For a city known for its traffic, Bengaluru sits remarkably close to some of South India’s most rewarding drives. Within a few hours, the Western Ghat…
1/61. Nandi Hills | Just over an hour from the city, this is the easiest scenic escape on the list. Early risers can catch the sunrise over rolling hills before exploring Tipu Sultan’s Fort at the summit, making it an ideal short drive for first-timers, couples and solo travellers alike. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
2/62. Ramanagara | About 50 km from Bengaluru, this drive winds past dramatic granite hills and boulder formations made famous by the Bollywood classic Sholay, much of which was filmed here. It’s a quick, scenic escape that doesn’t require a full day off. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
3/63. Sakleshpur | Roughly 210 km from the city, this drive through Hassan district takes you along winding ghat roads flanked by coffee and pepper plantations. Stop at Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort built by Tipu Sultan, and the Bisle Viewpoint for sweeping views over the Western Ghats. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
4/64. Coorg (Madikeri) | The Mysore-Madikeri highway route takes drivers past the Bhagamandala Temple, Abbey Falls and the Namdroling Tibetan Monastery en route to Coorg’s endless coffee estates. It’s one of Karnataka’s most-loved drives, best enjoyed slowly rather than rushed. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
5/65. Chikmagalur | Considered the birthplace of coffee in India, this drive leads up to Mullayanagiri, Karnataka’s highest peak, with countless waterfalls tumbling down the hillsides during the monsoon. Local homestays along the way make it easy to turn this into an overnight trip. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
6/66. Kabini | Bordering the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, the drive to Kabini passes through small towns and sugarcane fields before reaching the riverside forests. It’s less about speed and more about the destination, with safaris and sunset views over the Kabini River as the reward. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
