Today, the city is a thriving metropolis, and a fascinating tourist destination in its own right. While it does have many iconic landmarks of its own, the overcrowded nature of Bangalore might not suit tourists who want to break away from the concrete jungle environment of modern cities and explore more of the cultural and natural side of things.

Thankfully, there are several places close to Bangalore, which have established themselves as iconic tourist landmarks in India. If the mundane city environment of Bangalore fails to please you, hop on a bus or a taxi, and head to the following places for something new!

Mysore

Distance from Bangalore: 143 km

Escape the concrete modern constructions in Bangalore to experience Mysore, the City of Palaces. Historically speaking, Mysore is one of the most iconic cities in India. Its vast array of royal buildings, monuments and pilgrimage sites make it a hub for lovers of exquisite architecture. The city is also famed for its locally produced silk, which is known to be the finest in India. Highlights of any trip to Mysore would be landmarks such as the Mysore Palace, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore Zoo, and Jagmohan Palace.

Ooty

Distance from Bangalore: 270 km.

Ooty happens to be one of South India’s most famous hill-stations. Nestled in the Nilgiris, a Bangalore to Ooty package is paradise for mountain lovers. With gorgeous lakes, rivers and rolling hills, Ooty is a wonder of Mother Nature. But that’s not all! The colonial past of the hill-station still looms large, with churches like St. Stephen’s Church and St. Thomas’ Church dating back to the days of the British Raj. The Botanical Gardens display a great variety of the flora found in the Nilgiris, and along with places like Doddabetta Peak, Pykara River, Avalanche Lake, Emerald Lake and Mudumalai National Park, it is one of the ideal places to enjoy the natural beauty of the Nilgiris.

Coonoor

Distance from Bangalore: 285 km.

After Ooty, Coonoor is the most popular hill-station in the Nilgiri Hills. While Ooty’s popularity keeps it crowded throughout the year, Coonoor stays out of the limelight, and that’s what makes it special. Coonoor is enjoyed at its best at iconic landmarks like Sim’s Park, and nearby points such as Catherine Falls and Dolphin’s Nose. In case you plan for a Bangalore to Ooty package, make sure to book a seat on the Nilgiri Toy Train ride, which makes for one of the best ways to reach Coonoor.

Coorg

Distance from Bangalore: 276 km.

Karnataka’s Coorg region is simply stunning. Its hills, covered with coffee plantations as far as the eye can see, make for compelling viewing. Coorg’s abundant natural beauty is on display through its numerous waterfalls and streams, and its vast variety of local wildlife. The hills of the region are inhabited by the Kodava people, who carry with them a unique culture that’s just waiting to be explored. Don’t forget to visit the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe, which is home to one of the most famous Buddhist monuments in India, the Buddhist Golden Temple.

Hampi

Distance from Bangalore: 341 km.

If there’s one word that can sum up the Hampi experience, it’s ‘unearthly’. The city once flourished as the capital of the ancient Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it is a city in ruins, but it is still mightily respected. The global fascination with Hampi comes as no surprise; the ruined city was given the status of World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and its highlights include the temples of Vittala and Virupaksha. Hampi is best enjoyed in a relaxed fashion, even though you can complete all the sightseeing within a day or two.

Pondicherry

Distance from Bangalore: 309 km.

Pondicherry is a breath of fresh air for anyone who lives in modern urban jungles like Bangalore and Chennai. Even though the city has all modern amenities, it has a laid-back vibe that is hard to find anywhere else in India. Combine it with beautiful beaches and the stunning colonial era architecture that dates back to the days of French rule, and you have one of the must-visit destinations in South India. Thanks to the Aurobindo Ashram and its out-of-town offshoot Auroville, Pondicherry is a hub for seekers of spirituality as well!

Goa

Distance from Bangalore: 567 km.

The state of Goa is undoubtedly India’s party capital. Full of beaches, shacks, and an ambience that is rarely matched anywhere else in India, it’s no surprise Goa welcomes so many backpackers, hippies and party lovers throughout the year. The state plays host to some iconic music festivals during the peak tourist season as well. Goa offers the best of Indian seafood as well. So, all the hungry people, you can go crazy in Goa and not be too guilty about it!

Bangalore might not impress the tourist in you. But why worry about Bangalore when there are so many amazing places near the city for you to explore?

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