Mysore
The City of Gardens needs no introduction, famous for the Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari temple and Brindavan Gardens.
How to go: One can book a bus for as low as INR 300/- from Bangalore city centre.
What to do: Spend a day exploring what the town has to offer and participate in its various activities.
Coorg
With its misty mountains and aromatic coffee plantations, Coorg is aptly referred to as the Scotland of India.
How to go: One can either take a bus/train, or better, drive down to Coorg.
What to do: Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe is simply a must visit, when in Coorg. Along with that, South India’s best waterfall, Abbey Falls, is a short 20-minute uphill trek.
Ooty
One of the most famous tourist destinations in India, Ooty’s old-world charm is a perfect getaway for travellers seeking solace.
How to go: Buses are the most economical way to travel to Ooty from Bangalore. However, buses ply overnight since its an almost 8-hour journey
What to do: One simply cannot miss out on taking the toy train ride from Mettupalayam or Coonoor to Ooty.
Pondicherry
Although renamed as Puducherry, the old-world charm remains, along with the romantic French flavor, coupled with modernity.
How to go: Buses are economical but time consuming. For a family or a group of friends, a road trip is advisable in order to enjoy the smooth roads and scenic beauty.
What to do: A late-night walk along the Promenade will surely bring out the poet in you.
Munnar
If Shahrukh Khan thinks a place is picturesque enough for his film, you better believe him. Indeed, if you have watched Chennai Express and liked the exotic, natural locations.
How to go: By all means, a private vehicle would make for the best mode of travel to Munnar from Bangalore, despite the travel time hiking up to around 9 hours.
What to do: Munnar is best for a relaxing or a romantic holiday, where you do nothing but take a drive around exploring coffee plantations
Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal has been a favorite tourist destination for years now and does not really need an introduction.
How to go: Book a bus ride, take a train or drive down. Kodaikanal is accessible by all means.
What to do: The highlight of activities would usually be to go boating on Kodai lake. Also, do not forget to eat at the famed Dindigul Biryani.
Mangalore
A quaint coastal city now renamed as Mangaluru, visit this place, lovingly called “Rome of the East”, for an easy time with your close ones.
How to go: The fastest way to reach Mangalore is by flight, it takes about an hour with tickets ranging between 2000-4000.
What to do: Sunsets by the beach, surrounded by the crisp waters at St. Mary’s Island, smell the scent of fresh flowers and incense at temples.
