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Mysuru to Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur from Mysuru is a scenic 155 km drive that takes about 3.5 hours, often combined with a palace-and-hills circuit. The route passes through Hunsur, Hampapura, and

155 kmDistance
3.5 hrsDuration

Overview

Chikmagalur from Mysuru is a scenic 155 km drive that takes about 3.5 hours, often combined with a palace-and-hills circuit. The route passes through Hunsur, Hampapura, and Sakleshpur, offering views of coffee plantations and the Western Ghats. Travelers can also take a train to Sakleshpur or a direct bus. The journey is shorter than from Bengaluru, making it ideal for a long weekend. This guide provides detailed road, train, and bus options, including stopovers at Sakleshpur and Gorur Dam, to help you plan a seamless trip.

Route Map

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Transport Options

By Car

A pleasant drive on NH-275 and SH-57, with smooth roads through forested stretches. The route is less crowded than the Bengaluru highway, offering a relaxed journey.

Distance: 155 kmDuration: 3.5 hours

Highlights

  • Drive through the lush Kaveri wildlife sanctuary near Hunsur.
  • Stop at Sakleshpur for a coffee break and scenic views.
  • Visit Gorur Dam on the Hemavati River (detour).
  • Less traffic compared to the Bengaluru route.

Toll Charges

Tolls on NH-275 and state roads.

  • Mysuru-Hunsur toll: ₹40 (car)
  • Hunsur-Sakleshpur toll: ₹30 (car)
  • Total approx: ₹70 (one-way)

Fuel Cost

Approximate petrol cost for a round trip.

  • Distance one-way: 155 km
  • Mileage: 12 km/l → ~13 liters one-way
  • Petrol price (approx): ₹100/liter
  • One-way fuel cost: ₹1,300; round trip: ₹2,600

By Train

Trains from Mysuru to Sakleshpur run on the scenic hill route, passing through tunnels and lush forests. From Sakleshpur, a taxi covers the remaining 60 km to Chikmagalur.

Distance: 155 km (road from Sakleshpur)Duration: 2-3 hours (train) + 1.5 hours (taxi)

Highlights

  • Enjoy one of India's most scenic rail routes with 58 tunnels.
  • Sakleshpur is a charming hill station to explore.
  • Short train journey ideal for families.
  • Sakleshpur station has basic amenities.

Sample Trains

Trains from Mysuru to Sakleshpur.

  • Train 16511 (Kannur Express) – Departs Mysuru ~08:30, arrives Sakleshpur ~11:00 (2.5 hrs) – Sleeper ₹110, AC Chair ₹390
  • Train 16517 (SBC-Kannur) – Departs Mysuru ~00:30, arrives Sakleshpur ~03:00 (2.5 hrs) – Sleeper ₹110
  • Train 12601 (Mangaluru Mail) – Departs Mysuru ~22:30, arrives Sakleshpur ~01:00 (2.5 hrs) – Sleeper ₹120
  • Check IRCTC for schedules.

Taxi from Sakleshpur

Local taxis and buses available.

  • Government bus to Chikmagalur: ₹70-90 (1.5 hrs)
  • Shared taxi per person: ₹200
  • Private taxi: ₹1,500-1,800 (one-way)
  • Prepaid taxi counter: ₹2,000 (approx)

By Bus

KSRTC operates direct buses from Mysuru to Chikmagalur, with a few via Hassan. The journey takes about 4 hours, with options for ordinary and AC buses.

Distance: 155 kmDuration: 4-4.5 hours

Highlights

  • Direct buses available in the morning and evening.
  • Scenic route through coffee estates near Sakleshpur.
  • Budget-friendly option.
  • Chikmagalur bus stand is near the town center.

KSRTC Services

Key bus types and fares.

  • Ordinary bus: ₹100-120 (4.5 hrs)
  • Rajahamsa (AC): ₹200-250 (4 hrs)
  • Volvo AC (via Hassan): ₹300 (3.5 hrs)
  • Book at ksrtc.in or Mysuru bus stand.

Private Buses

Alternatives from Mysuru.

  • VRL Travels – AC Seater: ₹350 (departs 7 AM)
  • Sugama Travels – Non-AC: ₹250 (departs 8 AM)
  • Book via RedBus.
  • Pickup from Mysuru Palace road.

Stopovers En Route

Sakleshpur

90 km from Mysuru

A serene hill station known for its coffee estates and green valleys. A great place for a short break and refreshments.

Fuel stationsCafes and restaurantsRestrooms

Gorur Dam

120 km from Mysuru (near Hassan)

A scenic dam on the Hemavati River, ideal for a quick photo stop. The reservoir attracts birds and offers peaceful views.

ParkingSmall tea stallsViewpoint

Travel Tips

Leave Mysuru by 7 AM to enjoy the cool morning drive and reach Chikmagalur by 10:30 AM.
Carry a light jacket as temperatures drop in the hills.
If taking the train, book tickets in advance during weekends.
Hire a local guide for treks to Mullayanagiri or Hebbe Falls.
Taste the local Coorg-style coffee in Chikmagalur.
Keep a power bank; charging points may be scarce in remote areas.

Budget Estimate

road

Mysuru-Hunsur toll: ₹40 (car)

Hunsur-Sakleshpur toll: ₹30 (car)

A pleasant drive on NH-275 and SH-57, with smooth roads through forested stretches. The route is less crowded than the Bengaluru highway, offering a relaxed journey.

train

Train 16511 (Kannur Express) – Departs Mysuru ~08:30, arrives Sakleshpur ~11:00 (2.5 hrs) – Sleeper ₹110, AC Chair ₹390

Train 16517 (SBC-Kannur) – Departs Mysuru ~00:30, arrives Sakleshpur ~03:00 (2.5 hrs) – Sleeper ₹110

Trains from Mysuru to Sakleshpur run on the scenic hill route, passing through tunnels and lush forests. From Sakleshpur, a taxi covers the remaining 60 km to Chikmagalur.

bus

Ordinary bus: ₹100-120 (4.5 hrs)

Rajahamsa (AC): ₹200-250 (4 hrs)

KSRTC operates direct buses from Mysuru to Chikmagalur, with a few via Hassan. The journey takes about 4 hours, with options for ordinary and AC buses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Mysuru-Chikmagalur road suitable for two-wheelers?

Yes, the road is well-paved, but the stretch from Sakleshpur has ghat sections with sharp curves. Ride cautiously.

2. How long does the train journey from Mysuru to Sakleshpur take?

It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the train. The route is scenic and passes through many tunnels.

3. Are there direct buses from Mysuru to Chikmagalur?

Yes, KSRTC runs direct buses, but frequency is lower than from Bengaluru. Check the schedule in advance.

4. Can I combine a visit to Mysuru Palace with this trip?

Absolutely. Many travelers spend a day in Mysuru, visit the palace, then drive to Chikmagalur the next morning.

5. What is the best season for this route?

October to March is ideal. The monsoon (June-September) makes the greenery lush but can cause landslides on ghat roads.

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