You don't need to plan a whole trip to get a proper trek in — Bangalore is ringed by rocky hills and small mountains that make for perfect weekend outings. Here are four of our favourites, all doable as day trips.

1. Kunti Betta, Mandya

Kunti Betta, near Pandavapura on the way to Mysore, has become one of the most popular sunrise treks around Bangalore, and for good reason. The climb is short but rewards you with sweeping views over the surrounding countryside and the backwaters nearby. It's rocky in stretches, so decent grip shoes help.

2. Karighatta, Mandya

Just off the Bangalore-Mysore highway, Karighatta combines a temple visit with a proper hill climb — the Srinivasa Temple sits partway up, and the trail continues higher for those who want to keep going. It's a good option if you want a trek that doubles as a quick pilgrimage stop.

3. Ramanagara Hills

Ramanagara's rocky outcrops (familiar to anyone who's seen the classic film Sholay, shot in these hills) are a favourite for both trekking and rock climbing groups from Bangalore. The Kabbalamma Temple sits on one of these hills, giving trekkers a clear destination and good views over the granite landscape on the way up.

4. B R Hills, Chamarajanagar

A little further out than the others, B R Hills (Biligiriranga Hills) is a proper forested hill range rather than a bare granite outcrop, and it's worth the extra distance if you want a cooler, greener trek. There are marked trails around the hill temple and wildlife sanctuary area, and it makes sense to combine the trek with an overnight stay given the drive involved.