Route 1: The Classic Mysore Road
The most popular and often fastest route from Bengaluru to Wayanad is via Mysore, covering a distance of about 280 to 300 kilometres in approximately six to seven hours. This well-maintained path takes you along NH275 and NH766. Start early to bypass
city traffic and enjoy a smooth drive on the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway. Your first major town will be Channapatna, famous for its wooden toys, followed by Mandya. A recommended breakfast stop is Kamat Lokaruchi in Ramanagara for a taste of authentic local food. After Mandya, you'll reach Srirangapatna, the historic island town of Tipu Sultan, where you can make a quick stop at the Gumbaz. From there, Mysore is just a short drive away. While you could spend a whole day exploring Mysore Palace and Brindavan Gardens, for a road trip, a simple drive-through or a quick meal is more practical.
Entering the Wild: Bandipur National Park
The highlight of the Mysore route begins after Gundlupet, as you enter the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. The highway cuts straight through the forest, offering a high chance of spotting wildlife like deer, elephants, monkeys, and peacocks right from your car. The drive is incredibly scenic, with the landscape shifting from plains to dense forest canopy. It is crucial to remember the strict timing regulations for this stretch. The forest gates for private vehicles are closed from 9 PM to 6 AM every day. Plan your journey to cross this section well within daylight hours. Driving slowly and not stopping inside the forest is mandatory for the safety of both travellers and wildlife. Once you cross the Karnataka border at Muthanga, you officially enter Wayanad, Kerala, with the roads starting their winding ascent into the hills.
Route 2: The Quieter Kanakapura Road
For those looking to avoid the often-congested Mysore highway, the route via Kanakapura and Kollegal on NH948 is an excellent alternative. Though slightly longer, this path is known for being less crowded and offers a more serene drive through rustic countryside landscapes. The journey takes you through Kanakapura, Malavalli, and Chamarajanagar before joining the main highway at Gundlupet. A worthwhile detour on this route is Shivanasamudra, home to the magnificent Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season. Another potential stop is Chunchi Falls, located near Kanakapura. The road conditions are generally good, providing a peaceful drive that feels off the beaten path. This route also leads you through the Bandipur forest stretch before reaching Wayanad, so the same night-time travel restrictions apply.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Journey
The best time to drive to Wayanad is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) offers incredibly lush greenery but be prepared for slippery roads and the possibility of leeches. An early morning start, ideally around 5 AM from Bengaluru, is highly recommended to avoid traffic and to allow ample time for stops. There are numerous restaurants and fuel stations along the Mysore route, particularly in towns like Mandya, Mysore, and Gundlupet. The Kanakapura route has fewer amenities, so it's wise to carry snacks and water. As you enter the ghat sections of Wayanad, the roads become narrow and winding with hairpin bends, so drive cautiously. The stunning views of the Western Ghats are a worthy reward for your careful driving.
