The journey from Bangalore (Bengaluru), the bustling tech capital of India, to Mysore (Mysuru), the city of palaces and heritage, is one of the most popular road trips in Karnataka. This route is frequented by weekend travellers, pilgrims, and business commuters alike. Knowing the driving distance and time from Bangalore to Mysore is key to planning a seamless trip. This detailed 2026 guide will walk you through the best routes, expected travel duration, toll costs, and the top places to visit en route.
Quick Summary: Bangalore to Mysore Drive
The driving distance from Bangalore to Mysore is approximately 145 kilometres. With the inauguration of the new Bangalore-Mysore Expressway (NH 275), the travel time has been significantly reduced. You can now expect the journey to take between 2.5 to 3.5 hours, a major improvement over the previous 4-5 hours.
The Primary Route: Bangalore-Mysore Expressway (NH 275)
The newly developed 10-lane Bangalore-Mysore Expressway is the default and most recommended route for this journey. It’s designed to provide a fast, safe, and smooth driving experience, bypassing several congested towns along the way.
Key Features of the Expressway:
- Total Length: 118 kilometres.
- Structure: It consists of a six-lane main carriageway for through traffic and two-lane service roads on either side for local traffic.
- Bypasses: The expressway bypasses major towns that were previously bottlenecks, including Bidadi, Ramanagara, Channapatna, Maddur, and Mandya.
- Speed Limit: The official speed limit on the main carriageway is 100 km/h for cars.
- Amenities: While amenities are still being developed, you can find food courts and restrooms at convenient locations. Many established restaurants are accessible via the service roads.
How to Access the Expressway:
- From Bangalore: The expressway begins after the NICE Road interchange on the existing Bangalore-Mysore road (NH 275). You will need to travel through Bangalore’s city traffic to reach this point.
- To Mysore: The expressway ends near the Columbia Asia Hospital junction on the Mysore Ring Road, providing easy access to the city.
Decoding the Driving Time from Bangalore to Mysore
The promise of a 90-minute journey on the expressway is often quoted, but in reality, the total door-to-door time is longer. Here’s a realistic breakdown.
Factors That Influence Your Travel Time:
- Navigating Bangalore Traffic: The biggest variable is the time it takes to get out of Bangalore. Depending on your starting location (e.g., Whitefield vs. Jayanagar) and the time of day, this can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Time of Departure: An early morning start (around 6 AM) is the best strategy to beat the city traffic and have a clear run on the expressway. Travel during long weekends and festival seasons will see significantly more traffic.
- Breaks and Stops: Any stops you make for food or sightseeing will naturally add to your total travel time.
- Last-Mile Connectivity: The time taken from the expressway exit to your final destination in Mysore also adds to the journey time.
Realistic Time Estimate Table:
| Segment | Estimated Time |
| Bangalore Start Point to Expressway Entry | 45 minutes – 1.5 hours |
| Drive on Bangalore-Mysore Expressway | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Expressway Exit to Mysore Destination | 15 – 30 minutes |
| Total Estimated Door-to-Door Time | 2.5 – 4 hours |
The efficiency of the new expressway makes day trips and quick getaways much more feasible. This has also boosted interest in nearby attractions, including various spots for weekend treks from Bangalore.
Toll Charges on the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway
The Bangalore-Mysore Expressway is a toll road. The toll is collected in two phases. As of early 2026, the approximate one-way toll for a private car is as follows:
- Phase 1 (Bangalore to Nidaghatta): Around ₹165 – ₹170
- Phase 2 (Nidaghatta to Mysore): Around ₹155 – ₹160
The total one-way toll will be approximately ₹320 – ₹330. FASTag is mandatory for payment, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic through the toll plazas.
Famous Pit Stops and Restaurants on the Way
While the expressway bypasses towns, many iconic eateries are still accessible by briefly taking the service road. The journey from Bangalore to Mysore is almost as famous for its food as it is for the destination.
Must-Try Eateries:
- Lokaruchi, Janapada Loka (near Ramanagara): Famous for authentic Karnataka cuisine and a great place to experience local culture.
- Maddur Tiffany’s (Maddur): The birthplace of the famous Maddur Vada. A must-try snack for anyone on this route.
- Shivalli MTR (near Channapatna): Offers the classic MTR taste with delicious dosas and filter coffee.
- Kamat Lokaruchi (Ramanagara): Another excellent option for traditional breakfast and meals.
Sightseeing Detours:
- Ramanagara: Famous for its rocky hills, which were the filming location for the movie ‘Sholay’. A popular spot for rock climbing and trekking.
- Channapatna: Known as the ‘Town of Toys’. You can stop here to buy traditional wooden toys and lacquerware.
- Srirangapatna: A historic island town on the Kaveri river, home to the Ranganathaswamy Temple and Tipu Sultan’s summer palace. This requires a slight detour before entering Mysore.
For those living in Bangalore, understanding the city’s transport network is also key. Check out our guide to the Bangalore metro routes and timings for efficient city travel.
Tips for a Smooth Drive
- Choose the Right Lane: On the expressway, use the left lanes for regular driving and the right lane for overtaking. The service roads are for local traffic and slower vehicles.
- Watch Your Speed: Adhere to the 100 km/h speed limit. The expressway is monitored by speed detection cameras.
- Plan Your Exits: If you plan to visit any of the towns or restaurants, be mindful of the correct exit from the main carriageway to the service road.
- Fuel and Restrooms: Plan your fuel and bio-breaks in advance, as facilities on the main expressway are still limited compared to older highways.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Bangalore to Mysore now?
With the new Bangalore-Mysore Expressway, the driving time has been reduced to about 2.5 to 3.5 hours for the 145 km journey. The actual time depends on traffic conditions within Bangalore city and the number of stops you make.
What is the toll fee for a car on the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway?
The total one-way toll for a car is approximately ₹320 to ₹330. This is collected in two parts along the route. Payment is made through FASTag, which is mandatory for all vehicles on the expressway.
Are two-wheelers allowed on the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway?
No, two-wheelers and three-wheelers (autorickshaws) are not permitted on the main six-lane carriageway of the expressway. They must use the service roads that run alongside the expressway for their journey.
What is the best time to leave Bangalore for Mysore to avoid traffic?
To avoid the dense city traffic in Bangalore, it is highly recommended to start your journey early in the morning, ideally before 6:30 AM. This will help you get onto the expressway quickly and ensure a faster, more pleasant drive.
Can I still visit places like Channapatna and Maddur using the expressway?
Yes, you can still visit these towns. The expressway has designated entry and exit points that connect the main carriageway to the service roads. You can exit the expressway, visit the town, and then re-enter to continue your journey.