Nandi Hills (60 Km) – off Bellary Road
The Nandi Hill Station is situated in the lovely surroundings of Nandidurg, a fortified hill. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the sunrise. As the night sets in, lamps in hundreds are lit in villages down the hill. When the visitors approach the bottom of the hill, they can see the wonderful view of one solid monolithic mass of graphite, the great rocky mountain rising in a precipitous manner with gigantic sides as if they are about to tumble down! When we reach the top of the hill, there is an extensive plateau sloping to the West.

Hesaraghatta Lake (29 km)
This lush fertile area, with its wonderful climate, is a haven for horticultural research. The delightful lake, spread over 1000 acres, provides facilities for sailing. A livestock breeding and poultry center have been established here as part of the Indo-Danish dairy project.

Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley) (44 km)
Picnic spot, with an enchanting waterfall formed by thin jets of water which turn into a ‘pond of pearls’, and that is what the name means.

Ramanagaram (48 Km)
It is know for its grand animated rocks. No wonder that it has became a much sought-after film shooting spot. Legend has it that Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana halted on the Ramadeva Betta while going on “Vanavas” (exile ordered by Rama’s father). A beautiful temple with the Hoysala lions and other figures is on the hill. Inside the temple are the idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. Besides the temple is a huge pond called “Lakshmana teertha”. In the same vicinity is a temple dedicated to Parvati, which has a “linga” facing “Nandi”.
 
Exquisite pottery from Ramanagaram is very famous. The Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation has its Rural Marketing and Servicing Centre and a show room here. It is the biggest silk production center in the country. On the banks of the river Arkavati are the `dargah’ of Peeran Shah Wali and the Arkeshwara Temple.

Nrityagram (Dance Village) (30 kms)
This beautiful dance institute started by the late Protima Bedi, renowned classical dancer of national repute is cause driven. Besides admitting young talents from all over the Country into its fold, it conducts training programs for villagers and is famous for its annual cultural event. Food available on prior notice. Closed on Tuesdays.