[gkrishn]

Started from N.CBE at 6:20am and reached bellandur by 12:30. This, with a breakfast stop at bhama and a delayed fueling stop.

This route is a much better option, with all functional bypasses. Just that, the ghat section is unpredictable. Overall stress levels are low compared to the salem route.

Originally Posted by whitewing

1. Plan for a longer travel time, we were heldup in the ghat for 10-15mins because a tusker decided to snack on paddy that had been spilled on the road by a passing truck.

Got caught for about an hour. A truck had gone upside down!

Nijaguna restaraunts, the place was clean, food was quite good (no south Indian food in evenings) and clean restrooms. A bit pricey. It is about a kilometer deviation from the bypass road into the town.

The breakfast was okie. Stop mainly for the restroom.

Bhama Restaurant. Clean washrooms. (no feedback on food, tea was OK)

This place had decent food.

[bejoy]

On 21st December (start of holidays), I had to start to Kochi late at 11 am, one of my odd start times ever on a holiday weekend.

I took NH-844 from Attibelle, and it was smooth traffic till Rayakottai, where there was a pileup at town and lost about 15 mins. The junction is poorly managed by the cops present there and also the private buses jumping the queue adding to the woes.

While checking Thoppur traffic on GMaps, saw a lot of traffic, so decided to take Mecheri-Metttur-Bhavani route. It was a good decision. Took exit from NH844 towards Pennagaram and google showed a route to byepass the Pennagaram town and took a risk and went through narrow but good roads joined the SH road towards Mecheri.



Hotels are limited in this route and we missed one before the Mettur dam. Had lunch at Hotel Radhas after Mettur dam. Clean restrooms. They have a separate Veg and Non Veg sections. Non veg food was decent but not great.

With one hour lunch break, joined NH-544 (Bhavani) at 5:15pm. Overall no traffic and butter smooth toll free roads.

Got stuck at Coimbatore byepass and further at many places between Walayar and Angamaly. Finally reached Kochi at 12.

[Ajirules]

The below post is my first post and thought of posting about the Sathyamangalam route as my first- but i saw the information of the route was already posted. Still posting but glad that there are fans of this route other than me


Attention: Fellow road trippers and thrill-seekers!: Let me introduce you to a route that’s equal parts adventure, scenery, and smart savings especially during crowded travel days like holidays etc when NH is really busy and not worth paying tolls for. This isn’t just a road—it’s a journey of discovery between Bangalore and Kerala, two places that define me and my family.

About Us: I’m Ajith, a proud native of Kerala (Palakkad), living in the vibrant tech hub of Bangalore. With my wife and kid, I’ve been shuttling between these two homes for years, making countless trips. Initially, like most travellers, we took the usual NH route via Salem. But about a year ago, we decided to give the forest route a try in our car. Now? Even my wife insists, “Let’s take the scenic route!”

This Isn’t Just a Route—It’s an Experience ! Picture this: two-lane roads canopied by trees, a natural wildlife safari, and thrilling 27-hairpin bends that make you feel like the star of an action movie. If you’re lucky (or brave), you’ll spot elephants, deer, monkeys, and even wild buffaloes strutting around like they own the place. No traffic jams, no honking trucks—just you, your vehicle, and nature.

And the scenery? Unbeatable. With waterfalls, viewpoints, bridges, and the majestic Bhavanisagar Dam, every mile feels like a postcard come to life.















What’s in It for the Wallet?

This route doesn’t just save time—it saves money too. Toll costs are ₹850 cheaper than the NH route, and a full tank of fuel from Chamarajanagar’s border prices shaves off another ₹300.

That’s like getting a free meal or stocking up on snacks for the road. And with a good fuel-efficient car, you’ll make it back to Bangalore without needing another refill.

The Foodie’s Delight

Unlike the NH route, this one skips the usual A2Bs and big chains, but that’s where the magic happens. Enter Bhama Hotel (M46J+79J, Erode, Tamil Nadu), a charming roadside eatery that serves steaming idlis, crispy dosas in banana leaf, and tea so fresh it tastes like sunshine in a cup. It’s simple, authentic, and, dare I say, even better than some high-end places.
As a family fan-hooked on A2B idly's till now , for us to recommend Bhama Hotel says a lot. It’s healthy and affordable, and perfect for a quick pit stop—especially if you’re traveling with kids.



From Bumpy Beginnings to Smooth Sailing

Years ago, as a young motorcycle enthusiast riding my Royal Enfield, this route was a wild, bumpy ride. Back then, it was challenging and lonely, making it intimidating for first-timers. I even coined my own term for it:

“What’s Around the Corner Phobia”—the nervousness of not knowing what lay ahead.

But over time, the roads improved, bypasses were added (shaving off 20-30 minutes), and I became familiar with every twist and turn. Now, the route feels like second nature, transforming anxiety into excitement.

The (Few) Cons

Honestly, the more you travel this route, the fewer cons you’ll notice. Long ago, the roads weren’t great for four-wheelers, and food options were scarce. Today, while you won’t find big chains, gems like Bhama Hotel more than make up for it. The scenic beauty, wildlife, and savings outweigh any minor inconveniences.

Why You Should Try It ?

This route isn’t just an alternative—it’s an upgrade. It’s for those who love nature, adventure, and a little challenge. It’s for anyone tired of the boring, honk-filled highways and ready to feel alive behind the wheel.

So, whether you’re from Kerala, Bangalore, or somewhere in between, take the forest route on your next trip. It might just be the journey you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Let me know your thoughts, and if you’ve taken this route before, share your stories. Great roads are meant to be shared! This version should strike the perfect balance of relatability, humour, and useful insights for a forum or magazine post!

[ampere]

Originally Posted by bejoy

While checking Thoppur traffic on GMaps, saw a lot of traffic, so decided to take Mecheri-Metttur-Bhavani route. It was a good decision. Took exit from NH844 towards Pennagaram and google showed a route to byepass the Pennagaram town and took a risk and went through narrow but good roads joined the SH road towards Mecheri.

Good call to spot the Thoppur traffic mess. This is what I have been suggesting as well. Now we have data!

The only comment I had: Do you really need to go to Mettur? How about Mecheri-Eddapadi-Sankagiri bypass (on to 544) ? Wont that be easier?

[enygma]

Took 6:30 hours today for Coimbatore to Whitefield via Krishnagiri starting at around 8:30 AM. Had a 20 minutes bottleneck at Thoppur due to a truck accident in the opposite lane. Most of the car traffic was diverting towards 844 perhaps due to it being the default Google Maps option, however I could not see any bottlenecks at Krishnagiri and Hosur on the regular route so stuck to it. Perhaps due to lesser traffic and also due to trucks being stuck at Thoppur due to the bottleneck, it was smooth sailing through all the diversions and tolls.
Thanks to all the inputs on this page that helped me with the decision making! The Thoppur mess started just around the time I reached, so could not try the route mentioned below.

[bejoy]

Originally Posted by ampere

The only comment I had: Do you really need to go to Mettur? How about Mecheri-Eddapadi-Sankagiri bypass (on to 544) ? Wont that be easier?

You are right, I think it is easier to take the Sankagiri from Mecheri. I returned yesterday afternoon and followed the Selam route. There are a couple of flyover constructions and a toll booth between Bhavani and Sankagiri, so probably I would have saved some time there.

[buzzy_boy]

Originally Posted by Ajirules

No traffic jams, no honking trucks—just you, your vehicle, and nature.

I travel on this route every week between Coimbatore and Hasanur.

Here are a few points to note about the traffic:

1. Night restrictions: Vehicles are not allowed to ply beyond 9:00 PM. You’ll be stopped at either the Bannari check post or the Pulinjur check post on the Karnataka side.


2. Commercial vehicles: These are allowed only until 6:00 PM. So, truck traffic is heaviest between 6 AM–8 AM and 5 PM–8 PM.


3. Slow-moving trucks: Truck traffic is extremely slow (~20 KMPH), leading to long queues of vehicles stuck behind them.


4. Overtaking risks: Be cautious when you spot a slow-moving vehicle; impatient drivers often overtake without regard for oncoming traffic.


5. Long vehicles: These often occupy the right side of the road for their left turns. Exercise extreme caution when approaching your right turns.


6. Blind bends: Bends 20 and 21 are very close to each other and are extremely blind. Heavy vehicles often drive on the opposite side of the road here. Approach with utmost caution.


7. Holiday traffic: Avoid this road during long holiday periods. After New Year’s, for instance, there was a ~2-hour jam in the ghat section.


8. Accidents and breakdowns: These can cause significant holdups in the ghat section. While less frequent now, they still occur occasionally. Plan your trip accordingly.


9. Wildlife activity: Drive cautiously as wildlife, such as deer or mongooses, may cross the road.


10. No stopping in the forest: The forest is no joke. Tourists often stop for selfies or other reasons—don’t. Do not stop anywhere outside the villages.


11. Food recommendation: Bhama is a must-try.



Driving on this route is no easy task—it is highly technical and risky. Prepare for all possible scenarios before setting off.

[mayukh42]

Originally Posted by ampere

Do you really need to go to Mettur? How about Mecheri-Eddapadi-Sankagiri bypass (on to 544) ? Wont that be easier?

Originally Posted by bejoy

I think it is easier to take the Sankagiri from Mecheri.

Mecheri - Edappadi goes through Jalakandapuram, which is a congested market area and can cause delays. Also there is a railway crossing near JSW Power Plant, not sure if the flyover is completed now, but without that it is another mess.

My route (which I always take if going west of Salem) is Dharmapuri - Pennagram - Mecheri - Mettur - Poolampatti - Edappadi Bypass - Sankagiri. So we take the east bank of Kaveri at Mettur (instead of crossing over to Bhavani NH which has lot of truck traffic), then Edappadi bypass to Sankagiri. That stretch between Mettur and Edappadi is narrow but good quality; no truck traffic and one of the most scenic in that region.

It takes about 10-15 mins more than the regular Omalur - Salem route (on a good day i.e.), but it is totally worth due to the beautiful country roads.

[GKR268]

Folks,

I did a solo Bengaluru-Coimbatore drive on 21st December 2024. Posting here the overall journey with the road conditions.

Tanked up to full fuel level, my creta diesel 2018 model. Got air pressure tested on all tyres the night before.

Started 4am from Bengaluru (HSR Layout). Google maps showed the conventional route Bengaluru-Hosur-Rayakottai-Dharmapuri-Salem-Avinashi-Coimbatore. Total distance of 350km and approx 6 hours 40 minutes. I planned to take a break at Salem which is approximately the mid point in this journey.

The start of the trip was a breeze till Hosur with virtually no traffic in Bengaluru/ Electronic City Flyover. Even Hosur to Rayakottai stretch has considerably improved (although some construction work seems to be ongoing perennially at few places). Some loaded trucks were as usual trying to outpace each other at low speed blocking all lanes. Watch out - the stretch especially in and around Hosur has speed breakers at almost all traffic intersections and there is usually some traffic (wrong side scooters, tempos etc.) trying to cross at the intersection. Barring this stretch, overall roads till Rayakottai is good to drive with ample reflectors, lane markers etc put in place by NHAI. Only grudge is the high beam from incoming traffic. While halogen high beams are manageable, the LED ones are a pain! Chennai bound traffic takes the exit at Rayakottai and the road towards Salem gets sparse with traffic. The condition of the 4 laned road is excellent till Thoppur ghat section. At the Thoppur ghat section, while it is a 4 laned road, the incline is steep. One needs to be careful with loaded trucks trying to navigate the curves as well as certain car/ tempo drivers trying to play a Michael Schumacher on these stretches. Overall driving caution is recommended. Post Thoppur the stretch till Salem is awesome.
I reached Salem around 7.15 am. Took a 40 minutes break at Sri Saravana Bhavan’s Aasai Dosai. The place is located under a flyover on the opposite side (towards Bengaluru) but on the main highway itself. It has ample parking, clean washrooms and a good authentic South Indian breakfast menu. It is also a full fledged hotel with standard rooms available mostly for an overnight journey break. Highly recommend this place for its overall ambience, cleanliness and breakfast. Location link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1A5Y1iLzi765...s.preview.copy

From Salem till Coimbatore, the roads are 4 lane/ 6lane with overall road condition being good, very good and excellent depending upon the stretches. One can easily maintain good driving speeds. The roads do not have any potholes although there are certain gaps in the median on some of the stretches but you have ample road signs placed conspicuously which indicate these gaps and intersections.

Traffic started building up at the outer part of Coimbatore (there is a fair amount of road work going on in Coimbatore). I reached my destination at Coimbatore around 11.15 am. Overall it took 7 hours 15 minutes with a 40 minute break at Salem.

Creta gave an overall average of 15.5km/ litre for the trip. Paid ₹665 as toll. Break up as follows:
Electronic City: ₹60
Attibelle: ₹35
Krishnagiri: ₹90
Thoppur: ₹120
Omalur: ₹95
Vaiguntham: ₹75
Vijayamangalam: ₹70
Changapally: ₹120

Travel tip: start early from Bengaluru (by 4.30 am) so that you avoid the daily morning traffic for almost 50% of the trip.

Did the return to Bengaluru on 26th December. Took the same route back. Started at 4am from Coimbatore and reached bengaluru at 11.30 am. Journey break at Salem at the same eating joint. Overall the return journey was good except that after Krishnagiri, google maps directed me to some internal road till Bengaluru outskirts. This was a two laned road with speed breakers and potholes and mostly had private tourist bus and truck traffic. The drive was a pain at this stretch. Later on realised that this road led to the avoidance of the attibelle toll plaza which explained the presence of private buses and trucks in this stretch. Overall learning was not to blindly follow Google maps. Hope the above helps my fellow BHPians in planning their Bengaluru-Coimbatore trips. Till next time, drive safe!

[Rajeevraj]

Probably the most ideal thread, although this would be relevant across. A good video on the status of NH 844 from Neralur till the KA-TN border at Markanayakanahalli. The long pole will probably be the ROB over the Hosur Salem Railway line. The stretch from the TN border it past Hosur is probably in a similar state. My view is that it should mostly open up sometime in 2026-including the trumpet interchange at Neralur on NH44.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBEr0U4CL2g

[balenoed_]

Originally Posted by GKR268

L Overall the return journey was good except that after Krishnagiri, google maps directed me to some internal road till Bengaluru outskirts!

Just a doubt, if the return was same route as that of via Rayakkottai, how did you end up at Krishnagiri?

[GKR268]

Originally Posted by balenoed_

Just a doubt, if the return was same route as that of via Rayakkottai, how did you end up at Krishnagiri?

My bad. Thanks for highlighting. It should be read as Rayakottai instead of Krishnagiri!

[luvurride]

Originally Posted by GKR268

Chennai bound traffic takes the exit at Rayakottai and the road towards Salem gets sparse with traffic.

Chennai bound traffic takes the Krishnagiri route, not the Rayakottai route.

[ampere]

Originally Posted by Rajeevraj

The long pole will probably be the ROB over the Hosur Salem Railway line. The stretch from the TN border it past Hosur is probably in a similar state. My view is that it should mostly open up sometime in 2026-including the trumpet interchange at Neralur on NH44.

This is not the only ROB which will hold it. There are two more at Rayakottai which would also take time.

[BeeYem]

Originally Posted by mayukh42

not sure if the flyover is completed now, but without that it is another mess.

Looks like the flyover is complete. Google map street view shows this!

Originally Posted by mayukh42

My route (which I always take if going west of Salem) is Dharmapuri - Pennagram - Mecheri - Mettur - Poolampatti - Edappadi Bypass - Sankagiri. So we take the east bank of Kaveri at Mettur (instead of crossing over to Bhavani NH which has lot of truck traffic), then Edappadi bypass to Sankagiri.

To reach Pennagaram, wouldn't it be better to take the exit from 844 after Palacode rather than continuing to Dharmapuri and heading west?