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As monsoon clouds roll over Bangalore’s skyline, the urge to break away and explore nature intensifies. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of monsoon getaways near Bangalore that offer lush landscapes, misty hills, and unforgettable rain-kissed experiences. These monsoon destinations around Bangalore are perfect for those looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature during the rainy season.
Bangalore travel lovers are especially fortunate—some of South India’s most scenic and soul-soothing monsoon getaways are just a few hours away. From cascading waterfalls to coffee-scented hill stations, these monsoon getaways near Bangalore showcase the best of Karnataka’s rainy season charm.
Among the best monsoon getaways near Bangalore is the magical Western Ghats region. During June, July, and August, these ancient mountains transform dramatically. Valleys turn vivid green, hidden waterfalls thunder into life, and destinations like Coorg, Sakleshpur, and Chikmagalur wrap themselves in cool mist. These hill stations and forested retreats are the ultimate monsoon getaways near Bangalore for anyone who craves peace, beauty, and a breath of fresh air.
This guide highlights the top monsoon getaways near Bangalore and must-visit places in July—whether you’re planning a temple trail, a monsoon trek, a wildlife escape, or a quiet coffee estate stay. Whether it’s river rafting, chasing waterfalls, or a long scenic drive, the best monsoon getaways near Bangalore are waiting just outside the city.
Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore in Monsoon (Top 10 Picks Within Drivable KMs)
These monsoon getaways near Bangalore offer the perfect blend of lush greenery, scenic adventure, and cozy comfort—all within a few hundred kilometers of the city. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic rainy retreat, a family looking for weekend fun, or a solo traveler in search of tranquility, these are the best monsoon getaways near Bangalore for every kind of explorer.
Planning a road trip from Bangalore during the rainy season? These handpicked destinations are ideal places to visit near Bangalore—be it for a short weekend break or a longer monsoon holiday. From mist-covered coffee plantations and serene hill stations to forested wildlife sanctuaries and monsoon-soaked national parks, Karnataka offers an incredible variety of monsoon getaways.
Bangalore city is uniquely positioned in South India, making it the perfect base for discovering these nature-rich escapes. For anyone looking to head out of Bangalore and experience the beauty of monsoon firsthand, these destinations promise refreshing drives, vibrant landscapes, and unforgettable rainy season memories.
1. Sakleshpur: The Hill Station That Redefines the Monsoon Season
Distance: Bangalore – Sakleshpur 240 km / 4 – 4.5 hour drive
Home to streams, coffee and spice plantations, and mist-laden paths, Sakleshpur is a favorite for monsoon treks with breathtaking views from the top and waterfall hunting. For people travelling from Bangalore and Mysore, Sakleshpur is ideally located.
Highlights:
- Trek to Patla Betta
- Monsoon streams and hidden falls
- Close to temples like Bettada Bhairaveshwara
2. Coorg: The Most Famous amongst Weekend Getaways from Bangalore
Distance: Bangalore to Coorg – 250 km / 5–6 hour drive
Coorg is known for its aromatic coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, and rolling hills that capture monsoon magic. One of the best places to visit near Bangalore during rainy season.
Highlights:
- Abbey Falls in full power
- Trek to Mandalpatti for an amazing view
- Explore Madikeri Fort and temples nearby
3. Chikmagalur: Karnataka’s Coffee Paradise in Monsoon
Distance: ~250 km / 5-hour drive
Climb Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, watch mist roll over valleys, and enjoy fresh brews in this classic hill station. It is a very popular monsoon getaway for groups and families.
Highlights:
- Monsoon trek to Mullayanagiri
- Stay in heritage coffee plantations
- Visit Baba Budangiri Caves and serene lakes
4. Agumbe: A Misty Paradise in the Western Ghats
Distance: ~360 km / 7–8 hour drive
Known for receiving some of the heaviest rainfall in Karnataka and also known as Cherrapunji of the South, Agumbe in Shimoga District of Karnataka is perfect for those who love herping, dense forests, and hidden waterfalls. It offers one of the best monsoon experiences if you are a little adventurous.
Highlights:
- Visit caves and streams around the rainforest
- Hike to Onake Abbi Falls
- Spot rare flora and fauna in the rainforest
- Kudremukh National Park – about 70 kms from Agumbe
5. BR Hills: A Tranquil Wildlife Destination Around Bangalore
Distance: ~180 km / 4-hour drive
A unique meeting point of Eastern and Western Ghats, BR Hills offers wildlife, temples, and one of the quietest and popular monsoon getaways near Bangalore.
Highlights:
- Spot elephants in the national park
- Visit ancient Biligiriranga Swamy Temple
- Nature walks through misty grasslands
6. Wayanad: A Scenic Monsoon Hill Station from Bangalore
Distance: ~280–300 km / 6.5-hour drive
This Kerala hill escape has lush greenery, flowing streams, and hidden caves, making it a compelling monsoon destination.
Highlights:
- Climb Chembra Peak
- Soochipara and Meenmutty Waterfalls
- Edakkal Cave exploration
7. Yercaud: A Quiet Rainy Season Escape Near Bangalore
Distance: Located at a distance of 230 kms from Bangalore / 4.5-hour drive
This lesser-known hill station has a pleasant climate and is ideal for short trips from Bangalore during monsoon season.
Highlights:
- Scenic 32-km Loop Road
- Boating on misty Yercaud Lake
- Trek to Kiliyur Falls
8. Bheemeshwari: A Riverside Getaway Near Bangalore in Monsoon
Distance: ~100 km / 2.5-hour drive
Located on the banks of River Cauvery and perfect for a day as a monsoon getaway, Bheemeshwari offers riverside walks, birding, and adventure activities close to Bangalore.
Highlights:
- Raft or coracle rides on the Cauvery
- Fish conservation awareness activities
- Rich with monsoon-time flora and fauna
9. Kodaikanal: Misty South Indian Hill Station
Distance: ~460 km / 8–9 hour drive
The rolling hills and silent pine forests of Kodai welcome monsoon clouds and long reflective walks.
Highlights:
- Trek to Dolphin’s Nose
- Explore Bear Shola and Silver Cascade Falls
- Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple
10. Hogenakkal & Nandi Hills: Short Scenic Trips from Bangalore
Distance: Hogenakkal ~180 km | Nandi Hills ~60 km
These two destinations are ideal for quick monsoon outings. Hogenakkal roars with swollen waterfalls- especially during the rainy season, while Nandi Hills remains perennially misty.
Highlights:
- Hogenakkal’s boat rides near the falls
- Sunrise views over rain-draped valleys at Nandi Hills
- Ancient temples dot the hillsides
Mugilu Homestay: A Serene Monsoon Getaway Near Bangalore
Mugilu isn’t just a stay—it’s a front-row seat to nature’s seasonal performance. Located in the Western Ghats near Sakleshpur, Mugilu is surrounded by rich flora and fauna, clean streams, and rolling hills.
Unique Features:
- Stilted cottages built for all seasons
- Surrounded by biodiversity—perfect for birding
- No pesticides, no noise—just natural immersion
Why Mugilu is a Monsoon Getaway Unlike Any Other
If you’re looking beyond the usual lists and want a place that just feels right in the monsoon, Mugilu is worth considering. Tucked away in the Western Ghats near Sakleshpur, it’s not just another monsoon getaway near Bangalore—it’s a quiet space that lets you watch the season unfold, uninterrupted.
What sets Mugilu apart isn’t just the location (though being surrounded by hills, streams, and untouched forest helps). It’s that the rain is allowed to be what it is—sometimes heavy, sometimes misty, always welcome. The stilted cottages were built to handle all kinds of weather. You’ll find frogs hopping across the path, mushrooms growing overnight, birds calling from trees you didn’t even know were there—and if you’re lucky, the odd rainbow or two.
There are no chemicals, no curated gardens, and definitely no artificial bird calls. And that’s the point. Mugilu has been kept pesticide-free for over 17 years. No trees have been chopped, no birds have been baited for photos. It’s one of the few places where the monsoon doesn’t feel like an inconvenience but something to be part of.
And for folks in Bangalore, getting here is easy—just a 4 to 5-hour drive. Yet once you’re at Mugilu, the city feels very far away. It’s one of those rare monsoon getaways near Bangalore that isn’t trying too hard to be anything. It just is.
It’s also not for everyone—and that’s by design. Mugilu doesn’t take large groups, doesn’t do noise, and doesn’t offer “experiences” packaged into itineraries. What it does give you is space. To pause. To watch. To walk when the rain stops. To sit with a hot cup of coffee and a view that changes every few hours with the light.
So if your idea of a monsoon escape is less about ticking boxes and more about slowing down, Mugilu might be the right fit. It’s a place where the rain isn’t background noise—it’s the whole show.
What to Pack for Monsoons
- Quick-dry clothes and waterproof jackets
- Hiking boots with grip for monsoon treks
- Reusable poncho or rain gear
- Power bank and dry bags
Travel Tips to Reach Mugilu
- Drive from Bangalore: ~240 km via NH75
- Trains: Get off at Sakleshpur Railway Station
- Carry snacks and start early to avoid heavy rainfall
Booking Information for Mugilu
- Website: www.mugilu.com
- Contact: +91 9845008875
- Monsoon Season: June to September
- Booking: Exclusively for Families and Couples. No large and loud crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Monsoon Getaways Near Bangalore
1. What are the best monsoon getaways near Bangalore?
Top monsoon getaways near Bangalore include Coorg, Sakleshpur, Chikmagalur, Wayanad, and Agumbe. These destinations are known for scenic drives, lush coffee plantations, misty mountains, and spectacular waterfalls during the rainy season.
2. Where can I go for short monsoon trips near Bangalore?
If you’re short on time, Nandi Hills, Hogenakkal, and Bheemeshwari are excellent monsoon getaways near Bangalore for a quick 1–2 day trip. Expect waterfalls, panoramic views, and fresh greenery close to the city.
3. Is it safe to go trekking during the monsoon near Bangalore?
Yes, trekking is safe during monsoon if the trails are well-marked and weather forecasts are favorable. Popular monsoon treks near Bangalore include those in Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, and Yercaud, offering waterfalls, valleys, and rich flora.
4. Where can I go river rafting near Bangalore in monsoon?
Bheemeshwari is one of the top destinations near Bangalore for river rafting and coracle rides on the Cauvery during monsoon months.
5. Why is Mugilu considered a top monsoon getaway near Bangalore?
Mugilu stands out among monsoon getaways near Bangalore due to its eco-friendly cottages, pristine Western Ghats location, and zero use of chemicals or pesticides—making it a peaceful, rain-soaked retreat for nature lovers.
6. Is Mugilu a good destination for monsoon nature photography?
Yes, Mugilu is perfect for monsoon photography. You’ll find vibrant mushrooms, frogs, butterflies, and a lush green forest backdrop throughout the rainy season.
7. How can I reach Mugilu for a monsoon weekend getaway from Bangalore?
Mugilu is around 240 km from Bangalore. You can drive (about 4–5 hours) or take a train to Sakleshpur, followed by a short cab or auto ride to the homestay.