Dussehra is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, that also ushers in a long weekend that is ideal for escaping the clutches of city life. If you are located in Bengaluru, you are in luck since there are a lot of beautiful and diverse places a short drive away. It does not matter what one is interested in, there is always something to do: having an adventure, seeking spirituality, or having some rest. 

Here are some of the best places to visit over the long weekends during Dussehra, which are located close to Bengaluru:

Mysore (Distance from Bengaluru is 143 Kilometres)

Mysore, the cultural hub of the state of Karnataka, is also prominent for its Dussehra celebrations. Attending the Mysore Dussehra festivities is the top reason tourists visit this destination because of its colorful celebration with the epicenter of festivities around the gorgeous Mysore Palace. The palace is a splendor decorated with thousands of lights and the streets are filled with cultural and trade events. Beyond Dussehra celebrations, the city boasts of rich historical landmarks such as Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena Cathedral, and Mysore Zoo.

Coorg (260 km from Bengaluru)

Held as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is a picturesque hill station that is characterized by rolling coffee plantations and towering hills covered with mist. This serene place is in fact suitable for both lovers of nature and those who seek adventure. You can visit the Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and the Dubare Elephant Camp among other attractions. For a more relaxing escape, there’s the Tibetan Monastery at Bylakuppe, which is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in the country.

When looking for some trekking in Coorg, there are numerous options such as the Tadiandamol and Brahmagiri peaks, which are the highest points of the Western Ghats. The trip would be incomplete without trying the delicacies of Coorgi cuisine, particularly the special dish known as pandi curry.

Chikmagalur (240 km from Bengaluru)

Surrounded by the Mullayanagiri range Chikmagalur is a quiet hill station that abounds in coffee estates and a moderate climate. During the Dussehra long weekend, Chikmagalur comes in handy since its weather and nature are an ideal solution for the stress and noise caused by heat in the town.

While here, the renowned Mullayanagiri Peak, which is also the highest peak in Karnataka, can also be visited and gives magnificent views of the adjacent area. The other area worth trekking and venturing into the coffee plantation would include the Baba Budangiri Hills which are close by. A trip to Hebbe Falls and Kalhatti Falls would also be ideal to complete the experience.

Hampi (350 km – approximately 6 hours from Bangalore)

Hampi has been hailed as a World Heritage Site and one can enjoy the temples, ruins, and monuments because it used to be the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is meant for all those who love to explore the richness of Indian history, architecture, and everything.

During the Dussehra weekend, you will experience the grandeur of the Virupaksha Temple celebrations that are inspired by the festival of Dussehra. Looking for promising sights and history in that polluted air-free place? The Hampi Bazaar with typical boulders and ruins encompasses the history as well as culture of this ancient city. Apart from this, the statues of Arjuna and Bhimasena placed in front of the Tunnel are also worth seeing. The stone chariot of the Vittala Temple, the Lotus Mahal, and the Hampi Museum especially the anthropological museum are extremely recommendable.

Sakleshpur (220 km distance from Bengaluru)

Nestled in the West of Koppa, Sakleshpur is a beautiful hill station that is best for people looking for some respite from the mundane city life. This area is famous for its coffee estates, spice plantations, and thick jungles. Sakleshpur has a number of trekking options including the famous Bisle Ghat and Tolkonda Hills.

If you are fond of wildlife, then don’t forget to visit the Bisle Reserve Forest. The richness of the flora and fauna in this area is incredible, and several animals and bird types can be spotted while trekking here. For a more relaxed pace, one can go on a gentle walk in the coffee plantations or sit beside the serene and calm river of Hemavathi.

Kabini (210 km distance from Bengaluru)

Kabini is likely to fulfill all your safari dreams if you are an animal lover. This wildlife sanctuary, which is located on the banks of the Kabini River, is a part of Nagarhole National Park. Kabini is particularly known for a wide variety of wildlife including Elephants, leopards, and many avian species. If one takes a jeep safari into the park, it is a wonderful sight to see some of these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

Yercaud (230 km from Bengaluru)

Another hill station which is a pleasant hill station in Tamil Nadu which is not very far from Bengaluru is Yercaud. Yercaud is a hill station with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. There are Amethyst Lake, Lady’s Seat, and Shevaroy Temple. Yercaud is also known for coffee and spices farming as well.

Yercaud Lake, dotted by rich greenery, offers the best of boating experiences. For the adventure freak, there are some trekking paths leading to a few famous viewpoints from where the yawning valley numerous feet below is picture-perfect.