When you've nothing to do and even weekends get boring- head over to these offbeat places near Bangalore for long drives. These amazing places will lift your spirits and transport you from listlessness to joyousness. Moreover, all of the spots have amazing scenic views. So get out of your homes and go on a drive to nature.

Muthodi

The Muthodi forest is a tiger reserve famous for its safari adventure. The dense forest not only offers a sanctuary to several animals but also boasts of a serene atmosphere.

You'll get to see the Indian Gaur, deer, the ever beautiful peacocks and if it suits their mood, then tigers. Although the tigers are not spotted easily, the amazing forest scenery will save you from getting disheartened.

Muthodi forest also has a secluded waterfall. Be sure to ask the guide to take you there. It is a quiet beauty and gives you plenty of opportunities to appreciate nature.

So all-in-all, this place is a good spot for nature getaways from Bangalore. Therefore add it to your bucket list of places near Bangalore for long drives.

Time and Distance from Bangalore: 5 hr 9 min; 264.2 km

Food and Accommodation: Since Muthodi is entirely a forest, hence there are no eateries or lodges there. However, the Chikkamangalur district has all the comfortable arrangements.

Road Conditions: Accessible and well-connected

Nearest Petrol Pump: Chikkamangalur

Best Time to Visit: October to June

Bisle

Bisle is a small town in Karnataka that is situated among the Western Ghats. It is one of the popular places near Bangalore for long drives. The main attraction is the Bisle Viewpoint. It presents a mesmerizing view of Yenikallu betta, Kodabetta and Pushpagiri, and Kumarparvatha hill ranges.

Additionally, you'd also get to see wildlife such as elephants, spotted deer..etc. It is an excellent trekking destination as well. While trekking, you'll come across lots of scenic waterfalls and small streams. Therefore, if you're looking for a nature getaway near Bangalore, your search ends at Bisle.

The Bisle forests are home to one of the most amazing rainforests in Asia. You will find several distinguished species of trees like- Indian copal, Malabar kino, and Rosewood. Moreover, Bisle hosts several migratory and indigenous specious birds making it a bird-watching destination.

Time and Distance from Bangalore: 4 hr 59 min; 245.9 km

Food and Accommodation: You will not find any proper stay or restaurant as it is a small town.

Road Conditions: Accessible and well-connected

Nearest Petrol Pump: Sakleshpur

Best Time to Visit: October to June

Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary

The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary itself is a small island in Karnataka. Packed with tall trees and surrounded by the river Tunga, it is one of the important sanctuaries in India.

The sanctuary shelters around 5000 birds during its peak season. Thereby making it a major attraction for bird watchers. You'll get to see lots of unique bird species that you wouldn't have even heard of. Median Egret, Darter, and Cormorant are a few such avians.

Moreover, you can also go boating in the Tunga river. Feel the lush beauty and melodious chirpings wrapping you up in a blissful experience.

Time and Distance from Bangalore: 6 hr 4 min; 323.8 km

Food and Accommodation: There is no availability nor facility of any sort of stay.

Road Conditions: Accessible and well-connected

Nearest Petrol Pump: Shimoga

Best Time to Visit: July to September as that is when the migratory birds arrive for breeding. August is the peak season.

St. Mary's Island

Coconut Island, North Island, Darya Bahadurgarh Island, and South Island together form St. Mary's Island. It is just six kilometers away from Mapale beach and could be easily reached through a ferry.

This uninhabited cluster of islands is one of the most popular places near Bangalore for long drives. The basaltic rock formations are a very unusual sight and have been listed as a Geological Monument of India.

While you are there, walk along the shores and collect lots of colorful seashells. Birds like Sea Gulls and Brahminy Kites are also seen flocking the sea.

What you absolutely should not miss is the sunset. The golden-red halo sinking into the sky is a sight to behold.

Did you know that Madagascar was actually a part of Indian geology some millions of years ago? It seems that St. Mary's Islands are the remains left behind as Madagascar slowly separated from the mainland.

Time and Distance from Bangalore: 8 hr 53 min; 411.9 km

Food and Accommodation: As this island is uninhabited, there is not over night lodging facility. You will have to take your own snacks over there.

Road Conditions: Accessible and well-connected

Best Time to Visit: You can visit this place in any season except monsoons.

Badami and Aihole

Badami is an ancient religious site that is dated centuries back. The caves display artistic rock-cut styles of 6th to 8th-century Chalukyan architecture. These caves are basically temples with sculptures of several gods. Shiva and Vishnu idols being the most common deities.

The ancient caves in Badami do not betray the wear and tear of time. Even now, they stand with the same magnificence as they did then.

Near Badami is yet another historical site of Aihole. The Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist monuments at this place are examples of Chalukyan architecture as well.

In the early centuries, both these towns might have been religious centers. It seems as if the Kings of those times used to patronize and encourage artists. And hence we get to see these incredible wonders with intricate carvings, singing the tales of mythologies.

Time and Distance from Bangalore: 8 hr 22 min; 448.3 km

Food and Accommodation: There aren't any nice hotels or restaurants nearby.

Road Conditions: Accessible and well-connected

Best Time to Visit: This place is good to go all year round.

If you are a nature lover, then check out these amazing road trips with nature. If not road trips, then how about a secluded stay. Any plans for monsoons? We have a few long drives for you. Try reading these amazing travel stories by some amazing authors. Stay at this amazing place nestled between the rainforests. You can also stay at this unique Haveli with traditional flavors. Head over at Yuyiii to check out more stays and getaways.