Travel between Bengaluru and Mysuru has become faster with the new expressway, but toll charges are now unavoidable on both major routes. The Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway, which drastically reduces travel time, comes with multiple toll plazas. Similarly, the Kanakapura–Malavalli stretch, once seen as a free alternative, has also been brought under toll collection. This has left many commuters searching for ways to reach Mysuru without paying.
Service Roads and Local Exits
One practical option is to use service roads and local exits that run parallel to the highway. For instance, travelers can journey up to Srirangapatna, switch to the service road, and re-enter near Bishop’s House, covering about 75 km before exiting again just ahead of the toll point. This detour may add 10–15 minutes to the journey but helps avoid toll charges.
Community-Shared Routes
Local commuters and online communities have also mapped Google routes that bypass toll plazas. These involve taking exits 2–5 km before toll booths and rejoining the highway after crossing the toll zone. While these routes can save up to ₹550 per trip, they are not always reliable, as police sometimes close these exits to enforce toll collection. Travelers using these paths must remain alert and prepared to pay if diversions are blocked.
The Reality of Toll-Free Travel
Despite these alternatives, the reality is that there is no guaranteed toll-free highway option between Bengaluru and Mysuru anymore. Authorities have tightened enforcement, and both primary routes are tolled. While service roads and village detours exist, they are best suited for occasional travelers familiar with the terrain rather than daily commuters.
For those determined to avoid tolls, local service roads and village bypasses remain the only alternatives, though they come with added travel time and uncertainty. The broader lesson is that toll-free travel between Bengaluru and Mysuru is increasingly limited, reflecting the push toward modern infrastructure funded by user fees.
