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There are two popular routes to drive to Ooty from Bengaluru, one via Masinagudi and the other via Gudalur.

Route Overview:

Bengaluru → Mysore → Gundlupet → Bandipur → Theppakadu junction → via Masinagudi (option 1) or via Gudalur (option 2) → Thalaikundha junction → Ooty.

The primary difference between the two routes lies in the 30km stretch between Theppakadu junction and Thalaikundha junction. Via Masinagudi, the distance is 30km, while via Gudalur, it is 60km.

Consider these factors for Choosing a Route:

Gudalur Route:

Detours: Many attractions on the Ooty tour itinerary.
Attractions: Pine Forest, Tree Park, Hidden Valley, Pykara Waterfalls, Wenlock Downs, Saint Monica Lake, Needle Rock, Eucalyptus Forest and more.
Distance: 30km longer route (1½ hours additional drive).
Driving & Road Condition: Well-maintained wide road, relatively easy drive.
Conveniences: Gudalur is a town en route with pitstop/restaurant/restroom facilities.
Challenges: Gradual climb from Gudalur to Ooty.

Masinagudi Route:

Detours: Masinagudi is a popular wilderness resort.
Attractions: Bison Valley viewpoints, jeep safari starting point.
Distance: Shorter & faster route to Ooty.
Driving & Road Condition: Well-maintained narrow road, steep climbs, many hairpins. Only allowed to drive towards Ooty.
Conveniences: Limited rest points/pitstop options until Ooty.
Challenges: Steep climb with 36 challenging hairpin bends (last 10km).

Both routes pass through national parks and wildlife reserves, providing opportunities to spot wildlife, especially during mornings and evenings. The traffic through the national park is closed between 9 pm & 6 am.

[#bar]Why select the Gudalur route?

Known for its scenic drive.
Allows for multiple detours and unscheduled stops.
Wider and easier road compared to the Masinagudi route.
The gradual uphill climb to Ooty reduces driving stress.
[#bar-a]Why select the Masinagudi route?

Known for its wilderness beauty and driving challenge.
Faster route to Ooty, preferred by bikers.
Low traffic, well-maintained road with signposts and mirrors at hairpins.
The last 10km involves 36 hairpin bends, providing an adventurous drive.

Route Details from Bangalore to Ooty:

Take the Bangalore-Mysore expressway (NH275) towards Mysore. Exit at Mysore and take NH 766 towards Ooty via Gundlupet.
Drive through Bandipur National Park until reaching Theppakadu junction.
At Theppakadu, choose between the two routes:
For Masinagudi, take a left turn.
For Gudalur, continue straight on NH181.
Both routes converge at Thalaikundha, leading to Ooty.
Route Options, Distance, and Driving Time:

Bengaluru to Ooty via Gudalur ( 300km | 7 hrs drive) : Bengaluru → Mysore → Gundlupet → Bandipur → Gudalur → Thalaikundha → Ooty
Bengaluru to Ooty via Masinagudi(270km | 6 hrs drive) : Bengaluru → Mysore → Gundlupet → Bandipur → Masinagudi → Thalaikundha → Ooty

Travel Tips
To experience both routes, plan to Ooty via Masinagudi route and return via Gudalur route.
Avoid night travel through the national park. Road entering the national park is closed for traffic at night (9pm to 6 am)
Consider stopping at Pug Mark restaurant near Bandipur Safari Lodge for lunch before Ooty. Theppakadu tourist area offers the Banyan Restaurant as another pitstop option.