The top spots from Coimbatore to Mysore road trip often pave the way forward to the underlying beauty of the Western Ghats. But is that all? No, because you will come across several other religious and historical destinations from Coimbatore to the Mysore road trip. If you are an ardent history lover, you must take this Coimbatore to Mysore road trip. The route houses some of the most popular and age-old historical destinations popular not only in India but also around the world. So, once you plan to head out on your trip, let’s understand some historical landmarks you can explore.

Coimbatore To Mysore Road Trip- Explore Historical Landmarks

Coimbatore, nestled in the beauty of the Western Ghats, is often called the Manchester of South India. Mysore’s rich cultural and vibrant history makes it one of the must-visit destinations in South India, especially if you’re an ardent history lover. Here’s a look at some of the best historical landmarks you can take a stop at during your Coimbatore to Mysore road trip:

1. Malampuzha Dam

The Malampuzha Dam located in Palakkad district of Kerala is one of the best destinations to explore.

Image Credit: Navas Puthanazhi for Wikipedia Commons

The Malampuzha Dam holds a lot of historical significance as being one of the biggest dams in Kerala, constructed in 1955. It is one of the biggest reservoirs in Kerala, located in Palakkad. If you’re planning to visit Malampuzha Dam, it is advisable to follow a map. The roads leading to the dam are extremely beautiful and well-maintained. The dam authorities have designated parking spaces for visitors, which are available for minimal charges. There are short entrance queues. However, some visitors prefer exploring the dam by accessing a ropeway, which has additional charges. The entry point of the ropeway is outside the dam premises.

Timing: 10:00 AM- 7:00 PM
Fee: Rs 300-500

Must Read: Chamundeshwari Temple

2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line

Toy trains are operable even today around Nilgiri Mountain Railway line.

Image Credit: Prakhar for Wikipedia Commons

One of the major stops during the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway line. This is one of the oldest railway lines in South India, constructed in 1908 solely for the movement of steam locomotives. Moreover, the railway line offers an extremely scenic view of the Nilgiris. The Nilgiri Mountain railway line spans 28.5 miles, providing a panoramic view of the mountains. However, the railway line features a steep incline, adding to the natural appeal. Therefore, it might as well be considered a historic yet hidden gem to explore during the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip.

Timing: Varies as per location
Fee: Varies as per location

3. Ooty Lake

You can enjoy boating at the Ooty Lake.

Image Credit: Edukeralam, Navaneeth Krishnan S for Wikimedia Commons

Ooty Lake is one of the best historic destinations to visit on your Coimbatore to Mysore road trip. This artificial lake was made in 1824 by John Sullivan and is surrounded by beautiful and tall eucalyptus trees. This 65-acre lake was built during the British Raj of India. The green shores of Ooty Lake are one of the best places to visit and explore in the Nilgiris district. With a stunning backdrop of mountains, Ooty Lake offers a view of a threaded garden. Visitors can not only indulge in adventure camping at the tea gardens but can also take a shikara ride.

Timing: 9:00 AM- 6:00 PM
Fee: Rs 13

Suggested Read: Resorts Near Kabini

4. Madurai

Madurai is known mostly for the availability of different temples.

Image Credit: Prakashkumar for Wikimedia Commons

Madurai is hailed as the third largest city of Tamil Nadu and is an extremely popular pilgrimage destination in South India. Situated 209 km from Coimbatore, it is on the banks of the River Vaigai. Madurai is also one of the oldest inhabited cities on the Indian peninsula. Madurai is often referred to as the Athens of the East and the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Meenakshi Temple is the main destination, as it is the biggest landmark. Some other temples in Madurai you should explore while you’re here include Koodal Alagar Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Mahal.

Timing: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free

5. Srirangapatna

Sri Ranganathaswami Temple, Srirangaptna

Image Credit: Prakruth Gowda for Wikipedia Commons

Located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, Srirangapatna is just 18 Kms away from Mysore. Apart from being a pilgrimage, this town was once a part of the Vijaynagar Empire. As one of the leading tourist places, Srirangapatna holds religious, cultural and historical importance. Surrounded by the river Kaveri, it appears that Srirangapatna is an island on the Kaveri River. Take a stop at Srirangapatna during your Coimbatore to Mysore road trip and explore some of the best destinations such as Ranganathaswamy Temple, Gumbaz (Mausoleum of Tipu Sultan) and Daria Daulat (Palace of Tipu Sultan).

Timing: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Road Trips From Mysore

6. Arunachaleswarar Temple

Image Credit: Adarsh Pidugu for Wikipedia Commons

The current structure of the Arunachaleswarar temple was built during the 9th century under the Chola dynasty. It is one of the largest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple spans 10 hectares, making it one of the biggest Hindu temples and a leading pilgrimage destination in India. The site has been a place of worship since ancient times. It has six huge sculpted towers, each 217 feet high. Furthermore, the temple houses several shrines.

Timing: 5:30 AM- 12:30 PM (morning), 3:30 PM- 9:30 PM (evening)
Fee: Free

7. Shravanabelagola

 Shravanabelagola is known mostly for its wide variety of Jain temples.

Image Credit: Ananth H V for Wikipedia Commons

If you’re heading out on the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip and wish to explore the leading historical spots, you should consider stopping at Shravanabelagola. The town is popular for housing some of the leading Jain temples of Karnataka. Shravanabelagola is located just 83 Km from Mysore. One of the major attractions here is the huge Bahubali statue. The statue is 58 feet tall and carved out of a single piece of granite rock. It is hailed as the tallest monolithic stone statue in the world. Some of the other places that you should visit at Shravanabelagola are Akhanda Bagilu, Tyagada Kamba, Odegal Basadi, Chandragupta Basadi, and more.

Timing: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Mysore

8. Thrissur

Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple

Image Credit: Rameshng for Wikipedia Commons

Trichur or Thrissur is one of the major destinations to explore during your Coimbatore to Mysore road trip. Although you must take a slightly longer route crossing the Kerala border, it is worth it. This pilgrimage destination is also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala. Some major places you can explore in Thrissur are Guruvayur Temple, Paramekkavu Temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and Vadakkunnathan Temple. Apart from the religious place, you should also consider visiting Thrissur Zoo, Kerala Kalamandalam and Sakthan Thampuran Palace.

Timing: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free

Further Read: Picnic Spots Near Mysore

During the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip, you will come across several religious and historical places. Most of these historical places are connected to religious history, contributing to its overall property. Plan your trip to Mysore today and explore the beauty of the prominent Western Ghats.

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Cover Image Source: Trajsg for wikimedia commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Coimbatore To Mysore Road Trip

What is the Coimbatore to Mysore distance?

Coimbatore to Mysore distance is approximately 283 Km. However, this is the shortest distance and might increase if you change the route.

Which is the best Coimbatore to Mysore route by car?

Coimbatore to Mysore best route by car is via Sathyamangalam and Chamrajnagar as it is the shortest route. Moreover, the roads along this route are smooth too thereby offering the ease of driving. However, the stretch around Kollegal might be a little uncomfortable.

Are there any hairpin bends during the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip?

Yes, contrary to the popular belief that there are no hairpin bends for Coimbatore to Mysore road trip, there are. Coimbatore to Mysore road trip features around 27 hairpin bends.

How long is the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip?

The Coimbatore to Mysore road trip lasts around 7 hours. However, the distance and timing may vary depending on the distance and route you're taking.

What are the popular destinations to visit during the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip?

Apart from the historical landmarks, the Coimbatore to Mysore road trip offers a view of some popular destinations such as Doddabetta Peak, Chennakesava Swamy Temple and Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens.

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