Looking for a quick escape from Bangalore’s hustle and bustle? Just 60 kilometers away lies Nandi Hills, a misty, historic hill station in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. Rising 1,478 meters above sea level, this picturesque location offers panoramic views, ancient temples, colonial bungalows, and a peaceful vibe that makes it a favorite among nature lovers and history buffs alike.
🧭 Our Journey Begins
I visited Nandi Hills on a Friday afternoon, hoping to avoid the weekend rush. The drive itself was refreshing, with scenic roads leading to the hilltop. The entry fee was ₹20 per person, and car parking cost ₹60. With the weather slightly cloudy and cool, it was the perfect day for exploration.
🏰 Tipu Sultan’s Legacy
One of the first stops was Tipu Sultan’s Summer Lodge, also known as Tashk-e-Jannat or "Envy of Heaven." Built in the late 18th century, this historic lodge served as Tipu’s summer retreat. Nearby, the fort walls of Nandi Hills — originally built by the Ganga dynasty and later fortified by Tipu — still stand tall, echoing tales of the past.
🐂 Temples and Legends
The Nellikayi Basavanna Temple, with its large Nandi (bull) statue, is said to be the inspiration behind the name “Nandi Hills.” A short walk from here takes you to the peaceful Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. We also came across Brahmashram Cave, where the revered sage Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is believed to have meditated.
💧 River Origins: Palar and Arkavati
Nandi Hills is home to the origin points of two important rivers — the Palar River and the Arkavati River. While both springs were dry due to the summer season, it was humbling to stand at the spot where these rivers begin their journey, nourishing faraway lands and communities.
🏞️ Scenic Points & Colonial Touches
The Sunrise and Sunset Viewpoints are absolute highlights, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Whether you sit on the rocks or use the built-in seating, watching the sun paint the sky is truly mesmerizing. We also stopped by Amrutha Sarovara, a serene lake that reflects the sky and adds to the calmness of the hilltop.
Another colonial gem is the Nehru Nilaya, once the summer retreat of British Commissioner Sir Mark Cubbon. It later hosted dignitaries, including Nehru and SAARC delegates. Though I skipped Gandhi Nilaya this time, it remains a part of the hill’s layered history.
⚠️ A Chilling Drop
Our visit to Tipu’s Drop, a 600-foot cliff where prisoners were allegedly thrown off during Tipu’s reign, was both breathtaking and haunting. The views are stunning, but the history gives it an eerie aura.
🧘 Final Thoughts
Though I couldn’t cover every spot, this trip gave me a deep appreciation of how Nandi Hills blends nature, history, and spirituality so seamlessly. Whether you're into photography, trekking, heritage, or just some peaceful time away from the city, Nandi Hills has something for everyone.
📌 Tips for Visitors:
-
Best time to visit: October to March
-
Reach early if visiting on weekends to avoid crowds
-
Carry water and light snacks
-
Watch out for monkeys near food areas!
📽️ Watch the full video
No comments:
Post a Comment