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Planning a Coorg trip and wondering which is the best way to reach Coorg? Here is the answer.

Our family trip to Coorg was something we’d been planning for months—dreaming of misty hills, coffee plantations, and cozy homestays. But the biggest question that kept popping up in all our planning discussions was: How do we actually get to Coorg?

Coorg, though well-known, doesn’t have a railway station or airport of its own, so figuring out the best route to Coorg took some digging. If you’re in the same boat, whether you’re coming from Bangalore, Mysore, or even Delhi, this blog has everything we learned—from the nearest railway stations to the smoothest road routes—to help you reach Coorg without the hassle.

How to Reach Coorg on a Budget

If you’re planning a budget trip to Coorg, there are a few smart travel options to consider. One of the most affordable ways to reach Coorg is by train. While Coorg itself doesn’t have a railway station, you can travel to nearby stations like Mysuru Junction (about 95 km away), Kannur (about 115 km away), or Mangalore (around 140 km away).

From any of these stations, you can hop onto a KSRTC or local private bus to Madikeri or Virajpet, the main towns in Coorg. The buses are budget-friendly and fairly frequent, especially from Mysuru.

Another surprisingly cost-effective option—especially for families or groups—is to travel by your own vehicle. While fuel and tolls might seem like an added expense upfront, having your own car makes it much cheaper to explore Coorg itself.

Taxis and local cabs within Coorg can be pricey, and public transport is limited once you’re in the hills. So if you’re planning to visit multiple places like Abbey Falls, Talacauvery, and coffee estates, driving yourself can actually save money in the long run.

How to Reach Coorg by Road

Coorg is well-connected by road, and the drive to this misty hill station is part of the experience—filled with scenic views, winding roads, and lush greenery. Depending on where you’re coming from, here’s how you can reach Coorg by road from some of the most popular starting points:

From Kerala to Coorg (via Kannur, Wayanad, or Kasaragod)

If you’re traveling from northern Kerala, especially from cities like Kannur, Kozhikode, or Wayanad, you can drive through the Periyapatna–Gonikoppal route, which offers beautiful forest stretches and relatively less traffic.

• Kannur to Coorg is around 110–120 km and takes about 3–4 hours.
• Wayanad to Coorg is roughly 140 km and takes around 4–5 hours, depending on the route and traffic.

This route is great if you want to combine your Coorg trip with a stopover in Wayanad or explore the Western Ghats. Roads are mostly good, but be cautious during the monsoon as the ghat sections can be slippery.

From Mangalore to Coorg

Coming from Mangalore, which is a major city on the west coast of Karnataka, the most common route is via NH275 through Puttur, Sulya, and Sampaje Ghat.

• The distance is around 140 km, and the journey takes approximately 4–5 hours.

This route involves climbing up the Western Ghats, with winding roads and beautiful views. It’s a popular option for those who land at Mangalore International Airport and want to continue the journey by car or taxi. You can also find buses from Mangalore to Madikeri, which is the district headquarters of Coorg.

From Mysuru to Coorg

Mysuru (Mysore) is the closest major city to Coorg and one of the most common entry points, especially for travelers from Bangalore.

• The distance is around 105 km, and the drive takes about 3 hours via Hunsur and Kushalnagar.

This is the smoothest and most frequently used route to Coorg. You’ll find plenty of KSRTC and private buses running between Mysuru and Madikeri, and the roads are generally in good condition year-round. If you’re on a budget, this is one of the easiest and cheapest routes into Coorg.

Tip: No matter where you’re coming from, starting your road journey early in the morning is a good idea to avoid traffic and make the most of the daylight—especially when driving through hilly terrain.

How to Reach Coorg by Train: Nearest Railway Station

Coorg does not have its own railway station, but it is accessible via several nearby stations in Karnataka and Kerala. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can choose the most convenient railway station and then continue your journey to Coorg by bus, taxi, or self-drive car. Here’s a breakdown of the nearest railway stations to Coorg from different directions, along with onward travel options:

1. Mysuru Junction (MYS) – Approx. 95 km

• Direction: East of Coorg
• Best for: Travelers from Bangalore, Chennai, or Hyderabad
• How to Reach Coorg from Mysuru:
  • Regular KSRTC buses and private buses to Madikeri, Kushalnagar, and Virajpet
  • Taxi or rental car (around 3-hour drive)
  • One of the most popular and budget-friendly routes

2. Mangalore Central (MAQ) – Approx. 140 km

• Direction: West of Coorg
• Best for: Travelers from Mumbai, Goa, Kerala, or Mangalore Airport arrivals
• How to Reach Coorg from Mangalore:
  • Take a bus via Puttur and Sulya to Madikeri
  • Hire a cab or drive via Sampaje Ghat Road (beautiful but winding mountain route)
  • Travel time: ~4.5 to 5 hours

3. Hassan Railway Station (HAS) – Approx. 105 km

• Direction: Northeast of Coorg
• Best for: Travelers from northern Karnataka or those taking interior Karnataka routes
• How to Reach Coorg from Hassan:
  • Limited public transport options; best to take a cab or drive
  • Route via Arkalgud and Somwarpet
  • Travel time: ~3 to 3.5 hours

4. Kannur Railway Station (CAN) – Approx. 110 km

• Direction: Southwest of Coorg (in Kerala)
• Best for: Travelers from Kerala’s Malabar region or the western coast
• How to Reach Coorg from Kannur:
  • Private buses to Virajpet and Madikeri (limited frequency)
  • Taxis available outside the station
  • Travel time: ~3.5 to 4 hours through scenic but hilly terrain

5. Thalassery Railway Station (TLY) – Approx. 115 km

• Direction: Southwest of Coorg (Kerala)
• Best for: Alternative to Kannur if traveling from Kerala
• How to Reach Coorg from Thalassery:
  • Bus or taxi via Iritty and Gonikoppal
  • Less crowded route compared to Kannur
  • Travel time: ~4 to 4.5 hours

6. Kasaragod Railway Station (KGQ) – Approx. 120 km

• Direction: Southwest of Coorg (Kerala-Karnataka border)
• Best for: Travelers from southern Kerala or coastal Karnataka
• How to Reach Coorg from Kasaragod:
  • Taxi or bus via Panathur and Kanhangad
  • Scenic route but fewer direct bus services
  • Travel time: ~4.5 hours

How to Reach Coorg by Flight: Nearest Airport

While Coorg doesn’t have its own airport, it’s still quite accessible by air through several nearby airports in Karnataka and Kerala. Flying is the fastest way to cover long distances, and it’s especially useful for travelers coming from far-off cities, international tourists, senior citizens, or families with small children who want to reduce travel fatigue.

Here are the nearest airports to Coorg, along with the best ways to reach the hill station from each one:

1. Kannur International Airport (CNN) – Approx. 90 km

• Location: Kerala (southwest of Coorg)
• Travel Time to Coorg: ~2.5 to 3.5 hours
• How to Reach Coorg:
  • Take a taxi or private cab via Mattannur – Virajpet – Madikeri route
  • This is the closest airport to Coorg, ideal for travelers from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, or international destinations with flights into Kannur
  • Limited bus options, but the route is scenic and relatively well-maintained

2. Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – Approx. 140 km

• Location: Karnataka (west of Coorg)
• Travel Time to Coorg: ~4.5 to 5 hours
• How to Reach Coorg:
  • Cabs and private taxis are available at the airport
  • You can also take a bus from Mangalore to Madikeri, though this may involve a short ride to the bus station first
  • Great option if you’re coming from Middle East countries, Mumbai, or coastal cities

3. Mysore Airport (MYQ) – Approx. 120 km

• Location: Karnataka (east of Coorg)
• Travel Time to Coorg: ~3.5 hours
• How to Reach Coorg:
  • Take a KSRTC bus or cab directly from Mysore to Madikeri
  • Mysore Airport has limited domestic flights, mostly connecting from Bangalore or Chennai
  • Best suited if you get cheap connecting flights or prefer shorter drives post-landing

4. Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (BLR) – Approx. 285 km

• Location: Bangalore, Karnataka (northeast of Coorg)
• Travel Time to Coorg: ~6.5 to 7 hours by road
• How to Reach Coorg:
  • After landing, you can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or take a bus from Bangalore to Madikeri
  • While farther away, Bangalore Airport is ideal for international travelers or those who couldn’t find flights to smaller airports nearby
  • Buses from Bangalore to Coorg are frequent and reliable (both KSRTC and private operators)

Who Should Travel to Coorg by Air?

Air travel is a great option for:

• Tourists coming from far-off regions (like Delhi, Kolkata, or international locations)
• Families with young kids or elderly members who want to avoid long train/bus journeys
• Business travelers or those short on time
• Anyone looking for convenience over cost

Tip: Once you land, booking a cab in advance or using trusted ride services is recommended, as last-mile transport to Coorg from these airports (especially Kannur and Mangalore) may not always be readily available late at night.

How to Reach Coorg from Bangalore

Bangalore to Coorg is one of the most popular travel routes for weekend getaways and family trips. The distance is approximately 265 to 285 km, depending on where you’re headed in Coorg (like Madikeri, Kushalnagar, or Virajpet). Here are all the ways you can travel from Bangalore to Coorg, whether you’re a budget backpacker, a family group, or a solo adventurer.

🚗 1. By Road (Private Car or Self-Drive)

• Distance: ~270 km
• Travel Time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours
• Route: Bangalore – Ramanagara – Mandya – Mysuru – Hunsur – Kushalnagar – Madikeri
• Road Condition: Excellent highways till Mysuru; a few narrow stretches after Hunsur

Pros:

• Flexible travel time
• Stop at scenic spots like Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Mysuru Palace, or Nisargadhama
• Ideal for families or groups

Cons:

• Toll charges and fuel costs can add up
• Driving through ghat roads might be tiring for solo travelers

✅ Recommended For: Families, road trip lovers, photographers

🚌 2. By Bus

• Types Available: KSRTC (Airavat, Rajahamsa), private Volvo, sleeper buses
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Departure Points: Majestic, Satellite Bus Stand (Bangalore)
• Arrival Points: Madikeri, Kushalnagar, Virajpet
• Cost: ₹350 – ₹1000 depending on type

Pros:

• Affordable
• Several options throughout the day and night
• Comfortable sleeper and AC options

Cons:

• Limited flexibility for breaks
• Can get crowded on weekends and holidays

✅ Recommended For: Budget travelers, solo travelers, students

🚆 3. By Train + Bus/Taxi Combo

Since there’s no railway station in Coorg, you can take a train to Mysuru Junction and then travel to Coorg by road.

• Train: Bangalore to Mysuru (~2.5 to 3 hours)
• Then: Bus or cab from Mysuru to Madikeri (~3 hours)
• Total Travel Time: ~6.5 to 7 hours

Pros:

• Comfortable for those who prefer trains over long road journeys
• Often cheaper than a direct car or bus ride

Cons:

• Involves transfers and waiting time between train and bus
• Fewer trains early morning or late night

✅ Recommended For: Train lovers, those wanting a mix of comfort and budget

How to Reach Coorg from Mangalore

Traveling from Mangalore to Coorg is a popular route for those coming from the western coast of India or landing at Mangalore International Airport. The journey covers a distance of around 140–150 km, and you’ll climb from coastal plains into the misty hills of the Western Ghats. Here’s a detailed look at all your options—and which one is best for your needs.

🚗 1. By Road (Private Car or Taxi)

• Distance: ~140 km
• Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
• Route: Mangalore – Puttur – Sullia – Sampaje – Madikeri
• Road Condition: Generally good, but the Sampaje Ghat section has hairpin bends and can be slippery during monsoon

Pros:

• Scenic journey through forests, ghats, and coffee estates
• Flexible timing and breaks
• Great for families or groups

Cons:

• Ghat roads can be tiring for some travelers
• Slightly more expensive due to taxi fare or fuel costs

✅ Recommended For: Families, groups, photographers, and those who want to stop along the way

🚌 2. By Bus (KSRTC or Private)

• Types Available: KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport), private operators
• Departure Point: Mangalore bus stand or Kankanady
• Arrival Point: Madikeri (main town in Coorg)
• Duration: 5–6 hours
• Fare: ₹300–₹700 depending on the type of bus

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Regular service, especially during the day
• Comfortable AC options available

Cons:

• Limited flexibility with breaks or detours
• Fewer buses late at night

✅ Recommended For: Budget travelers, solo travelers, college students

🚆 3. By Train + Bus/Taxi

Coorg doesn’t have its own railway station, so this option involves a train ride from Mangalore Central (MAQ) to Mysuru Junction (MYS) or Hassan, followed by a road trip.

• Train to Mysuru: ~6–7 hours
• Then: Bus/taxi to Coorg (~3 hours more)
• Total Time: 9–10 hours

Pros:

• Comfortable if you enjoy train journeys
• Potential overnight train + morning cab/bus to Coorg

Cons:

• Long and indirect
• Involves transfers and additional cost
• Not practical compared to direct road routes

✅ Recommended For: Train enthusiasts only; not ideal for most travelers on this route

⭐ Best Option: Mangalore to Coorg by Road (Taxi or Bus)

• If comfort, flexibility, and scenic views are priorities, book a cab or drive yourself.
• If you’re traveling on a budget or solo, take a KSRTC or private bus to Madikeri.

Pro Tip: If you’re driving, consider stopping at Sullia for snacks and Sampaje View Point for some stunning Western Ghats scenery!

How to Reach Coorg from Kannur

Kannur, located in northern Kerala, is one of the closest major cities to Coorg, especially for travelers coming from Kerala’s Malabar region or via Kannur International Airport (CNN). The distance to Coorg (especially to southern towns like Virajpet) is only about 90–110 km, making this route a convenient option.

Here’s a breakdown of all the ways to get from Kannur to Coorg, and which is best depending on your needs.

🚗 1. By Road (Private Car or Taxi)

• Distance: ~110 km to Madikeri; ~90 km to Virajpet
• Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Route: Kannur – Mattannur – Iritty – Gonikoppal – Virajpet – Madikeri
• Road Conditions: Good in most parts, with some hilly and narrow stretches; slightly challenging during monsoons due to rain and fog

Pros:

• Most direct and flexible route
• Scenic drive through forested hills and plantations
• Taxis and car rentals are easily available from Kannur town or airport
• Great for families, groups, or anyone landing at Kannur Airport

Cons:

• Slightly expensive if traveling solo (taxi fares ₹2500–₹4000 depending on vehicle)
• Ghat sections may not suit travelers prone to motion sickness

✅ Recommended For: Families, couples, groups, or those arriving by flight at Kannur

🚌 2. By Bus (Public and Private Services)

• Bus Route: Kannur – Iritty – Gonikoppal – Virajpet – Madikeri
• Travel Time: ~4 to 5 hours
• Bus Types: Mostly Kerala RTC and a few Karnataka private buses
• Departure Points: Thalassery or Kannur bus stands
• Arrival Points: Virajpet or Madikeri bus stands
• Fare: ₹150–₹300

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option
• Regular services during the day (though not very frequent)
• Comfortable for solo or budget travelers

Cons:

• Limited night buses
• May involve a change at Gonikoppal or Iritty
• Fewer options on weekends or during off-season

✅ Recommended For: Solo travelers, students, budget-conscious tourists

🛬 3. From Kannur International Airport to Coorg

If you’re flying into Kannur International Airport (CNN):

• Distance: ~85–90 km to Virajpet / ~110 km to Madikeri
• Options:
  • Prepaid taxis from the airport (most convenient)
  • Private cab apps (availability can vary)
  • No direct buses from the airport—you’ll need to go to Iritty or Kannur town first

Pros:

• Shortest airport-to-Coorg route
• Comfortable for those arriving from other Indian cities or the Middle East

Cons:

• Limited public transport from the airport itself
• Cost of taxis might be high without prior booking

✅ Recommended For: Air travelers looking for the fastest and smoothest transfer to Coorg

⭐ Best Option: Taxi or Private Car from Kannur

If you prioritize convenience, speed, and comfort, especially with family or luggage, hiring a cab from Kannur or Kannur Airport is the best choice. For budget travelers, buses are reliable but may require a bit of planning.

Pro Tip: If you’re coming during monsoon, buffer some extra travel time due to possible landslides or fog in the ghat sections.

How to Reach Coorg from Delhi

Planning a trip from Delhi to Coorg involves combining air, rail, or road travel, as Coorg does not have its own airport or railway station. Still, reaching this lush hill station in Karnataka is very doable—and well worth the effort—for those craving a peaceful, scenic getaway far from the city chaos.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of all the ways to travel from Delhi to Coorg, and which one makes the most sense for your budget, time, and travel style.

🛫 Option 1: By Flight (Recommended) – Delhi to Coorg via Nearby Airports

Since Coorg doesn’t have an airport, the fastest way to get there from Delhi is to fly to the nearest airport and continue by road.

✅ 1. Delhi to Kannur International Airport (CNN), Kerala

• Flight Duration: ~3.5 hours (direct flights available)
• Kannur to Coorg (Virajpet/Madikeri): 85–110 km → 2.5 to 3.5 hours by taxi

Pros:

• Shortest travel time from airport to Coorg
• Ideal if you’re staying in southern Coorg (like Virajpet or Gonikoppal)

✅ 2. Delhi to Mangalore International Airport (IXE), Karnataka

• Flight Duration: ~3 hours (direct or 1-stop flights)
• Mangalore to Coorg: ~140 km → 4.5 to 5 hours by taxi or bus

Pros:

• More frequent flights than Kannur
• Beautiful scenic route via Sampaje Ghat

✅ 3. Delhi to Bangalore (BLR) + Road Trip to Coorg

• Flight Duration: ~2.5 to 3 hours
• Bangalore to Coorg: ~270–285 km → 6.5 to 7 hours by road

Pros:

• Frequent, budget-friendly flights from Delhi
• Bus, cab, and self-drive options from Bangalore
• Ideal if you want to stop in Mysuru on the way

✅ 4. Delhi to Mysore Airport (MYQ)

• Via connecting flight (no direct flights)
• Mysuru to Coorg: ~95 km → ~3 hours by road

Pros: Close to Coorg
Cons: Fewer flights; often more expensive than flying to Bangalore

🏆 Best Air Route (Overall):

Delhi → Kannur Airport + taxi to Coorg (shortest post-flight journey)
OR
Delhi → Bangalore + AC bus or self-drive to Coorg (most flexible and affordable)

🚆 Option 2: By Train – Delhi to Mysuru + Taxi/Bus

There is no direct train to Coorg, so the nearest major railhead is Mysuru Junction (MYS).

• Train Duration: 36–40 hours (long-distance trains from Delhi to Mysuru)
• Then: Bus/taxi from Mysuru to Coorg (~3 hours)

Pros:

• Economical
• Great for travelers who enjoy long train journeys

Cons:

• Very time-consuming
• Multiple bookings and planning required

✅ Recommended For: Train lovers on a relaxed itinerary or those on a tight budget

🚌 Option 3: Bus from Bangalore to Coorg (After Flight/Train)

If you fly or take a train to Bangalore, you can hop on a KSRTC or private Volvo bus to Coorg (Madikeri, Virajpet, or Kushalnagar).

• Duration: ~6–7 hours
• Options: Day and night services available, sleeper and AC buses
• Cost: ₹500–₹1000

✅ Recommended For: Solo travelers, backpackers, or anyone looking for a budget option after reaching Bangalore

🚗 Option 4: Self-Drive or Taxi from Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysuru, or Kannur

If you’re up for a scenic road trip, you can rent a self-drive car or hire a taxi from your landing city.

• Bangalore–Coorg: ~6.5 hours
• Kannur–Coorg: ~3 hours
• Mysuru–Coorg: ~3 hours
• Mangalore–Coorg: ~5 hours

✅ Recommended For: Families or groups who want to explore at their own pace

🧳 Summary: Best Way to Reach Coorg from Delhi

Option	Best For	Estimated Total Travel Time	Cost Range
✈️ Delhi → Kannur + Taxi	Fastest & Most Direct	6–7 hrs	₹6000–₹9000 (flight + cab)
✈️ Delhi → Mangalore + Taxi/Bus	Scenic & Good Connectivity	7–8 hrs	₹5500–₹8500
✈️ Delhi → Bangalore + Bus	Budget & Flexible	9–10 hrs	₹4000–₹7000
🚆 Train to Mysuru + Bus	Budget with Time	40+ hrs	₹2000–₹3000
🚗 Self-drive/taxi from any airport	Family road trips	Varies	₹3000–₹6000 (road leg)

Wrapping Up: How to Reach Coorg

Our journey to Coorg turned out to be as memorable as the destination itself. The scenic drive, the pit stops along the way, and the winding roads through the hills made it all worth it. Whether you choose to travel by train and taxi, drive down with family, or fly into a nearby airport, there’s a travel option for every kind of traveler.

Now that we’ve done the trip ourselves, I hope this guide helps make your planning a little easier—so you can focus on soaking in the beauty of Coorg with your loved ones, just like we did.