How to Get to Mysore – Best Routes & Travel Tips

Mysore, officially known as Mysuru, is one of Karnataka’s most captivating destinations—famous for its royal heritage, yoga centers, silk, and sandalwood. Often called the “City of Palaces”, Mysore is a perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore and an essential stop for anyone exploring South India.

If you’re wondering how to reach Mysore efficiently and comfortably, this complete travel guide explains all possible routes—by air, rail, and road—with updated details, route maps, and local tips to make your journey effortless.

Where is Mysore Located?

Mysore lies in the southern part of Karnataka, approximately 145 kilometers southwest of Bengaluru. It’s nestled at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills and forms a vital part of the tourist circuit that includes Bangalore, Coorg, and Ooty.

Because of its central location, Mysore is connected through airways, railways, and highways, making it accessible from all major Indian cities.

How to Reach Mysore by Air

a) Mysore Airport (Mandakalli Airport)

Code: MYQ
Location: About 10 km south of Mysore city center
Status: Functional regional airport with limited domestic flights

Mysore Airport connects to a few cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Goa, and Bengaluru through regional carriers like Alliance Air and IndiGo. However, since flight frequency is limited, most travelers prefer flying into Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) and then traveling to Mysore by road or train.

b) From Bengaluru Airport to Mysore

If your flight lands at Kempegowda International Airport, here are the best ways to reach Mysore:

By Taxi or Private Cab

Distance: ~170 km
Duration: 3.5–4.5 hours
Fare: ₹3,500–₹5,000 (approx.) depending on cab type
Recommended for families, groups, or anyone seeking comfort.

By Airport Shuttle + Train

Take the KIA airport bus to Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) Railway Station in Bengaluru city.
From there, catch a direct train to Mysuru Junction (details below).

By Airport Bus to Mysore

KSRTC runs direct airport buses from Bengaluru airport to Mysore every 2–3 hours.
Duration: Around 5 hours.
Fare: ₹800–₹1,000 for AC buses.

Pro Tip: If you arrive late at night, stay overnight in Bengaluru and continue to Mysore the next morning to avoid highway fatigue.

How to Reach Mysore by Train

a) Major Railway Station

Mysuru Junction (MYS) – centrally located just 2 km from the city.
Clean, well-maintained, and connected to all major Indian cities.

b) Popular Train Routes

Route	Distance	Time	Recommended Train
Bengaluru – Mysore	140 km	2.5–3 hrs	Shatabdi Express / Tippu Express
Chennai – Mysore	480 km	8–9 hrs	Kaveri Express / Mysuru Express
Hyderabad – Mysore	750 km	12–14 hrs	Kacheguda Express
Mumbai – Mysore	1,000 km	18–20 hrs	Sharavathi Express / Ajmer Express

c) Train Travel Tips

Book in advance via IRCTC or reliable travel apps.
For short routes (like Bengaluru–Mysore), Chair Car (CC) or Sleeper class is comfortable.
Morning trains are ideal if you want to enjoy countryside views and reach before noon.
Keep a small bag handy; the Mysuru station is close to the city’s main attractions.

Popular Karnataka Holiday Packages

How to Reach Mysore by Road

a) By Car or Taxi (from Bengaluru)

Distance: 145 km
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Route: Bengaluru → Ramanagara → Channapatna → Maddur → Mandya → Srirangapatna → Mysore

This is one of the most popular road trips in South India. The four-lane NH-275 highway is smooth and scenic, dotted with small towns, cafes, and local markets.

Recommended Stops:

Ramanagara: Rocky hills famous for “Sholay” movie filming.
Channapatna: Famous for wooden toys—worth a short visit.
Maddur: Don’t miss “Maddur Vada”, a crispy snack served at local stalls.
Srirangapatna: A historic town of Tipu Sultan located just before Mysore.

Approximate Cost:

Cab fare: ₹3,000–₹4,500 (depending on vehicle type).
Self-drive rental: ₹2,500–₹3,500 per day.

Tip: Start early (around 6–7 a.m.) to enjoy sunrise views and avoid Bengaluru’s traffic.

b) By Bus

Mysore is well-served by KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) and several private operators.

KSRTC Bus Types:

Airavat Gold Class (Volvo AC): ₹600–₹800
Rajahamsa Executive: ₹400–₹600
Ordinary Buses: ₹250–₹400

Bus Duration:

Bengaluru to Mysore: 3.5–4 hours
Chennai to Mysore: 9–10 hours
Coimbatore to Mysore: 6 hours

You can book tickets through the KSRTC website or apps like RedBus and AbhiBus.

How to Reach Mysore from Other Major Cities

a) From Chennai

By Air: Fly to Mysore (limited flights) or to Bengaluru, then continue by road/train.
By Train: Kaveri Express (daily, 8 hours).
By Road: 480 km via NH44 → Krishnagiri → Hosur → Bengaluru → Mysore (10 hours).

b) From Hyderabad

By Air: Hyderabad → Bengaluru → Mysore by road/train.
By Train: Kacheguda Express (~13 hours).
By Road: 725 km via Raichur → Bellary → Chitradurga → Mandya (12–13 hours).

c) From Coimbatore / Ooty

By Road: Coimbatore (200 km) and Ooty (125 km) are directly connected by scenic hill routes.
The Ooty–Mysore route via Bandipur National Park is beautiful, with possible elephant sightings.
By Train: Nilgiri Express to Bengaluru, then a connecting train to Mysore.

d) From Mumbai / Pune

By Air: Fly to Bengaluru or Mangalore, then proceed by road.
By Train: Sharavathi or Ajmer Express (~19 hours).
By Road: 1,000+ km, so best for long road-trippers.

Best Time to Travel to Mysore

October to February: Pleasant weather (15°C–25°C), perfect for sightseeing.
March to May: Warmer but manageable; fewer crowds.
June to September: Monsoon brings lush greenery but occasional travel delays.
September–October (Dasara Festival): High tourist season—book tickets well in advance.

Essential Travel Tips:

a) Booking Tips

Train tickets via IRCTC can sell out early during weekends or festival periods.
For KSRTC buses, always check if your departure and arrival points are correct (there are multiple bus terminals in Bengaluru).
If hiring a taxi, confirm if the fare includes tolls and driver charges.

b) Packing & Preparation

Carry light clothing, comfortable shoes, and a shawl for cooler evenings.
Pack rain gear if traveling during monsoon.
Keep water, snacks, and power banks handy for long drives.

c) Safety Tips

Avoid traveling late at night, especially solo.
Follow lane discipline on highways—cattle crossings are common in rural areas.
Keep emergency numbers and a digital copy of ID proofs on your phone.

d) Local Transport in Mysore

Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) are easily available.
You can also rent two-wheelers or bicycles for short distances.
City buses run frequently between major attractions like Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and Brindavan Gardens.

2-Day Travel Route from Bengaluru to Mysore

Day 1:

Morning: Depart Bengaluru by 7:00 a.m.
Stop at Ramanagara for breakfast.
Visit Channapatna toy shops and Maddur snack stalls.
Reach Mysore by noon and check into your hotel.
Evening: Explore Mysore Palace and Devaraja Market.

Day 2:

Early morning visit to Chamundi Hills.
Visit St. Philomena’s Church and Brindavan Gardens.
Late afternoon: Depart back to Bengaluru or continue to Coorg.

This short itinerary gives you a taste of royal Mysore while optimizing travel time.

Advantages of Each Travel Option

Mode	Duration	Comfort Level	Cost (Approx.)	Best For
Air (via Bengaluru)	5–6 hrs (incl. road)	★★★★★	₹4,000–₹6,000	Fast, convenient for long-distance travelers
Train	2.5–3 hrs (from Bengaluru)	★★★★☆	₹200–₹600	Budget and comfort travelers
Bus	3.5–4 hrs	★★★☆☆	₹400–₹800	Solo or budget travelers
Car/Taxi	3–4 hrs	★★★★★	₹3,500–₹4,500	Families, groups, flexible plans

Quick Facts & Contacts

Mysore Airport (MYQ): +91-821-259-6730
KSRTC Enquiry: 080-4959-1000
Railway Enquiry: 139 (India-wide helpline)
Tourist Information Center: Located near Mysore Palace main gate
Emergency Numbers: Police – 100, Ambulance – 108

Handy Checklist Before You Go

Book train or bus tickets early.
Confirm hotel location and late check-in availability.
Save offline maps and driver contact details.
Keep small cash for tolls, snacks, and parking.
Carry copies of ID proof and booking vouchers.
Avoid peak departure times (8–10 a.m. & 6–8 p.m.) in Bengaluru.

Conclusion

Getting to Mysore is simple, safe, and enjoyable when you know your options. Whether you prefer the convenience of a quick flight, the comfort of a train ride, or the charm of a road trip, each route offers its own experience.

Once you arrive, the city welcomes you with open arms—the grandeur of Mysore Palace, the tranquility of Chamundi Hills, and the timeless charm of its streets. Plan your route smartly, travel light, and let Mysore’s royal spirit take over your journey.

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