Nothing beats exploring Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty through a family road trip. For your trip, you can choose to hire a tempo traveler in Bangalore from Savaari, a leading car rental in Bangalore, with the driver. With Savaari’s reliable vehicle and driver, you can embark on a journey to various temple towns and tranquil villages, enjoying comfortable rides in the fully-seated tempo traveler.
Stops on the Road Trip from Bangalore
There are many delightful places to visit when exploring the cultural and natural attractions around Bangalore by road. Here are some of the main attractions:
Shravanabelagola: Gateway to History and Spirituality
Nestled amidst the serene hills of Hassan district lies the sacred town of Shravanabelagola. Renowned for its colossal monolithic statue of Gommateshwara Bahubali, standing tall at 58 feet, it is among the most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism.
The statue offers panoramic views from the top after climbing 617 steps. The town is also dotted with exquisite Jain basadis that depict stories from Jain scriptures through intricate carvings in stone. Plan your visit during the Mahamastakabhisheka festival for a unique experience.
Exploring the Temple Towns of Belur and Halebid
A 90-minute drive northwest is the charming village of Belur, home to one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture – the stunning Chennakesava Temple. Its outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata Purana. Wander amidst the sculptures, marveling at the attention to detail.
The equally impressive Hoyaleswara Temple stands out in nearby Halebid with its intricate stone sculptures and a Shikhara tower reaching over 150 feet. Both these UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer insights into the remarkable sculptural skills of the Hoysala empire between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Into the Hills of Chikmagalur
Winding further west through scenic roads lined with lush greenery are the charming hills of Chikmagalur. Tea and coffee plantations carpet the slopes, wafting an aroma unlike any other. Towering Mullayanagiri Peak at 6,330 feet high beckons trekkers and the gushing Hebbe Falls soothe the senses. Homestays deep inside villages allow you to experience true Kodava hospitality and sample local delights like Akki Roti, Pandi Curry, and Kadabu. Plan your visit during monsoons when the hills are alive in a fresh green hue and waterfalls at their gushing best.
Ruins of a Glorious Past of Hampi
Just a 6-hour drive from Bangalore lies the historic village of Hampi. Nestled between boulders and tropical foliage, Hampi was once the bustling capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Today, its ruins transport visitors back in time to marvel at the remnants of the empire’s ancient grandeur.
Dotted across the rugged landscape lie the ruins of palaces, temples, markets, and royal quarters. Wander through the sprawling Virupaksha Temple complex and the iconic Lotus Mahal, admiring the intricate carvings. A special stop is the Vitthala Temple, renowned for its musical pillars that emanate unique notes when tapped.
Wrapping Up
A family road journey to Bangalore’s surroundings in search of natural and cultural attractions may prove to be an unforgettable experience. Every location possessed its distinct allure, ranging from the magnificent statues of Shravanabelagola to the architectural marvels of Belur, Hampi, and the verdant highlands of Chikmagalur.
With Savaari’s Tempo Traveler in Bangalore, your family will certainly be able to traverse these locations comfortably. Their dependable services and vehicles guarantee trouble-free travel. The optimal choice for individuals desiring to explore Karnataka independently would be Savaari’s premium car rental in Bangalore with the driver.
