
The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day worth booking?
The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day is a 12-hour experience in Bangalore, India, from $155 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (18)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $155 per person
In this guided day tour, we will explore a variety of fascinating sites from different eras. These include ancient Hindu temples, medieval ramparts and fortifications, an over 800-year-old sacred tamarind grove—one of India's few biodiversity heritage sites, and a pottery workshop. Breakfast and lunch are included in the price.
What you get
About this experience
In this guided day tour, we will explore a variety of fascinating sites from different eras. These include ancient Hindu temples, medieval ramparts and fortifications, an over 800-year-old sacred tamarind grove—one of India's few biodiversity heritage sites, and a pottery workshop. Breakfast and lunch are included in the price.
What's included
Included
- Tour in comfort in an A/C vehicle
- Taste the flavors of South India with a traditional breakfast.
- Taste the flavors of South India with a traditional lunch.
- Enjoy the luxury of having a top-notch guide for the full duration of the tour
- Hassle free pick up and drop off included
- All Monument entry fees and Admission tickets.
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Personal Shopping
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
"From the very start, we want you to know that this is the most comprehensive Lepakshi and Nandi Hills tour available, offering an unparalleled collection of sites and experiences. Unlike other tours, we’ll visit every location listed, ensuring you see it all—not just a select few. We believe that food is an essential part of experiencing India’s rich culture, which is why we begin our day early, taking a detour from the highway to a traditional eatery renowned for its authentic local breakfast. Here, our knowledgeable guide will lead you through a delightful culinary journey, introducing you to the flavors that define this region."
40 minutes here
Lepakshi Bull
Nandi, the revered bull, serves as both the vehicle and devoted disciple of Lord Shiva. The Nandi statue at Lepakshi Temple is truly extraordinary, standing as the world's largest monolithic Nandi, adorned with intricate carvings in ornamental granite. Despite enduring 500 years of exposure to the elements, this magnificent statue and its serene expression have remained impressively well-preserved, embodying an enduring sense of devotion and artistry.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Veerabhadra Swamy Temple
Nestled in the quaint town of Lepakshi, the Veerabhadra Swamy Temple is an extraordinary testament to the artistry and grandeur of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. Established in the 1530s by two brothers who governed this region, the temple holds several unique distinctions in India. Here, you’ll find the country’s largest snake sculpture, the largest hand-painted fresco, and the impressive Nandi statue—the largest of its kind. Adding to its allure is the temple’s famous 'hanging pillar,' a marvel that has intrigued visitors for centuries.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Shree Bhoga Nandishwara Temple
Dating back to the 800s, the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple stands as the oldest temple in the Bangalore region and one of Karnataka's most ancient sanctuaries. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it features three distinct shrines to the powerful deity, along with shrines to his consort, Goddess Parvati. Over the centuries, the temple evolved from its modest beginnings, expanded by successive empires that ruled this land until the 1500s. Each empire left an indelible mark, enriching its beauty and significance. With our knowledgeable guide, you’ll dive into the temple’s layered history, discovering the fascinating tales behind every stone and carving.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Nandi Hills
"Our journey then takes us to Nandi Hills, the highest point in the Bangalore region. Surrounded by nature's tranquility and offering breathtaking panoramic views, Nandi Hills adds a refreshing contrast to our tour. Here, you'll find an ancient fort and lush landscapes that once served as a summer retreat for the British and hosted notable figures, including Mahatma Gandhi. This scenic haven invites you to immerse yourself in its history, beauty, and the calm of its lofty heights."
120 minutes here
The Nallur Tamarind Grove holds the distinction of being India’s first designated Biodiversity Heritage Site. Established in the 1200s, this ancient grove is home to several hundred tamarind trees, each with fascinating characteristics. Some trees here have aerial roots and tree suckers that have grown into distinct, separate trees. Remarkably, many of these tamarind trees are over 400 years old—double the typical lifespan of their kind—making this grove a captivating natural wonder and a unique area of study for its resilience and biodiversity.
20 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Hidden Gems Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Language English only
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date
- Adult pricing applies to all travelers.
- Minimum age is 4 years
- A maximum of 8 people per booking
- Dress code is smart casual
- Wheelchair not accessible
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
18 verified traveler reviews for The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best guide in Bengaluru
After a great city trip last year with Praveen, we have booked this year the northern tour with Praveen. It was great again! Starting with an south Indian breakfast we have visited several places. Praveen is a high skilled guide, explained a lot about the hot spots, the country, the history and the people. In addition he is very flexible in adding stops if you have own whishes. Next time in Bengaluru the next tour with Praveen is a must.
via Tripadvisor
Exceptional day Tour
We had a mesmerizing day, covering long distance to see multiple landmarks with a safe driver and an expert guide. There were so many places and insights we would have not seen if it round have not been for Praveen, our guide. Meals we included and excellent. The itinerary was adopted on the fly based on our input. I can more than highly recommend you to also book here!
via Tripadvisor
The perfect day
This was our second tour with Praveen and it was again unbeatable. Very good oranized, a very friendly guide and all in all the perfect day where we saw things we‘d never would have seen alone. Axel
via Tripadvisor
An Unforgettable Journey into the History and Heritage of Lepakshi
We had a wonderful trip to Lepakshi Temple with Hidden Gems Tours, organized for my business guests visiting from Europe. Our guide, Mr. Pradeep, was excellent. He was extremely knowledgeable and engaging, and his explanations of the temple’s history, architecture, carvings and stories really brought the place to life. My guests thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were fascinated by the history and craftsmanship of Lepakshi. The trip was very well organized and comfortable throughout. Highly recommended, especially when hosting international visitors who want to experience India’s incredible history and heritage.
via Tripadvisor
An amazing tour for those that love history and nature!
I'm so thrilled to have booked Hidden Gems tours again to spend an amazing day touring incredible archaeological sites. My tour guide, Mr. Deenanath was a friendly and knowledgeable guide -- answering all my questions about what we were seeing and going into depth about the stories and ancient culture. He also kept me safe from cheeky monkeys who may try to steal a backpack or two! :P The Lepakshi Bull was so beautiful and serene, and being able to participate in two, still partially active temples was a wonderful experience. Lunch on top of the Nandi hills was delicious and the views simply could not be beat! I can't wait to return to India and experience more with Hidden Gems! Thankyou again Mr. Deenanath and Praveen!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
- Price range
- $155 to $23,259
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Hidden Gems Tours, who run 14 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.1 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Hidden Gems Tours runsWhy this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Bangalore.
How much does The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day cost?
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Prices start at $155 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Bangalore usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day take?
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Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Bangalore is not rushed.
Is The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Bangalore, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Bangalore can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Bangalore and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Bangalore within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Bangalore?
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On Outty we rank every Bangalore experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Bangalore city tour with English guide & multi language support, Mysore tour from Bangalore by tourism ministry approved company, Bangalore Through the Ages: Lalbagh, Temple & Market City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Bangalore?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Bangalore?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day?
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Included: Tour in comfort in an A/C vehicle; Taste the flavors of South India with a traditional breakfast; Taste the flavors of South India with a traditional lunch; Enjoy the luxury of having a top-notch guide for the full duration of the tour; and Hassle free pick up and drop off included. Not included: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase); Personal Shopping; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 2908 listed pickup locations in and around Bangalore. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Wheelchair not accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Bangalore. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about The Best of Nandi Hills and Lepakshi in a Day?
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Across 18 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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