7 Must-Visit Hill Stations In Karnataka (2024)

When it comes to natural beauty and tourist attractions, the Indian state of Karnataka is truly blessed. While many tourists are under the spell of the landscapes of Kerala and get lured by the stunning beaches of Goa, Karnataka remains an underrated state in South India in terms of tourism. However, if you are planning a vacation and looking forward to spend some quality moments on a scenic but not so crowded hill station, then we have the perfect options for you. The Indian state of Karnataka boasts of being a house to a plethora of mesmerising hill stations.

We know that you maybe already be jacked in your day to day schedules to search more information about hill stations in Karnataka. Hence, we researched well and, in this article, we have brought you for 8 top hill stations to visit in Karnataka. Continue reading!

7 Must-Visit Hill Stations in Karnataka

1. Nandi Hills:

A hilltop sporting an ancient fortress, Nandi Hills is one of the most beautiful and loved hill stations in Karnataka. Other than boasting of a serene and picturesque landscape, the hill station offers bikers a chance to enjoy a thrilling and exciting journey up to the hill. Riding on a bike on top of the hill in that zig zag pattern is a thrill which is hard to match.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 374 km away. Best time to visit: If you wish to make the most out of your trip, it is recommended to visit in between the months of October and June.

Popular places to visit: Tipu Sultans fort, Amruth Sarovar, Tipu’s drop.

Things you can do here: Cycling, Paragliding, Treks, Bike riding.

2. Chikmagalur

 Flooded with majestic hills and offering panoramic gorgeous views, Chikmagalur located at the foot of Mullayanagiri range is a must visit hill station to visit in Karnataka. No matter whether you wish to sit back and admire the wide expanses of greens while sipping coffee, go on a thrilling bicycle road down the hilly roads, camp and gaze the stars or indulge in trekking on the summit, on this beautiful hill station you can do all of this and a lot more. It is actually worth a visit!

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 221 km away.

Best time to visit: For the best experience, it is recommended to visit in between the months of September and May. Popular Places to visit: Sringeri Mutt, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Kudremukh Peak.

Things you can do here: Enjoy the natural surroundings, go on a Jeep Safari, Trekking.

3. Coorg

 Besides its lush greenery sprawling over a large area, another thing which makes Coorg one of the top hill stations to visit in Karnataka is the quaint Namdroling Tibetan settlement nestled on the hills of Coorg. People come from here far and way to experience the joy of the perfect combination of natural glory and pleasant weather in peaceful surroundings.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 240 km away.

Best time to visit: If you wish to have the best experience, then it is recommended that you visit in between the months of December and February.

Popular Places to visit: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Madikeri Fort, Talacauvery, Raja’s seat.

Things you can do here: Go river rafting in the Barapole river, Quad Biking, Wildlife Safari, Trekking, Hiking, Jeep Safari

4. Agumbe

 Located at a distance of about 45 km from Udupi, Agumbe is considered as one of the popular hill stations in Karnataka. The main factors which makes Agumbe an exceptional place to visit are the adjoining lush rainforests, scenic slopes and stunning natural trails. If you are looking forward to create some precious memories with your family or friends, then this is the perfect place for you.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 370 km away.

Best time to visit: It is often recommended that for best experience one should visit in between the months of November and January.

Popular places to visit: Rainforests, Jogigundi Falls, Koodlu Theertha Falls.

Things you can do here: Go on nature walks, trekking, explore the rainforests.

5. Kodachadri

If your aim behind going to a hill station is to try your hand at some thrilling and adventurous activities, then Kodachadri will not disappoint you. It is often referred to as the haven for trekkers and hikers. The journey is not only thrilling but scenic as well. Owing to its significant cultural as well as religious significance, Kodachadri is considered as a natural heritage site and one of the best hill stations to visit in Karnataka.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 273 km away.

Best Time To Visit: If you wish to make the most out of your trip, then the best time to visit for you will be in between the months of October and March.

Popular Places to visit: Jog Falls, Mookambika Temple, Nagara Fort.

Things You Can Do Here: Go on the Kodachadri Trek, admire the scenic landscapes, hiking.

6. Bilgiri Hills

Located approximately 120 km away from Mysore city, Bilgiri is one of the scenic hill stations in Karnataka. If you are someone who loves winter season and wish to experience cold enough to freeze you, then Bilgiri Hills will provide you a memorable experience. Moreover, if you are a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, then you will love this hill station even more.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 480 km away.

Best time to visit: If you want to experience the place at its peak, then it is best if you go during the months of November and March.

Popular places to visit: Dzogchen monastery, Biligiri Ranganatha Hills, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta.

Things you can do here: Explore the flora and fauna, admire the natural beauty, safari.

7. Kemmanagundi

Located at a distance of about 185 km from Mangalore city, Kemmanagundi is considered as one of the popular hill stations to visit in Karnataka. This hill station even serves as a popular summer retreat among travellers. Amidst natural beauty and pleasant weather of Kemmanagundi, once you are there, leaving the place becomes pretty difficult.

Distance from Bangalore, Karnataka: about 261 km away.

Best time to visit: To enjoy the place the most, it is recommended that you plan your visit in between the months of September and February.

Popular places to visit: The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Z point.

Things you can do here: Trek, nature walks.

If you wish to get a break from your daily monotonous lives, then visit any one of these hill stations in Karnataka. You surely won’t be disappointed!