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Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

Tamil Nadu to Karnataka · Compare flights, trains, buses & driving options

Kodaikanal
Tamil Nadu
Chikmagalur
Karnataka
390 km
aerial distance (straight line)
242 miles · Road distance: ~527 km
How to get from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur
✈
By Flight
No direct flights
Nearest to Kodaikanal: Madurai (IXM)
🚆
By Train
~9.6 hrs
527 km · Multiple daily trains
View Trains
🚌
By Bus
~13.2 hrs
527 km · AC/Non-AC available
Search Buses
🚗
By Car
~10.5 hrs
527 km via highway
Quick facts
Aerial distance
390 km (242 mi)
Road distance
~527 km
Fastest mode
Train (~9.6 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Bus
📍 Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur distance overview

The straight-line (aerial) distance from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur is approximately 390 km (242 miles). By road, the distance increases to approximately 527 km due to the terrain, highways, and road networks connecting Tamil Nadu to Karnataka.

390 kmAerial distance
~527 kmBy road
~9.6 hrsFastest route
✈️ Reaching Chikmagalur by air
No direct airport

Chikmagalur does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest airport is Mangalore (IXE). Travellers typically fly to the nearest airport and then continue their journey by road or rail.

Search Flights to Nearest Airport
🚆 By train — Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur
~9.6 hours ~527 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Kodaikanal and Chikmagalur with multiple daily services. The journey takes around 9.6 hours — Rajdhani and Shatabdi express trains are faster, while mail and passenger trains make more stops.

AC First Class (1A)Premium, 2-berth cabins
AC 2-Tier (2A)Curtained berths, comfortable
AC 3-Tier (3A)Popular, good value
Sleeper Class (SL)Budget, non-AC

Book in advance through IRCTC, especially during festivals and holidays when seats fill up quickly.

Check Trains on IRCTC
🚌 By bus — Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur
~13.2 hours ~527 km Most affordable

Bus travel is a popular and affordable option. The journey takes approximately 13.2 hours covering ~527 km. Both government and private operators service this route.

Volvo ACPremium comfort, reclining seats
AC SleeperFull-length beds, ideal for overnight
AC SeaterAir-conditioned, mid-range
Non-ACBudget-friendly, basic comfort

Night buses are especially popular for this distance — travel while you sleep and arrive fresh at your destination.

Search Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur Buses
🚗 By car — Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur
~10.5 hours ~527 km

A road trip from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur covers approximately 527 km and takes around 10.5 hours. Actual time depends on traffic, road quality, and stops along the way.

Start early to avoid city traffic and use daylight hours, especially on mountainous or rural terrain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry sufficient fuel for remote stretches.

💡 Travel tips for Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur
📅
Book early
Book flights and trains 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Mar) for better prices and availability.
🌧️
Check weather
Avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) for road trips. Road conditions can deteriorate and flights may face delays.
💳
Carry valid ID
Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID is required for train travel and recommended for bus journeys.
💤
Plan rest stops
For drives over 8 hours, plan overnight halts. Fatigue driving is dangerous on Indian highways.
🔗 Useful travel resources

For official travel information, regulations, and booking services:

IRCTC — Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation — Book train tickets online

Airports Authority of India — Airport information and flight status

DGCA — Directorate General of Civil Aviation — Indian aviation regulator

Incredible India — Official tourism portal of India

Frequently asked questions
What is the distance from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur? ▼
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur is approximately 390 km (242 miles). The road distance is approximately 527 km, which takes about 10.5 hours by car.
What is the fastest way to travel from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur? ▼
The fastest option is by train, taking approximately 9.6 hours. Chikmagalur does not have a major airport, so flying requires reaching the nearest airport at Mangalore (IXE).
Are there buses from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur? ▼
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur route. The journey takes approximately 13.2 hours. You can search and book bus tickets on FareEagle with AC Sleeper, AC Seater, and Non-AC options.
What is the best time to travel from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur? ▼
The best time to travel depends on the weather at your destination. Generally, October to March offers the most pleasant weather across most of India. Avoid monsoon season (June-September) if travelling by road, as heavy rains can cause delays and road closures. For hill stations, summer (April-June) is peak season.
How long does the train take from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur? ▼
The train journey from Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur takes approximately 9.6 hours. Express trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi are faster, while mail/passenger trains take longer with more stops. Check train schedules and availability on IRCTC.
Can I book Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur travel on FareEagle? ▼
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book bus tickets, and hotels for the Kodaikanal to Chikmagalur route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
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