Choose Your Ideal Route
You have a few excellent routes for your drive from Bengaluru to Wayanad, each offering a different flavour of the journey. The most popular and scenic option is the Mysore-Gundlupet route (via NH275 and NH766), which takes approximately 6-7 hours to cover
about 280 km. This path leads you through the historic city of Mysore and then into the magnificent Bandipur and Muthanga wildlife sanctuaries. An alternative is the Kanakapura-Kollegal route (via NH948), which is often less crowded. While slightly longer, it offers serene countryside views. A third option combines elements of both, going via Malavalli and Somnathpur, allowing for a stop at the famous Chennakesava Temple before joining the main route at Gundlupet. Road conditions are generally good, especially on the national highway portions, though some stretches within forest areas can be patchy.
Mastering the Forest Drive
The highlight of this road trip is undoubtedly the drive through the Bandipur and Nagarhole Tiger Reserves. However, this section requires special attention. A strict travel ban is enforced on the Bandipur forest road from 9 PM to 6 AM to protect wildlife. Plan to cross this section well within daylight hours. Driving slowly is crucial, with speed limits generally set around 30 km/h. This not only ensures the safety of animals that may cross the road but also increases your chances of spotting elephants, deer, and other wildlife from your car. Remember to never stop your vehicle inside the forest reserve, keep your windows up, and avoid honking or playing loud music.
Preparing for the Ghats
As you approach Wayanad, the flat plains give way to the winding roads and hairpin bends of the Western Ghats. Driving in this hilly terrain demands a different skill set. It's advisable to use lower gears (second or third) when navigating steep curves to maintain better control. When driving downhill, use engine braking instead of riding the clutch or coasting in neutral. Honking at blind corners is a common and recommended practice to alert oncoming traffic. Always give way to vehicles travelling uphill, and be particularly cautious around larger vehicles like buses and trucks, which require more space to manoeuvre on turns. Driving after sunset in the ghat sections is best avoided due to reduced visibility from fog and unlit roads.
Pre-Trip Vehicle and Packing Essentials
Before you begin your journey, a thorough vehicle check is essential. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated, and your brakes, lights, and fluid levels are all in order. Given the limited availability of fuel stations within the forest stretches, it's wise to fill up your tank in Mysore or Gundlupet. Inside the car, pack some snacks and water, as shops are scarce once you enter the forest reserves. A basic first-aid kit, a portable tyre inflator, and a car hammer are also good to have for emergencies. Since mobile network connectivity can be patchy in the ghats and forest areas, downloading offline maps is a practical step.
Don't Miss These Scenic Stops
The journey is as beautiful as the destination, so plan for a few stops. On the Mysore route, you can explore the magnificent Mysore Palace or take a break at the Brindavan Gardens. If you opt for the Somnathpur route, the ancient Chennakesava Temple is a must-visit for its Hoysala architecture. Just before entering the Wayanad ghats, Gopalaswamy Betta, a temple located on the highest peak in Bandipur National Park, offers breathtaking panoramic views. For those taking the Kanakapura route, a small detour can lead you to the picturesque Chunchi Falls. These stops can break the monotony of the drive and enrich your travel experience.
