A 2-day Road Trip from Bangalore: The Hassan and Chikmagalur Route Worth Every Kilometre

A road trip from Bangalore does not need to mean heading to a hill station everyone has already visited. The route northwest on NH 75 through Hassan to Chikmagalur is one of Karnataka’s most rewarding drives and one of its most underused as a structured itinerary. Within a 250 km radius, you can witness the grandeur of Hoysala temples, discover a submerged Gothic ruin, explore a 450-year-old temple, and stand before the nation’s tallest monolithic statue, before the air turns cool and fragrant in the Western Ghats.

Combining both into a 2-day loop through Hassan to Chikmagalur is the most logical and rewarding way to experience this route. This guide brings together the route, stops, timings, and travel details you need, allowing you to spend less time planning and more time experiencing the journey itself.

A lush green mountain ridge under a soft morning sky with misty valleys stretching into the distance of the Western Ghats.

The Route: Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan on NH 75

To get the most out of your Bangalore to Chikmagalur road trip, take NH 75 and navigate via the well-connected hubs of Nelamangala, Channarayapatna, Hassan, and Belur. Key distances at a glance:

  • Bangalore to Nelamangala: 35 km via Outer Ring Road and NH 75, approximately 1 hour (highway starts here)
  • Nelamangala to Channarayapatna: 117 km, approximately 1.5 hours via NH 75
  • Channarayapatna to Hassan: 38 km, approximately 40 min via NH 75
  • Hassan to Belur: 38 km via NH 373, approximately 1 hour
  • Belur to Chikmagalur: 26 km via NH 373, approximately 35 minutes
  • Total, Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan: Approximately 251 km via NH 75, 5 to 5.5 hours with stops

A view of a 2-lane highway with railings and trees on either side with the trees having the evening sun shining on them.

NH 75 is one of the better-maintained national highways in Karnataka, with a smooth road surface for most of the distance. The drive changes noticeably after Hassan, where the highway narrows, and the road begins its ascent into the Western Ghats through coffee plantations and wooded hillsides. Road trip essentials:

  • Ensure your FASTag is recharged before departure, as multiple toll plazas operate along NH 75.
  • Fuel stations are widely available until Hassan and remain accessible between Belur and Chikmagalur, though refuelling at Hassan or Belur is recommended before heading into the hills.
  • Check live traffic on Google Maps before leaving Bengaluru. The Nelamangala stretch can slow significantly on Friday evenings.
  • The best departure time is between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM to reach Hassan by mid-morning and Chikmagalur by afternoon.

Day 1: Bangalore to Hassan Road Trip, Pilgrimage Sites & Forgotten Ruins

A top-down view of the feet of Gommateshwara Statue in Shravanabelagola, with a priest and a woman praying to the feet and another man looking on. This statue can be visited on your Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan route.

Shravanabelagola: Home to the Majestic Gomateshwara Statue

A worthwhile detour off NH 75 near Channarayapatna, Shravanabelagola is a Jain pilgrimage site home to the 57 ft. monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara, carved from a single granite rock in 981 CE and recognised as one of India’s Seven Wonders.

Surrounded by rocky hillscapes, coconut groves, and open countryside, the approach to the town is especially scenic. The statue stands atop Vindhyagiri Hill. The Mahamastakabhisheka, a consecration ceremony held every 12 years, draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims here.

A facade view of a church in ruins with the bricks exposed and a hole in the centre of the arch, as seen during daylight.

Hassan: Gateway to the Hoysala Heritage Circuit

By afternoon, arrive in Hassan, the cultural gateway to Karnataka’s celebrated Hoysala heritage region. Travelling directly from Bengaluru to Hassan via NH 75 covers approximately 190 km and usually takes around 3 to 3.5 hours by road. With comfortable stays, local eateries, and easy access to nearby historic sites, the town serves as a convenient stop along the journey towards Chikmagalur.
 

Shettihalli Rosary Church: Karnataka’s Submerged Gothic Ruins

A short 24 km drive from Hassan leads to Shettihalli Rosary Church, an architectural landmark dating back to the 1860s. Originally built as a mission church for French settlers, it now stands partially submerged within the backwaters of the Hemavathi Reservoir.

The drive passes through quiet village roads, reservoir views, and lush rural landscapes that add to the experience. During summer, from March to May, the receding water levels reveal the ruins in full, creating one of Karnataka’s most unusual and photogenic sights.

Day 1 Afternoon and Day 2 Morning: Discover Ramanathapura, Mavinakere Betta & Pushpagiri Betta

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A short detour from Hassan rewards road trippers with a scenic stretch of rolling hills, lush greenery, and cultural landmarks that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
  • Subramanyaswamy Temple, Ramanathapura: If you enjoy uncovering historic landmarks along your drive, this 450-year-old temple is well worth a stop. Revered for its spiritual significance, it is known for its unique black Saligrama idol with 7 hoods and continues to attract devotees from across the region.
  • Mavinakere Betta: Rising to around 970 m, Mavinakere Betta offers a refreshing break from the road with panoramic countryside views. The hill is home to the Bettada Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple at its summit, making it a rewarding stop for both nature lovers and spiritual travellers.
  • Pushpagiri Betta (Kumara Parvatha): For those looking to add a touch of adventure to their road trip, Pushpagiri Betta, also known as Kumara Parvatha, is one of Karnataka's highest peaks at 1,712 m. Popular among trekkers, it offers trails ranging from moderate to challenging, with routes stretching between 14 and 28 km.

Day 2: Exploring the Timeless Temples of Belur and Halebidu

Detailed stone carvings and sculpted shrine structures at the Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, highlighting the craftsmanship of Hoysala-era temple architecture.

Belur Chennakeshava Temple: A Masterpiece of Hoysala Craftsmanship

Visit the Chennakeshava Temple, built by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire in 1117 CE to commemorate his victory over the Cholas at the Battle of Talakad. The temple forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas.

Surrounded by coconut groves and the quiet charm of a traditional temple town, the site is as visually striking as it is historic. The exterior is draped in continuous bands of chloritic schist, where masterfully carved elephants, horses, and celestial shalabhanjikas dance alongside mythological figures in an unbroken display of stone artistry. The temple remains an active place of worship.

Intricately carved stone structures and pillared mandapas at the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, showcasing classic Hoysala architecture in Karnataka.

Halebidu Hoysaleswara Temple: The Finest Expression of Architecture

Explore Halebidu, formerly the capital of the Hoysala Empire, located around 32 km from Hassan. The town is home to the Hoysaleswara Temple and Shantaleswara temples, commissioned in the 12th century.

Widely regarded as some of the finest examples of Hoysala stone carving, the twin temples form part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas. Filled with remarkably intricate sculptures and ornate detailing, the temples remain among Karnataka’s greatest architectural treasures.

After exploring these attractions, continue your road trip into the coffee-clad hills of Chikmagalur, a destination celebrated as the birthplace of coffee cultivation in India. Surrounded by misty mountains, sprawling plantations, and winding roads, this charming hill town offers a refreshing escape into nature. According to history, coffee was introduced to the region in the 17th century by Baba Budan, who brought coffee beans from Arabia and planted them in the hills that now bear his name, laying the foundation for Chikmagalur's enduring coffee legacy.

Facade view of the Malnad Palace at Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan, with a stone pathway leading to it.

Where to Stay on Your Road Trip from Bangalore: Hoysala Village Resort

Somewhere after the long highway stretches of NH 75 and before the coffee hills of Chikmagalur begin to rise, Hoysala Village Resort on Belur Road offers the kind of stop that turns a road trip into a slower, more memorable journey.

Set across 7 acres in the heart of the Hassan–Chikmagalur heritage circuit, our resort places travellers close to Belur, Halebidu, and Shettihalli Rosary Church, all within 31 km. An on-site lake, an organic farm, open lawns, and towering trees between 50 and 100 years old give the property a calm, lived-in charm that feels far removed from the bustle of the highway.

Our resort features 59 rooms across 4 categories, designed for different styles of travel. Heritage Premium Cottages come with private sit-outs overlooking the greenery, while the Malnad Attic Suites offer elevated views of the surrounding landscape.

Facade view of the Kokam bar and restaurant at Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan, with a dewan below the signage.

For travellers heading onwards to Chikmagalur the next morning, the Jacuzzi Villas provide a particularly relaxing way to end the day after hours on the road. All rooms are equipped with modern comforts, including air-conditioning and televisions.

Meals here are woven into the larger Malnad experience. The Garden Restaurant serves buffet spreads in an open lawn setting, while Kokum Bar & Restaurant focuses on authentic Malnad cuisine rooted in the flavours of the region. Between sightseeing stops, guests can also unwind at the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy wellness therapies at the Ayurveda spa, or simply spend the evening beneath the shade of the old trees scattered across our property.

Whether you are pausing for a night on the way to Chikmagalur or exploring Karnataka’s celebrated Hoysala heritage circuit, Hoysala Village Resort offers a stay that feels deeply connected to the region. From guided temple visits and village walks to quiet evenings beneath century-old trees, the experiences here go beyond the road itself.

An overview of ancient columns in Belur with the sun's rays behind the clouds in the background.

The Charm of Hassan

Apart from the heritage sites, Hassan also has nature trails that you can enjoy. Take some peaceful lakeside walks and some photography sessions along the Hemvathy Reservoir and Dam. For an indulging lunch, Hassan invites you with culturally unique and healthy dishes such as Akki Roti made with rice flour primarily, Ragi Mudde made with finger millets as the name suggests, and some heart-warming Filter Coffee that lingers on your tastebuds even hours later.

An overview of the green mountain in the western ghats with the sun setting in the background.

A Paradise of the Past & the Present

The breezy wind from the past hits you the moment you step into Hassan. A rich heritage molded carefully by ancestors that invites you to admire them. The Earth paints its canvas over lakes and reservoirs for your eyes. So take that unforgettable journey. Make memories that become stories– stories that, one day, will return like a cool, breezy whisper at a family gathering. A splendid blend of heritage, nature and adventure is waiting to be brewed by you, come make a filter coffee-from-Hassan kinda memory with us, the one that lingers even a long time later!

An overview of a the interiors of the property designed in classic style - Hoysala Village Resort, Hassan

Where to Stay on a Hassan Trip from Bangalore?

On your getaway trip from Bangalore traffic to Hassan, in a refreshing new setting, we hope to make your trip more peaceful. At Hoysala Village Resort, we offer only the best that Hassan has to give. A picturesque stay with many additional facilities that help you relax, unwind and rejuvenate. At Hoysala, you explore outside the resort, as well as inside– because we present many strands of charming culture -be it Malnad’s rich cuisine, cottages with handmade Athangudi tiles and more. Come sip a hot brew as we add to your Hassan experience.

Located approximately 3 to 3.5 hours from Bangalore via NH 75 and around 10 km from Hassan Junction railway station, our resort makes for a convenient and character-filled stop along the journey.

Explore Our Offers!

The road trip from Bangalore to Hassan and Chikmagalur is one of the most historically and naturally varied drives in South India. The route can be comfortably completed over a long weekend or as a relaxed 2-day itinerary. Along the way, it covers 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a half-submerged colonial church, a 450-year-old temple, India’s tallest monolithic statue, and the hills where Indian coffee was first grown. This journey shines brightest when taken slowly, allowing enough time to properly experience each destination rather than rushing through the drive.

Hoysala Village Resort on Belur Road provides the most considered overnight base on the circuit, with the Hoysala temples a short drive in either direction and a heritage-rooted stay that extends the experience well beyond the road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


What is the best route for a road trip from Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan?
NH 75 via Nelamangala, Hassan, and Belur is the recommended route for the Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan road trip, covering approximately 251 km in 5-5.5 hours with stops.

How long is the Bangalore to Hassan road trip?
The Bangalore to Hassan road trip covers approximately 190 km on NH 75 and takes around 3 to 3.5 hours without stops, making it a practical half-day drive.

What are the best stops on the Bangalore to Chikmagalur road trip?
The top stops on this route are Shravanabelagola, Shettihalli Church, Belur Chennakeshava Temple, and Halebidu Hoysaleswara Temple, all within the Hassan district.

Is the Bangalore to Chikmagalur via Hassan route suitable for a 2-day trip?
Yes. Spend Day 1 exploring Hassan, followed by visits to Ramanathapura, Mavinakere Betta, and Pushpagiri Betta. On Day 2, discover the timeless temples of Belur and Halebidu before continuing to the coffee hills of Chikmagalur.

What are the road conditions on NH 75 for the Bangalore to Hassan road trip?
NH 75 is well-maintained for the majority of this drive. The road narrows after Belur on the ascent to Chikmagalur. Recharge your FASTag before departure, as multiple toll plazas operate on the highway.

Where should I stay on the Bangalore to Hassan road trip?
Hoysala Village Resort on Belur Road is the most strategically located property for this drive, with the Hoysala heritage temples nearby, a full-service Ayurveda spa, and an organic farm on the 7-acre property.

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