Bangalore to Kochi Road Trip : Must-visit stops, Places to eat and More
Being in Bangalore, there are many long weekend destinations near Bangalore that one might come across. Although, not everyone craves for a quick getaway, do they? Some of us love to roll down our windows and drive endlessly until we reach our destination. Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala during September and October is one such destination that’s a perfect remedy to your search. The Bangalore to Kochi road trip in September offers misty mornings, lush greenery, and pleasant monsoon-kissed weather, while the Bangalore to Kochi trip in October comes alive with festive vibes of Dussehra and Diwali long weekends. The drive from Bangalore to Kochi takes you through many places near Bengaluru and some of the most lush and green valleys of South India. Depending on the route you choose, each turn during this Bangalore to Kochi September–October road trip has something to offer that you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
In this Blog
Why Travel from Bangalore to Kochi?
Perhaps a question must’ve been in your mind, why take long road trip from Bangalore to Kochi? As Bangalore to Kochi by flight barely takes any time to reach. However, picture yourself hopping through historic landmarks, lush green valleys, meadows that flow vastly across the horizon, something that you’ve only seen in the movies. Well, this is the perfect opportunity for you to experience this road trip in South India that will be etched in your memories for a long time.
Let’s break it down for you. Why should you hit the road instead of going from Bangalore to Kochi by flight? Well, here’s why:
– It’s Scenic: Although many people like aerial views, the view while going from Bangalore to Kochi is unbeatable. Breathing the fresh air from the mountains of Ooty or the historic tourist attractions of Mysuru, there are many places while visiting from Bangalore to Kochi that you can have a quick pitstop.
– Adventurous Pit Stops: Speaking of pit stops, there’s the Mysuru, where you can enjoy a Mysore Pak while looking at the Mysore Palace. Wayanad’s serene hills will be your cozy companion and if you’re with friends, they might even take a nap! The Bandipur National Park near Coonoor is perfect if you want quick wildlife detour. There’s never a dull moment during this Bangalore to Kochi road trip.
– The food in Kochi: Kerala is home to some of the most lip-smacking dishes in India. After a long road trip to Kochi, the food is an amazing reward that you’ll enjoy throughout your trip from Bangalore.
Distance Between Bangalore and Kochi
Depending on route to Kochi you take, the distance from Bangalore to Kochi is around 550 kilometres, which roughly translates to 11 hours of driving time. Make sure to check the weather in Kochi as during rains, it could get tricky to travel through these roads. Make sure to start early to escape the traffic in Bangalore and quickly get to the outskirts. Here are the two quickest routes from Bangalore to Kochi.
– Route 1 (via NH 44 and 544): This route from Bangalore is around 550 kilometres and takes nearly 11 hours to cover. This is the quickest and most efficient route. You’ll pass through Salem, Coimbatore, and Thrissur, with well-maintained highways making it a smooth ride. This route is ideal for travellers who want to get to from Bangalore to Kochi without too many detours.
– Route 2 (via NH 44): Slightly longer at 500 kilometres, but if you love a scenic drive, this one’s a gem. You’ll pass through Mysore, Wayanad, and the stunning Western Ghats. Expect lots of greenery, mountain views, and maybe even a few animals in the Bandipur National Park near Coonoor.
Weather in Kochi
The weather in Kochi during September and October is a mix of post-monsoon freshness and the onset of pleasant winter vibes. In September, Kochi still experiences light showers, keeping the city cool, green, and ideal for exploring backwaters and beaches without the heavy tourist rush. By October, the rains ease off, leaving behind clear skies, mild humidity, and comfortable temperatures averaging 24°C to 30°C. If you’re searching for Kochi weather in October or want to know more about the weather in Kochi in October, it’s the perfect time to plan a road trip—festivals like Onam and Dussehra add a cultural touch, while the refreshing climate makes sightseeing, beach walks, and food explorations even more enjoyable.
Traveling from Bangalore to Kochi?
The ideal way to go enjoy this getaway near Bangalore is by road. Bangalore to Wayanad by car is stunning journey and the 11 hours of journey whilst taking pitstops is completely worth it. Ideally, if you’re not up for driving, you can travel from Bangalore to Kochi bus as well.
Although it may not be the traditional road trip from Bangalore, there are many buses from Bangalore to Kochi that leave at regular intervals. These buses charge a nominal fee and nearly half a day to cover the distance.
However, if you’re travelling from Bangalore to Kochi by bus or car, make sure to carry your travel essentials. Don’t worry about the food, as you’ll be crossing Mysore, Wayanad and even Coimbatore which have beautiful eateries. The best part? You can consider a booking a villa in Mysore or a cottage in Wayanad that will keep you energised and refreshed during your travel.
Best Time to Take a Road Trip by Car from Bangalore to Kochi
Any road trip near Bangalore requires a perfect timing, after all you’ll be leaving the pleasant weather of Bangalore. The best time to a road trip by car from Bangalore to Kochi is from October to February, when the weather’s cool and the roads are clear. During this time, most people are busy with celebrations or visiting up north and this makes it the perfect time to enjoy a long weekend getaway from Bangalore.
Monsoon is another good time to take a rad trip by car from Bangalore to Kochi. This makes it a romantic weekend getaway from Bangalore as who doesn’t like travelling with their partner during the rains. In case you’re looking for more such monsoon road trips from Bangalore, consider these weekend destinations near Bangalore.
Places to visit while travelling from Bangalore to Kochi
The best part about this road trip from Bangalore to Kochi are the amount of sightseeing attractions. As you’ll be passing through cities like Salem, Wayanad, Mysore, and Coimbatore, depending on the route you take, this is perfect for exploring and even enjoying a stay in Wayanad as a pitstop.
1. Mysore
If you’re taking the longer route from Bangalore to Kochi, then Mysore (Mysuru) will be one of the first places you can explore near Bangalore. Known for its royal heritage and cultural charm, Mysore in September–October becomes even more magical. With Mysore Dussehra celebrations in October, the city lights up with grandeur, processions, and festive energy that attracts travellers from across the country.
Steeped in history and famous for its sweet delicacies like Mysore Pak, the city will surely charm you. There are many places to visit in Mysore, such as the Mysore Palace, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, the beautifully lit Brindavan Gardens, and the Mysore Zoo. The usual itinerary often includes temples and waterfalls, but you must also visit Chamundi Hills, especially during the pleasant weather in September–October, which makes for the perfect backdrop to capture unforgettable moments on your Bangalore to Kochi road trip.
Sightseeing Attractions in Mysore – Chamundi Hills, Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Karanji Lake.
2. Bandipur National Park
This National Park in Karnataka once served as a hunting ground to the royals. Bandipur National Park is famous for the Bengal tigers, elephants, chital, gaur, sambhar, and many other bird species. This would be a perfect pitstop during your Bangalore to Kochi road trip as you would get break in scenery and could have a beautiful view of the best national park in India. The Bandipur gate is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It’s important to plan your trip to ensure you pass through this area during these hours to avoid delays.
3. Wayanad
Wayanad is a hill station in Kerala that is frequented by many tourists on the Bangalore to Kochi road trip. Visiting Wayanad in September and October is a treat, as the region is wrapped in post-monsoon freshness, misty hills, and cooler weather that makes sightseeing even more enjoyable. Some of the top places to visit in Wayanad include Meenmutty Waterfalls, which gushes more vigorously after the rains, the tranquil Banasura Sagar Dam, the adventurous Chembra Peak trek, and the serene Pallikunnu Church.
Being one of the first destinations you’ll enter as you cross from Karnataka into Kerala, Wayanad is an amazing way to begin your Kerala journey. If you’re traveling during the September–October long weekends from Bangalore, consider making an overnight stop here. A stay in Wayanad not only gives you a refreshing break from the road but also allows you to wake up amidst lush valleys and crisp mountain air before continuing your drive towards Kochi.
4. Athirapally Falls
Athirapally Falls is a breathtaking waterfall in Kerala and is one of the top sightseeing attraction in Thrissur. What makes Athirapally Falls in Kerala special is its easy access and it is the safe waterfalls in India. You can even soak your feet, take some pictures or even take a boat ride in Athirapally waterfalls.
5. Thrissur
As you venture down from Athirapally Falls to Thrissur, you’ll notice a striking change in the landscape—from lush forests and waterfalls to vibrant towns and cultural landmarks. Thrissur, often called the cultural capital of Kerala, is one of the most-visited places in the state and has plenty to offer road trippers.
If you’re traveling in September and October, Thrissur comes alive with festive vibes. While Thrissur Pooram is celebrated in April–May, the post-monsoon season in September makes the surroundings fresh and green, while October in Thrissur is marked by temple festivals, cultural performances, and pleasant weather that’s perfect for exploring.
A visit to Snehatheeram Beach can be a perfect way to wind down your Bangalore to Kochi road trip in October, offering golden sunsets and sea breezes. Other must-see attractions in Thrissur include the Chinmoy Dam, Mallakapara tea plantations, and the Thrissur Zoo and Museum. Whether you’re stopping here for a few hours or an overnight stay, Thrissur adds a cultural and scenic flavor to your journey.
Popular Places to Eat in Kochi
After hours on the road, you’re probably and ready to munch on the food in Kochi. There are many places to eat in Kochi has no shortage of tasty spots. Kochi is famous for its dishes such Parotta with Chicken Curry, Squid Pepper Fry, Appam with Stew, and the Kerala Sadya to name a few. Here are a few restaurants in Kochi that you shall add to you Kochi itinerary –
1. Kashi Art Café
This artsy café in Fort Kochi, perfect for grabbing a coffee and a quick bite while you enjoy visit the famous sightseeing attractions of Kochi. This part gallery and part café is a unique experience in the city and features many artworks by International artists.
Must try dishes – Spinach Mushroom Cheese Omelette, Fresh Sprout Salad
Timings – 8:30 am to 10 pm
2. Kayees Rahmathullah Café
This restaurant in the port city of Kochi has a history that goes with city’s culture. You trip to Kochi would be incomplete without trying Kayees’ famous mutton biryani. This iconic spot has been serving up this dish for generations, and it’s totally worth the hype. The interesting part is that the owner used to a cook and waiter in the British Army and started this joint as tea shop.
Must try dishes – Mutton Biryani
Timings – 11 am to 3:30 pm
3. Nettoor Toddy Shop
Visiting Kochi, one has to take part in local delicacies. Trying toddy will complete your authentic Kerala food experience in Kochi and Nettoor Toddy Shop is the right place. Toddy is a mild alcoholic beverage that is made from the sap of the palm tree and is best served with meat-based dishes. Nettoor Toddy Shop not only offers toddy but also many mouth-watering dishes that one has to try.
Must-try dishes – Prawns Fry, Crab Roast, Rabbit Roast, Fish and Kappa.
Timings – 8 am to 8 pm
4. Hotel Seagull
After a long road trip from Bangalore to Kochi, all one needs is chilled beer and some beef fry, In case you’re looking just for that, then Hotel Seagull is the perfect restaurant to visit in Kochi. Located by the port area, you can sip some beer, take the sea breeze, and enjoy a meal
Must-try dishes – Beef Coconut Fry, Kerala Fry and Tiger Prawns Masala
Timings – 10 am to 11 pm
5. Ojeen
Kochi has a range of sweets that cannot be missed. Located in the Marine Drive of Kochi, Ojeen is one such café that offers their take on regional dishes mixed with contemporary food. They have a range of sweets that’s made with plantain, eggs and even some biryani like all the cafes and restaurants in Kochi.
Must-try dishes – Unnakaya, Mutta Mala, Rachi Pathiri and Kabsa
Timings – 8 am to 9 pm
To know more about the Kochi’s food scene, read this blog about Exploring the food of Kochi!
Long Weekends Coming Up (2025) Relevant to Bangalore / Karnataka
These are national/public/state holidays giving long weekends in Sep–Oct which readers can plan around.
| Date(s) | Holiday | Long Weekend? |
|---|---|---|
| 1-5 Oct 2025 | Maha Navami (1 Oct, Wed), Dussehra / Gandhi Jayanti (2 Oct, Thu) + taking off 3 Oct (Fri) → long stretch up to Sunday 5 Oct | 5‐day break possible |
| 18-20 Oct 2025 | Diwali (20 Oct, Mon) giving Saturday-Sunday-Monday long weekend | Good time for travel; need to book ahead etc. |
| 23-26 Oct 2025 | Bhai Dooj, taking off 24 Oct (Fri) → long weekend |
Bus Options from Bangalore → Kochi
| Operator / Platform | First Bus | Last Bus | Approx Duration | Starting Fare / Range | Boarding Points in Bangalore | Dropping Points in Kochi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MakeMyTrip | ~ 12:10 AM | up to 11:55 PM | ~ 10h 25m ‒ ~ 10h 30m | from ~ ₹ 449 | various: Majestic, Madiwala, Silk Board etc. | Vyttila, Palarivattom, Edapally, Aluva Bypass etc. |
| EaseMyTrip | ~ 22:00 (10 PM) | last around early morning / overnight (depending on service) | ~ 10h | fares from ~ ₹ 649 for basic AC/seater options | Bangalore boarding points include Madiwala, Kalasipalayam, Electronic City, Majestic etc. | Dropping: Vyttila, Kalamassery, Edapally etc. |
| AbhiBus | First ~ 08:05 AM | Last ~ 23:30 (11:30 PM) | ~ 9h 30m to ~ 11h+ depending on type/route | fares from ~ ₹ 794 | multiple Bangalore pick-ups (major terminals + suburbs) | Kochi drop at places like Vyttila, Edappally etc. |
| redBus | First ~ 19:00 / early evening options | Last buses often very late or overnight (varies) | ~ 9-11h depending on route & stops | fares vary widely depending on AC / sleeper / operator etc. from ~ ₹ 700-₹ 1500+ |
Where to Stay in Kochi
Once you’ve enjoyed the food from the restaurants of Kochi, it is essential to get some rest before you start visiting the sightseeing attractions of Kochi. StayVista has many villas and cottages in Kochi by the Periyar river where you can shut your eyes and enjoy the bliss of nature.
The Periyar Palace
Yep, that’s right, a quaint and beautiful palace in Kochi! The Periyar Palace by StayVista is a beautiful stay in Kochi by the famous Periyar River that is scenic in every sense. With majestic white walls, rooms designed with large windows for sunlight and a beautiful view of the garden, The Periyar Palace is the perfect holiday home in Kochi.
Springhills Villa & Ayurvedic Spa
This villa in Kochi has a beautiful spa and pool that is perfect for a wellness retreat. After driving from Bangalore to Kochi, all you’ll need is a beautiful stay in Kochi with wellness retreat facilities. It features cosy, comfortable interiors, ideal for you to unwind, along with an in-house dairy and poultry farm.
Aqua Vista
So, whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway from Bangalore or trip from Bangalore with family, this road trip from Bangalore to Kochi offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and of course, a dash of scenic beauty.
