Bangalore to Kochi Road Trip: Top Places to Stop, Distance & Travel Tips
If you are an avid traveler who enjoys being on the road, the Bangalore-to-Kochi drive is an experience you shouldn’t miss. With several appealing destinations, scenic stops, and short detours along the way, this approximately 550 km journey can be comfortably completed in a day or two, depending on your stops, travel plans, and the pace at which you cover the destinations. Your driving time on this Bangalore-Kochi road trip will take 10-12 hours (minimum) or 10-17 hours (maximum), depending on the route you take and the detours chosen. If you are planning to enjoy a few days on a road trip in southern India, the Bangalore-to-Kochi drive with several detours to your preferred destinations will offer a wonderful, exciting trip to cherish forever. So, what are you waiting for? Book a self-drive car rental in Bangalore with Revv, one of India’s best car rental companies, and start your Bangalore-to-Kochi road trip.
Recommended Routes for Your Trip
Choosing the right route can make your journey smoother, faster, and more enjoyable. However, choosing the route based on your sightseeing preferences will make your trip exciting and memorable. Here are some recommended Bangalore to Kochi by road routes that offer a great balance of road conditions, scenic views, and convenient stops to choose from:
1. Bangalore – BR Hills – Coimbatore – Kochi (Via NH 275)
- Distance: 600 – 650 km
- Driving Time: 12-14 hours (depending on routes and traffic conditions)
2. Bangalore – Salem – Coimbatore- Aluva – Kochi (via NH 44 and NH 544)
- Distance 550-570
- Driving Time:10-12 hours (depending on traffic conditions)
3. Bangalore – Salem – Coimbatore- Palakkad- Thrissur – Kochi (via NH 44 and NH 544)
- Distance: 525- 650 km
- Driving Time: 10-12 hours (depending on traffic conditions)
4. Bangalore – Mysore (Palace), Bandipur/Wayanad, and Salem/Coimbatore (via NH44 expressway)
- Distance: 650-700km
- Driving Time:15-17 hours (depending on the exact route and stops)
5. Bangalore – Hosur – Krishnagiri – Salem – Coimbatore -Thrissur – Kochi (via NH 44 and NH 544)
- Distance: 550-580 km
- Driving Time:10-12 hours (depending on the exact route and detours)
Also Read: Places to Visit in Kochi
Best Time for a Bangalore to Kochi (Cochin) Road Trip
The period from September to November is the best time to take a road trip from Bangalore to Kochi, as the weather in Cochin is perfect for enjoying the beautiful sights and scenes of the city. With misty mornings, pleasant weather, and lush green surroundings, a trip at this time of year comes alive with festive vibes and long weekends, making the Bangalore-Kochi road trip a must-experience in a lifetime journey.
Top Places to Stop between Bangalore and Kochi Road Trip
The adventure and the beauty of nature that you can explore on your way from Bangalore to Kochi are tempting enough to make you choose a road trip to reach Cochin from Bangalore rather than booking a flight. For those who love rolling down the windows and embracing the open road, this journey promises endless fun, fresh air, adventurous pit stops, the delectable South Indian cuisine, and unforgettable moments. Here are some places you may explore depending on your route:
1. Mysore (Mysuru)
Among the many routes to travel from Bangalore to Kochi, you can choose to travel through Mysore. The history of the city as the capital of an ancient royal dynasty is exciting enough to explore on your way to Kochi. The typical itinerary for visitors to Mysore will include a mixture of palaces, gardens, and waterfalls, such as Chamundi Hills, Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Karanji Lake.
2. BR Hills (Biligiriranga Hills)
Depending on your route, you may explore the BR Hills on your way to Kochi from Bangalore. This is a scenic hill range where the Eastern and Western Ghats meet, and you can see lush forests and rich biodiversity here. Known for its wildlife sanctuary and peaceful environment, it’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene escape.
3. Bandipur National Park
The Bandipur National Park is another option that you can include as a detour. This park is renowned for its Bengal tigers, elephants, chital (deer), gaur, sambhar, and many different species of birds. This location offers an excellent stopover on your road trip from Bangalore to Kochi. The Bandipur gate is accessible from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
4. Wayanad
Wayanad is a popular hill station along the route from Bangalore to Kochi. If you travel from September to October, you can enjoy post-monsoon freshness with misty mountains and pleasant weather. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Banasura Sagar Dam, Trekking to Chembra Peak, and visiting Pallikunnu Church are among the places to explore in Wayanad.
5. Coimbatore
Depending on your route, you may visit Coimbatore, a vibrant city known as the ‘Manchester of South India’. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, the city offers a nice blend of industrial growth and natural beauty, with spiritual sites, scenic spots, and urban charm.
6. Athirapally Falls
Athirapally Falls in Kerala is an incredibly beautiful waterfall, a must-see for anyone. The accessibility of Athirapally Falls, along with the safety of Lake Sarang, makes it unique. You can dip your toes in the water, take photographs, and enjoy a boat ride at Athirapally Falls.
7. Thrissur
Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala, a busy town with many different cultural attractions. Thrissur is one of the most popular places for road trips in Kerala and has something for everyone.
Make Your Bangalore to Kochi Drive More Enjoyable with These Tips
With beautiful landscapes, smooth highways, and so many exciting stopovers on the way, the Bangalore-to-Kochi by car is undoubtedly a scenic journey. To make this journey all the more comfortable and enjoyable, here are some smart tips to remember:
- Start early: Starting early will help you avoid city traffic and enjoy a relaxed journey.
- Route: Opt for well-maintained highways like NH 44 and NH 544 for a hassle-free experience.
- Stopovers: Take breaks at Salem, Coimbatore, Thrissur, or any other place of interest.
- Vehicle check: Ensure you book the best-serviced car ready for a long drive. With Revv, you don’t have to worry about car condition, as all of our cars are well-maintained.
- Carry essentials: Keep snacks, water, cash, and first-aid handy.
- Navigation apps: Stay updated on traffic and road conditions with GPS or offline maps.
- Drive safely: Follow speed limits and take breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Take detours: Detours will help you soak in the beauty of the Western Ghats or any other place of your choice along the way.
Also Read: Best Places to Eat in Kochi
Explore South India with Revv Self-Drive Car Rentals
Booking a self-drive car rental in Bangalore with Revv lets you explore South India at your own pace, making your journey a memorable experience. Whether you want to discover hill stations or explore coastal routes on your Bangalore to Kochi trip, Revv lets you schedule your travel as per your comfort. Revv offers well-maintained cars with flexible rental plans and easy booking options, so your focus stays on enjoying the drive rather than worrying about other issues.
Takeaway
Explore South India your way with Revv on a Bangalore-to-Cochin road trip, enjoying complete freedom of travel and discovering hidden gems along the way in a comfortable, convenient way. Book a car rental in Kochi with Revv and hit the road to explore nature’s best offerings on the way at your own pace.
