Planning a trip from Bangalore to the beautiful 900 Kandi forest in Wayanad through Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a journey that slowly shifts from city noise to deep forest silence. The drive itself becomes part of the experience, with changing landscapes, winding roads, and glimpses of wildlife along the way.
Here’s a simple and practical way to plan your trip.
Route Overview
The most common route is:
Bangalore → Mysore → Gundlupet → Muthanga → Sulthan Bathery → Meppadi → 900 Kandi
- Total distance: Around 270–290 km
- Travel time: 6.5 to 8 hours, depending on stops and forest traffic
The stretch through Muthanga is especially scenic, with tall trees lining the road and a chance to spot deer, elephants, or peacocks if you’re lucky.
Best Time to Travel
Start early from Bangalore, ideally around 4:30–5:30 AM. This helps you:
- Avoid city traffic
- Reach the forest stretch during daylight
- Enjoy a calm and smooth drive
Forest roads usually have restrictions at night, so daytime travel is important.
Passing Through Muthanga
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the larger Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The road is open roughly from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- No stopping is allowed inside the forest stretch
- Maintain slow speed and avoid honking
It’s a protected area, so the idea is to pass through quietly while respecting wildlife.
Reaching 900 Kandi
900 Kandi is located near Meppadi and is known for its raw, untouched forest vibe.
From Sulthan Bathery, head towards Meppadi and then take the route toward 900 Kandi. The last stretch is a bit rugged, often requiring:
- A jeep ride arranged by resorts or locals
- Or a vehicle with good ground clearance
Stay Options
900 Kandi is all about eco-stays and nature retreats. You’ll find:
- Treehouses and wooden cottages
- Plantation stays
- Minimal, eco-friendly accommodations
Many places arrange guided forest walks, campfires, and local food experiences.
Things to Do
- Walk through forest trails and bamboo groves
- Visit the glass bridge viewpoint
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset views over the hills
- Sit back and listen to birds and forest sounds
The charm here is in doing less and feeling more.
Travel Tips
- Carry cash; network can be weak in remote areas
- Download offline maps before entering Wayanad
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking
- Avoid plastic and keep the place clean
- Book your stay in advance, especially during peak season
A trip like this is not rushed. As you move from Bangalore into the forests of Wayanad, everything begins to slow down—the air feels fresher, the roads quieter, and the experience more real. By the time you reach 900 Kandi, it feels less like a destination and more like stepping into a different rhythm of life.