Nandi Hills is a beautiful place near Bangalore to visit for a one-day trip. Start the day early to reach the viewpoint to witness the sunrise and a mesmerizing view of the valley. Your next stop is the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in the region and an example of Dravidian architecture. The temple also has several ponds and a water tank that add to its charm. Next, proceed to the Muddenahalli Museum, which is dedicated to the memory of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a renowned engineer and statesman. The museum offers a glimpse into his life and his contributions to India's development. You can also visit the Amrita Sarovar, a beautiful water tank near the museum. Lastly, visit the Ghati Subramanya Temple, a temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya and known for its serpent sculptures.
Start your second day with a visit to the Nandi Hills Fort, which was built during the reign of Tipu Sultan. The fort offers an excellent view of the surrounding hills and plains. After exploring the fort, visit the Tippu's Drop, a 600-meter high cliff from where Tipu Sultan used to punish his prisoners by throwing them off the cliff. Next, visit the Nandi Hills Horticultural Garden, which is spread over 26 acres and features a variety of plants and flowers. You can also enjoy a picnic or go boating in the nearby lake. End your day with a visit to the Brahmashram Cave, which is located near the gardens and is believed to be the spot where sage Ramakrishna Paramahamsa meditated.
If you have more time, you can visit the nearby Bhoganandishwara Temple and Makalidurga Fort. The temple is known for its intricate architecture, while the fort offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. You can also go trekking or paragliding at Nandi Hills if you are up for a more adventurous experience. If you have less time, you can skip some of the temples and focus on the natural beauty of the hills. Don't forget to carry a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Lastly, try some local delicacies such as South Indian dosas and filter coffee available at the nearby restaurants.