Chikmagalur, nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, is a serene hill station known for its coffee plantations and lush greenery. Located about 245 km northwest of Bangalore, it is a favored weekend getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts from the bustling city.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Bangalore to Chikmagalur, including train, bus, car, and flight options. Whether you seek a comfortable journey or a scenic road trip, you’ll find detailed tips and step-by-step advice to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Bangalore to Chikmagalur – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Bangalore and Chikmagalur is limited but still viable for those preferring rail comfort. The nearest railway station to Chikmagalur is Kadur Junction, about 40 km away, requiring a connecting road trip.

• Route and stations:

  Board a train from Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) to Kadur Junction (DRU). Trains like the Yesvantpur–Kadur Passenger run daily but have limited frequency.

• Travel time and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours, covering around 240 km. Ticket prices for sleeper class range from ₹150 to ₹300, making it an economical option.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains are basic with unreserved and sleeper classes. Book tickets early on IRCTC to secure seats, especially on weekends.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Kadur station, hire a taxi or take a local bus for the 40 km journey to Chikmagalur town. Prepaid taxis are available but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon evenings as local roads from Kadur to Chikmagalur can be slippery and prone to landslides.

Bus

Buses are a popular and budget-friendly way to reach Chikmagalur from Bangalore, with several daily services operated by KSRTC and private operators.

• Bus types and routes:

  KSRTC runs Volvo and non-AC buses from Bangalore’s Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Chikmagalur. The route primarily follows NH75 via Hassan.

• Duration and fares:

  The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic, with ticket prices ranging from ₹250 to ₹600 for Volvo buses.

• Frequency and booking:

  Buses depart frequently from early morning to late evening. Booking tickets in advance on the KSRTC website or RedBus app is recommended for Volvo seats.

• Comfort and stops:

  Volvo buses offer comfortable seating and onboard amenities. Regular stops include Hassan and Kadur for refreshments and restroom breaks.

• Traffic considerations:

  Avoid peak Bangalore traffic hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce travel time. Weekend evenings can be crowded due to tourist influx.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is a favored option for flexibility and enjoying scenic views along the Western Ghats.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH75 through Nelamangala, Hassan, and Kadur. The distance is approximately 245 km and takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  NH75 is well-maintained with multiple toll plazas. The stretch after Hassan towards Chikmagalur has winding roads and occasional potholes, so drive cautiously.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Numerous fuel stations and eateries like Kamat Upachar and Adigas are available along the highway. Plan breaks at Hassan or Kadur for refreshments.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid Bangalore’s heavy traffic and enjoy daylight driving through the Ghats. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery roads.

• Car rentals and cabs:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Bangalore with providers like Zoomcar or Revv. Alternatively, book a private cab via Ola Outstation or local operators for a hassle-free trip.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Chikmagalur as it lacks an airport. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 150 km away, which can be combined with road travel.

• Flight options:

  Fly from Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) to Mangalore (IXE) with airlines like IndiGo or AirAsia. Flight duration is about 1 hour.

• From Mangalore to Chikmagalur:

  After landing, hire a taxi or take a bus for the 150 km road journey, which takes roughly 4 to 5 hours via NH73 and NH169.

• Cost and convenience:

  Flights are costlier and less practical unless connecting from other cities. Road travel from Mangalore to Chikmagalur is scenic but longer.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Pre-arrange taxis from Mangalore airport for a smooth transition.

• Seasonal advice:

  The Mangalore route can be affected by monsoon rains, so check weather updates before planning.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Bangalore to Chikmagalur, focusing on ease and comfort.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train or bus, use IRCTC or KSRTC online portals to secure your seat, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Start early from Bangalore:

  Leave before 7 AM to avoid city traffic and reach Chikmagalur by afternoon, maximizing daylight for sightseeing.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, snacks, and light rain gear during monsoon. Roads can be winding, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  If arriving by train at Kadur or bus at Hassan, pre-book a taxi or check local bus timings to reach Chikmagalur smoothly.

• Use navigation apps:

  Google Maps or MapMyIndia help track live traffic and road conditions, especially on NH75 and local routes.

• Plan your return:

  Book return tickets in advance and avoid late evening travel during monsoon for safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on roads:

  Drive cautiously on Ghats roads, especially during monsoon. Avoid night driving due to fog and slippery conditions.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable highway restaurants like Kamat or local dhabas to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and KSRTC or RedBus for buses to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• Local commute in Chikmagalur:

  Use local taxis or rent two-wheelers for exploring coffee estates and nearby hills. Ola and Uber have limited presence here.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light as local transport options can be cramped. Carry a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rains and occasional landslides. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Chikmagalur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summers can be warm but manageable, while monsoon offers lush scenery with travel challenges.

Avoid traveling during major Karnataka festivals like Dasara or Ugadi when roads and accommodations are crowded.

• Avoid peak Bangalore traffic hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) for a smoother start.

• Travel during daylight to enjoy scenic views and safer driving conditions.

• Steer clear of monsoon night travel due to slippery and foggy roads.

• Plan trips on weekdays or early weekends to avoid tourist rush in Chikmagalur.

Arrival at Chikmagalur & What to Expect

On arrival, Chikmagalur welcomes travelers with its cool climate and verdant landscapes. The town is compact, with easy access to coffee plantations, waterfalls, and trekking trails.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and private taxis. Prepaid taxis are available at bus stands and Kadur railway station. Accommodations range from homestays to resorts near Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri hills.

Conclusion

For most travelers, taking a KSRTC Volvo bus or driving via NH75 offers the best balance of comfort, cost, and scenic experience. Train travel is economical but requires additional road travel from Kadur.

With proper planning and early bookings, your journey from Bangalore to Chikmagalur can be smooth and enjoyable. Embrace the natural beauty awaiting you and travel confidently to this coffee haven.