Every Indian megacity needs its favorite hill station retreat, and Nandi Hills fits the bill for Bangalore. This popular weekend getaway destination is just 34 miles (55 kilometers) north of the city, so you can also visit on a leisurely day trip to see the remains of an 18th-century summer palace belonging to South Indian ruler Tipu Sultan—a familiar name around Bangalore. With great views, excellent air thermals for paragliding, attractive temples, and a cooler climate, there are plenty of things to do in Nandi Hills.
Nandi Hills is particularly appealing in the cooler months (October–February) because although Bangalore remains relatively hot in winter, the temperatures are milder here. You can also enjoy better views of Bangalore and the surrounding hills and plains in the winter when it’s less humid. Nandi Hills can get quite crowded on the weekends in winter, especially at sunrise and sunset, so visit mid-week if you can.
It’s best to get around Nandi Hills on foot as most attractions are close enough together, although some paths are steep. Private cars and public transportation typically drop you off at the base of the hill, where you can walk up to the attractions. Private vehicles aren’t allowed on the hilltop to prevent congestion. As it’s a hilly place, travelers with limited mobility can take public transportation to the peak.
If you’re staying in Bangalore, reaching Nandi Hills for sunrise means a very early start to the day. Consider staying the night at a hotel at the base of the hill—there are several options. This will allow you to get a good spot from which to watch the sunrise without having to rise at 3am. The viewpoint can get very crowded, especially on weekends, so getting there earlier is a good idea.