At a distance of 60 Kms from Bangalore (situated close to NH207 towards Chik Ballapur), Nandi Hills or Nandidurga is a popular tourist place to visit near Bangalore. It is geographically located close to Skandagiri. With an altitude of about 1,478 meter, it is one of the best places for trekking in Bangalore and also one of the popular one day trip from Bangalore.
It gets its name from the ancient Nandi or bull which is meant to be the mount of Lord Shiva. These hills are the source of the rivers Palar, Arkavati and Pennar. It was one of the Tipu's summer retreats. There are about 1,200 steps laid from foot of the hill to reach the top. Bhoga Nandishwara Temple situated at the foot of the hills is a must see place which houses a 1000 year old sculpture of Nandi.
Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Tipu's Drop, a 600 ft cliff from where Tipu Sultan used to throw his prisoners, offers a spectacular view of the valley. Amrita Sarovar Lake, ruins of Tipu Sultan's fort are other places to visit. There are also three temples dedicated to Sri Ugra Narasimha, Sri Yoga Narasimha and Sri Bhoga Narasimha.
There are few accommodation options available on the peak for those who want to experience early morning sunrise, though trekking the peak early in the morning is the best option. Self camping on the peak is not safe.
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