Just 68 kms from
Bangalore, Nandi Hills is an interesting little getaway. The hills stand 1,478 m above the sea level. The pleasant Nandi Hills or the hills of the Nandi have been named after the
bull of
Lord Shiva. It is also known as Nandigiri or Nandidurga amongst the locals. It was one of the summer retreats of
Tipu Sultan and Tipu's fort walls still stand as testimony to history. The Pennar, Palar, and
Arkavathi rivers originate from this hill.
Prime attractions include Tipu's Drop, Amrita Samovar, Yoga Nandishvara Temple, Gandhi Nilaya, and the Nehru House. Muddenahalli, which is renowned as the birthplace of Visveswaraya is in close proximity to the Nandi Hills. Two ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva grace the hill, one at the foot and the other at the peak. This place can be visited throughout the year.