Nandi Hills is a popular hill station located about 60 kilometers north of Bangalore in Karnataka. Known for its scenic views, sunrise points, and historic forts, it attracts many nature lovers and weekend travelers from the city.

This route from Bangalore to Nandi Hills is frequently traveled by tourists and locals alike. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Nandi Hills, including train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel advice for a smooth journey.

Getting from Bangalore to Nandi Hills – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a budget-friendly and comfortable option for those who prefer rail travel. The nearest railway station to Nandi Hills is Chikkaballapur, about 10 km away.

• Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) offers several trains to Chikkaballapur, with journey times ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the train type and stops.

• Train fares typically range from ₹50 to ₹150 for second class and sleeper classes, making it an economical choice for solo travelers and families.

• From Chikkaballapur station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Nandi Hills, which takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around ₹200-₹400.

• Trains run frequently in the morning and evening, but weekend trains can get crowded, so booking tickets through IRCTC in advance is recommended.

• During the monsoon season, occasional delays may occur due to weather conditions, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and those looking for direct connectivity from Bangalore to Nandi Hills. State-run and private buses operate on this route.

• BMTC and KSRTC buses depart from Bangalore’s Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Nandi Hills regularly, with journey times of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares range from ₹50 to ₹120 depending on the type of bus (ordinary, express, or deluxe) and operator.

• Buses are frequent during weekends and holidays, but can get overcrowded, so arriving early at the bus station is advisable.

• The route follows NH44 and SH104, passing through Devanahalli and Chikkaballapur, with scenic views along the way.

• Some buses stop at the base of Nandi Hills; from there, you need to take a short taxi or auto ride uphill, which may cost ₹100-₹200.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Nandi Hills is the most flexible and comfortable option, especially for groups or families. The roads are well-maintained and the drive is scenic.

• The distance from Bangalore to Nandi Hills is about 60 km via NH44 and SH104, with an average driving time of 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Driving yourself or hiring a car allows you to stop at roadside eateries and rest points like Devanahalli or Chikkaballapur for refreshments.

• Toll plazas on NH44 may add small toll charges, so keep change handy for smooth passage.

• Parking is available near the hill base, but it can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.

• During monsoon, the roads can be slippery; drive carefully and check weather updates before starting your journey.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber is convenient for those who want a hassle-free trip without driving themselves.

• Ola and Uber offer rides from Bangalore to Nandi Hills with fares typically between ₹1200 and ₹1800 one way, depending on the vehicle type and demand.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked from Bangalore airport or city centers, providing door-to-door service and flexibility in stops.

• The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, and drivers usually know the best routes to avoid congestion.

• Booking a cab for a round trip is common, allowing you to stay longer at Nandi Hills without worrying about return transport.

• During peak tourist seasons and weekends, cab availability may reduce and prices may surge, so booking in advance is advisable.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Bangalore to Nandi Hills to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and group size. Trains and buses are economical, while cars and taxis offer more flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance if traveling by train or bus, especially on weekends or holidays, using IRCTC or KSRTC online portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Start early in the morning to avoid Bangalore city traffic and to reach Nandi Hills in time for sunrise, which is the main attraction.

• Step 4: If traveling by train, get down at Chikkaballapur station and arrange for a local taxi or auto to the hilltop; if by bus, confirm the drop point and last-mile transport options.

• Step 5: Carry water, snacks, and light clothing as the weather can change quickly on the hills; also, wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort and viewpoints.

• Step 6: Plan your return journey considering sunset timings and transport availability, especially if using public transport, to avoid being stranded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone late at night; Nandi Hills is best visited during daylight hours due to limited lighting and fewer people after sunset.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options on the hilltop are limited and may be expensive; try local vendors near the base for fresh refreshments.

• Booking Strategy: Use official apps like IRCTC for train tickets and KSRTC for buses; for cabs, book through Ola or Uber apps and confirm prices before starting.

• Local Transport: Autos and taxis are available at Chikkaballapur and the hill base; negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage to avoid overcharging.

• Luggage: Travel light as parking space is limited and the hill climb involves walking; avoid carrying large bags or valuables unnecessarily.

• Seasonal Warnings: Monsoon months (June to September) can make roads slippery and foggy; check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nandi Hills is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and clear. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains and slippery roads.

Traffic congestion is common on weekends and public holidays, so early morning departures are recommended for a smoother journey.

• Avoid major festival periods like Diwali and New Year when the hills attract large crowds and transport gets crowded.

• Winter mornings can have fog, causing visibility issues on the roads; drive carefully or consider public transport during this time.

• Monsoon rains may cause occasional landslides or roadblocks on the hill roads; check local news or traffic updates before starting.

• Departing before 7 AM helps avoid Bangalore city traffic and ensures you reach Nandi Hills before the main crowd arrives.

Arrival at Nandi Hills & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Nandi Hills, you will find a small parking area at the hill base with limited space. From here, you can either walk up the hill or take a short taxi ride to the summit.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and shared taxis that operate between the base and the top. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are generally not available on the hill itself, so plan accordingly.

Popular areas to stay nearby include Chikkaballapur town and Devanahalli, but most visitors prefer day trips. Accommodation options are limited on the hilltop, so booking in advance is essential if you plan to stay overnight.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bangalore to Nandi Hills is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Driving or hiring a taxi offers the most flexibility and comfort, while trains and buses provide economical alternatives for budget travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, starting your journey early in the day, and checking weather conditions will help ensure a smooth trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your visit to Nandi Hills and enjoy its natural beauty and historic charm without stress.