- From city centre
- ~60 km · 1 h 30–2 h
- Best months
- Nov–Feb
- Best hours
- Sunrise to 9 am
- Entry
- Ticketed
- Habitat
- Forest & scrub
- Birds listed
- 4
How to get there
About 60 km north of the city via the Bellary Road and Devanahalli; the climb to the hill-top gate is a winding road. Leave before 5 am to see the sunrise and avoid the weekend jam.
Best time to visit
Best: November to February. Time of day: Sunrise to 9 am; avoid weekend crowds.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
4 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).
Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird
About Nandi Hills
A granite hill with a viewpoint, gardens and old fort walls. The scrub and rocky slopes bring a mix of hill birds, and the early light is worth the drive even on a slow day.
History
Nandidurga was a fort under Tipu Sultan, who had a summer retreat here. The British also used it as a hill station.
Flora
Scrub forest, grassland, planted trees and gardens at the summit.
Fauna
Monkeys, mongoose, small mammals and reptiles.
Nearby places
- Nandi Hills trek pagesame hillThe walk up, with permit details.
- Hoskote Lake~45 kmA water-bird stop on the way back.Birding guide →
- Skandagiri~10 kmA popular sunrise trek with views.
Tips
- Leave before 5 am to beat the queue on the ghat road.
- The viewpoint fills up; bird in the quieter side paths.
- Weekdays are far calmer than weekends.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Nandi Hills for birds?
November to February. Sunrise to 9 am; avoid weekend crowds.
What is the entry fee for Nandi Hills?
A small entry and vehicle charge is reported (listings show about Rs 15 to Rs 40); confirm at the gate. Timings: Early morning to evening; sunrise entry sometimes limited.
Which birds can I see at Nandi Hills?
Regularly reported birds include Yellow-throated bulbul, Indian robin, Common iora, Blue rock thrush. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Nandi Hills?
About 60 km north of the city via the Bellary Road and Devanahalli; the climb to the hill-top gate is a winding road. Leave before 5 am to see the sunrise and avoid the weekend jam. It is about 60 km from central Bengaluru (1 h 30–2 h depending on traffic).
More birding spots
Reviewed 2026-11-04. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.