Outstation route
Bangalore to Male Mahadeshwara Hills: Distance and Cab
Male Mahadeshwara Hills, often shortened to MM Hills and also called Mahadeshwara Betta, is a major hill temple and forest area in the south of Karnataka. This page covers the distance from Bengaluru and the practical side of going by private cab.
The route
Distance and roads to MM Hills
The route leaves Bengaluru on NH 275 and then switches to smaller roads. Route planners list SH 79, SH 33 and NH 948 as well, so this is a multi-road journey rather than a single highway run. The trip stays inside Karnataka, so no interstate permit is needed.
| Road distance | About 210 km one way |
| Driving time (route planner) | About 3 h 15 min without traffic delays or stops |
| Main roads on the route | NH 275, SH 79, SH 33, NH 948 |
| Round trip | About 420 km of driving, plus any local sightseeing |
Measured from central Bengaluru (Vidhana Soudha) using OpenStreetMap route data. Your exact distance depends on the pickup point and the route the driver takes, and real journey times are usually longer once city traffic, ghat sections and breaks are added.
The time given is a route-planner driving time without traffic or stops. Because the last part climbs through hills and forest, an actual journey often takes longer than a flat-road estimate would suggest, especially if you stop for photographs or tea. Allow generous time.
At the hills
What to know about Mahadeshwara Betta
‘Betta’ means hill in Kannada, and this is a hill region in which the temple of Lord Male Mahadeshwara, a Shaiva saint-figure worshipped by many people in southern Karnataka, draws a steady stream of devotees. The temple is surrounded by forested hills that form a wildlife area.
- Devotees visit for darshan at the Male Mahadeshwara temple.
- The forest and hill views make the drive scenic, particularly after the monsoon when everything is green.
- The area is rural, with limited facilities, so carry water and snacks.
Forest rules, vehicle entry arrangements and temple timings can change, and large crowds gather on festival days, so check current details locally before you go.
Plan your trip
Why most travellers stay overnight
With a one-way drive of about 210 km, this is among the longer temple trips in the region. A same-day return means driving for many hours in total, much of it on hill and forest roads that are not pleasant to drive after dark. A night nearby, or a combined plan, usually makes the trip more comfortable.
Since a round trip of about 420 km passes the daily minimum of 300 km, billing follows the actual kilometres plus the driver allowance. If you also want to see the district around it, read about the Chamarajanagar trip, or stop at Mysuru on the way. Pilgrims who want a drop only can use a one way taxi.
For large family or village groups, a Tempo Traveller or mini bus keeps everyone together; see the Tempo Traveller rental page. A smaller party will be comfortable in an Innova Crysta, whose ride suits winding roads.
Vehicle options
Vehicles for the MM Hills trip
Vehicle availability depends on your travel date. Tell us your group size and luggage when booking and we will suggest a suitable option.
Tariff
Bangalore to Male Mahadeshwara Hills: Distance and round-trip rates
| Vehicle | Round-trip rate | Driver allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Dzire (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Toyota Etios (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Toyota Innova | ₹16 / km | ₹400 |
| Toyota Innova Crysta | ₹22 / km | ₹400 |
| Toyota Innova Hycross | ₹25 / km | ₹400 |
| Tempo Traveller | On request | ₹600 |
| Mini bus (21 / 24 seater) | On request | ₹600 |
Round trip, minimum 300 km per day. Fares are inclusive of GST, and the final bill is based on the actual distance travelled. Hill-station charges, interstate permits, state permits, tolls and parking are extra. One-way drop fares are confirmed when you book.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bangalore to Mahadeshwara Betta distance?
It is about 210 km one way from central Bengaluru, which is about 3 h 15 min of driving without traffic or stops in route-planner data. A round trip is about 420 km.
Is MM Hills the same as Male Mahadeshwara Hills?
Yes. MM Hills is the common short name for Male Mahadeshwara Hills, and many people also say Mahadeshwara Betta or Mahadeshwara Hills.
Can I do MM Hills as a day trip?
It is possible, but the drive is long and the final part is on hill roads. Most travellers prefer to start very early or stay overnight.
Which roads does the route use?
Route planners list NH 275, SH 79, SH 33 and NH 948. Your driver will choose the best combination on the day.
Is an interstate permit required?
No, the trip is within Karnataka. Tolls and parking are extra. Round trips are billed with a minimum of 300 km per day, and the fare is confirmed when you book.
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