Picture this: two-lane roads canopied by trees, a natural wildlife safari, and thrilling 27-hairpin bends that make you feel like the star of an action movie.
BHPian Ajirules recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
The below post is my first post and thought of posting about the Sathyamangalam route as my first- but i saw the information of the route was already posted. Still posting but glad that there are fans of this route other than me
Attention: Fellow road trippers and thrill-seekers!: Let me introduce you to a route that’s equal parts adventure, scenery, and smart savings especially during crowded travel days like holidays etc when NH is really busy and not worth paying tolls for. This isn’t just a road—it’s a journey of discovery between Bangalore and Kerala, two places that define me and my family.
About Us: I’m Ajith, a proud native of Kerala (Palakkad), living in the vibrant tech hub of Bangalore. With my wife and kid, I’ve been shuttling between these two homes for years, making countless trips. Initially, like most travellers, we took the usual NH route via Salem. But about a year ago, we decided to give the forest route a try in our car. Now? Even my wife insists, “Let’s take the scenic route!”
This Isn’t Just a Route—It’s an Experience ! Picture this: two-lane roads canopied by trees, a natural wildlife safari, and thrilling 27-hairpin bends that make you feel like the star of an action movie. If you’re lucky (or brave), you’ll spot elephants, deer, monkeys, and even wild buffaloes strutting around like they own the place. No traffic jams, no honking trucks—just you, your vehicle, and nature.
And the scenery? Unbeatable. With waterfalls, viewpoints, bridges, and the majestic Bhavanisagar Dam, every mile feels like a postcard come to life.
What’s in It for the Wallet?
This route doesn’t just save time—it saves money too. Toll costs are ₹850 cheaper than the NH route, and a full tank of fuel from Chamarajanagar’s border prices shaves off another ₹300.
That’s like getting a free meal or stocking up on snacks for the road. And with a good fuel-efficient car, you’ll make it back to Bangalore without needing another refill.
The Foodie’s Delight
Unlike the NH route, this one skips the usual A2Bs and big chains, but that’s where the magic happens. Enter Bhama Hotel (M46J+79J, Erode, Tamil Nadu), a charming roadside eatery that serves steaming idlis, crispy dosas in banana leaf, and tea so fresh it tastes like sunshine in a cup. It’s simple, authentic, and, dare I say, even better than some high-end places.
As a family fan-hooked on A2B idly’s till now , for us to recommend Bhama Hotel says a lot. It’s healthy and affordable, and perfect for a quick pit stop—especially if you’re traveling with kids.
From Bumpy Beginnings to Smooth Sailing
Years ago, as a young motorcycle enthusiast riding my Royal Enfield, this route was a wild, bumpy ride. Back then, it was challenging and lonely, making it intimidating for first-timers. I even coined my own term for it:
“What’s Around the Corner Phobia”—the nervousness of not knowing what lay ahead.
But over time, the roads improved, bypasses were added (shaving off 20-30 minutes), and I became familiar with every twist and turn. Now, the route feels like second naturetransforming anxiety into excitement.
The (Few) Cons
Honestly, the more you travel this route, the fewer cons you’ll notice. Long ago, the roads weren’t great for four-wheelers, and food options were scarce. Today, while you won’t find big chains, gems like Bhama Hotel more than make up for it. The scenic beauty, wildlife, and savings outweigh any minor inconveniences.
Why You Should Try It ?
This route isn’t just an alternative—it’s an upgrade. It’s for those who love nature, adventure, and a little challenge. It’s for anyone tired of the boring, honk-filled highways and ready to feel alive behind the wheel.
So, whether you’re from Kerala, Bangalore, or somewhere in between, take the forest route on your next trip. It might just be the journey you didn’t know you were waiting for.
Let me know your thoughts, and if you’ve taken this route before, share your stories. Great roads are meant to be shared! This version should strike the perfect balance of relatability, humour, and useful insights for a forum or magazine post!
Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.
