A Mangalore to Wayanad cab covers around 260 km in 6.5–7.5 hours, travelling down the Kerala coast to Kannur and then climbing the Nedumpoyil (Periya) Ghat to Mananthavady and Kalpetta. An alternative inland route through Madikeri, Virajpet and Kutta is used when it suits your destination in north Wayanad. Either way, it is a long but rewarding drive from the sea to Kerala's highland district of forests, tea and spice gardens.
| Vehicle | Seats | One way (260 km) | Round trip (520 km, 2 days) | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swift Dzire or Similar Compact Sedan | 4 People | ₹4,300 ₹15/km | ₹8,000 | Book |
| Toyota Etios Premium Sedan | 4 People | ₹4,560 ₹16/km | ₹8,600 | Book |
| Maruti Ertiga or Similar Compact SUV | 6 People | ₹5,700 ₹20/km | ₹10,400 | Book |
| Toyota Innova Premium SUV | 7 People | ₹6,220 ₹22/km | ₹11,000 | Book |
| Toyota Innova Crysta Luxury SUV | 7 People | ₹7,000 ₹25/km | ₹12,200 | Book |
One-way fares include fuel and driver allowance (minimum 130 km). Round-trip fares are for the same car returning to Mangalore, billed at the round-trip rate with a daily minimum. Tolls, parking and interstate permits are extra where they apply. Tempo Travellers, Urbania and mini buses are available for round trips.
The first half follows NH66 south from Mangalore through Kasaragod and Payyanur to Kannur, a level coastal drive. From Kannur the road turns inland through Kuthuparamba and Nedumpoyil, where the ghat climbs steeply through forest to the Wayanad plateau. Mananthavady is the first big town, and Kalpetta, Vythiri or Sulthan Bathery are a further 30 to 60 minutes depending on your resort. For stays near Thirunelli or Tholpetty, drivers may instead go through Madikeri and Kutta in Coorg, which crosses forest areas where night traffic restrictions apply.
From June to September the Western Ghats receive some of the heaviest rain in India, and the ghat section of the Mangalore–Wayanad road can be slowed or briefly closed by slips. Drivers check road status before departure. The dry months from October to March give clearer views and faster travel.
With a long coastal stretch followed by a steep ghat, an SUV such as the Innova or Ertiga is the most comfortable choice for families. Every group size is covered for the Mangalore to Wayanad trip: Swift Dzire and Toyota Etios sedans, the seven-seater Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Innova and Innova Crysta, plus Tempo Traveller 12+1, Force Urbania 16+1 and mini buses for bigger parties.
Pick your vehicle from the Mangalore–Wayanad fares listed on this page and book online, or call +91 99725 37722 (also on WhatsApp) and our team will arrange the trip.
An ancient Vishnu temple in the Brahmagiri forest near Mananthavady.
Memorial to the Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, with a small museum.
A seaside fort near Kasaragod, an optional stop on the coastal stretch.
Usually NH66 to Kannur and then the Nedumpoyil Ghat to Mananthavady. For north Wayanad stays, the route via Madikeri and Kutta is sometimes shorter.
Plan for 6.5–7.5 hours for about 260 km, including a meal break. Ghat traffic and rain can add time.
On the Coorg–Kutta route, night traffic restrictions apply through the forest, so drivers time the trip for daylight. The coastal Nedumpoyil route has no such restriction but is best climbed in daylight.
Talk to our travel desk for a quote, extra stops or a bigger vehicle. We answer 24/7.
Call +91 99725 37722WhatsApp us