Let’s Step Out – Active Day Trips

Wind up through muddy terrains, rocky boulders and a relatively unexplored landscape to reach the top of this hillock situated in the Bengaluru countryside, 55 km away from the urban jungle. Adorned with a temple and a dargah at its highest peak, the Faith Hill Hike witnesses an amalgamation of faiths, combined with caves and ancient ruins, historical tales and at the same time providing travellers with a stretching view of the Siddaganga hills and the Bangalore-Tumkur highway.

A perfect blend for travellers looking for adventure mixed with culture and history – complete the experience with a packed picnic brunch to be enjoyed with a view.

The “twin peaks” are a set of two identical hilltops, situated 75 km away from the city. Deriving its name from the characters of the Hindu mythological literature, Mahabharata, it is one of the lesser-known hiking destinations situated in the Bengaluru countryside, and therefore much less crowded than its other famous counterparts. As you reach the top, enjoy a splendid view of Nandi Hills, Skandagiri Hill and Avalabetta all in one single frame. Pay respects at the shiva temple located midway hike. Pack a picnic lunch and you have a perfect half-day getaway for a family, group of friends or even a corporate outing.

One of the popular cycling routes near Bengaluru, Hesaraghatta Lake and its surrounding grasslands are an ideal place for an early morning ride. The trail offers unending views of farmlands, lake, villages and numerous avian fauna all along. The terrain is mostly flat throughout and is well recommended for beginners and nature lovers. This is an ideal trail to rejuvenate and cycle through the quaint countryside of Bengaluru.

This cycling trail starts from the base of Nandi Hills and winds its way past the countryside, villages, small shrines and open farmlands to Ghati Subrahmanya temple. The landscape all along is lush green and strewn intermittently with boulders. The terrain is a rolling one and the ride is mostly on tarmac with a short stretch of off-road terrain through a village. The trail is recommended for frequent riders and nature lovers.

Further south of Bannerghatta Biological Park, this trail takes you along lush green terrains along Ragihalli state forest and further ahead to Thattekere lake. This is one of the greenest stretches in the outskirts of Bengaluru with scenic views and a rolling terrain. Closer to Thattekere lake, one can spot avian fauna as well apart from the beautiful views of the countryside. The trail is mostly on tarmac with a few good climbs all along the way.

This intense multisport day tour takes you on a cycling trail to the 400-year-old Big Banyan tree and then through the countryside to the scenic Manchanabele dam and further to the base of Savandurga fort. The trail is a picturesque one with scenic views and a rolling terrain. Post cycling, hike up Savandurga hillock, one of the largest monolithic hills in Asia. The hike is a moderately intense one with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

One of the popular treksI n the outskirts of the city, Makalidurga hillock is surrounded by a large lake and has a railway track running along its base. A major attraction of the trek is the Makalidurga fort that lies atop the hill. Along the way do soak in the aerial views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is abundant with overgrown grass and has numerous twists and turns. The fort’s ruins, beautiful temple on top and the spectacular views are highlights here.

Believed to have been the abode of saints, Siddarabetta is a beautiful medium intensity trek that leads through lush greenery and a rocky terrain. The initial stretch is a steep climb of steps that leads to a cave temple with a picturesque setting all the way. The trail from the temple is slightly challenging and goes through bushes, rocks and offers spectacular views all along to the top. The panoramic view of the surroundings and distant hills is an absolute delight from the summit.

Skandagiri is a hill fortress located in the outskirts of Bengaluru and is also referred as Kalavara Durga. The trail has a couple of steep climbs, but it is otherwise mostly along a craggy landscape with bushes and rocky outcrops all the way. Breathtaking views and rattling wind accompany you to the top on this moderately intense trek. Apart from a ruined fort on top, aerial views of the sprawling landscape the neighboring Nandi Hill and low-lying clouds are absolutely spectacular.