Planning for a weekend vacation to Mysore from Bengaluru? We have good news for you! With the remarkable transformation of the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway from a state highway to a 10-lane national highway, you can now reach the erstwhile princely state of Mysuru in just 90 minutes!
The travel time on this route which used to take about 3 hours earlier has been significantly cut down due to the new upgrade. This improved connectivity is expected to have a profound impact on the region's tourism and economic growth.
The estimated cost of the project is around Rs 8,480 crore and also involves the 6-laning of the Bengaluru-Nidaghatta-Mysuru section of NH-2751.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the inauguration of the expressway, highlighted its potential to boost tourism in heritage towns like Ramnagar and Mandya. The improved accessibility will also make it easier for visitors to reach the birthplace of the Kaveri river, a significant cultural and religious site.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Key Facts of Bengaluru-Mysore Expressway, the infrastructure enhancements, toll rates and more.
Also Read: National Highway 2: A Journey Across Northern and Eastern India
Feature | Details |
Name | National Highway 275 (NH-275), Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway |
Type | Access-controlled expressway |
Status | Operational |
Project Model | Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) |
Development Cost | Rs 8,000 crore |
Lanes | 6-10 |
Length | 119 km |
Starting Point | Bengaluru |
Ending Point | Bantwal |
Foundation Laying | March 2018 |
Inauguration | March 12, 2023 |
Cities Covered | Bengaluru, Kengeri, Bidadi, Ramanagara, Channapatna, Maddur, Mandya, Srirangapattana, Mysuru, Hunsur, Periyapatna, Bylakuppe, Kushalanagar, Madikeri, Sullia, Puttur, Bantwal |
Tenders | Package 1: Bengaluru to Nidaghatta (58 km) Package 2: Nidaghatta to Mysore (61 km) Contractor : Dilip Buildcon |
Travel Time | Reduced from 3 hours to 90 minutes |
The 119km Bengaluru-Mysuru Motorway on NH-275 represents a significant enhancement in infrastructure within Karnataka, transitioning from a traditional roadway to a state-of-the-art six-lane expressway. This transformation is a product of the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative, which opted for a strategic blend of 60% brownfield upgrade and 40% greenfield project, effectively replacing the previously canceled NICE Road.
Officially inaugurated by the Prime Minister on March 12, 2023, the expressway showcases a modern infrastructure marvel, despite missing its earlier deadline set for October 2022.
It is meticulously divided into two phases:
Phase 1 covers a 58 km stretch from Bengaluru to Nidaghatta, while Phase 2 spans 61 km from Nidaghatta to Mysuru. This segmentation ensures a streamlined and phased development approach, enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time from three hours to just 90 minutes.
The expressway's infrastructure boasts numerous advanced features aimed at improving safety and efficiency for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It includes fifty underpasses designed to facilitate seamless movement for cars and pedestrians, minimizing potential traffic disruptions.
Additionally, the motorway comprises four railway overbridges (ROBs), forty-four small bridges, and nineteen large bridges, ensuring uninterrupted travel across various terrains. The greenfield segments are strategically planned to create bypasses around major towns such as Bidadi, Ramanagara-Channapatna, Maddur, Mandya, and Srirangapatna, with notable sections like the 3.5 km elevated highway in Maddur.
Toll booths are strategically placed in Srirangapatna and Kumbalgodu, ensuring efficient toll collection and management. These enhancements collectively contribute to a robust and resilient infrastructure, promoting economic growth and improving the overall travel experience between Bengaluru and Mysuru.
Also Read: Key Expressways, National & State Highways Connecting Bengaluru
The expressway not only facilitated faster travel between Bengaluru and Mysuru but has also made it easier to reach popular tourist spots in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Below are the significant impacts Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway has made
Improved Accessibility
The expressway has made it more convenient for tourists to travel to heritage towns like Ooty, Coorg, and Wayanad, which are now just a few hours away from Bengaluru
Boost in Tourism
The reduced travel time between Bengaluru and Mysuru has led to an increase in tourism activities in both cities. Visitors can now explore more places within a shorter timeframe, leading to a surge in demand for tourism and hospitality services
Economic Growth:
The improved connectivity and accessibility brought about by the expressway have stimulated economic growth in the region, creating job opportunities and boosting the tourism industry. This growth is further enhanced by the development of infrastructure along the expressway, such as refreshment outlets, toilet blocks, and foot overbridges
Potential for Regional Development
The expressway's impact extends beyond Bengaluru and Mysuru, benefiting towns and regions along the route. The project aims to make Mysuru a financial hub after Bengaluru, attracting investments and fostering growth in the region
In conclusion, the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway has not only transformed travel dynamics in South India but has also played a crucial role in promoting tourism, enhancing regional connectivity, and driving economic development in the region.
Some popular tourist destinations along the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway include:
Mysuru Palace: A magnificent royal palace and a major tourist attraction in Mysuru.
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens: A well-known zoo in Mysuru offering a variety of wildlife experiences.
Somnathpur Temple: An ancient temple known for its intricate Hoysala architecture.
Devaraja Market: A bustling market in Mysuru offering a vibrant shopping experience.
Kabini Dam: A dam located near Mysuru offering scenic views and recreational activities.
Namdroling Monastery: A Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.
Karanji Lake: A picturesque lake in Mysuru ideal for birdwatching and leisurely walks.
Kukkarahalli Lake: Another scenic lake in Mysuru popular for its natural beauty
Kishkindha Molika Bonsai Garden: A unique garden showcasing a variety of bonsai plants.
These destinations offer a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making them popular stops for tourists traveling along the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway.
Effective April 1, 2024, The revised toll rates for the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway are as follows:
For the journey between Nidaghatta and Mysuru, the toll rates have been revised to Rs 160 for a single journey and Rs 240 for a return trip for cars, vans, and jeeps.
Cars, vans, and jeeps traveling on the Bengaluru-Nidaghatta section of the expressway will have to pay Rs 170 for one trip and Rs 255 for a round trip, starting from April 12.
From July 1 onwards, travelers using a car will have to pay Rs 320 for one way and Rs 485 for a return trip on the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway3.
The toll charges between Nidaghatta and Mysuru will be Rs 160 for a single journey and Rs 240 for cars, vans, and jeeps5.
These revised toll rates reflect the recent adjustments on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway.
Here are the latest updates on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway:
Toll Prices Increased
The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has notified revised toll prices on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway, effective from April 1, 2024. The toll fee has been increased for various vehicle categories
Safety Measures and Restrictions
The expressway has witnessed 308 fatal and non-fatal accidents, resulting in 100 deaths and leaving over 300 people injured since its inauguration in March 2023.
To address safety concerns, authorities have implemented various measures, including banning slow-moving vehicles, two-wheelers, autos, and other non-motorized vehicles on the expressway to reduce accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow. Additionally, speed limits and lane discipline regulations have been enforced to enhance road safety and reduce accidents
Impact on Local Businesses
The expressway has had a mixed impact on local businesses. While it has brought increased business to some new restaurants and shops, it has also affected famous eateries and hotels in Bidadi and Maddur, as well as the toy makers of Channapatna, who have become inaccessible due to the expressway
Impact on Real Estate
The expressway is expected to benefit the real estate sector, with increased growth in terms of business and residential sectors. Bengaluru is the world's fastest-growing tech hub, and Mysuru is the next one
Ongoing Developments
The expressway is still undergoing development, with work on service roads, drainage, and bus shelters ongoing in some areas. The authorities are also working to address issues like flooding caused by the expressway
The Bangalore-Mysore Expressway marks a milestone in Karnataka's infrastructure, drastically reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between two major cities. With significant infrastructural upgrades including numerous underpasses, overbridges, and bypasses, the expressway not only improves travel efficiency but also boosts economic growth and tourism.
Despite some initial challenges and ongoing developments, the expressway is set to foster regional development, support local businesses, and enhance safety measures. The increased toll rates reflect its premium service, offering a modern, fast, and safe route for commuters.
As it continues to evolve, the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway shows Karnataka's commitment to progress and modernity.