If you are tired of spending your Saturdays at cafes or shopping malls in Koramangala, it might be time to pack your running shoes, grab a bottle of water, and explore the gorgeous rocky hills surrounding Bangalore.

Bangalore is surrounded by the Deccan plateau, which provides some of the best day-trekking terrain in southern India. Here are 3 incredible trekking spots located within a 2-hour drive of the city.

1. Skandagiri (Kalavara Betta)

Located 70km from Bangalore near Chickballapur, Skandagiri is famous for its night treks and stunning sunrise views. You climb through ruins of an old fort to stand above a sea of clouds.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Key Tip: You must purchase a forest department trekking permit online in advance. Night climbs start around 3:00 AM.

2. Makalidurga

Around 60km north of Bangalore, Makalidurga offers a quieter, wilder experience compared to Nandi Hills. The trail winds up a granite hill, passing beside a railway track, leading to a fort at the summit overlooking a lake.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Key Tip: The climb takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Keep an eye out for trains passing through the valley below—it makes for incredible photography!

3. Savandurga Betta

As one of the largest monolith hills in Asia, Savandurga (located 60km west of Bangalore) is a thrilling climb. The trail is steep and goes up bare granite rock face, which can get extremely hot in the sun.
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Key Tip: Start your climb before 7:00 AM to avoid the midday sun heating up the rock. Carry shoes with excellent grip.

Build a Trekking Group This Weekend

Trekking is always safer and more fun in a group. If you want to meet fellow trekkers and coordinate carpools from Bangalore, you can search for upcoming trekking events on ActiveWeekend.

Just confirm your slot, chat with the squad on the built-in message board, and plan your Saturday getaway. It is the easiest way to connect with local adventurers!