The Classic Choice: The Mysore-Bandipur Route
The most popular and arguably most scenic path to Wayanad is via Mysore and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. This route, primarily using NH275 and NH766, is well-maintained and offers a fantastic mix of smooth highway driving and immersive forest scenery.
After navigating the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway, the journey takes you through Nanjangud and Gundlupet before you enter the Bandipur forest. The drive through the reserve is the highlight, with high chances of spotting deer, monkeys, and even elephants if you’re lucky. However, this beauty comes with a crucial rule: the Bandipur forest stretch is closed to traffic every night from 9 PM to 6 AM to protect wildlife. This means you must plan your start time from Bengaluru carefully to ensure you cross the forest gates before they close. An early morning start, around 5 or 6 AM, is highly recommended to avoid city traffic and enjoy the forest in the pleasant morning light.
The Quieter Alternative: The Kanakapura-Kollegal Route
If you prefer a more tranquil drive with less traffic, the Kanakapura-Malavalli-Kollegal route is an excellent alternative. This path is favoured by those looking to avoid the often-busy Mysore road. While it takes you through rustic countryside and small towns, the roads are generally in good condition. A significant advantage of this route is the opportunity for a scenic detour to Shivanasamudra, home to the stunning Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls, especially spectacular during the monsoon season. The journey continues through Chamarajanagar before joining the main highway at Gundlupet, from where you proceed towards Wayanad. This route offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience, trading the dense forest drive of Bandipur for serene rural landscapes.
The Final Ascent: Wayanad's Ghat Roads
Regardless of which route you take from Bengaluru, the final leg of your journey involves ascending the famous Wayanad Ghats. The most iconic of these is the Thamarassery Churam, a winding mountain pass with nine thrilling hairpin bends. This 14-kilometre stretch connects the plains with the high altitudes of Wayanad, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys and distant hills with each turn. The drive can be challenging, with steep inclines and sharp curves, but the well-maintained road makes it a memorable experience for any driving enthusiast. During the monsoon, the pass is often shrouded in mist and flanked by cascading streams, adding to its magical allure. The Lakkidi Viewpoint at the top of the pass is a must-stop spot to soak in the magnificent scenery before you descend into the heart of Wayanad.
Essential Tips for Your Drive
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip, a little preparation goes a long way. The best time to travel is generally from October to May, when the weather is pleasant for both driving and sightseeing. Start your journey from Bengaluru early, ideally by 6 AM, to avoid traffic and to cross the forest sections in broad daylight. Fuel up your vehicle in Mysore or Gundlupet, as petrol stations become sparse once you enter the forest and ghat sections. Mobile networks can be unreliable in the forest areas, so downloading offline maps is a wise precaution. Finally, when driving through the Bandipur or Muthanga wildlife sanctuaries, drive slowly, do not honk, and never stop or get out of your vehicle to feed the animals. Remember, you are a guest in their home.
