Nandi Hills is a popular hill station located near Bangalore in Karnataka. Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, is a major city in southern India. Many travelers from Hyderabad visit Nandi Hills for its scenic views and pleasant climate.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to Nandi Hills. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step plans to help you reach your destination comfortably.

Getting from Hyderabad to Nandi Hills – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and economical choice for many. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views along the route.

• The nearest major railway station to Nandi Hills is Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC), about 60 km away, while Hyderabad has multiple stations like Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) and Secunderabad Junction (SC).

• Direct trains from Hyderabad to Bangalore take approximately 10 to 12 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1500 for AC classes.

• From Bangalore, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Nandi Hills, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via NH44 and NH75.

• Train frequency is good, but booking in advance through IRCTC is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays when trains are crowded.

• Night trains are popular as they save daytime and accommodation costs, but be prepared for busy stations and ensure your belongings are secure.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach Nandi Hills from Hyderabad, with several options available depending on your comfort preference.

• State-run buses like TSRTC operate from Hyderabad to Bangalore, taking about 10 to 12 hours, with fares between ₹400 and ₹800 depending on the bus type.

• From Bangalore’s Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic), you can catch a local bus or taxi to Nandi Hills, which takes around 2 hours.

• Private Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort but can be pricier; booking tickets online in advance is advisable during peak seasons.

• Bus frequency is high, but buses can get crowded during festivals or long weekends, so plan accordingly.

• Be aware that buses may face traffic delays near Bangalore, especially during peak hours and monsoon seasons.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to Nandi Hills is a flexible and scenic option, ideal for travelers who prefer to stop along the way and explore.

• The distance between Hyderabad and Nandi Hills is approximately 570 km via NH44 and NH75, taking around 10 to 11 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• The route is mostly on national highways with good road conditions, but expect toll plazas and occasional slowdowns near towns.

• Popular rest stops include Kurnool and Anantapur, where you can find clean food options and fuel stations.

• Driving during early morning hours can help avoid city traffic in Hyderabad and Bangalore, making the journey smoother.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Hyderabad, with prices varying based on car type and rental duration; ensure you have valid documents and a GPS device or app for navigation.

Flight

Flying is less common for this route due to the short distance, but it can save time if you prefer air travel to Bangalore first.

• Flights from Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) take about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹4000.

• From Bangalore airport, Nandi Hills is around 65 km away, reachable by taxi or bus in 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Airport taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available 24/7, but fares can be higher during peak hours and late nights.

• Flight frequency is good, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines such as IndiGo and AirAsia.

• Consider flight delays or cancellations during monsoon season; always check weather and flight status before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to Nandi Hills, helping you organize your journey smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or official bus portals to secure seats and avoid last-minute hassles.

• If traveling by train, choose a train arriving at Bangalore City Railway Station and plan your onward trip to Nandi Hills by taxi or bus from there.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition, plan your route via NH44 and NH75, and schedule rest stops at Kurnool and Anantapur for meals and fuel.

• For flights, book tickets early and arrange airport transfers in Bangalore using prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach Nandi Hills comfortably.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if you plan to explore Nandi Hills after arrival.

• Download offline maps or keep a GPS app handy to navigate local roads around Nandi Hills, as network coverage can be patchy in some areas.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during travel to prevent stomach issues, especially when using public transport or roadside eateries.

• Use official prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and fair-priced local travel in Bangalore and Nandi Hills.

• Book tickets well in advance during holiday seasons like Diwali and summer vacations, as trains and buses get fully booked quickly.

• Keep your luggage light and secure; avoid carrying valuables openly, especially in crowded stations and bus depots.

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for hill trekking, as Nandi Hills involves walking on uneven paths and stairs.

• Be cautious during monsoon months (June to September) as roads can be slippery and fog may reduce visibility on the hills.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nandi Hills is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be hot in Hyderabad, but the hills offer a refreshing escape.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and occasional landslides, which may cause travel delays and slippery roads. Plan your trip accordingly to avoid inconvenience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Sankranti and Diwali when highways and trains are crowded and prices surge.

• Early morning departures from Hyderabad help you avoid city traffic and reach Nandi Hills by afternoon, maximizing your sightseeing time.

• Fog is common in winter mornings on Nandi Hills, so carry warm clothes and plan outdoor activities for later in the day.

• During monsoon, check weather updates regularly and be prepared for possible roadblocks or delays on the hill roads.

Arrival at Nandi Hills & What to Expect

When you arrive at Nandi Hills, you will find limited public transport options. Most travelers use taxis or private vehicles to reach the hilltop.

Local auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are available but may not operate frequently. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from Bangalore or nearby towns are the safest and most convenient options.

Accommodation options near Nandi Hills include guesthouses and resorts in nearby towns like Chikkaballapur. Staying in Bangalore is also common, with daily trips to the hills.

Plan your return trip in advance, especially if relying on public transport, as services reduce after sunset.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Nandi Hills from Hyderabad is by train to Bangalore followed by a taxi or bus to the hills. This option balances comfort, cost, and travel time well for most travelers.

Booking tickets early, planning your route carefully, and considering seasonal weather will help you enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey. With the right preparation, you can confidently explore the beautiful Nandi Hills and make the most of your trip from Hyderabad.