Mysore, known for its majestic palaces, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage, is an ideal starting point for some of the best road trips from Mysore, leading to captivating destinations. Each journey promises a unique blend of adventure, tranquillity, and exploration, perfect for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.

1. Srirangapatna | 19 km

Just a short drive from Mysore, Srirangapatna is a historic town that offers a glimpse into Karnataka's rich past through its fort, palaces, and monuments. It's a perfect short road trip from Mysore.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and Tipu’s mosque
• Activities to Do: Explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and, and see the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Srirangapatna

2. Shravanabelagola | 95 km

Shravanabelagola is a sacred Jain pilgrimage site known for its colossal monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara. The short road trip from Mysore to Shravanabelagola is a short yet culturally enriching journey.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Popularity: Hemagiri Falls, 18-meter Gommateshwara statue and 57-foot tall Bahubali statue
• Activities to Do: Climb Vindhyagiri Hill to see the statue and visit Chandragiri Hill for ancient temples
• Ideal Route: Mysore - KR Nagar - Shravanabelagola

Surrounded by captivating landscapes and culturally rich destinations, Mysore offers an array of road trip opportunities; here is the list of 10 destinations:

3. Coorg | 118 km

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a tranquil hill station famous for its mist-covered hills, lush forests, and aromatic coffee plantations. The road trip from Mysore to Coorg is a scenic drive through winding roads and verdant valleys.

• Best Time to Visit: September to June
• Popularity: Coffee plantations, waterfalls and panoramic views
• Activities to Do: Trekking, river rafting, visiting coffee plantations, and cultural tours
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Hunsur - Coorg

4. Ooty | 126 km

Ooty, also known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations,' is a popular tourist destination renowned for its landscapes, pleasant climate, and colonial architecture. The road trip from Mysore to Ooty offers scenic beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Popularity: Botanical gardens, toy train rides, colonial architecture and scenic beauty
• Activities to do: Visit the Botanical Garden and take a boat ride at Ooty Lake
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Gundlupet - Ooty

5. Coonoor | 144 km

Tucked away in the Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor is a peaceful hill station known for its tea gardens, picturesque landscapes, and colonial charm. The road trip from Mysore to Coonoor offers stunning views of tea estates and rolling hills.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Nilgiri Tea Gardens, Lamb’s Rock, Rallia Dam and Catherine Falls
• Activities to Do: Tea estate tours, bird watching, visiting dam and waterfalls and hiking to Lamb’s Rock
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Bandipur - Ooty - Coonoor

6. Bangalore | 144 km

Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is a vibrant metropolis known for its thriving IT industry, cosmopolitan culture, and bustling nightlife. The road trip from Mysore to Bangalore is a seamless journey via well-maintained highways.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Popularity: Nightlife, parks, heritage sites and tech culture
• Activities to Do: Visit Bangalore Palace, museums, modern art galleries, and temples and try local street food items
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Mandya - Bangalore

7. Sakleshpur | 150 km

Sakleshpur is a picturesque town known for its rolling hills, coffee and spice plantations, and historic forts. It's misty landscapes and cool climate make it an ideal spot for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Popularity: Manjarabad fort, Hemavati dam, coffee and spice plantation
• Activities to Do: Hiking the Green Route, visiting Manjarabad Fort, and plantation
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Holenarasipura - Sakleshpur

8. Chikmagalur | 176 km

Known as the 'Coffee Land of Karnataka,' Chikmagalur is a haven for nature lovers and coffee enthusiasts. The road trip from Mysore to Chikmagalur is a delightful journey through scenic hills and verdant plantations.

• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Popularity: Coffee plantation, trekking trails and wildlife sanctuaries
• Activities to Do: Trekking, coffee plantation tours, and wildlife safaris
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Hassan - Belur - Chikmagalur

9. Kodaikanal | 378 km

Kodaikanal, known as the "Princess of Hill Stations," is a serene getaway famed for its mist-covered cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The cool climate and scenic beauty offer a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March..
• Popularity: Natural beauty, adventure sports, stargazing, Coakers walk and rare flowers.
• Activities to Do: Boating in Kodai Lake, trekking, horse riding, and visiting Coaker’s Walk for panoramic views.
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Gundlupet - Ooty - Kodaikanal.

10. Hampi | 411 km

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its mesmerizing ruins that date back to the Vijayanagara Empire. The road trip to Hampi from Mysore is a scenic journey through rural Karnataka, dotted with quaint villages and lush fields.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Popularity: Ancient temples, cultural heritage and spiritual significance.
• Activities to Do: Explore ancient temples, visit the Elephant Stables, and enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River
• Ideal Route: Mysore - Channarayapatna - Chitradurga - Hospet - Hampi

From the historic ruins of Hampi to the serene landscapes of Coorg, these road trip destinations from Mysore promise diverse experiences that cater to the wanderlust of every traveller. Each destination, with its unique charm and attractions, offers an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of nature, culture, and history that South India boasts.