Let’s face it. Some places just sound like they belong in a fairytale and Kudremukh, literally translates to ‘Horse Face’, is certainly one of those places. This is not simply a trek, this is a trek into the stunning emerald heart of the Western Ghats! You are talking about a 22 km round trip and it truly feels like you are trekking through a living painting. You will quake under the sunlight as you navigate the sun-drenched forest trails and cross gushing streams where kids are having the time of their lives, and push through wild bamboo groves, (while wondering what secrets they are whispering to you). The best part of the trek is the summit, which seems to be in the habit of hiding in the clouds, while you convince yourself that you have a summit to summit… and when the fog clears, you get to gaze upon rolling green hills nearly as far as the eye can see.
Pro tip: that flask of coffee you brought? It will taste like the best coffee of your life up there. It’s a moderate challenge, but every single step is absolutely worth it.
Distance from Bangalore: 332 km
Trek Length: 9 km (one way)
Best Season: October to February
Difficulty: Medium
2. Kodachadri’s Mystical Peaks
Kodachadri is more than a mountain; it is a feeling. This stunning, heartwarming cocktail of raw natural beauty and deep spiritual energy is known, in part, from the popular Mookambika Temple located at the base of the mountain. The 14-kilometre trail is a dream for all explorers, winding through thick, lush forests that provide several stunning waterfalls, such as Hidlumane and Arasinagundi, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. The higher you climb, the cooler the air will feel and the more dramatic the views will become, culminating in an obscured peak that will literally take your breath away. This trek is amazing for a group or team, as it combines the perfect mix of peace, a challenge, and pure awe.
Distance from Bangalore: 278 km
Trek Length: 12 km
Best Season: November to February
Difficulty: Medium
3. Ramanagara
Short on time but craving adventure? Ramanagara is the answer. Renowned for being the famous setting for the iconic Sholay, the granite hills of Ramanagara practically seethe with old, classic Bollywood drama. It’s the quickest option you can find to quench your trekking thirst, so close to the city. The landscape is incredible with huge boulders and rocky slopes, so there is more to do than just a simple walk. The main trek is simple enough, however, the real excitement is in the adventure activities: rappelling down steep faces, rock climbing and jumaring. It’s the perfect place to feel like an action hero for a day.
Distance from Bangalore: 55 km
Trek Length: 6 km
Best Season: November to February
Difficulty: Easy
4. Conquer the Giant
Attention to the adventurers out there! If you are really pushing your limits to a point to brag about it, Kumara Parvatha is where you need to go. This hike is probably the most difficult but rewarding trek near Bengaluru. This involves trekking at least for two days through the picturesque Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a 15 km hike with all the classic elements of an adventure, beginning from Kukke Subramanya and hiking through thick forests and jungle with around 15 km of trail. You can only have a break at Bhattaramane, where you can eat something or camp under the stars. The hike is certainly not for the weak-hearted. Yet the sense of accomplishment you feel from having reached the top and having the opportunity to see everything is a feeling that remains with you, even after you return home.
Distance from Bangalore: 220 km
Trek Length: 15 km
Best Season: October to February
Difficulty: Challenging
5. Madhugiri
Ready to stand on the shoulder of a giant? Madhugiri is home to the second-largest monolith in Asia—a single, massive rock that dominates the skyline. This trek is less about distance and all about the sheer, intimidating ascent. The climb is steep and demanding, with strong winds often adding to the challenge. But oh, the reward! Reaching the summit grants you a panoramic view that is nothing short of epic. You’ll also discover the ruins of a fort built by Hyder Ali and an ancient Gopalakrishna Temple, adding a layer of history to your adventure. It’s a powerful reminder of nature’s grandeur, right on Bangalore’s doorstep.
Distance from Bangalore: 104 km
Trek Length: 3 km (straight up!)
Best Season: November to February
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
6. Mullayanagiri
Ever wanted to literally stand on the highest point of a state? Mullayanagiri offers you that exact bragging right! As Karnataka’s highest peak, this trek is less of a gruelling marathon and more of a glorious, rewarding climb. The trail is relatively short but sweet, treating you to jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Baba Budangiri hills almost from the get-go. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds like a green carpet, dotted with waterfalls and rich jungle scenery. The summit is the real prize—a 360-degree panoramic spectacle that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. It’s the perfect blend of accessibility and awe, making you feel like a true explorer without requiring expert-level skills.
Distance from Bangalore: 263 km
Trek Length: 3-4 km
Best Season: November to February
Difficulty: Easy
7. Kabbaladurga
Why should the sun have all the fun? Kabbaladurga offers a unique twist on the classic trek: a thrilling night adventure. As dusk settles, the entire character of the place changes. The monolithic rocks cast long, mysterious shadows, and the nocturnal flora and fauna come alive under the moonlight. Tracing its rugged terrain under a star-lit sky is an adrenaline-pumping experience like no other. It’s often combined with camping, making for a perfect package of bonfire stories, stargazing, and a sunrise that feels like a personal reward for your nighttime conquest. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the hills.
Distance from Bangalore: 82 km
Best Season: July to September
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
8. Makalidurga
Need a digital detox that doesn’t require a week off work? Makalidurga is your serene sanctuary. Just a short drive from the city chaos, this hillock is a picture of tranquillity, dotted with granite boulders and lush green patches. The trek is a pleasant and steady climb, culminating in a summit that offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse of the river below. It’s a favourite among photography enthusiasts for its gorgeous landscapes, especially during the golden hour. If you’re looking for a quick, peaceful escape to clear your head and stretch your legs, this is your spot.
Distance from Bangalore: 60 km
Trek Length: 7 km
Best Season: November to February
Difficulty: Easy
9. Nishani Motte
For those who love the road less travelled, Nishani Motte is your hidden treasure. Tucked away in the Western Ghats of Coorg, this spellbinding range is still blissfully off the mainstream radar. The trek takes you through some of Coorg’s most picturesque landscapes—misty mountains, lush-green thickets, and trails that offer a gentle yet intriguing challenge. The peak acts as a natural boundary between Karnataka and Kerala, and the views from the top are simply magical, especially during the monsoons when the clouds play hide and seek with the valleys. It’s a true escape for the soul.
Distance from Bangalore: 250 km (approx.)
Trek Length: 15 km (approx.)
Best Season: Monsoons (for the brave!)
Difficulty: Moderate
10. Netravati Peak
Let’s be honest, some adventures are reserved for those who truly seek them. The Netravati Trek is one of them. Nestled in the heart of Chikmagalur, this is a path for the determined soul. It’s a journey through dense, untouched shola forests, across whispering streams, and up challenging inclines. The effort, however, is monumentally rewarded. The sense of isolation and raw, pristine beauty at the summit is profound. It’s not just a trek; it’s a meditation. You’re there with your thoughts, the wind, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. This one is for the purists.
Distance from Bangalore: ~ 285 km
Trek Length: ~ 18 km (round trip)
Best Season: Post-Monsoon (Oct-Feb)
Difficulty: Challenging
Wrapping Up
So there you have it. A world of incredible trekking near Bangalore is sprawled out before you, each trail with its own unique personality and promise. It’s about more than just the hike; it’s about the stories you’ll collect—the misty mornings, the shared laughter with friends on a tough climb, the deafening silence at a summit, and the profound peace that comes from being utterly, wonderfully lost in nature.
Your next great story is waiting to be written on these trails. All you need to do is take that first step. Lace up, get out there, and find your mountain.
Happy Trekking, fellow adventurers! ✨
