Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka, is known for its rich heritage, majestic palaces, and vibrant festivals, particularly the Mysore Dasara. Located at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is a popular destination for tourists from all over the country. If you are planning a trip from Hyderabad to Mysore, here’s a guide that covers all available modes of transport, including the most convenient options, approximate fares, and travel tips.

1. By Air: The Fastest Option

Although Mysore has a domestic airport, there are no direct flights from Hyderabad to Mysore. The nearest major airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (Bangalore). From there, you can easily reach Mysore by road or rail.

Option 1: Hyderabad to Bangalore by Air, then Road to Mysore

  • Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes from Hyderabad to Bangalore.
  • Fare: ₹2,000–₹7,000 (depending on the season and how early you book).
  • Airlines: IndiGo, AirAsia, SpiceJet, and Go First operate frequent flights between Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Airport) and Bengaluru (Kempegowda International Airport).

From Bengaluru to Mysore:

  • By Road:
    • Distance: 150 km from Bangalore to Mysore.
    • Travel Time: 3–4 hours by taxi or bus.
    • Taxi Fare: ₹2,500–₹4,000 for a one-way trip, depending on the type of vehicle.
    • Bus Fare: ₹300–₹600. KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) operates several buses, including AC, non-AC, and sleeper buses between Bangalore and Mysore.
  • By Train: You can also take a train from Bangalore City Junction to Mysore Junction.
    • Train Duration: Around 2.5–3 hours.
    • Fare: ₹100–₹600 (depending on the class of travel).

Best Air Route:

  • Hyderabad → Bangalore → Mysore is the most convenient and quickest route by air.

2. By Train: Budget-Friendly and Comfortable

Traveling by train from Hyderabad to Mysore is a popular choice, especially for those who enjoy scenic journeys and are looking for a cost-effective option. There are direct trains from Hyderabad to Mysore.

  • Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (MYS) is the main railway station in the city.

Recommended Trains:

  1. Kacheguda-Mysore Express (12785):
    • Departs: Kacheguda (Hyderabad) at 7:05 PM.
    • Arrives: Mysore at 9:10 AM the next day.
    • Travel Time: Around 14 hours.
    • Fare:
      • Sleeper Class: ₹500–₹700
      • 3AC: ₹1,200–₹1,600
      • 2AC: ₹1,800–₹2,400
  2. Hyderabad-Mysuru SF Express (22692):
    • Departs: Hyderabad Deccan (Nampally) at 2:00 PM.
    • Arrives: Mysore at 5:50 AM the next day.
    • Travel Time: 15 hours.
    • Fare: Similar to Kacheguda-Mysore Express.

Best Train Route:

  • Kacheguda-Mysore Express is a direct and comfortable option for those traveling overnight and preferring to arrive in the morning.

3. By Bus: A Budget-Friendly Option

There are several direct buses from Hyderabad to Mysore, both operated by private operators and government-run services. Buses are a good option if you’re looking for an economical mode of transport, although the journey can be long and tiresome.

  • Distance: Approximately 720 km by road.
  • Travel Time: 12–14 hours by bus, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Bus Operators:

  1. Private Operators:
    • VRL Travels, SRS Travels, Kaveri Travels, and Orange Travels operate sleeper and semi-sleeper buses.
    • Fare: ₹1,200–₹2,000 depending on the type of bus (AC sleeper, non-AC, etc.).
  2. KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation):
    • KSRTC operates Airavat (Volvo AC) and Rajahamsa (Non-AC) buses on this route.
    • Fare: ₹1,200–₹1,800 for AC buses, ₹700–₹1,000 for non-AC buses.

Best Bus Route:

  • Overnight sleeper buses are recommended for a more comfortable journey.

4. By Road: A Scenic Road Trip

For those who love driving and scenic road trips, traveling from Hyderabad to Mysore by car is a great option. The roads are in good condition, and the journey takes you through beautiful landscapes.

  • Distance: The total distance is around 720 km.
  • Route: Hyderabad → Kurnool → Anantapur → Bangalore → Mysore.
  • Travel Time: Around 12–13 hours, depending on traffic and breaks.

Route Details:

  1. Take NH44 from Hyderabad to Bangalore.
  2. From Bangalore, take the NH275 (Bangalore-Mysore Highway) to Mysore.
  • Fuel Cost: Approximately ₹5,000–₹6,000 (round trip).
  • Toll Charges: Around ₹1,000–₹1,500 (round trip).

Road Trip Tips:

  • Start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a smooth drive.
  • Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, as there are stretches with limited fuel stations or repair services.
  • Carry snacks and water, as rest stops may be sparse in some areas.

5. Best Time to Visit Mysore

Mysore has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

  • October to March (Winter): This is the best time to visit Mysore. The weather is cool and ideal for sightseeing. It’s also the time of the Mysore Dasara festival (in September or October), a grand event celebrated with much enthusiasm.
  • April to June (Summer): Summers in Mysore can be hot, with temperatures rising up to 35°C. However, mornings and evenings are relatively pleasant.
  • July to September (Monsoon): Mysore experiences moderate rainfall during this period. The rain enhances the greenery of the city, making it a pleasant time to visit for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the convenience of flying, the budget-friendliness of trains, or the adventure of a road trip, there are plenty of options to reach Mysore from Hyderabad. Depending on your preferences and travel style, you can choose the most suitable mode of transport. Regardless of how you travel, Mysore’s rich cultural heritage, majestic palaces, and vibrant festivals make it a destination worth visiting.