Weekend Journey to Goa from Bangalore

The party capital of India consistently  a 'to visit' destination for many Bangloreans. The old world charm, the vibrant culture and the serene beaches is the perfect getaway for the IT crowds who have been toiling away at their desks.

Despite the fairly large driving time, a Bangalore-Goa road trip remains extremely popular. The favored route is the Hubli NH4 and Karwar NH63 highway which would be around 706 km. The alternative route is through Dharwad NH4 and Ponda SH34, which is shorter and more scenic.

Suggested Pit Stops:

Chitradurga :- Located around 100 km from Bangalore on the NH4, this quaint rocky outcrop has some picturesque valleys. The famous of them is the stone fort with massive circular walls, oil cauldrons and grinding stones.  There is an interesting legend attached to this fort. Onake Obbava, a soldier's wife singlehandly obliterated Hyder Ali's army who tried to sneak into the fort.

Ranebennur Blackbuck Deer Sanctuary :- Located on the NH4, this is a unique sanctuary located few kilometers from the Ranebennur town. It was envisioned to protect the endangered Great Indian Bustard and also has a large number of wolves.

Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve :- Located off NH63, this tiger reserve houses the Kali Adventure Camp ,a  famed white water rafting spot. You can also visit the Cotiago Wildlife Sanctuary which has several watch towers for wildlife spotting.

Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary :- The shortest route to Goa is via Ponda, and it will take you past this well beautiful wildlife sanctuary. There are several flora and fauna in the vicinity and you can also manage a trek to the Dudhsagar waterfalls. Another recommended visit is the Butterfly Conservatory that offers guide tours on Sundays along with meals and a trek.

Tips:

1. Regardless of which route you take, plan to reach Goa by sunset
2. Since there are several routes for this trip, try to mix and match so you get to see the best of both
3. The road through Chitradurga is dotted with windmills and make for a pretty sight during sunrise and twilight. 

It is suggested to book your hotels online while planning the trip. There are numerous travel portals offering budget hotels in Goa near popular beaches like Calangute, Baga and Palolem. Do some research to get the best rate.

A Weekend Trip to Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is a great weekend destination for Bangaloreans, especially on a long weekend. This is a good chance for novices to test their long driving skills as the route has fairly good roads and the sole thing to be concerned about is driving on single lanes at night. You can choose from a direct route that covers 245 km and a lengthier and more interesting route that covers 300 km.

Starting from Bangalore: - From Bangalore, take the Mysore road and make a stop over at Ramanagaram, the place where the legendary Sholay movie was shot. Ramanagaram is around 50 km from Bangalore and is popular for Mysore silk saree industry.

Ramanagaram to Channapatna: - Channapatna is around 12 km from Ramanagaram and is home to a thriving toy industry and other handicrafts made out of wood. Make a stop to shop for a few souvenirs for the kids.

Channapatna to Mandya: - Drive 40 km from Channapatna on decent roads to reach Mandya. You will cross a small town called Madur where the famed kannadiga snack Maddur vada originated. Once in Mandya, spend some time in the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.

Head to Srirangapatna: - A half an hour drive from Mandya on the Bangalore Mysore road will take you historical town of Srirangapatna. There are several sightseeing options in the town the likes of Balmuri Falls, Drirangapatnam Fort, Summer Palace of Tipu, Jama Masjid, Tipu's Death Place, Gumas and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

Srirangapatna to Hassan: - Travel 18 km further on the Bangalore – Mysore road to reach Mysore. If you don't intend to visit Mysore, take the State Highway 7 and shift to the Mangalore-Bangalore highway and head to Hassan. Hassan has several attractions that showcase the culture of the Hoysalas.

The Final Stretch: - From Hassan drive on the Mangalore - Bangalore highway for 60 km to reach Hassan. Apart from the coffee estates, Chikmagalur has plethora of attractions the likes of Ayyanakere Lake, Amrutheswara Temple, Manikyadhara Falls and Kodandrarama Temple.

You might get tired during this long journey of almost 8 – 9 hours, so it is suggested to book your hotels online before weekend journey to chikmangalur. There are several online hotel booking platforms available now a days that offers range of hotels and homestays in the region. Do some research online prior booking your hotels in Chikmangalur.