10 Offbeat Places Near Bengaluru for a Bike Ride

Nandi Hills on a Sunday morning can feel like MG Road at rush hour. The good news: within 150 km of Bengaluru there are dozens of quieter places that make a better ride, with emptier roads, better views and a chai stall instead of a queue. Here are ten of our favourite offbeat rides.

Before you go: distances are approximate from central Bengaluru. Many of these spots are in forest or temple areas with their own timings and rules, and some treks need permits. Check locally before you ride, and never leave your bike on a narrow village road where it blocks tractors or buses.

1. Avalabetta (about 95 km, north)

A hilltop near Chikkaballapur with a temple, a stepped pond and an overhanging rock that has become one of the most photographed viewpoints near the city. The ride takes you up NH44 and then along small roads through farmland, with a narrow, twisting climb at the end.

Why it’s better than Nandi Hills: the same sunrise over the hills with a fraction of the crowd.

2. Madhugiri fort (about 105 km, north-west)

Madhugiri’s granite monolith is one of the largest in Asia, with a fort climbing up its bare rock face. The ride via Tumakuru Road and Koratagere is pleasant and fast. The climb itself is steep and exposed in places, so go early, wear shoes with grip, and don’t attempt it in rain. The trek is sometimes closed, especially in the monsoon — check first.

3. Channarayana Durga (about 95 km, north-west)

A hill fort near Koratagere, quieter than Madhugiri and a good half-day climb. The roads around Koratagere are empty, rolling and great fun on a motorcycle. Combine it with Madhugiri or Devarayanadurga for a full day.

4. Kaiwara (about 75 km, north-east)

A small temple town near Chintamani with a hill, caves and a quiet atmosphere, linked to local legends from the Mahabharata. The ride via Hoskote and Chintamani is easy, making it a good choice for a relaxed Sunday.

5. Gudibande fort (about 90 km, north)

A small, dramatic fort on a boulder hill near Bagepalli, with a lake at its foot. It’s short to climb and wonderfully quiet. Ride NH44 north and turn off after Chikkaballapur.

6. Anthargange (about 70 km, east)

Boulder caves, a spring-fed temple and rocky trails just outside Kolar. Riders often come for night treks and sunrise; if you do, go with a group and a local guide, carry torches and stay on the marked paths.

7. Chunchi falls (about 85 km, south)

A narrow gorge and waterfall on the Arkavathi, off the Kanakapura–Sangama road. Best after the monsoon. The rocks around the water are slippery and the pools are dangerous — enjoy it from the viewpoints, and don’t enter the water.

8. Muthathi (about 100 km, south)

A peaceful spot on the Cauvery inside the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, reached through forest roads past Halagur. The ride through the sanctuary is the highlight. It’s wildlife country: ride slowly, don’t stop to feed animals, and don’t ride the forest stretch after dark.

9. Bheemeshwari (about 100 km, south)

A riverside nature camp on the Cauvery, run by Jungle Lodges & Resorts, surrounded by forest. It’s a good overnight ride if you want to camp or stay by the river. Book any stay in advance.

10. Kunti Betta (about 130 km, south-west)

Twin hills near Pandavapura, close to Srirangapatna, popular for sunrise and night treks. Ride via Mysuru Road — on the old highway or service roads, since two-wheelers can’t use the main carriageway of the expressway — and turn off near Srirangapatna.

Build your own offbeat loop

Some of these combine well into a single day:

• North loop (about 220 km): Bengaluru → Avalabetta → Gudibande → back via NH44.
• North-west loop (about 250 km): Bengaluru → Devarayanadurga → Madhugiri → Channarayana Durga → back via Tumakuru Road.
• South loop (about 200 km): Bengaluru → Kanakapura → Chunchi falls → Sangama → back.

On a loop, set regroup points at turn-offs where there is space to pull over safely — small village roads have few signs, and it’s easy for the back of the group to miss a turn. That’s exactly the moment a left-behind alert helps.

Riding tips for offbeat routes

• Roads change fast. A smooth state highway can turn into a broken village road without warning. Keep your speed down on unfamiliar stretches.
• Watch for cattle, dogs and speed breakers — often unpainted — especially near villages.
• Mobile signal can be weak in valleys and forests. Download offline maps before you leave.
• Respect the places. Many are temples and heritage sites. Dress appropriately, don’t play loud music, and take your litter back with you.

Looking for more classic routes? See our 12 weekend bike rides from Bengaluru.