If you’re planning a quick getaway from the coast to the hills, the journey from Mangalore to Coorg is one of the most scenic and refreshing trips in South India. Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is famous for its rolling hills, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you prefer driving through the lush Western Ghats, taking a comfortable bus ride, or combining a train journey with a short drive, there are several ways to reach this hill paradise from Mangalore.
This guide explains all travel options — by road, train, and bus — along with travel tips and route information to help you plan your perfect trip.
Why Visit Coorg from Mangalore?
Coorg is often called the “Scotland of India” for its mist-covered hills, fresh air, and endless greenery. For people living in or visiting Mangalore, it’s the perfect escape from the city’s humidity and coastal heat. Within just a few hours, you can find yourself surrounded by coffee estates, forests, and gushing streams.
The journey itself is beautiful — every turn on the ghat road offers a new view of the Western Ghats, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination.
Option 1: Traveling by Road
The most popular and convenient way to travel from Mangalore to Coorg is by road. It’s a comfortable drive that offers complete freedom to stop at viewpoints, waterfalls, and small towns along the way.
Route 1: Mangalore – Puttur – Sullia – Madikeri
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Distance: Around 140 km
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Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
This route is the most direct and preferred by most travelers. The roads are smooth, and there are plenty of small restaurants, tea stalls, and fuel stations along the way.
Route 2: Mangalore – Bantwal – Jodupala – Madikeri (via Sampaje Ghat)
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Distance: Around 150 km
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Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
This slightly longer route takes you through the famous Sampaje Ghat section, which offers a breathtaking drive through dense forests and misty hills. If you love scenic routes and don’t mind a few extra turns, this one’s worth it.
Why Choose Road Travel?
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Enjoy flexibility and freedom to explore.
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Stop at scenic points, waterfalls, and local shops.
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Ideal for weekend trips and group travel.
If you’re driving yourself, start early in the morning to enjoy clear weather and avoid heavy traffic near the ghat sections.
Option 2: Traveling by Train
There’s no direct train from Mangalore to Coorg since the district doesn’t have its own railway station. However, you can combine a short train journey with a road trip.
Nearest Railway Stations to Coorg:
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Mysore Junction: 115 km from Madikeri
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Kannur Station: 113 km from Madikeri
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Subrahmanya Road Station: 80 km from Madikeri
Recommended Train Route:
You can take a train from Mangalore to Subrahmanya Road Station, which is the closest railhead to Coorg. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Madikeri. The drive from Subrahmanya to Coorg is full of forested roads and scenic ghats.
Why Choose Train Travel?
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Comfortable and budget-friendly option.
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Perfect for those who prefer avoiding long drives.
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Ideal for solo travelers or families with kids.
Option 3: Traveling by Bus
Several private and government buses operate daily between Mangalore and Coorg. Buses are a convenient and affordable option if you don’t want to drive yourself.
Types of Buses Available:
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KSRTC Buses: Regular, Express, and Luxury Volvo services.
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Private Operators: Offer AC sleeper and semi-sleeper coaches.
Popular Routes:
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Mangalore → Puttur → Sullia → Madikeri
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Mangalore → Bantwal → Sampaje → Madikeri
Bus Travel Time:
Around 5 to 6 hours depending on the route and number of stops.
Why Choose Bus Travel?
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Cost-effective and comfortable.
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Suitable for budget travelers and solo trips.
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Night buses available for those who prefer to travel overnight.
Places to Stop and Explore En Route
No matter how you choose to travel, make time to explore a few gems along the way:
1. Puttur
Famous for its ancient temples and authentic local food — a great place for a short breakfast stop.
2. Sullia
A peaceful town surrounded by hills and paddy fields, ideal for quick breaks.
3. Jodupala Falls
A lovely roadside waterfall that looks stunning during the monsoon season.
4. Sampaje Ghat
The highlight of the drive, offering misty valleys, winding turns, and breathtaking forest views.
Best Time to Visit Coorg
Coorg is a year-round destination, but the experience varies by season:
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October to March: Pleasant weather and clear skies — best for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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April to May: Slightly warmer but still ideal for short holidays.
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June to September: Monsoon magic! Lush green landscapes and flowing waterfalls everywhere.
If you enjoy greenery and misty weather, the monsoon season is a great choice.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Start early from Mangalore to reach Coorg by afternoon.
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Carry snacks, water, and a power bank during the journey.
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Check vehicle brakes and tyres if driving through ghats.
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Avoid night travel through hilly regions.
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Carry light woollens if you’re traveling during winter.
Conclusion
A trip from Mangalore to Coorg is not just about reaching a destination — it’s about enjoying one of the most scenic routes in South India. Whether you travel by car, bus, or a mix of train and road, the experience is full of breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings. With a Mangalore to Coorg distance of about 140 to 150 kilometers, this journey is perfect for a short weekend escape or a relaxing hill holiday. The Western Ghats will greet you with open arms, offering a refreshing blend of nature, culture, and tranquility.
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