Dandeli is deep-set in the forested Western Ghats of Karnataka, which tends to attract nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Of course, owing to the relatively serene ambience of Dandeli, it provides a pleasant diversion from the chaos of city life in Bangalore. Depending on which road you cover to get there, the distance from Bangalore to Dandeli is approximately 460 kilometers. The journey can be executed through different modes of transport, each with its own feel. 

By Road: Best Route, NH48, NH69, Road Conditions, and Scenic Roadway

Driving down from Bangalore to Dandeli remains a popular choice, which provides ample opportunity for sightseeing in beautiful landscapes. The most recommended route is via National Highway 48 (NH 48), which runs about 7-8 hours and 4-6 km or so. This road has relatively less traffic and is in good shape; hence driving is a bit easy. 

Road Plans Inside:

• Route number 1: 

Bangalore – Tumkur – Chitradurga – Hubli – Kalghatgi – Haliyal – Dandeli via NH 48.

• Route number 2: Bangalore–Tumkur–Shimoga-Sagar-Sirsi-Yellapur-Dandeli via NH 69.

Route number 1 is a more direct and fast route. Route number 2 is a more scenic drive through the Western Ghats, with winding roads along the way.

Road Conditions:

NH 48 is fairly well maintained, and you should have no trouble driving it. In any case, keep a lookout for any road works or diversions that may affect the journey ahead.

By Train: Nearest Railway Station to Dandeli (Alnavar Junction), Train Availability, and Ticket Booking Info

Dandeli does not have its own railway station. The nearest major railway station is Alnavar Junction, about 32 km away from Dandeli. By train, there are several paramount trains from Bangalore to Alnavar Junction: 

• Chalukya Express: Departs from Krishnarajapuram at 4:45 AM and reaches Alnavar Junction at 4:19 PM. Daily runs. Duration: ~11 hrs 34 mins. Fare: Sleeper: - ₹315, 3AC: - ₹885, 2AC: - ₹1,225 

• Rani Chennamma Express: Departing from Bangalore City Junction at 9:15 PM reaches Alnavar Junction at 6:49 AM. Daily runs. Duration: ~9 hrs 34 mins. Fare: Sleeper: - ₹305, 3AC: - ₹835, 2AC: - ₹1,195 

Ticket Booking:

Tickets can be booked on the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website or at railway reservation counters. We suggest booking early, especially during peak travel seasons.

By flight: Closest airport (Hubli airport) and direct flights from Bangalore and taxi options.

The nearest airport to Dandeli is Hubli Airport which is about 74 km from it. It is a little difficult to go directly through Bangalore, but it is available. This is possible through Air India and private carriers. It's so interesting to note that: 

Post-flight travel: 

Taxis and buses from Hubli Airport can take you to Dandeli. It would cost about ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 and would take around 2 hours.

By bus: KSRTC & Private Bus, Sleeper and Semi Sleeper Option

Many buses operated by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and many private buses carry the passengers daily, providing them with the services of sleeper and semi-sleeper buses from Bangalore to Dandeli. 

Bus Details:  Most buses are from Kempegowda Bus Stand (Majestic) in Bangalore. 

•  Usually the buses leave between 7:00 PM-8:00 PM and reach Dandeli the next early morning. 

•  Approx. Duration: 8-10 hours depending on road condition and traffic. 

•  Fare: Rs 600-800 per person depending on the bus service and type.

Road from Bangalore to Dandeli: Best Routes, Road Conditions & Pit Stops

The detailed route break: NH 48 vs. NH 69

As mentioned earlier, the two main routes to get from Bangalore to Dandeli is via NH 48 and NH 69. 

• Route via NH 48: This is the most direct route, well maintained with fast travelling times. 

• Route via NH 69: A beautiful scenic drive through the Western Ghats, but smaller, narrower and wider roads often lead to much slower travel times.

Best Petrol Pumps, Restaurants, and Dhabas Along the Road 

On the road from Bangalore to Dandeli, one can find petrol pumps and good eateries along NH 48. Some recommended places are: 

Best Petrol Pumps: 

• Tumkur Bypass, Indian Oil: Clean bathrooms and a small convenience store. 

• BPCL COCO Pump - Chitradurga: Quality fuel, quick service. 

• HP Petrol Pump - Hubli Bypass, refills nicely before the final stretch to Dandeli. 

Best Restaurants & Dhabas: 

• Sri Renukamba Thatte Idli (Kyathsandra, Tumkur): Famous for its super soft thatte idli and vada. 

• Kamat Upachar (Chitradurga): A nice place to enjoy clean washrooms while enjoying South Indian meals. 

• Sai Palace Dhaba (Hubli Bypass): It offers North Indian and Chinese cuisines in a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Must-Visit Stopovers: Chitradurga Fort, Hubli, and Dharwad

For those who would love to explore on the way, these places prove to be a refreshing break from the long drive: 

• Chitradurga Fort: This is an old fort with an attractive structure, located at a distance of about 200 km from Bangalore. 

• Hubli: A busy city famous for its street food, shopping and Unkal Lake. 

• Dharwad: Well known for its Dharwad Peda and scenic viewpoints, giving exposure to culture and tradition Road Safety Tips and Night Driving Advice.

Never drive during late night: After Hubli, roads become boring underlining the ways of forested areas.

Always keep the fuel tank at High Level: Petrol stations are getting sparse as you nearing Dandeli limits.

Watch out for animals: Especially the areas close to the Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve, they would cross the road.

Always carry your cash : In some remote place it would not be possible for a digital payment.

Train Options, Ticket Prices & Schedules

Bangalore has plenty of trains travelling to Alnavar Junction from where Dandeli is accessible. Among the most identified can be:

• Chalukya Express - Early morning, approximately 11.5 hours.

• Rani Chennamma Express - Night service to arrive at Alnavar in about 9.5 hours.

Need to pay entry ticket price: 

• Sleeper Class: ₹300 - ₹350

• 3AC: ₹800 - ₹900

• 2AC: ₹1,100- ₹1,250

Connectivity to Dandeli from Alnavar Junction.

Once you arrive at Alnavar Junction, Dandeli can be accessed from there by:

• Taxis: Private cabs charge around ₹800-1,000.

• Buses: Local bus operates every 30-45 min with charges about ₹50-100.

Procedure Of Booking Train Tickets Using IRCTC

• Go to website or IRCTC mobile app

• Fill departure (Bangalore) and arrival (Alnavar Jn).

• Choose preferred train, class, and date.

• Pay and download your e-ticket. 

Pros of travel by train to Dandeli:

• Cheap as flight tickets.

• Comfortable in an overnight trip.

• Do not have to worry about road traffic.

Cons:

• Requires much traveling from Alnavar to Dandeli.

• Limited train options compared to bus routes.

Discovering Dandeli: Must-See Attractions After Landing

After you reach Dandeli, there are many attractive sights to visit:

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary & Jungle Safari: 

• Houses tigers, leopards, elephants, and rare bird species.

• Jeep safaris operate from early morning and evening (₹400 - ₹700/person).

Kali River Rafting & Other Adventure Activities:

• Adrenaline-pumping, white-water rafting rides over the only highway bridge on the Kali River in India.

• Kayaking, coracle rides, zip-lining, and rappelling.

Syntheri Rocks and Kavala Caves: 

• Syntheri Rocks: A big monolithic mass with waterfalls and scenic views around it. 

• Kavala Caves: Acid limestone caves are awe inspiring with stalagmite formations.

Best Resorts & Homestays in Dandeli 

• Bison River Resort- Riverside stay and adventure activity. 

• Hornbill River Resort- Lavish treehouse and tent accommodation.  

• Dandeli Jungle Camp- Budget option with possible nature walks. 

The Best Time to Visit Dandeli from Bangalore in terms of Weather and Traveling Tips 

Best Months For Wildlife Spotting and Adventure Activities 

• October-March: Best for safaris, trekking, and water sports. 

• April-June- Warm months but good for budget travel as the crowd is less. 

Monsoon Travel: They Have Their Own Advantages and Disadvantages 

• Pros: New greenery all around, wonderful waterfalls, and less tourists. 

• Cons: Heavy rain may disrupt the outdoor activities planned.

Packing Guidelines: For All Seasons

• Winter (October-February): Pack Light woolens for early morning cold. 

• Summer (March-June): Stay in breathable clothes and use sunscreen. 

• Monsoon (July-September): Water resistant jackets and anti-leech socks recommended.

Budget Breakdown: Cost Estimation for a Bangalore to Dandeli Tour

Fuel Costs on a Road Trip

• One-way: ₹3,500 to ₹4,500 (varying with mileage & fuel price).

• Round trip: ₹7,000 - ₹9,000.

Bus, Train & Flight Ticket Rates

• Bus: ₹600 - ₹800 per head.

• Train: ₹300 - ₹1,200 per head.

• Flight: ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 (plus ₹1,500 - ₹2,000 for taxi from Hubli).

Hotel, Food, and Local Transport Budget

• Budget hotels: 1000 - 1500/day. 

• Luxury resorts: 4000 - 7000/night.

• Meals: 500 - 1000/day/person. 

• Local transport: 500 - 1000 for autos, taxis, or bike rentals. 

Cost of Adventure Activities

• While-water rafting: Rs. 1200 - 1800 per person.

• Jungle safari: Rs. 400 - 700 per person.

• Trekking & cave exploring: Rs. 300 - 500 per person.

Q1.What is the cheapest way to go to Dandeli from Bangalore?

The cheapest way would be to take a KSRTC bus (₹600 - ₹800) or a train to Alnavar (₹300 - ₹1,200) followed by a local bus (₹50- ₹100).

Q2.How long does it take to go by car from Bangalore to Dandeli?

Approximately it takes about 8 to 9 hours by car depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Q3.Are there any direct trains to Dandeli from Bangalore?

No. The nearest railway station is Alnavar Junction which is about 32 km from Dandeli.

Q4.Is it safe to travel solo to Dandeli?

Yeah, Dandeli is mostly safe for solo travelers, but better to stay in a reputable place and not really travel to isolated areas at night.

Q5.Is it possible to visit Dandeli in one day from Bangalore?

Not really, since travel takes such a long time. You should spend at least 2-3 days to enjoy all that Dandeli has to offer.

A trip to Dandeli from Bangalore is an unforgettable experience that carries with it fun and adventure along with nature and relaxation. One has a myriad of ways to do this-from driving down to taking trains or flying-suits all pockets and preferences. The visit should be planned properly, packed accordingly, and get all set for adventure into the wilds of Dandeli! 

Travel easy and hassle-free, with booking your Bangalore to Dandeli trip with Tejas Travels for smooth travel experiences!