Chase the sunrise above the clouds at Nandi Hills — Bangalore's most beloved hill station, just 60 km away. Watch the mist roll over ancient forts, temples and lush valleys as the golden hour lights up the Western Ghats.
Nandi Hills, also known as Nandidurg, is the closest and most magical hill station to Bangalore — located just 60 km north of the city in Chikkaballapur district. Perched at 1,478 metres (4,851 ft) above sea level, Nandi Hills offers one of the most spectacular sunrise views in South India, where the city lies hidden beneath a sea of clouds while golden light floods across the rolling hills.
The hill gets its name from an ancient Nandi temple on its summit, home to a thousand-year-old sculpture of Nandi — the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. Steeped in history, Nandi Hills served as a summer retreat for Tipu Sultan and British colonial officials, and its forts, bungalows and palace ruins still stand today as silent witnesses to a royal past.
Our early morning Nandi Hills tour package is timed for the most rewarding experience — departing Bangalore before dawn so you arrive at the hilltop just as the sunrise begins to paint the sky. The package includes 120 km of travel and 8 hours of cab usage, covering the key attractions at a relaxed pace. The rivers Pennar, Palar and Arkavati all originate from these hills, and the Karnataka state horticulture department maintains a beautiful garden for visitors.
Your cab departs from Bangalore in the early hours — typically between 4:00 AM and 5:30 AM — so you reach the hilltop before sunrise. Here are the key attractions covered in the Nandi Hills tour package:
Your cab picks you up from your home, hotel or the airport in Bangalore at the pre-agreed time (typically 4:00–5:30 AM). The drive through the highway at this hour is smooth, traffic-free and peaceful — a great start to the day.
Arrive at the Nandi Hills viewpoint just as dawn breaks. On clear mornings, Bangalore city lies entirely hidden beneath a dense carpet of clouds while you stand in golden sunlight above them — one of the most stunning natural spectacles in Karnataka. This is the highlight that makes the early wake-up completely worthwhile.
The hilltop temple from which Nandi Hills takes its name. Home to a revered thousand-year-old Nandi sculpture, the temple is one of the oldest in the region and holds deep spiritual significance for devotees. The morning hours are perfect for a peaceful darshan before the day-trippers arrive.
Three ancient temples dedicated to different manifestations of Lord Narasimha (the lion-form avatar of Lord Vishnu) are located on and around the hill. Each temple has a distinct form and historical character, making them fascinating for both devotees and heritage enthusiasts.
Perhaps the most dramatic spot on Nandi Hills — a sheer 600-metre high cliff face from which Tipu Sultan reportedly had prisoners thrown to their deaths. Today it's a thrilling (and perfectly safe) viewpoint where visitors can peer over the edge at the dramatic drop below and the valley stretching out far beneath.
Tipu Sultan's beautiful summer palace, known as "Tashk-e-Jannat" (Envy of Heaven), sits on top of the hill. While the interior is closed to the general public, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Tiger of Mysore during the summer months.
The historic fort walls and remnants of British-era bungalows scattered across the hilltop are living records of Nandi Hills' layered history. Walk along the ancient ramparts for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and a sense of the hill's strategic military importance.
Maintained by the Karnataka State Horticulture Department, this well-tended garden near the hilltop is home to a variety of plants, roses and ornamental trees. A peaceful spot to stroll, breathe fresh mountain air and enjoy the natural beauty of the Nandi Hills ecosystem before heading back down.
After a refreshing morning in the hills, your cab departs for Bangalore. You'll be back comfortably by early to mid-afternoon — well in time for the rest of your day. Total trip duration is 8 hours and 120 km as included in the package.
All prices include 120 km and 8 hours of usage. Extra km and hour charges apply beyond the limit — see Important Information below. Choose the vehicle that suits your group.
We time your departure so you arrive at the hilltop right as the golden hour begins — above the clouds.
Police-verified drivers familiar with the Nandi Hills route, including early morning driving conditions.
120 km and 8 hrs included. Parking and toll charges covered. No surprise bills at the end of the trip.
Our team is available around the clock via call and WhatsApp — even during your pre-dawn departure.
FAQ
Can't find your answer here? Call or WhatsApp us — our team is available 24/7.
Call UsNandi Hills is about 60 km north of Bangalore, in Chikkaballapur district. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
The early morning Nandi Hills package starts from ₹3,499 for a sedan, including 120 km and 8 hours of usage. Extra kilometres and hours are charged at the rates listed on this page.
Most guests leave Bangalore between 3:30 and 4:30 AM to reach the top before sunrise. Your exact pickup time depends on where you live in the city.
Yes. Parking and toll charges are included in the Nandi Hills package price.