Is there a direct bus from Ponmudi to Mysuru?

No, you must travel to Thiruvananthapuram first to catch a bus.

What is the best route by road?

The route via Kozhikode and Bandipur is the most scenic and direct.

Are there trains from Ponmudi?

No, the nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central.

How long is the train journey?

The direct train takes approximately 18 hours.

Is the forest road open 24/7?

No, the Bandipur forest road is closed to traffic from 9 PM to 6 AM.

Ponmudi

Mysuru

Train Driving

Ponmudi to Mysuru

Updated: 20 May 2026

The journey from the misty hills of Ponmudi to the royal city of Mysuru spans approximately 480 kilometers. You must first descend to Thiruvananthapuram to access major transport hubs. The route primarily follows NH 766 through the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, offering scenic forest views. Travel time by road averages 12 hours depending on traffic at the Kerala-Karnataka border. Trains are available from Thiruvananthapuram Central to Mysuru Junction, providing a comfortable overnight alternative.

Total Distance: 480 km by road, 380 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via NH 766 takes 12 hours, avoiding multiple transit stops.

Cheapest Way

KSRTC bus from Thiruvananthapuram to Mysuru costs approximately 900 INR.

Compare Ponmudi to Mysuru Routes

Train

Direct

Duration

18 hours

Avg Price

800-2500 INR

Operator

KCVL MYS Express

Route

Thiruvananthapuram Central to Mysuru Junction

Book tickets at least 60 days in advance for confirmed berths.

Driving

Direct

Duration

12 hours

Avg Price

4000-6000 INR

Operator

Self-drive

Route

Ponmudi - Thiruvananthapuram - Kollam - Kozhikode - Bandipur - Mysuru

Ensure your vehicle has valid emission certificates for entry into Karnataka.

Travel Tips

Start Early
Leave Ponmudi before dawn to avoid heavy traffic in Thiruvananthapuram.
Carry Cash
Keep small denominations for toll booths and local snacks on the highway.
Check Permits
Verify forest entry timings for the Bandipur stretch as it closes at night.
Stay Hydrated
Carry sufficient water as the route through the forest has limited shops.
Book Online
Use the IRCTC portal for train bookings to ensure seat availability.

Safety Tips

Forest Safety
Do not stop your vehicle inside the Bandipur forest reserve area.
Driving Caution
Be wary of sharp hairpin bends while descending from Ponmudi.
Emergency Contacts
Save local police and ambulance numbers for the districts you pass through.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your brakes and tires are in top condition for the hilly terrain.