Road Trip Locations in Karnataka

Road Trip in Karnataka

The southern Indian state of Karnataka is rich in historical landmarks, cultural variety, and scenic beauty. The state offers a wide range of attractions to accommodate all kinds of tourists, from serene beaches to colourful green hills, and from ancient temples to bustling urban areas. The best way to explore Karnataka's diverse landscapes is to begin your tour by road. A seamless trip is guaranteed when you rent a car from companies like IndusGo, which also gives you the comfort and freedom to go at your own speed. Whether you’re looking for self-drive cars in Bengaluru or planning to rent a car in Bangalore, this guide covers it all. Let’s dive into some of the best road trip destinations in Karnataka.

Bangalore to Mysore

The short but delightful drive from Bangalore to Mysore is perfect for a weekend getaway. This trip provides a nice ride on either SH 17 or NH 209 and covers 144 kilometres in roughly 3–4 hours. Known as the "Cultural Capital of Karnataka," Mysore is home to impressive sites including the bustling Devaraja Market, St. Philomena's Church, and the Mysore Palace. Enjoy delectable refreshments at neighbourhood restaurants or make a detour in Channapatna, the village known for its wooden toys.

Bangalore to Coorg via Mysore

Known as the "Scotland of India," Coorg is a paradise of peaceful waterfalls, foggy hills, and coffee plantations. It takes roughly six to seven hours to drive the 250 miles from Bangalore to Coorg. It is strongly advised to take the picturesque route via Mysore. Driving through Coorg's winding roads, you'll see expansive estates, lush vegetation, and fragrant coffee bushes. Don’t miss Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, and the Dubare Elephant Camp.

Bangalore to Kabini via Mysore

For wildlife enthusiasts, a road trip to Kabini is an absolute treat. Located around 200 km from Bangalore, Kabini is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The tranquil backwaters of the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary provide stunning vistas. Begin your trip early to take advantage of stops in Mysore and Ramanagara, which is renowned for its rocky landscape. There are lots of places to stop for quick breaks and the trip is smooth with lots of vegetation.

Bangalore to Sakleshpur

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Sakleshpur is a small hill station renowned for its coffee plantations and misty trails. Taking the Bangalore-Mangalore Highway, the 260-kilometer trip from Bangalore to Sakleshpur takes roughly five hours. The road is lined with lush greenery, waterfalls, and picturesque views. For breathtaking sweeping views, don't miss the Manjarabad Fort and Bisle View Point.

Bangalore to Wayanad

Wayanad, a gorgeous hill station in Kerala that is roughly 300 km away, offers a fusion of natural beauty and cultural richness. The drive from Gundlupet via NH 766 to Wayanad is a beautiful one, lined with misty hills, tea plantations, and woods. You may see wildlife along the way, so be prepared with your camera. Once you get to Wayanad, don't miss the Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, and Banasura Sagar Dam.

Bangalore to Agumbe

Agumbe, sometimes referred to as the "Cherrapunji of the South," is the ideal location for those who enjoy rain. It takes roughly 7-8 hours to drive 356 miles from Bangalore to this wettest location in southern India. There is a great blend of beautiful scenery and well-maintained roads along the trip via Hassan and Belur. Agumbe is a must-see because of its deep forests, trekking paths, and sunset spot.

Bangalore to Pondicherry

Pondicherry is the place to go if you want a blend of French colonial splendour and flawless beaches. The 327-kilometer journey via AH 45 from Bangalore to Pondicherry is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The picturesque Eastern Ghats and coconut trees line the about six to seven-hour journey. Explore the French Quarter, Auroville, and Promenade Beach once you're in Pondicherry.

Bangalore to Goa via Chorla Ghats

For many tourists, a road trip to Goa is the trip of a lifetime. The trip through the Chorla Ghats, which covers 556 kilometres in roughly 10–11 hours, offers stunning scenery, twisting roads, and an abundance of flora. Make stops along the way to see the local sights in Tumkur, Hubli, and Belgaum. The trip's high point is the drive through the Chorla Ghats, where the dense trees and misty mountains create a mystical ambience.

Bangalore to Kudremukh

The trip to Kudremukh, a hill station renowned for its green peaks and biodiversity, will be a favourite among adventure seekers. The travel takes about six to seven hours from Bangalore, which is 340 miles away. Beautiful vistas of waterfalls and lush surroundings can be found along the well-maintained path that passes via Hassan and NICE Road. One of the main attractions here is Kudremukh National Park.

Bangalore to Ooty

Take a road trip to Ooty, the "Queen of Hill Stations," to escape the summer heat. The trip takes seven to nine hours from Bangalore, which is 360 kilometres away. The drive through Gudalur, Gundlupet, and Mysore is picturesque and easy. There is an opportunity to see wildlife in the final section via Mudumalai. Once in Ooty, explore the Botanical Gardens, take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and see Ooty Lake.

Bangalore to Gokarna via Shimoga

Go to Gokarna for a peaceful coastal getaway. The distance is 517 km, and it takes 8–10 hours to drive there. Shimoga, a town renowned for its waterfalls and lush surroundings, can be reached by the NH 4 and NH 63 routes. The captivating vistas of the Arabian Sea and tranquil beaches, as you get closer to Gokarna, will make the trip worthwhile.

Bangalore to Mangalore

Using NH 48, the 350-kilometre travel from Bangalore to Mangalore takes roughly six to seven hours. Interesting stops are plentiful along the road, such as Halebidu, Belur, and Shravanabelagola. Rolling hills and beautiful trees await you when you cross the Shiradi Ghats. Don't miss Mangalore's stunning beaches and mouthwatering seafood when you're there.

Bangalore to Bandipur

Bangalore to Bandipur (217 miles) is a quick and enjoyable drive that takes roughly four to five hours to complete. The trip along NH 212 and SH 17 is beautiful and smooth. The National Park at Bandipur is well-known, and you may go on a wildlife safari there to see tigers, elephants, and other creatures in their native environment.

Why Choose IndusGo for Your Road Trip?

Karnataka’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture make it an ideal destination for road trips. By picking a reliable car rental company and the appropriate routes, you can make your trip genuinely unforgettable. IndusGo provides flexible car rentals for road trips. Whether you need a car for rent in Bangalore or are looking for long-term options, our services offer affordable rates, a wide range of self-drive car rentals, convenient pickup and drop-off locations, and well-maintained cars for a comfortable and safe trip. So prepare to discover Karnataka's beauties by packing your bags and renting a car!