A Scenic Road Trip: Journeying to Kodagu via Mysore

One of the most enjoyable ways to reach Kodagu, one of way is by taking a road trip from Mysore. The drive covers approximately 120 kilometers and takes about three to four hours, offering a blend of smooth highways, lush countryside, and winding ghat roads that build excitement as you approach the hills. Starting early in the morning from Mysore ensures you beat the traffic and enjoy the cool breeze that enhances the beauty of the journey.

As you leave Mysore, your first notable stop can be the famous Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, just a short detour from Srirangapatna. It's a paradise for bird lovers and an ideal place to stretch your legs while spotting painted storks, pelicans, and crocodiles basking in the sun. Further ahead lies the historic town of Srirangapatna itself, home to Tipu Sultan's summer palace and the ancient Ranganathaswamy Temple both worth a quick visit.

Continuing on the highway, you’ll pass through lush green fields and charming small towns like Pandavapura and KR Nagar. The rural scenery, dotted with coconut palms and sugarcane fields, creates a soothing rhythm that complements the drive. The landscape becomes more dramatic as you approach Kushalnagar, a gateway town to Coorg, where you can stop to explore the Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India.

Before reaching Madikeri, the heart of Kodagu, consider a short break at Nisargadhama, a forest island on the Kaveri River, perfect for a quick walk or boat ride. As the elevation rises and the roads become curvier, the air grows cooler and carries the scent of coffee and spices, hinting at what lies ahead. By the time you reach Kodagu, the journey itself will have become as memorable as the destination.

This road trip from Mysore to Kodagu is not just a route it’s an experience filled with nature, history, and peaceful countryside charm. It’s the perfect prelude to exploring Coorg’s hills, plantations, waterfalls, and timeless culture.