For those living in Bangalore, escaping the city lights to witness the wonders of the night sky can be a magical experience. Luckily, several scenic spots just a few hours away offer perfect stargazing conditions. From rugged hills and serene landscapes to ancient caves and mythological sites, these destinations provide dark skies and expansive views ideal for seeing constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, here are five incredible places near Bangalore where the cosmos truly comes to life.
Located around 60 kilometers from Bangalore, Skandagiri Hills, also known as Kalavara Durga, is a popular spot for night trekking and stargazing. The trek to the top is moderate, with trails winding through dense forest and rocky terrain, eventually reaching a peak at approximately 1,450 meters above sea level. Trekkers usually start their journey at midnight to reach the summit by dawn, offering a chance to witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. The clear, dark skies on the way up provide ideal conditions for stargazing, allowing visitors to see constellations with striking clarity, making Skandagiri a favourite destination for astrophotographers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
About 67 kilometres from Bangalore, Savandurga Hills offers a slightly challenging night trek for stargazers looking to escape the city lights. Known as one of Asia’s largest monolithic hills, Savandurga is surrounded by forest and has minimal light pollution, making it an excellent location for observing the night sky. The hill features two peaks, Karigudda (Black Hill) and Biligudda (White Hill), both offering panoramic views of the stars once you reach the summit. Though a bit strenuous, the trek rewards visitors with an open sky, perfect for stargazing.
Situated around 125 kilometres from Bangalore in the quaint town of Pandavapura, Kunti Betta is another fantastic destination for stargazing near Bangalore. This location has a fascinating mythological backdrop, with locals believing it to be where Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, spent time during their exile. Kunti Betta is a favourite for night treks due to its manageable trails and scenic surroundings. With minimal artificial lighting, the hilltop offers a clear night sky view, making it an ideal stargazing spot. Visitors often spend the night at the summit, observing constellations and distant planets, accompanied by the tranquil silence of nature.
Known for being the filming location of the iconic Bollywood movie Sholay, Ramanagara is about 50 kilometres from Bangalore and has gained popularity as an adventure and stargazing spot. With a rugged landscape characterised by massive granite boulders and hills, Ramanagara offers an expansive night sky view, especially during clear weather. The area is mostly free from light pollution, allowing visitors to observe stars, planets, and occasional meteor showers. Ramanagara also offers camping options for those who want to spend the night under the stars.
Around 70 kilometres from Bangalore, Anthargange is a unique stargazing destination known for its volcanic rock formations and network of caves. Anthargange is especially popular among adventure seekers who want to combine stargazing with a thrilling night trek and cave exploration. The elevated area provides an unobstructed view of the night sky, with its minimal light pollution creating an ideal environment for spotting constellations and planets. After a night hike through rocky terrains and fascinating caves, visitors reach the top for a peaceful stargazing experience. Anthargange’s remote location and natural beauty make it a prime spot for observing the stars and escaping the city’s hustle and bustle.