The month of March is celebrated with a lot of joy and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of summer in Bangalore. While the festivals and holidays are something to look forward to, March also provides a great opportunity to visit nearby scenic destinations.
There are many places to visit near Bangalore in March, allowing you to catch that much needed break. Here are some of the best destinations we’ve curated for you, promising an unforgettable experience.
Why March is the Perfect Time to Explore Near Bangalore
There are many reasons why March is the ideal time to explore serene places near Bangalore. Some of them are
- Pleasant weather with cool evenings
- Less crowd when compared to peak Summer
- Lush and blooming landscapes
- Cultural festivals and vibrant occasions
Places to Visit Near Bangalore in March
- Coorg
- Mysore
- Chikmagalur
- Ooty
- Kabini
- Hampi
- Sakleshpur
- Lepakshi
- BR Hills
- Anthargange
- Mandaragiri Hill
- Avani
- Madhugiri
- Kokkare Bellur
- Devarayanadurga
1. Coorg
Distance from Bangalore : 260 kms
Highlights :
Coorg is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore in March, standing out with its natural beauty. You may have heard people referring to it as the “Scotland Of India” and this is justified by its lush plantations.
- Top coffee plantations
- Stunning waterfalls such as Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls
- Madikeri Fort and Raja’s Seat
Travel tip : Make sure to explore the National Parks, do not miss the Dubare Elephant Camp.
2. Mysore
Known for its blend of history and culture, Mysore is suited for all historical buffs. You should take advantage of the pleasant, warm weather and explore the city’s attractions alongside the signature silk and sandalwood products.
Distance from Bangalore : 150 kms
Highlights :
- Mysore Palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture
- St. Philomena’s Church which is a neo-Gothic-style cathedral
- Visit Chamundi Hill and Chamundeshwari Temple
Travel tip : Try the Mysore Pak, a renowned sweet dish in Mysore
3. Chikmagalur
An enchanting hill station that is a paradise for coffee lovers, Chikmagalur is a top place to visit near Bangalore in summer. Punctuated by lush greenery and majestic landscapes, this destination offers a pleasant climate, making it the perfect summer getaway.
Distance from Bangalore : 240 kms
Highlights :
- Trek to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka.
- Visit various coffee plantations and trek Baba Budangiri
- Relax near the Hebbe Fall or the Hirekolale Lake.
Travel tip : Don’t miss the famous Kudremukh National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
4. Ooty
Filled with many historical landmarks and charming tea plantations, Ooty is known as the “Queen of Hill Stations”. The hills, water bodies and natural features make it a great place to visit near Bangalore in summer, drawing slightly huge crowds.
Distance from Bangalore : 270 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the age old Ooty Lake that was established in 1824
- Explore the Botanical Gardens, another age old sight
- Explore Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views.
Travel tip : Book your hotel beforehand and also take the opportunity to embark on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
5. Kabini
Whether you are a fan of bird watching or an animal lover, Kabini is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Apart from being a perfect destination for wildlife lovers, it is also a tranquil place where you can relax. Surrounded by nature and calm water bodies, it is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Distance from Bangalore : 220 kms
Highlights :
- Relax near the Kabini River and Kabini Dam
- Explore the Nagarhole National Park within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
- Take a safari ride spot all kinds of animals and birds
Travel tip : Carry a camera and binoculars
6. Hampi
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing many historical temples and structures that now lie in ruins. Popularly known to house the Virupaksha Temple, it has a rich legacy that now blends with modern amenities. From the historical relevance to the picturesque ambiance, it is a must visit near Bangalore in March.
Distance from Bangalore : 340 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the stunning Virupaksha Temple and Vittal Temple
- Trek the Mantanga Hill followed by relaxing at the Sanapur Lake.
- Buy souvenirs at the lively Hampi Bazaar
Travel Tip : Visit the historical structures such as Lotus Mahal and Queens Bath.
7. Sakleshpur
Marked by its rich biodiversity and peaceful nature, Sakleshpur is among the best places to visit near Bangalore in summer. It is an underrated destination that acts like the perfect getaway from the hectic city life. Whether it is the coffee plantations or the scenic hills, it is one of a kind.
Distance from Bangalore : 220 kms
Highlights :
- Trek the Bisle Viewpoint, Agni Gudda Hill and Sakleshpur Railway Trek
- Explore the Manjarabad Fort, constructed by Tipu Sultan in 1792
- Unwind at the Hemavathi River
Travel tip : Carry comfortable shoes for the trek and pack light.
8. Lepakshi
Rooted in folklore and mythology, Lepakshi is a unique place to visit near Bangalore in summer. This cultural and architectural marvel comprises many temples and devotional monuments that draw many devotees throughout the year.
Distance from Bangalore : 120 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the Veerabhadra Temple and admire the hanging pillar.
- Explore the Nandi Statue, one of the largest in India.
- Learn about the legends such as the Giant footprints.
Travel tip : Hire a guide for a more in depth understanding if needed.
9. BR hills
BR hills or the Biligiriranga Hills hosts diverse flora and fauna, emerging as a serene wildlife sanctuary. The hills are a home to a wide variety of birds and animals, allowing people to relax in this thriving ecosystem. It also consists of a few prominent temples that make it an important pilgrimage site.
Distance from Bangalore : 180 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the Biligiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple.
- Watch many animals and over 270 species of birds at the BRT Wildlife Sanctuary
- Learn about the 2,000 year old Dodda Sampige Mara or the “Big Champak Tree”
Travel tip : Carry binoculars for a better view
10. Anthargange
For all adventure lovers and trekking enthusiasts, Anthargange features some of the best rock formations. This includes various volcanic rock formations and caves alongside a few sacred temples.
Distance from Bangalore : 70 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the Kashi Vishweshwara Temple
- Explore the age old Anthargange Caves
- Plan cave visits and embark on night treks and stargazing.
Travel tip : Wear comfortable shoes, be cautious and carry a flashlight.
11. Mandaragiri Hill
Suitable for a quick weekend getaway, Mandaragiri Hill is an important site for the Jains. The temples and statues date back to the 12th century and are a home to many Jain Tirthankaras. It also offers panoramic views of the surroundings, going beyond the spiritual significance.
Distance from Bangalore : 63 kms
Highlights :
- Trek to the top of Madhugiri Hill, Asia’s second-largest monolith.
- Visit the Guru Mandir and Jain Basadis near Mandaragiri Hill
- Relax near Mydala Lake after the trek.
Travel tip : Respect the surroundings and avoid loud noises
12. Avani
Avani is a village in the Kollar district, a hidden gem of mythology and history. Filled with greenery and a magnificent marvel to visit near Bangalore in March, it is an ideal one day tour. The mythological significance revolves around it being the birthplace of Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama.
Distance from Bangalore : 94 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the ancient Avani Sita Ramachandra Temple
- Learn about the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda at the Ramakrishna Ashram
- Witness panoramic sights from the Lava-Kusha Hill
Travel tip : Be mindful of the surroundings and visit other villages or attractions to learn more about the legends.
13. Madhugiri
A trekker’s paradise, Madhugiri is home to Asia’s second largest monolith hill. The trek is a difficult and challenging one, rewarding people by offering majestic views of the surrounding on completion. With historical structures and grand natural landscapes, it is an excellent spot to visit near Bangalore in summer.
Distance from Bangalore : 105 kms
Highlights :
- Visit the Madhugiri Fort, suited on the top of the hill, dating back to the Vijayanagar empire
- Trek to the top of Madhugiri Hill
- Capture excellent photos and witness the sunset
Travel tip : Be extra cautious during the trek and wear sturdy shoes.
14. Kokkare Bellur
The main reason why Kokkare Bellur witnesses an influx of people during summer is because of its relationship with migratory birds. The village is a hub for these birds to take refuge in, some being thousands of painted storks and pelicans. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, it is cool and pleasant for everyone.
Distance from Bangalore: 90 kms
Highlights :
- Indulge in bird watching
- Join local village tours
- Explore the different kind of flora and fauna
Travel tip : Visiting in the morning for the best bird watching experience.
15. Devarayanadurga
A fascinating hill station to visit near Bangalore in March, Devarayanadurga impresses everyone with its features. It is also home to several ancient temples, adding a spiritual touch to it. Be it the rocky cliffs or the dense forests, people love hiking and enjoying Devarayanadurga’s serene atmosphere.
Distance from Bangalore: 73 kms
Highlights:
- Visit temples such as the Yoga Narasimha Temple
- Relax near Namada Chilume, a natural spring associated with Lord Rama
- Explore the Devarayanadurga state forest
Travel tip : Carry all the trekking essentials and be mindful of the wildlife.
CONCLUSION
From waterfalls and lushful greenery to majestic hills and national parks, March is the ideal time to explore diverse areas near Bangalore. It is the perfect opportunity for a getaway, reducing your stress and allowing you to take a break.
With pleasant weather that is not too hot and fewer crowds, these places are the best to visit near Bangalore in Summer. For more getaways, visit NearBangalore and follow along to discover more places and beyond!
Author
Meera Jain
A travel writer and hospitality enthusiast, Meera has a knack for finding unique, cozy stays that combine charm with comfort. From serene farm stays to boutique hotels, she’s the go-to for discovering top-notch accommodations that elevate every travel experience.
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