Karnataka, with its diverse landscapes and rich natural beauty, offers numerous options for nature lovers looking for a quick weekend getaway. Whether you’re seeking serene lakes, lush forests, or majestic hills, there’s something for everyone. Here are the 13 best nature weekend tours in and around Karnataka:

1. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Somnathpur – Shivasamudram

• Description: This tour combines bird watching, historical architecture, and stunning waterfalls.
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• Highlights:
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• • Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: Known for its crocodiles and over 170 species of birds. Boating tours are available.
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  • Somnathpur: Famous for its Hoysala architecture and the Chennakesava Temple.
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  • Shivasamudram: Home to the Gaganachukki and Bharachukki waterfalls.
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2. Nandi Hills – Muddenahalli

• Description: A popular getaway for Bangalore residents, combining scenic views and historical sites.
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• Highlights:
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  • Nandi Hills: Known for its panoramic views and the Tipu Sultan’s Fort.
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  • Muddenahalli: A quaint village with a memorial for Sir M. Visvesvaraya and a beautiful garden.
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3. Hogenakkal Falls – Krishnagiri Dam

• Description: A cross-border tour into Tamil Nadu, featuring waterfalls and a dam.
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• Highlights:
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• • Hogenakkal Falls: Often referred to as the “Niagara of India.”
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  • Krishnagiri Dam: A serene spot for picnics and relaxation.
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4. Sangam – Mekedatu

• Description: A short trek that offers beautiful river views and a peaceful retreat.
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• Highlights:
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  • Sangam: The confluence of the Arkavathi and Kaveri rivers.
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  • Mekedatu: A narrow gorge where the Kaveri river flows through.
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5. Mysore – Ooty – Coonoor – Kodaikanal

• Description: A tour of hill stations and lush green landscapes.
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  • Mysore: Known for its palaces and gardens.
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  • Ooty: Famous for its tea estates and cool climate.
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  • Coonoor: Another beautiful hill station with tea gardens.
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  • Kodaikanal: Known for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant weather.
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6. Mercara (Madikeri) Local Sightseeing

• Description: A tour of the charming hill station of Madikeri.
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• Highlights:
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  • Raja’s Seat: Offers stunning views of the valley.
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  • Abbey Falls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by coffee plantations.
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  • Madikeri Fort: A historical fort with a museum.
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7. Nagarhole – Madikeri – Nisargadhama

• Description: A wildlife and nature tour in Coorg.
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• Highlights:
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  • Nagarhole National Park: Known for its rich wildlife, including tigers and elephants.
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  • Madikeri: Offers scenic beauty and historical sites.
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  • Nisargadhama: An island on the Kaveri river with bamboo groves and deer parks.
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8. Shimsha – Male Mahadeshwara Hills – Biligiri Ranga Hills – Kyathadevara Gudi – Nanjangud – Mysore Palace

• Description: A comprehensive tour combining nature, wildlife, and historical sites.
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• Highlights:
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  • Shimsha: Known for its waterfalls.
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  • Male Mahadeshwara Hills: A pilgrimage site with scenic views.
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  • Biligiri Ranga Hills: A wildlife sanctuary.
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  • Kyathadevara Gudi: Known for its forest and wildlife.
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  • Nanjangud: Famous for its ancient temple.
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  • Mysore Palace: A historical palace with stunning architecture.
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9. Belur – Chikmagalur – Mullayanagiri – Kemmannugundi

• Description: A tour of historical sites and hill stations.
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• Highlights:
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  • Belur: Known for its Hoysala architecture.
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  • Chikmagalur: Famous for its coffee plantations.
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  • Mullayanagiri: The highest peak in Karnataka.
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  • Kemmannugundi: A hill station with beautiful gardens and waterfalls.
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10. Yercaud – Yelagiri

• Description: A tour of two beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
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• Highlights:
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  • Yercaud: Known for its coffee plantations and scenic views.
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  • Yelagiri: Famous for its pleasant climate and trekking trails.
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11. Sigandhur – Jog Falls

• Description: A tour combining a pilgrimage site and one of India’s highest waterfalls.
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• Highlights:
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  • Sigandhur: Known for its temple dedicated to Goddess Chowdeshwari.
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  • Jog Falls: The second-highest plunge waterfall in India.
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12. Agumbe – Sringeri

• Description: A tour of the Western Ghats, known for its rainforests and temples.
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• Highlights:
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  • Agumbe: Famous for its rainforests and sunset views.
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  • Sringeri: Known for its ancient temple and serene surroundings.
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13. Coorg – Wayanad

• Description: A tour of two beautiful regions known for their natural beauty.
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• Highlights:
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  • Coorg: Known for its coffee plantations and scenic landscapes.
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  • Wayanad: Famous for its wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls.
    

These nature weekend tours in and around Karnataka provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these destinations have something to offer.