10 Best Road Trips Enjoy in September from Bengaluru

September's cool breeze and lush landscapes are perfect for a long weekend escape! With holidays like Onam and Milad-un-Nabi on the horizon, it's the ideal time to hit the road. Bengaluru's location means stunning destinations are just a drive away.

10 Best Road Trips from Bengaluru, for Your September Long Weekend

1. Coorg: The Scotland of India

Image credit: Holidify

Get ready for a scenic escape to Coorg, also known as the Scotland of India! This charming hill station is famous for its misty hills, lush coffee plantations, and beautiful waterfalls. September is a fantastic time to visit as the monsoon's tail end leaves the landscape incredibly green and the air wonderfully fresh.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approx. 250-270 km

• Travel Time: 6-7 hours by road

Things to Do

• Marvel at the majestic Abbey Falls and the sacred Iruppu Falls, which are at their peak after the monsoon rains.

• Interact with elephants at the Dubare Elephant Camp.

• Take a leisurely walk through fragrant spice and coffee plantations.

• Soak in the stunning panoramic views from Raja's Seat.

Where to Stay ?

• Homestays: For a taste of local culture and hospitality, consider staying at a homestay like Silver Brook Estate or The Jade.

• Resorts: If you're looking for luxury, check out top-notch resorts such as Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa or The Tamara Coorg.

2. Wayanad: Kerala's Green Paradise

Image credit: Iris Holidays

Just a short trip from Bangalore, Wayanad is a beautiful escape into Kerala's lush greenery. The drive is a scenic adventure, with winding roads and stunning views of the Western Ghats.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approx. 270-300 km

• Travel Time: 6-8 hours

Things to Do

• Hike to the top of Chembra Peak and see the famous heart-shaped lake.

• Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves and their fascinating rock carvings.

• Go boating on the calm waters of Pookode Lake.

• Check out the impressive Banasura Sagar Dam.

Where to Stay ?

• Resorts: You'll find plenty of lovely eco-friendly and luxury resorts here. Check out Vythiri Resort or Banasura Hill Resort for a peaceful stay.

• Treehouses: For a truly unique experience, consider sleeping in a treehouse at places like The Woods Resorts!

3. Chikmagalur: Coffee Country Calling

Image credit: ByneKaadu

Chikmagalur is the perfect road trip destination for anyone who loves coffee and scenic drives! The journey is smooth, and the views of the Western Ghats are simply breathtaking.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Around 250 km

• Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Things to Do

• Hike up Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, for stunning panoramic views.

• Relax by the beautiful Hebbe Falls and Jhari Falls.

• Explore the tranquil Baba Budangiri hills and the historic Baba Budan's Dargah.

• Dive into the world of coffee with a tour of a local estate!

Where to Stay ?

• Homestays: Experience local hospitality at a coffee plantation homestay, such as The Hidden Valley Homestay or Tranquil Revtree Resort.

• Resorts: For a touch of luxury, check out resorts like Trivik Hotels & Resorts.

4. Ooty: Queen of the Hills

Escape to the misty hills of Ooty, where the cool breeze and lush landscapes offer a perfect retreat from the city. The journey itself is an adventure, taking you through the beautiful Bandipur and Mudumalai National Parks.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: ~270 km

• Travel Time: A scenic 6-7 hours Ride

Things to Do

• Take a peaceful boat ride on Ooty Lake.

• Explore the stunning Government Botanical Garden and the colourful Ooty Rose Garden.

• Hop on the charming toy train for a memorable ride from Ooty to Coonoor.

• Hike to the top of Doddabetta Peak for breathtaking panoramic views.

Where to Stay ?

• Classic Comfort: Find great hotels and resorts like Sterling Ooty Fern Hill or Savoy IHCL SeleQtions.

• Unique Retreats: Discover cozy cottages and boutique hotels for a more personal touch.

5. Pondicherry: French Riviera of the East

Escape the city for a taste of French culture in Pondicherry! The drive is a breeze, promising a relaxing getaway.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: 310-320 km

• Travel Time: 6-7 hours

Things to do

• Stroll through the beautiful French Quarter and admire the colonial buildings.

• Find your inner peace at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville.

• Unwind on the lovely Promenade Beach and Paradise Beach.

• See the stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Where to Stay ?

• Heritage Hotels: For a truly unique experience, book a stay at a colonial-era hotel like Le Dupleix, Palais de Mahe, or Villa Shanti.

• Boutique Stays: Numerous boutique guesthouses offer a unique and intimate atmosphere.Discover one of the many charming guesthouses for a cozy and personal feel.

6. Hampi: The City of Ruins

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural wonderland with its magical landscape of ancient ruins, giant boulders, and temples. The journey to Hampi is a beautiful trip back in time!

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 350 km

• Travel Time: 7-8 hours

Things to Do

• Discover the famous Vittala Temple, known for its musical pillars and stone chariot.

• Check out the huge Virupaksha Temple, which is still a place of worship today.

• Enjoy an exciting coracle boat ride on the Tungabhadra River.

• Try some rock climbing on the unique, boulder-filled landscape.

Where to Stay ?

• Resorts: You'll find a variety of resorts here. For a truly luxurious stay, check out Evolve Back. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly and government-run, KSTDC Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari is a great choice.

• Guesthouses: The other side of the river has many guesthouses and homestays, perfect for a more rustic and backpacker-friendly experience.

7. Gokarna: Beach Bliss

If you're in need of some sun and sand, a road trip to Gokarna is a fantastic choice! This spot is known for its beautiful, untouched beaches like Kudle, Om, and Half Moon, and it offers a wonderfully relaxed vibe. It's the perfect, laid-back alternative to the bustling scene in Goa.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 485-500 km

• Travel Time: 9-10 hours

Things to Do

• Go beach hopping and explore the beautiful Kudle, Om, and Half Moon beaches.

• Take a peaceful stroll along the main Gokarna Beach.

• Pay a visit to the significant Mahabaleshwar Temple.

• Enjoy some water sports or go on a boat ride to see if you can spot some dolphins!

Where to Stay ?

• Beach Huts & Guesthouses: For a simple and rustic experience, you'll find plenty of huts and guesthouses right on the beaches.

• Hostels: Backpackers will love the popular options like Zostel.

8. Masinagudi: A Date with Wildlife

Masinagudi is a wildlife lover's paradise, tucked away at the foot of the Nilgiri mountains. The journey there is an adventure in itself, as you'll drive through the Bandipur and Mudumalai Tiger Reserves.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 240 km

• Travel Time: 5-6 hours drive

Things to Do

• Go on a wildlife safari at Mudumalai National Park or Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

• See and interact with elephants at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp.

• Enjoy a stroll along the Moyar River, a fantastic spot for birdwatching.

Where to Stay ?

• Jungle Resorts: For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of the many jungle resorts, like InnTheWild.

• Homestays: If you're looking for something more personal and budget-friendly, you'll find plenty of great homestays.

9. Yelagiri: A Quiet Hill Station

Yelagiri is an ideal choice for a quick and easy getaway. This charming hill station is a scenic drive away from the city, offering a peaceful escape.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 160-170 km

• Travel Time: 3.5-4 hours

Things to Do

• Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the man-made Punganur Lake.

• Trek to Swamimalai Hills, the highest point in Yelagiri.

• Explore the beautiful Nature Park and the stunning Jalagamparai Waterfalls.

• For thrill-seekers, there are adventure activities like paragliding and rock climbing.

Where to Stay ?

• Resorts: You'll find many resorts perfect for families and couples, like Sterling Yelagiri and Riverside Resort.

• Hotels: Plenty of smaller hotels and guesthouses are also available for a comfortable stay.

10. Nandi Hills: The Classic Close-to-Home Trip

Nandi Hills is a perfect getaway for a long weekend, especially when you want to avoid a long drive. The short distance and excellent roads make this a very popular choice.

Distance & Travel Time

• Distance: Approximately 60 km from Bengaluru.

• Travel Time: A quick 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

Things to Do

• Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Tipu's Drop.

• Discover the stunning Dravidian architecture at the historic Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple.

• Explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Residence.

• Enjoy a peaceful picnic at the serene Amrita Sarovar.

Where to Stay ?

• Luxury Resorts: Treat yourself to a relaxing stay at a nearby luxury resort like JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa or Mulberry Shades.

• Homestays: You can also find several peaceful homestays and retreats on the way to Nandi Hills, offering a serene escape from the city.