Is there a direct train to Chikkamagaluru from Tada?

No, there is no direct train; you must travel via Bengaluru or Hassan.

Which is the best airport for Chikkamagaluru?

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is the nearest major airport.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, you will encounter multiple tolls on the NH 48 stretch between Chennai and Bengaluru.

Is it safe to drive at night?

It is not recommended to drive through the ghat sections after dark.

What is the road condition?

The highway is excellent, but the final 50 km stretch can be narrow and winding.

Tada

Chikkamagaluru

Bus Driving

Tada to Chikkamagaluru

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Tada to Chikkamagaluru spans approximately 450 km across the Deccan Plateau. You will primarily traverse the NH 48, passing through Bengaluru to reach the Western Ghats. The drive typically takes 9 to 10 hours depending on traffic near the Nelamangala junction. Expect a transition from coastal plains to the lush coffee plantations of the Malnad region. Public transport requires a change at Bengaluru, as no direct bus exists.

Total Distance: 450 km by road, 380 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Driving via private car, taking 9 hours 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

KSRTC bus via Bengaluru, costing approximately 1200 INR.

Compare Tada to Chikkamagaluru Routes

Bus

Connecting

Duration

12 hours

Avg Price

1200-1800 INR

Operator

KSRTC

Route

Tada to Bengaluru (Bus) then Bengaluru to Chikkamagaluru (KSRTC)

Book your KSRTC ticket from Majestic Bus Stand in Bengaluru in advance.

Driving

Direct

Duration

9 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

3500-5000 INR

Operator

Self-drive

Route

Tada - Chennai - Bengaluru - Hassan - Chikkamagaluru via NH 48

Start early from Tada to bypass Bengaluru city traffic before 7 AM.

Travel Tips

Route Planning
Use the NICE Road in Bengaluru to avoid city congestion when heading toward Hassan.
Clothing
Carry a light jacket as temperatures drop significantly in Chikkamagaluru during the evenings.
Fuel
Refuel your vehicle in Hassan, as gas stations are sparse on the interior roads to Chikkamagaluru.
Booking
Book homestays in advance, especially during weekends, as they fill up quickly.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile network connectivity can be spotty in the hilly regions.

Safety Tips

Driving
Avoid driving on the ghat sections after sunset due to poor visibility and wildlife movement.
Health
Carry motion sickness medication if you are prone to nausea on winding mountain roads.
Emergency
Keep the contact numbers of local police and your hotel handy at all times.
Wildlife
Do not feed or approach wild animals if you encounter them on the forest roads.