Home › Routes › Mysore to Ooty

Mysore to Ooty

The journey from Mysore to Ooty is a scenic 130-kilometer drive that typically takes about four hours by road, winding through the lush forests of Bandipur and Mudumalai Tiger Rese

Plan My Trip

130 kmDistance

4 hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

· tap a card to jump to its route plan

Car / Taxi

Swift Dzire₹5,855

Ertiga₹7,430

Innova₹7,745

Innova Crysta₹9,570

Tempo Traveller (12)₹13,100

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

View route plan

Bus

Non-AC Seater₹140

AC Seater₹230

Non-AC Sleeper₹210

AC Sleeper₹300

Volvo / Multi-Axle₹410

View route plan

Train

Sleeper₹110

Economy₹160

Third AC₹210

Second AC₹290

First AC₹390

View route plan

Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The journey from Mysore to Ooty is a scenic 130-kilometer drive that typically takes about four hours by road, winding through the lush forests of Bandipur and Mudumalai Tiger Reserves. This route is favored for its breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, abundant wildlife sightings, and the gradual ascent into the Nilgiri Hills. Travelers can choose between a direct road trip, a combination of train and road, or state-run buses. The drive offers a mix of highway cruising and winding mountain roads, with opportunities to spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds. The cool climate and tea estates of Ooty provide a refreshing contrast to Mysore's historical charm, making this a memorable pilgrimage through nature's bounty.

Route Map

Open in Google Maps

By Car: Mysore to Ooty

130 km · ~2h 36m · About 3h of driving, plus stops.

Start from Mysore
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
130 km · 2h 36m drive from previous stop
Arrive in Ooty
Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Mysore to Ooty

130 km · ~2h 53m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Mysore
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Mysore. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Mysore → Ooty
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~130 km
~2h 53m|Tentative fare ₹140–₹410
Search buses Mysore to Ooty
Arrive in Ooty
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Hotels in Ooty

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Mysore to Ooty

Nearest railway stations: Mysore Jn for Mysore, Udagamandalam for Ooty.

There is no direct train between these stations in our timetable data, and no journey with up to two changes was found. Try a nearby city as the start or end, or use a bus/car leg for part of the trip.

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Mysore to Ooty.

Gundlupet60 km from Mysore from Mysore
A small town at the edge of Bandipur National Park, ideal for a quick breakfast or restroom break before entering the forest.
Local restaurants serving South Indian mealsPetrol pumpsATMs and small shops
Bandipur National Park (Interpretation Zone)80 km from Mysore from Mysore
A designated stop within the park where visitors can stretch, use restrooms, and enjoy a short nature walk (subject to park rules).
Restrooms and drinking waterPark interpretation centerSmall souvenir shop

Hotels in Ooty

Treebo hotels in Ooty. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

Treebo Light House, 900 Mtrs From Botanical Garden

Ooty

Treebo Skydale Inn & Suites With Mountain View

Ooty

Itsy Hotels Kottaram Residency

Ooty

Itsy Hotels Rain Forest

Ooty

Things to Do in Ooty

Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Board the heritage toy train from Mettupalayam to Ooty, passing through tunnels and over viaducts with breathtaking views. The journey takes about 5 hours and is a…

5 hours

Explore Government Botanical Garden

Wander through terraced gardens established in 1848, featuring a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree, a variety of exotic plants, and a glasshouse. Ideal for a…

2-3 hours

Boating on Ooty Lake

Enjoy paddle boating or rowing on the artificial lake created in 1824 by John Sullivan. The lake is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and offers a serene escape.

1-2 hours

Sunset at Doddabetta Peak

Drive or trek to the highest point in the Nilgiris at 2,637 meters. The telescope house provides panoramic views of the hills and valleys, especially at sunset.

2-3 hours

Tea Estate and Factory Tour

Visit a nearby tea estate and factory to see the processing of Nilgiri tea, from plucking to packaging. Enjoy a tasting session and purchase fresh tea leaves.

2 hours

Visit Ooty Rose Garden

Stroll through one of India's largest rose gardens, terraced on a hillside with over 2,000 varieties of roses. The vibrant colors and fragrances are a delight.

1-2 hours

See all places in Ooty →

Suggested Ooty Itinerary

Day 1Colonial Heritage & Botanical Wonders

Stroll through the Government Botanical Garden, terraced on the slopes of Doddabetta, and see the fossilized tree trunk.
Visit St. Stephen's Church, admiring its Gothic architecture and historical wooden beams.
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Ooty Lake, created in 1824 by John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty.

Day 2Scenic Toy Train & Tea Country

Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway 'toy train' from Ooty to Coonoor, enjoying the steep climb and scenic views.
Visit a tea factory and museum near Coonoor to see how Nilgiri tea is processed and taste fresh brews.
Walk through rolling tea estates, breathing in the crisp mountain air.

Day 3Panoramic Peaks & Serene Viewpoints

Drive to Doddabetta Peak and take in the 360-degree views from the telescope house.
Visit a viewpoint like Dolphin's Nose or Lamb's Rock for stunning cliff-top vistas (note: these are distinct from Coaker's Walk…
Enjoy a peaceful nature walk in the pine forests or along a quiet trail.

Full 3-day itinerary →

Travel Tips

Start early (around 6 AM) to avoid forest traffic and spot wildlife in the morning light.

Carry valid ID proofs; forest checkposts may require passenger details.

Drive slowly within Bandipur and Mudumalai – animals often cross the road.

Keep windows rolled up and avoid getting out of the car in forest zones.

Pack light snacks and water; eateries are sparse after Gundlupet.

Check weather – the ghat road can be foggy; use low-beam headlights.

Budget Estimate

road

Fuel: approx. ₹1,100–₹1,300 (depending on car mileage and fuel prices)

Total estimated cost (excluding driver): ₹1,200–₹1,500

The most flexible and scenic option, driving allows you to stop at wildlife viewpoints and enjoy the forest landscapes. The route via Bandipur and Mudumalai is well-maintained, but requires attention to wildlife crossings.

train

Mysore to Mettupalayam (passenger train): ₹145 (second class) to ₹250 (sleeper)

Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Mettupalayam to Ooty): ₹305 (first class) or ₹45 (second class)

A scenic combination: take a train from Mysore to Mettupalayam, then board the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) to Ooty. This offers a nostalgic ride through tunnels and bridges, but requires coordination with train schedules.

bus

KSRTC ordinary bus: ₹150–₹200

KSRTC semi-deluxe: ₹220–₹280

State-run and private buses connect Mysore to Ooty, with some direct services. The journey takes longer due to stops and winding roads, but is economical and convenient for budget travelers.

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Ooty trip and see the full Mysore → Ooty → next stop route.

Ooty → Bandipur

About 65 km by road

Plan Mysore → Ooty → Bandipur Route Bandipur guide

Ooty → Coimbatore

About 70 km by road

Plan Mysore → Ooty → Coimbatore Route Coimbatore guide

Ooty → Mannarkkad

About 70 km by road

Plan Mysore → Ooty → Mannarkkad Route Mannarkkad guide

Ooty → Sultan Battery

About 70 km by road

Plan Mysore → Ooty → Sultan Battery Route Sultan Battery guide

Plan My Trip: Mysore to Ooty

Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Mysore to Ooty route safe for night travel?

It is not recommended to travel at night through Bandipur and Mudumalai forests due to wildlife activity and poor visibility. The forest department also restricts vehicle movement during night hours in certain sections.

2. Do I need a permit to pass through Bandipur or Mudumalai?

No special permit is required for Indian citizens, but you must carry a valid ID (Aadhaar, driver's license, etc.). Foreign tourists may need to show their passport and visa.

3. What is the best time to travel from Mysore to Ooty?

The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon (June-September) due to landslides and leeches, and summer (April-May) can be warm but still enjoyable in Ooty.

4. Are there direct buses from Mysore to Ooty?

Yes, KSRTC operates direct buses, but frequency may vary. Private operators also run daily services, especially during tourist seasons. It's advisable to book in advance.

5. Can I hire a taxi for a one-way trip?

Yes, many taxi operators offer one-way drop to Ooty. Fares typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 depending on the vehicle and season. Confirm the fare includes all tolls and driver allowances.