Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills is a hill fortress about 60 km from Bengaluru, named after Nandi, the bull mount of Shiva. Its history goes back to the 11th century, and over time it was held as a strategic stronghold by a series of powers, among them the Cholas, the Hoysalas and later Vijayanagara rulers. A winding road climbs through green slopes, often wrapped in morning mist, to a top scattered with old temples, stone walls and gateways.

The best-known spot is Tipu's Drop, a cliff of around 600 m. Local accounts say Tipu Sultan of Mysore had condemned prisoners thrown from it, and a separate tale tells of two young lovers, kept apart by their families, who leapt from the edge together. The hills are also used for paragliding, trekking on trails of varying difficulty, rock climbing and bouldering, and guided cycle rides along the scenic roads.