Dubare Elephant Camp is a renowned wildlife and adventure destination located near Kushalnagar in Coorg, Karnataka. Nestled on the banks of the River Cauvery, it attracts nature lovers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience elephant interactions and forest activities.

This guide covers the best ways to reach Dubare Elephant Camp from major nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. You will find detailed information on train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips to ensure a hassle-free trip.

Getting from Bangalore, Mysore, or Mangalore to Dubare Elephant Camp – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a comfortable and scenic option for reaching the region near Dubare Elephant Camp, especially from Bangalore and Mysore. While there is no direct train to the camp itself, nearby stations provide good connectivity.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest major station is Mysore Junction (MYS), about 40 km away. Kushalnagar does not have a railway station, so travelers must use road transport from Mysore or other stations.

• Train routes and timings:

  Frequent trains run from Bangalore City Railway Station to Mysore, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹100 to ₹500 depending on class. Booking via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats.

• From Mysore to Dubare:

  After arriving at Mysore, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Dubare Elephant Camp, which is roughly a 1.5-hour drive. Shared jeeps and cabs are available near the station.

• Scenic journey:

  The train route from Bangalore to Mysore passes through lush greenery and small towns, offering a pleasant travel experience, especially during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

• Challenges:

  Trains can be crowded during weekends and holidays; booking in advance is advisable. Also, last-mile connectivity from Mysore requires planning as buses may be infrequent.

By Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Dubare Elephant Camp from nearby cities. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators run regular services to Kushalnagar and nearby towns.

• Bus routes:

  Direct buses to Kushalnagar operate from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. From Kushalnagar bus stand, local buses or taxis can be hired for the 8 km trip to Dubare Elephant Camp.

• Travel time and fares:

  Bangalore to Kushalnagar buses take about 6 to 7 hours, costing ₹250 to ₹400. Mysore to Kushalnagar is shorter, around 2 hours, with fares under ₹100.

• Bus types and comfort:

  Options include ordinary, non-AC, and Volvo AC buses. Volvo buses offer more comfort but are less frequent. Night buses are available from Bangalore but may not be ideal for families.

• Booking tips:

  Tickets can be booked online on KSRTC’s website or at bus stations. Arrive early during peak tourist seasons to secure seats, especially on weekends.

• Local transport from Kushalnagar:

  Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available at the bus stand. Negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs like Ola for convenience.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Dubare Elephant Camp offers flexibility and the chance to explore Coorg’s scenic routes at your own pace. This is the preferred option for families and groups.

• Route from Bangalore:

  Take NH275 via Ramanagara, Mysore, and Hunsur to Kushalnagar. The total distance is approximately 260 km and takes around 5.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly well-maintained, with tolls on NH275. The route passes through picturesque coffee plantations and hills, especially after Mysore.

• From Kushalnagar to Dubare:

  The camp is about 8 km from Kushalnagar town via a well-paved local road. Signboards are clear, and parking is available near the camp entrance.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid city traffic and enjoy daylight driving through Coorg’s forests. Avoid night driving due to wildlife and limited street lighting.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Bangalore or Mysore through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Dubare Elephant Camp is Mysore Airport, which has limited connectivity. For most travelers, flying into Bangalore or Mangalore airports is more practical.

• Bangalore Kempegowda International Airport (BLR):

  Located about 270 km from Dubare, this airport has excellent domestic and international connections. From here, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to Coorg.

• Mangalore International Airport (IXE):

  About 160 km from Dubare, this airport serves some southern and western India routes. Road travel from Mangalore to Dubare takes around 4 to 5 hours.

• Connecting transport:

  From airports, pre-booked cabs or rental cars are recommended for the onward journey. Public transport options are limited and less convenient for tourists.

• Flight tips:

  Booking flights early can save costs. Consider arrival times to avoid late-night travel on hilly roads.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time visitors plan their trip to Dubare Elephant Camp smoothly, covering booking, travel, and local transport.

• Book train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains and KSRTC’s website for buses to secure your preferred travel dates and classes.

• Plan arrival at Mysore or Kushalnagar:

  Aim to reach Mysore by mid-morning or Kushalnagar by afternoon to avoid last-mile travel in the dark.

• Arrange local transport:

  Pre-book a taxi or use Ola/Uber from Mysore or Kushalnagar for the 30–45 minute ride to the camp, especially if traveling in a group.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, snacks, and light rain gear during monsoon. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the camp.

• Reach early at the camp:

  Arrive by 9 AM to enjoy elephant activities and forest treks before afternoon heat or rains.

• Plan return accordingly:

  Book return tickets or arrange transport in advance, as public options reduce after sunset.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety around elephants:

  Follow camp guidelines strictly. Do not feed or touch elephants without supervision to ensure safety.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks. The camp has limited food stalls, so plan meals in Kushalnagar or Mysore.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains and buses, book at least 2 weeks in advance during peak season (October to March) to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Mysore and Kushalnagar, providing reliable taxi services. Negotiate fares if using auto-rickshaws.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light as local transport options have limited space. Use backpacks or soft bags for easier mobility.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and occasional delays. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Dubare Elephant Camp is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife activity is high. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Planning your journey during off-peak hours can enhance comfort and reduce traffic delays.

• Avoid weekends and festival periods like Dussehra and Christmas to escape crowding on roads and at the camp.

• Monsoon months (June to September) bring lush greenery but also slippery roads and occasional landslides on Coorg’s hills.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and allow full-day exploration at the camp.

• Late afternoon travel is not recommended due to limited lighting and wildlife movement on roads.

Arrival at Dubare Elephant Camp & What to Expect

Upon arrival, travelers are greeted by the serene environment of the Cauvery riverbank and the sounds of the forest. The camp offers elephant rides, bathing sessions, and guided nature walks, making it a unique wildlife experience.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws. Staying in Kushalnagar or nearby Madikeri is convenient, with several homestays and hotels available. The camp itself has basic facilities, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by road—either self-drive or taxi—from Mysore or Bangalore is the most flexible and comfortable way to reach Dubare Elephant Camp. It allows you to enjoy the scenic Coorg landscape and manage your schedule effectively.

With proper planning and timely bookings, your journey to Dubare Elephant Camp can be smooth and memorable. This guide equips you with all the essential details to travel confidently and make the most of your wildlife adventure.