Bangalore to Tiruvannamalai: The Basics
Tiruvannamalai lies roughly 200 to 210 km south-east of Bengaluru, a drive of about 4 to 4.5 hours on good highways. Thousands make this trip every Pournami, and during Karthigai Deepam the route becomes one of South India’s great pilgrim migrations. Here is every option, laid out.
Your Options at a Glance
| Mode | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Own car | 4 to 4.5 hours | Families, weekend flexibility |
| Bus (government and private) | 5 to 6.5 hours | Solo pilgrims; overnight services land you at dawn |
| Taxi or cab | 4 to 4.5 hours | Groups, elderly travellers |
| Train plus road | Varies | Those combining with a Vellore-side itinerary |
Driving: The Main Route
Via Hosur, Krishnagiri and Chengam
Take NH48 out of Bengaluru through Hosur to Krishnagiri, then turn east on NH77 through Uthangarai and Chengam into Tiruvannamalai. This is the standard route, roughly 200 to 210 km, with the Krishnagiri to Tiruvannamalai stretch running through pleasant countryside. With one break, expect 4 to 4.5 hours. Hosur’s morning traffic is the main variable; leaving Bengaluru by 5:30 to 6 AM makes a real difference.
Alternative: Via Vellore and Polur
A longer option runs east toward Chittoor and Vellore, then south through Polur to Tiruvannamalai, around 230 km. It only makes sense if you want a Vellore stop, such as the Golden Temple at Sripuram, on the way.
By Bus from Bengaluru
Direct buses run regularly between Bengaluru and Tiruvannamalai, operated by the state corporations and private operators, mostly from the Majestic and Shantinagar side of the city, with journey times of about 5 to 6.5 hours. Overnight services are popular with Girivalam pilgrims: board late evening, sleep, and arrive before dawn ready for the walk or an early darshan.
- Book well ahead for Pournami weekends; buses sell out.
- For the Deepam period, book as early as tickets open and expect diversions on arrival.
By Train
There is no fast direct rail link from Bengaluru. The practical rail-plus-road option is a train to Katpadi Junction near Vellore, which has frequent Bengaluru connections, followed by a bus or taxi for the remaining 85 km or so to Tiruvannamalai. For most travellers the direct bus is simpler; check IRCTC if you prefer rail.
Timing Your Trip
- Weekend trips: Leave Bengaluru early Saturday; return Sunday evening after the evening deeparadhanai, reaching home by night.
- Pournami: Arrive by early afternoon; the approach roads and parking tighten by evening.
- Karthigai Deepam: Arrive a full day early, park where directed, and expect the town core to be pedestrianised.
- Summer: Drive in the early morning; the afternoon highway glare is punishing.
Common Mistakes
- Leaving Bengaluru at 8 AM and losing an hour in Hosur traffic.
- Expecting a direct train; plan around bus or car.
- Arriving on Deepam evening itself and spending the night in a traffic diversion.
- Skipping fuel and food at Krishnagiri; options thin out on the last stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tiruvannamalai from Bangalore?
About 200 to 210 km by the Krishnagiri route, taking 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
Which is the best driving route?
NH48 to Krishnagiri, then NH77 via Uthangarai and Chengam. The Vellore route is longer and only worth it with a Vellore stop.
Are there direct buses?
Yes, regular government and private services, including overnight buses that arrive before dawn.
Is there a direct train?
No convenient direct service; take a train to Katpadi Junction and continue by road, or simply take the bus.
How long does the bus take?
Typically 5 to 6.5 hours depending on the operator and stops.
Can I do a one-day trip from Bangalore?
It is a stretch: 8 to 9 hours of travel round trip. An overnight stay makes the trip far better; see our one-day plan for how to use the time.
When should I leave Bangalore on a Pournami?
By early morning, aiming to arrive before noon, rest, and walk in the evening window.
Where do I park during Deepam?
In the designated outskirts grounds announced by the district administration; the town core closes to vehicles at peak times.
Conclusion
Bengaluru to Arunachala is a comfortable morning’s drive or a night’s bus ride. Beat the Hosur traffic, time your arrival around the moon, and the hill does the rest.
Related reading: one day trip plan, Girivalam dates 2026 and hotels near the temple.
Related guides: Vellore to Tiruvannamalai | Hyderabad to Tiruvannamalai
