How to Reach Dandeli from Bangalore
Dandeli's allure as a tourist destination stems from its abundant natural beauty and diverse recreational offerings. The region serves as a natural sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, black panthers, elephants, gaur, and nearly 270 bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Dandeli is a vibrant hub for adventure sports. The Kali River is a focal point for activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, zorbing, and river crossing, while the surrounding forests offer opportunities for thrilling jungle safaris and trekking.By Road
Distance: ~460–485 km
Time: 8 to 9.5 hours (depending on traffic)
Best Route: NH 48 → Hubli → Dandeli
The most popular way to reach Dandeli from Bangalore is via a road trip. You can drive along National Highway 48, passing through Tumkur, Chitradurga, and Hubli. Roads are mostly smooth and well-maintained till Dharwad, after which you'll enter forest terrain on your way to Dandeli.
By Bus (KSRTC & Private)
Bus Duration: ~9 to 10 hours
Starting Points in Bangalore: Anand Rao Circle, BTM Layout, Central Silk Board
Drop Points in Dandeli: KSRTC Bus Stand, CMC Complex
Fare Range: ₹600 – ₹1000
Several private operators like VRL Travels, SRS Travels, Sugama Tourist, and KSRTC run overnight and daytime buses. Most buses are sleepers or semi-sleepers, offering comfortable journeys at budget prices.
By Train
Dandeli doesn't have a direct railway station, but the nearest major options are:
- Alnavar Junction (LWR) – ~35 km from Dandeli
- Dharwad Station – ~58 km from Dandeli
- Hubli Junction – ~75 km from Dandeli
Trains from Bangalore:
- Rani Chennamma Express
- YPR-Vasco Da Gama Express
- Chalukya Express (via Yesvantpur)
Train Duration: ~10 hours
Onward to Dandeli:
- Taxi (₹800–₹1700, 30–90 mins)
- Local buses also available from Hubli/Alnavar
By Flight
Nearest Airport: Hubballi Airport (HBX)
Distance from Dandeli: ~75 km
Flight Duration (BLR to HBX): ~1 hr 25 mins
Airlines: IndiGo (Daily direct flights)
From Hubballi Airport, you can take a taxi (₹1700–₹2100) or bus to Dandeli. Car rentals are also available.
Bangalore to Dandeli Travel Comparison
Mode: Road Trip
Distance: ~463 km
Duration: 8–9 hrs
Approx. Cost: Fuel ~₹2500–₹3500
Notes: Best for flexibility and sightseeing
Mode: Bus
Distance: ~470 km
Duration: 9–10 hrs
Approx. Cost: ₹600 – ₹1000
Notes: Multiple boarding/dropping points
Mode: Train
Distance: ~10 hrs (travel time to nearest station)
Duration: 10–12 hrs
Approx. Cost: ₹300 – ₹1500 + taxi
Notes: Combine with taxi or local bus
Mode: Flight
Distance: NA (direct flight to Hubballi, then drive)
Duration: 1 hr flight + 2 hrs drive
Approx. Cost: ₹3500 – ₹6000
Notes: Fastest if booked early
Dandeli Water Activities
Kayaking in Dandeli
15 - 30 mins Ride
Zipline in Dandeli
River Crossing on Zipline
Jungle Safari
Upto 3 Hours Safari
Boating in Dandeli
Glide Peacefully Over River
Zorbing in Dandeli
Roll, splash, & laugh your way
Recommended Places & Experiences
Supa Dam
Majestic dam, scenic views, and serene backwaters.
Crocodile Park
Observe fascinating crocodiles in Dandeli
Moulangi Eco Park
perfect for nature lovers & Adventure seekers.
Syntheri Rocks
Stunning rock formations, a geological marvel.
Kavala Caves
Ancient limestone caves, spiritual trek
Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to diverse flora and fauna.
Dandeli River Rafting
📌 Ganeshgudi, Dandeli | 20 km from Dandeli
Get ready for an unforgettable white-water adventure in the heart of Karnataka! Dandeli, nestled along the vibrant Kali River, offers some of India’s most thrilling yet beginner-friendly rafting experiences—surrounded by lush forests and rich wildlife.
Rafting Type: Short | Distance: 0.5 – 1.5 km | Duration: 30-60 mins | Rapid Grade: Class II | Price: ₹600–₹700 INR
Rafting Type: Mid | Distance: 4 – 6 km | Duration: 1.5–3 hrs | Rapid Grade: Class II–III | Price: ₹1000–₹1200 INR
Rafting Type: Long | Distance: 9 – 12 km | Duration: 2.5–4 hrs | Rapid Grade: Class III | Price: ₹1200–₹1599 INR
October to June: Main season for rafting.
March to June: Exclusive advantage – Rafting continues even in summer, thanks to controlled water releases from Supa Dam.
July to September: Monsoon – Rafting is closed due to safety concerns during this period, but it is ideal for nature exploration.
Recommended: Advance booking, especially during weekends and holidays, is highly advisable to secure your spot.
Trusted Platforms: For reliable bookings, consider using these platforms:
- DandeliHub.com
- Dandeli360.com
- RaftingDandeli.com
Important Safety Advice: Always avoid unlicensed operators. When choosing a service provider, look for:
- Government certification
- Professionally trained guides
- Clear and transparent pricing
Minimum Age: Participants must be 12 years or older.
Non-swimmers Welcome: No swimming experience is required! Life jackets are provided, and trained rescuers are always present to ensure your safety.
Physical Fitness: A basic level of stamina is required for this activity.
Restrictions: For safety reasons, rafting is not allowed for:
- Pregnant women (3 months or more along)
- Individuals who have had recent surgery
- Anyone suffering from chronic pain or recent injuries
