BENGALURU, Dec 28: A much sought-after tourist destination in Karnataka, Nandi Hills will remain closed on New Year's Eve - December 30 to January 1. The decision to close the site to the public has been taken in view of the surging coronavirus epidemic.

"As people come in large numbers and over 40,000 will gather during December 31 and January 1 every season, the same was expected and this gathering will not be good during the pandemic as there are chances of spread of infection, hence we will close the hill station from December 30 to till January 1st," an official told Asianet.

Besides, the police said all the exit and entry points of Bengaluru will also be closed during New Year's Eve. There will not also be any DJ parties in resorts because of the pandemic.

WEEKEND GETAWAY: Nandi Hills is also a popular weekend getaway for the city residents. It is covered in low-hanging clouds and mist. Tipu's Drop Point is a tourist attraction. Upon a hill, it is said to be the place from where prisoners were pushed off by the army of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore. The Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple (Nandi temple) dates back to the 9th century. The summer residence of Tipu Sultan is also located here.

Nandi Hills is a group of beautiful hillocks, 60 km north of Bengaluru city.