Thanks, Kumar! Did you do this stretch recently? I too got the impression that NH 63 is quite okay despite the heavy lorry traffic. There were a few suggestions in favour of the Sirsi route (saying that it was a well-done road with low traffic movement), but as we all know the road conditions in India change rather dramatically and with high frequency (esp. if there are rains).
I believe that the Hospet - Bellary stretch is in horrible shape. However, many posts did say that the Bellary - Hanagal - Challakere - Hiriyur - Tumkur - Bangalore is quite okay.
Anyway, I will be doing this (Hampi - Bangalore) on 31st December and so, I still have a few more days time for some one to come up with other alternatives and/or a first hand experience.
Cheers,
ssbiitm
ps. I remember when I was quite young and we went to Hampi/Hospet from Bangalore in an Amby. We lost NH 13 at Jagalur and again regained it back at Kudligi (after cutting through Ujjini) on the onward and surprisingly on the return too, despite asking so many people. This was precisely on 15th and 17th February 1980 (respectively the days before and after the total solar eclipse that passed through Hampi - saw the eclipse in the afternoon of 16th Feb sitting next to the King's balance in Hampi). Recall, my dad mentioning during the drive that 13 was not proving to be a lucky number in our drive! Even in those days NH 13 (whatever little we did on it) was not in good shape! Of course, highway driving then was a totally different affair. Someday I hope to write a post about it!! |