If you’re looking to trade the heat and hurry of Bangalore for cool breezes and misty mornings, Horsley Hills is one of the best short escapes you can plan. Tucked away in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, this sleepy little hill station offers winding forest roads, panoramic viewpoints, and a refreshing change of pace—all just a few hours from the city.
In this travel guide, we’ll break down exactly how to reach Horsley Hills from Bangalore, including the best routes by road, public transport options, where to stop on the way, and a few practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Where Are Horsley Hills?
Horsley Hills, also known as Horsleykonda, is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, near the Karnataka border. This lesser-known hill station sits at an altitude of about 4,100 feet above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests, eucalyptus groves, and quiet trails.
Despite being in a neighboring state, it’s incredibly accessible from Bangalore and makes for a perfect weekend getaway or even a relaxing day trip. Explore 13-Day Andhra Pradesh Tour – Book Now!
- Distance from Bangalore: ~150 km
- Travel time: Around 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic and route
- Ideal for: Couples, families, solo travelers, road trip lovers
Best Way to Reach Horsley Hills from Bangalore – By Road
The most convenient and recommended way to reach Horsley Hills from Bangalore is by road. Whether you’re driving your own car, hiring a cab, or riding a bike, the roads are well-maintained and the journey is scenic, especially during early mornings or post-monsoon months.
Recommended Route (Fastest and Most Scenic):
Bangalore → Hoskote → Chintamani → Madanapalle → Horsley Hills
- Total Distance: Around 150–160 km
- Estimated Time: 4 hours
- Road Quality: Good highways and manageable hill roads closer to the destination
Why This Route?
- This route avoids major city traffic like Kolar and Kuppam.
- It offers countryside views, especially near Madanapalle.
- Plenty of food stops and petrol stations en route.
Pro Tip: Start early (before 6:30 AM) to avoid Bangalore’s morning traffic and make the most of your day in the hills. Plan Your 8-Day Andhra Pradesh Trip Today!
By Car: A Smooth Drive to the Hills
Driving to Horsley Hills from Bangalore is a breeze if you enjoy road trips. The roads are wide for most of the route, and the last stretch near the hills is winding but not too steep.
- Fuel Stops: Available near Hoskote, Chintamani, and Madanapalle
- Food Options: Restaurants and dhabas are scattered through Chintamani and Madanapalle towns
- Mobile Network: Works for most of the route; patchy near the hilltop
What makes this drive enjoyable is the gradual change in landscape—from the hustle of Bangalore to open farmland, rocky outcrops, and finally, mist-covered hill roads. Discover Andhra Pradesh in 10 Days – Reserve Your Spot!
By Bike: A Popular Ride Among Weekend Bikers
If you love open roads and mild curves, riding a motorcycle to Horsley Hills is a great weekend idea. The roads are well-paved, the traffic is light beyond Chintamani, and the weather in the hills is always welcoming.
Quick Rider Checklist:
- Carry a light jacket—the hilltop can get windy.
- Fuel up before Madanapalle.
- Be cautious during early morning fog or post-monsoon rains.
- Helmets are mandatory, and carry ID for state border checks (if asked).
Public Transport Options: For Non-Drivers
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can still visit Horsley Hills using public transport, although it takes more planning.
Option 1: Bus + Auto Combo
- Take a KSRTC or APSRTC bus from Bangalore to Madanapalle (frequent services from Majestic or Satellite Bus Stand).
- From Madanapalle, hire a local cab or auto to reach Horsley Hills (~27 km uphill).
Option 2: Train to Madanapalle Road
- Board a train to Madanapalle Road Railway Station (not centrally located; ~20 km from Madanapalle town).
- From the station, take a taxi to Horsley Hills.
While possible, these routes are best suited for budget travelers or those who enjoy slow travel. Expect 6–7 hours of total travel time when combining public transport.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Horsley Hills?
The hill station is relatively pleasant all year, but here’s a breakdown:
- Winter (October to February): Cool and breezy—best time for trekking and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (June to September): Lush and green, but occasional fog and slippery trails.
- Summer (March to May): Warmer but still 6–8°C cooler than Bangalore—ideal for a short break.
Avoid weekends if you want to skip crowds. Weekdays are peaceful and uncrowded, especially outside of holidays.
What to Pack for the Trip
Even though it’s a short drive, here are a few essentials to carry:
- A light jacket or shawl
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water bottles and light snacks
- Power bank and offline map
- Camera or phone for capturing panoramic views
- ID proof (occasionally checked at border crossings)
Suggested Itinerary: One-Day or Weekend Trip
Day Trip Plan:
- 6:00 AM: Leave Bangalore
- 10:00 AM: Reach Horsley Hills, breakfast on the way
- 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Visit viewpoints, Deer Park, and enjoy a short walk
- 2:30 PM: Lunch at Haritha Hill Resort (local dining spot)
- 3:30 PM: Begin return journey
- 7:30 PM: Reach Bangalore
Weekend Stay:
Stay overnight at the Haritha Resort, managed by APTDC, or opt for local homestays in Madanapalle. Perfect for starry nights and cool mornings.
Final Thoughts
Horsley Hills may not be as famous as other South Indian hill stations, but that’s exactly what makes it special. With cool weather, tranquil forested paths, and easy accessibility from Bangalore, it’s the kind of place you return from feeling truly refreshed.
Whether you drive, ride, or take the long way by bus, the journey itself is part of the charm. Plan ahead, start early, and let the hills take care of the rest.
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