How to Reach Chikmagalur from Bangalore: Weekend Driving Route, Trains, and KSRTC Buses

Chikmagalur Weekend Getaway: Distance, Route Map, and Transport Modes

Sprawling across the rugged Baba Budangiri mountain range in the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is the birthplace of Indian coffee and one of Karnataka's most cherished hill stations. Situated approximately 245 kilometers west of Bangalore, this elevated haven offers cool mountain breezes, sprawling tea and coffee plantations, cascading waterfalls like Hebbe Falls and Jhari Falls, and the highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri (1,930 m).

The journey from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is among the smoothest weekend road trips in South India, taking just 4 to 4.5 hours along the well-paved National Highway 75. Whether you are driving down for a weekend trek, catching an express train to Kadur, or boarding an overnight KSRTC Volvo coach, planning your journey efficiently ensures maximum time relaxing in the hills. For trekking and accommodation inspiration, check our detailed Mullayanagiri peak trek guide, Bangalore to Chikmagalur road trip itinerary, and our recommendations on coffee estate homestays in Chikmagalur.

Option 1: By Car (The Classic Bangalore to Chikmagalur NH75 Route)

Driving by car is the undisputed favorite way to reach Chikmagalur. The route features a four-lane divided national highway for over 80% of the journey, making it a stress-free drive with numerous food courts and petrol plazas.

Primary Weekend Driving Route: NH75 via Hassan and Belur

• Total Distance: 245 km
• Driving Time: 4 to 4.5 hours
• Route Waypoints: Bangalore → Nelamangala Toll → Kunigal → Yediyur → Bellur Cross → Channarayapatna → Hassan Bypass → Belur → Chikmagalur
• Road Quality & Conditions:
  • Bangalore to Hassan (180 km): Excellent 4-lane divided toll expressway (NH75) with smooth asphalt and elevated flyovers bypassing major towns.
  • Hassan to Belur (38 km): Smooth 2-lane / 4-lane highway through green farmland and coconut groves.
  • Belur to Chikmagalur (25 km): Scenic 2-lane road curving gently into the coffee-growing foothills.
• Tolls: FASTag tolls total approximately ₹240 to ₹290 one way.

Recommended Weekend Starting Time

To avoid massive morning bottlenecks at the Nelamangala toll plaza (where Tumkur Road and Hassan Highway diverge), depart Bangalore between 05:30 AM and 06:15 AM. By leaving early, you will clear the city periphery smoothly and reach the famous breakfast stops near Kunigal or Yediyur within an hour.

Option 2: By KSRTC Bus (Volvo, Airavat, and Non-AC Sleepers)

For solo travelers, couples, or those who prefer not to drive, KSRTC operates dozens of direct buses from Bangalore to Chikmagalur daily.

Bus Types and Timings

• KSRTC Airavat / Airavat Club Class (AC Multi-Axle): Premier comfortable coaches departing Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Station) and Satellite Bus Stand (Mysore Road). Departures at 07:00 AM, 09:30 AM, 02:00 PM, 10:45 PM, and 11:30 PM. Duration: 5 hours. Fare: ₹500 to ₹700.
• KSRTC Rajahamsa Executive (Non-AC Semi-Sleeper): Departs every 45 to 60 minutes throughout the day and night. Fare: ₹330 to ₹400.
• KSRTC Non-AC Sleeper: Overnight coaches departing between 10:30 PM and 11:45 PM, reaching Chikmagalur Bus Stand by 5:00 AM. Fare: ₹450 to ₹550.

Boarding Points: Majestic ISBT, Navrang Circle, Yesvantpur Govardhan Theater, Satellite Bus Stand, and Jayanagar 4th Block.

Option 3: By Train (Direct to Chikmagalur or via Kadur Junction)

Traveling by train offers a relaxed, traffic-free alternative. While Chikmagalur has a passenger rail terminal (Station Code: CMGR), Kadur Junction (DRU) and Birur Junction (RRB) serve as the primary mainline railway hubs located just 40 km away.

Direct & Connecting Train Options

• Yesvantpur - Shivamogga Town InterCity SF Express (Train 16579): Departs Yesvantpur (YPR) at 09:15 AM, reaching Kadur Junction (DRU) at 12:15 PM (just 3 hours). From Kadur, hire a private taxi (₹800-₹1,200) or board a frequent KSRTC shuttle bus directly to Chikmagalur (45 minutes).
• Jan Shatabdi Express (Train 12079): Departs KSR Bengaluru at 06:00 AM, arriving at Kadur at 09:15 AM. Ideal for early morning weekend travelers.
• Bengaluru - Chikmagalur Daily Passenger (Train 56215 / 07370): Departs Yesvantpur at 03:30 PM, arriving at Chikmagalur (CMGR) at 09:30 PM. A slower, scenic day journey through rural Hassan and Arasikere.

Sightseeing Detour: Belur Chennakeshava Temple & Halebidu

One of the greatest advantages of taking the NH75 route to Chikmagalur is that it passes right through Belur, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Chennakeshava Temple built by the Hoysala Empire in 1117 CE. Spending 45 to 60 minutes admiring the 16th-century soapstone sculptures and lathe-turned pillars adds tremendous cultural value to your weekend road trip. If you have an extra hour, the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu is situated just 16 km northeast of Belur.

Alternative Driving Route via Arsikere & Kadur (NH69)

If you live near Yelahanka, Hebbal, or Sahakarnagar in North Bangalore, an alternative route avoids the busy Nelamangala-Hassan highway entirely:

• Route: Bangalore → Tumkur → Gubbi → Tiptur → Arsikere → Kadur → Chikmagalur
• Distance: 250 km | Time: 5 hours
• Highlights: Pass through famous coconut farms in Tiptur, enjoy serene countryside roads, and arrive directly into Chikmagalur from the northeast.

Where to Base Yourself in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur offers diverse micro-regions. If you want misty mountain mornings with instant access to trekking trails, base yourself in the Mullayanagiri or Baba Budangiri foothills. For secluded luxury amidst emerald tea and coffee bushes, explore luxury stays in our guides on luxury hill resorts in Chikmagalur and budget homestays in Chikmagalur.

Essential Tips for the Bangalore to Chikmagalur Trip

• Peak Weekend Traffic: Returning on Sunday evening, traffic stacks up at the Hassan toll plazas and Nelamangala elevated flyover. Aim to leave Chikmagalur by 02:00 PM or after 07:00 PM to bypass peak jams.
• Mullayanagiri Vehicle Restrictions: The road to Mullayanagiri peak is steep and narrow. Private tourist buses are restricted; private cars and local 4x4 jeeps are permitted.
• Self-Drive Scooters: Scooter and bike rentals (₹400-₹600/day) are available near Chikmagalur KSRTC Bus Stand and market circle.
• Seasonal Weather: Monsoons (July to September) bring misty beauty and surging waterfalls, while winters (November to February) offer crisp, clear weather ideal for peak climbing.