Bangalore to Mysore and Srirangapatna: 2-Day Weekend Getaway Guide
Bangalore to Mysore and Srirangapatna: 2-Day Weekend Getaway Guide
Karnataka's go-to quick trip connects three spots that feel so different but are just three hours apart: Bangalore, the tech place; Srirangapatna, a walled island town; and Mysore, the palace city. You can easily plan this weekend getaway without taking time off work, booking flights, or spending hours planning.Just need a decent car and two days off.
This guide lays out a two-day trip, what each place is known for, and answers common questions people ask before they book.
Why Choose This Route for Your Weekend Journey
Few Indian cities go together as well as Bangalore and Mysore. They're close enough to drive in one go, but Mysore feels like a real change of pace. The air is cooler, the roads are wide and tree-lined, and things move a lot slower than Bangalore's traffic. Adding Srirangapatna to your trip is easy, as it lies directly on the route, just about 15 km before Mysore, so it adds very little extra travel time.
In just about 36 hours, you can explore Wadiyar-era palaces, Tipu Sultan’s historic fort, a temple town set on a river island, and the scenic Chamundi Hills.
Route, Distance and Travel Time from Bangalore
Bangalore to Mysore covers approximately 145 to 150 km, mostly along the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway (NH275), a ten-lane access-controlled highway. With light traffic, the drive usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Most delays occur between the city and Bidadi, after which the journey becomes smoother once you reach the expressway.
There are two common routes:
NH275 through Mandya and Srirangapatna: This is the faster one, using the expressway, which most taxis take one-way.
Kanakapura Road via Malavalli: This route takes a little longer but offers a more scenic journey through rural landscapes. It is a good option if you prefer a relaxed countryside drive over reaching Mysore quickly.
Also, keep toll charges in mind while planning your travel budget, especially when taking a taxi or driving your own car.
| DISTANCE | 145–150 km (Bangalore to Mysore) |
|---|---|
| DRIVING TIME | 2.5–3 hours via the expressway |
| PIT STOP | Srirangapatna, ~15 km before Mysore |
| BEST MONTHS | October to February |
| IDEAL DURATION | 2 days, 1 night in Mysore |
Day 1: Explore Srirangapatna Before Reaching Mysore
Start early from Bangalore, and you can comfortably reach Srirangapatna by late morning. Spend some time exploring the historic town before continuing to Mysore in the evening. This island town was the capital for Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, and it's worth stopping for three to four hours.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and the Island Town
It's a working temple, around 10th century, dedicated to a reclining form of Vishnu. You can go between 7:00 am and 1:30 pm, and then again from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm. There is no entry fee, but modest clothing is recommended.
Tipu Sultan's Fort and Daria Daulat Bagh
Tipu Sultan’s Fort dates back to the 16th century and was later strengthened under Tipu Sultan. The fort played an important role during the conflicts with the British and fell in 1799. Inside, you can visit Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon and the site associated with Tipu Sultan’s final battle.A short drive away is Daria Daulat Bagh, Tipu Sultan’s summer palace. Built mainly of teakwood, the palace is known for its detailed murals depicting battles and royal scenes. A small museum inside also displays paintings, documents, and other historical objects from the period.The fort is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, and it doesn't cost anything to get in.
Gumbaz, the Sangam and Checking Into Mysore
Next, visit Gumbaz, the mausoleum where Tipu Sultan and his parents are buried beneath an impressive dome. From there, head to the Sangam, a peaceful spot where branches of the Kaveri River meet. It is a pleasant place for a short walk before continuing towards Mysore.By late afternoon, Mysore is only a short drive away. Check into your hotel, relax for a while, and later enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Mysore-style meals.
Day 2: A Complete Day of Mysore Sightseeing
Mysore Palace: Timings and What to Expect
Explore Mysore Palace in the morning when it is less crowded. This palace was the main place for the Wodeyar dynasty and where they have the big Dasara festival every year. They open at 10:00 am and shut at 5:30 pm, letting the last folks in around 5:00 pm. Adult Indians pay about ₹50, and it's cheaper for kids. For foreigners, it's ₹200. You can't take photos inside the palace halls, and you have to leave your shoes at the entrance, so keep that in mind. A convenient shuttle option is available for visitors who want to minimize walking.
Chamundi Hills and Devi Darshan
Chamundi Hills is a quick drive from downtown. From the top of Chamundi Hills, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Mysore. The hill is also home to the famous Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, after whom the city is traditionally believed to have derived its name. Worship rituals, kind of from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, happen in three slots. You may need to pay a small fee to take your car uphill.
Devaraja Market Before Heading Back
Visit Devaraja Market for Mysore silk, sandalwood products, and local spices. Try Mysore Pak or a masala dosa before driving back to Bangalore.
Best Time to Plan This 2-Day Trip
October to February is when the weather is nicest for walking around palace grounds and fort ruins; it's usually mild during the day. If you want to see Mysore Palace lit up, Dasara in September-October is amazing for that. It can get very crowded, and hotel prices are usually higher. So, book your place to stay and a cab to Mysore beforehand if you're going then.
One-Way Taxi vs Self-Drive
Self-driving gives you more freedom, but a taxi can make a short two-day trip more comfortable by letting you relax while the driver handles the highway.Taking a one-way taxi from Bangalore to Mysore means you don't have to sort out a ride back. You avoid paying waiting charges and can continue your trip to Coorg or Ooty instead of returning straight away.
Booking a One-Way Cab the Simple Way
An outstation cab for this route usually includes the car, driver pay, and state permit fees. Tolls and parking are usually extra. If you do not need a cab for two days in Mysore, a one-way booking may cost less than a round trip.
SoloCabs offers one-way taxis between Bangalore, Mysore, and Srirangapatna with sedan and SUV options. Whether travelling as a couple or with family, you can choose a suitable cab with clear upfront pricing and no hidden charges.
Book on WhatsApp in Under a Minute
Skip long booking forms and book your SoloCabs taxi through WhatsApp. Simply share your pickup location, travel date, and number of passengers to get quick booking confirmation. It is especially convenient for early-morning trips when you want to arrange your cab without spending time browsing.
Download the SoloCabs App and Save More
People who take lots of trips outside the city might want the SoloCabs mobile app. It gives you trip-specific deals, makes rebooking easier with saved travel details, and lets family track your trip live. Booking through the app also makes it simple to check old bills and rebook a favorite driver or car type for your next trip to Mysore or Coorg.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Weekend
Start the drive from Bangalore before 6:30 am to avoid city traffic on the Bidadi stretch and reach Srirangapatna with the full morning ahead.
Carry cash in small denominations for temple offerings and local market shopping; UPI is widely accepted in Mysore's main markets but less so at smaller stalls.
Visit the palace early in the morning or after 4 PM to avoid large crowds.
Tuesday to Thursday is usually quieter, with shorter queues at the palace and fort.
Keep footwear easy to slip off as most temples and the palace require shoes to be removed at the entrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reach Mysore from Bangalore by road?
Bengaluru to Mysore is about 145–150 km by road and usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours via the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway.
Is Srirangapatna a Good Stop Before Mysore?
Yes. Srirangapatna is about 15 km before Mysore and is easy to include in your trip. Spend 3–4 hours exploring the fort, temple, and Tipu Sultan’s summer palace without adding much extra driving time.
What is the easiest way to book a one-way taxi from Bangalore to Mysore?
The quickest option is to share your pickup details on WhatsApp. You can also book through the SoloCabs mobile app for easy booking, extra benefits, and saved trip preferences.
What are the current timings and charges of Mysore Palace?
The palace remains open from 10:00 AM until 5:30 PM daily.Entry is around ₹50 for Indian adults, with lower rates for children, while foreign visitors pay around ₹200.
Is it possible to do this trip in two days comfortably?
Yes. On Day 1, drive from Bangalore and spend a few hours exploring Srirangapatna before continuing to Mysore. Overnight in Mysore then day two is the palace, chamundi Hills, local market and back drive.