BR Hills: A perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore

Biligirirangan Hills, or BR Hills as it is commonly known, was once the hunting grounds of the rich and the famous. Situated about 5091 ft above sea level, this extraordinary landscape is rich with the flora and fauna of both the Eastern and the Western Ghats.

The forest with its range of wild life is a paradise for nature lovers. Once frequented by the then-maharaja of Mysore, this is the ideal getaway for those of you looking for a tranquil retreat with a bit of excitement thrown in.

Soak in the sylvan surroundings, breathe in the cool crisp air and take in what this paradise has to offer. Enjoy the company of a host of wild friends that include tigers, sambhars, chitals, barking deers, four-footed antelopes, bisons, leopards, wild dogs and cats, and sloth bears, not to mention the ensemble created by 254 different varieties of birds.

Thanks to Project Tiger, a preservation drive initiated by the Government of India, there are over seventeen tigers living here. Large species of reptiles and amphibians can be found here and this is the only place where you get to see a particular species of frog scientifically known as Microhyla Soligari.

The Kapila and Kaveri flow through this valley, and are the watering holes for those who live here. For the aliens who visit this place, the rivers offer abundant water activities like angling, river rafting and boating . The hills and valleys are great places for trekking, hiking and biking.

The place is also home to the Soligari tribe, a community of hunter- gatherers that live in perfect harmony with nature. The Chapaka trees found in this region are considered auspicious and are worshipped by the tribe.

The best time to visit this place is from June to October.