For a day outdoors beyond Bengaluru’s city streets, Nandi Hills is a hilltop destination in Chikkaballapur district, known for its viewpoints and historic sites. The hill stands 1,478 metres above sea level and can be reached by private vehicle, taxi or bus.
- Location: Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka, 1,478 metres above sea level.
- From Bengaluru: Nandi Hills is about 60 km north of the city.
- Transport: Private vehicles, taxis and buses from Bengaluru are options.
- Entry: Published hours range from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM; check current details before setting out.
Is Nandi Hills practical as a day trip?
Yes. Nandi Hills is about 60 km north of Bangalore, in Chikkaballapur district, and stands 1,478 metres above sea level. Its distance from the city makes a day trip from Bengaluru possible.
The hill was earlier known as Nandidurga. It served as a summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, and Tipu Sultan and Haider Ali expanded the existing fort.
J.P. Cordial is a three-star hotel in Bengaluru.
Majestic is a transport hub for city journeys.
How do you get from Bengaluru to Nandi Hills?
From J.P. Cordial, walk about 9 minutes to Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station at Majestic, then use a bus connection toward Chikkaballapur and arrange a vehicle for the onward trip to Nandi Hills. Private vehicle and taxi travel from Bengaluru are other options. Majestic is a key transport hub, with metro, train and bus connections for city journeys.
For a public-transport trip, check current bus connections to Chikkaballapur and arrange the onward vehicle leg before leaving. If you prefer to drive or take a taxi, plan the route with current navigation.
The nearest railway options are Chikkaballapur Station and Bangalore station. Kempegowda International Airport is 38 km from Nandi Hills. For airport arrival logistics in the city, the guide to travelling from Kempegowda Airport to J.P. Cordial covers that journey.
Entry, timings and visitor rules
Published opening hours for Nandi Hills range from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Karnataka Tourism and Incredible India publish differing hours within that range. Check the official site before you go.
The approximate entry fee is ₹10–₹20 per person. Parking charges are ₹30 for two-wheelers, ₹60 for cars and ₹150 for heavy vehicles on weekdays; on weekends, they are ₹50, ₹100 and ₹250 respectively.
Traffic restrictions may be enforced on busy weekends, and visitors may be required to park at the hill base and use shuttle buses. If you're driving on a busy weekend, check current arrangements.
What can you see at the hilltop?
Nandi Hills combines elevated viewpoints with historic and religious landmarks. Tippu’s Drop is a 60-metre cliff offering views, while the Yoga Nandeeshwara temple is another attraction on the hill.
Tipu Sultan’s connection to the hill adds context to the fort and its setting: Nandi Hills was his summer retreat, and he and Haider Ali expanded the existing fort. You can include the viewpoint and temple in a hilltop visit, with time to take in the surrounding landscape.
Planning the return journey
Keep your return transport in mind, especially if you're relying on a bus and a separate vehicle from Chikkaballapur. Confirm both legs before travelling and check current road and entry arrangements.
Nearby places include Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple, 15 km from Nandi Hills; Muddenahalli, 20 km; Devanahalli Fort, 25 km; and Ghati Subramanya temple, 30 km. Add a stop only if your transport and timing allow for the extra journey.
FAQs
How far are Nandi Hills from Bengaluru?
Nandi Hills is about 60 km north of Bangalore, in Chikkaballapur district.
Can you reach Nandi Hills by bus?
Yes. Frequent buses run to Chikkaballapur, from where you can continue to Nandi Hills by vehicle. Check current routes and schedules before travelling.
What are the entry timings for Nandi Hills?
Published hours range from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Check the official site for current timings.
What can you combine with a Nandi Hills trip?
Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple is 15 km from Nandi Hills. Other nearby options include Muddenahalli, Devanahalli Fort and Ghati Subramanya temple.