Mysore to Wayanad: route and timings
Mysuru is the gateway to Wayanad from Karnataka. The drive to Vythiri takes 3.5 to 4 hours through the Bandipur and Muthanga forests, which close to traffic at night.
How far is Wayanad from Mysore?
About 150 km from Mysuru to Vythiri, a drive of 3.5 to 4 hours. The road goes south to Gundlupet, through the Bandipur and Muthanga forests on NH 766, then via Sulthan Bathery and Kalpetta. The forest stretch is closed to most traffic between 9 pm and 6 am, so drive it in daylight.
Updated
The route
| Stage | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mysuru → Nanjangud → Gundlupet | about 60 km | 1–1.5 hr |
| Gundlupet → Muthanga (forest, NH 766) | about 30 km | 45 min |
| Muthanga → Sulthan Bathery | about 15 km | 20 min |
| Sulthan Bathery → Kalpetta | about 25 km | 40 min |
| Kalpetta → Vythiri | about 15 km | 30 min |
Distances and times are approximate.
When to leave
Leave Mysuru by early afternoon so you clear the forest well before the 9 pm closure and reach Vythiri before dark; the last hour is on hill roads. Early-morning departures are best for wildlife sightings.
Stops worth making
Gundlupet is the last place for fuel and snacks before the forest. After the border, Sulthan Bathery has restaurants and is close to Edakkal Caves if you want to break the journey with a climb. Kalpetta, the district town, has ATMs and pharmacies.
From Mysuru without a car
State buses run often from Mysuru to Sulthan Bathery and Kalpetta during the day. From Kalpetta, take a local bus or taxi to Vythiri. From Mysuru, resorts near Sulthan Bathery are the quickest to reach.
Places to visit
| Place | Distance | Drive | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banasura Sagar Dam | 25 km | 50 min | Speedboats, island views, families |
| Edakkal Caves | 40 km | 1 hr 15 min | History, a steep morning climb |
| Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary | 55 km | 1 hr 30 min | Jeep safari, elephants |
Approximate road distances from Vythiri. Ghat roads are slow after rain, so add time in the monsoon.
Questions
Is there another route from Mysore that avoids Bandipur?
There is a route via HD Kote and Bavali towards Mananthavady in north Wayanad, but it also passes through forest with its own restrictions. For Vythiri in south Wayanad, the Gundlupet–Bandipur route is shorter and simpler.
How long is the forest section?
Roughly 30 km between Gundlupet and the Kerala border at Muthanga takes about 45 minutes. You may not stop or leave the car, and animals have right of way.
Can I see wildlife on the way?
Often. Elephants, spotted deer, langurs and peafowl are regular sights along the road in the early morning and late afternoon. For a proper safari, book a forest-department jeep at Muthanga or Bandipur.
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