Your Ultimate Guide to Booking a Bangalore to Chikmagalur Cab: Fares, Tips & More
Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Are you dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of Bangalore and trading it for serene hills, lush coffee plantations, and misty mountain views? Then you’re in for a treat because today we’re diving into everything you need to know about planning the perfect road trip to Chikmagalur, Karnataka’s very own “Coffee Country!” Imagine winding roads, the smell of fresh coffee in the air, and the sound of nature all around you – that’s exactly what awaits you in Chikmagalur.
Traveling by cab isn’t just convenient, it’s also super flexible and can really make your trip a whole lot smoother. So, let’s get into how to book a cab from Bangalore to Chikmagalur, making sure you have all the info you need to plan an unforgettable getaway.
Why Choose a Cab for Your Bangalore to Chikmagalur Trip?
Let’s be real, sometimes driving yourself can be a total drag, especially when you’re trying to relax and enjoy a vacation. Here’s why choosing a cab can be a total game-changer:
- Convenience and Flexibility:
- First off, you get door-to-door service. No need to worry about public transport or figuring out complicated routes.
- Plus, you can customize your itinerary and go wherever your heart desires. Want to make a spontaneous stop at a roadside viewpoint? Go for it!
- Comfort:
- Cabs are all about comfort. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery without the stress of navigating traffic or worrying about directions.
- Most cabs come with comfortable seating and air conditioning to keep you cool and comfy.
- Safety:
- When you book a cab, you can be sure that your safety is a priority. Most services provide well-maintained vehicles and trained drivers who know the routes well.
- And hey, in these times, many cab services are also taking extra steps with Covid-19 safety protocols, like sanitizing their vehicles and requiring drivers to wear masks.
Understanding Your Cab Options
Before we get into booking, let’s quickly look at the types of cabs you can choose from:
- Types of Cabs Available:
- Hatchback: This is your most budget-friendly option, perfect for solo travelers or small groups who are traveling light.
- Sedan: A bit more spacious and comfy than a hatchback, sedans are great for small families or groups with a bit more luggage.
- SUV: If you’re traveling with a larger group or a lot of luggage, an SUV is the way to go. They offer maximum space and comfort.
- You might see specific models like Swift Dzire, Ertiga, and Innova mentioned, but keep in mind that the exact car model may not be guaranteed.
- Choosing the Right Cab:
- Consider the number of passengers and how much luggage you’re bringing. If you’re a solo traveler with a small bag, a hatchback is perfect, but if you’re a family of six with a week’s worth of stuff, an SUV would be a better fit.
Top Cab Service Providers: A Detailed Comparison
Okay, now let’s talk about some of the popular cab services that can take you from Bangalore to Chikmagalur. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which one fits your needs best:
Feature | Aryan cabs | Goibibo | EaseMyTrip | Bangalore Ride | GaadiBooking | Guruji Travels |
---|
Starting Price | Varies, check their website | From ₹4255 | From ₹4234 | ₹3618 one way | Varies, check their app | Varies, call for a quote |
One-Way or Round-Trip | Both available | Both available | Both available | Both available | One way available | Both available |
Toll/Parking | Usually included | Usually included | Usually included but airport parking is extra | Toll & parking excluded | Transparent billing | Usually excluded |
Cancellation Policy | Varies, check when booking | Free until 1 hour prior | Free until 30 minutes prior | Varies, check when booking | 100% refund if cancelled within 1 hour | Varies, call for a quote |
Waiting Time | Not specified | Not specified | Varies, 20-45 mins, charges may apply | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
Night Charges | Not specified | Not specified | Usually ₹250-₹350 between 10 PM-6 AM | Not specified | Not specified | Usually extra after 10 PM |
Customer Support | 24/7 | 24/7 | 24/7 | Call or enquiry form available | Not specified | Call for support |
Partial Payment | 20% option | Available | 15-25% option | Not specified | Deposit required to confirm | Not specified |
Safety Measures | Sanitized cabs, masks | GoSafe program | Sanitized cabs, masks, Arogya Setu app | Not specified | Verified cars and chauffeurs | Sanitized cabs, masks |
Car Models | Swift Dzire, Ertiga, Innova | Hatchback, Sedan, SUV | WagonR, Swift, Dzire, Etios, Xylo, Ertiga, Innova | Etios, Dzire, Innova | Hatchbacks, Sedans, SUVs | Hatchback, Sedan |
Special Offers | Varies, check their website | Upto ₹500 Off | Upto ₹300 Off | Check for discounts | Not specified | Varies |
Note: Prices and policies can change, so always double-check when booking!
How to Book Your Bangalore to Chikmagalur Cab
Booking a cab is super easy these days. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step-by-step Guide:
- Head over to the official website or app of your chosen cab service.
- Enter your pickup and drop locations, along with the date and time of your trip.
- You’ll see a list of available cabs with prices.
- Select the cab type that suits your needs.
- Fill in your details and any other info required.
Choose your preferred payment method and confirm your booking!
Booking Tips:
- Book in advance, especially during peak season, to get better prices and ensure your preferred cab is available.
- Whether you’re heading one way to Chikmagalur or planning to come back, you can book both one-way and round-trip cabs.
- Keep an eye out for special discounts or coupon codes that can help save you some cash.
- Some providers allow you to select your preferred pickup time, while others may have a fixed time.
Payment Options:
You’ll usually have the option to pay a part of the fare online and the rest to the driver.
Most providers accept various payment methods, including debit/credit cards and online payment gateways.
If you’re paying the driver directly for tolls or extra km, remember to keep those receipts handy.
Detailed Cost Breakdown & Budgeting
Planning your budget is super important, so let’s break down the costs involved:
- Factors Affecting Cost:
- The type of cab you choose plays a big role in the price – hatchbacks are the cheapest, while SUVs are the most expensive.
- Of course, the distance also affects the price.
- Traveling during night hours may result in additional charges.
- If you exceed the included kilometers, there’s usually an extra per-km charge.
- Also, things like toll, parking, and state taxes may not be included in your initial fare
- Estimating Your Total Trip Cost:
- For example, a one-way trip in a hatchback might start from ₹4234, while a sedan could start from around ₹4320 and an SUV from around ₹7008.
- Keep in mind that these are just starting points. You’ll also need to factor in costs for food, parking, and any sightseeing you plan to do.
Travel Itineraries and Local Insights
Now, let’s talk about how to make the most of your trip!
Suggested Routes:
The most common route from Bangalore to Chikmagalur is around 242 km and takes about 4.5 hours.
There is also a longer, scenic route via National Highway 48.
Plan some scenic stops for photos and some local restaurants for meals along the way.
- Day-by-Day Itineraries:
- Day 1: Visit a coffee estate, try some local Malanad cuisine, and enjoy a relaxing evening.
- Day 2: Trek to Mullayanagiri Peak, or visit Hebbe Falls for a refreshing dip.
- Day 3: Explore Bhadra Dam, or visit some of the local temples.
- Local Insights and Hidden Gems:
- Ask your driver for local recommendations! They can point you to hidden viewpoints and hiking trails.
- Be sure to try the authentic Malanad cuisine!
- Don’t miss out on other fun things like trekking, cycling, or rafting.
Safety and Comfort Tips for a Smooth Journey
Let’s make sure your trip is as safe and comfy as possible:
- For Solo Travelers:
- Choose reputable cab services with good reviews.
- Let someone know your travel plans before you go.
- For Family Travelers:
- Select a cab that has enough space for your entire family and luggage.
- For Travelers with Pets:
- Please note that most services do not allow pets
- Check with the provider if you are traveling with pets as some may allow it with extra charge.
- General Safety:
- Always choose a reputable service.
- Share your cab details with family or friends.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel
Let’s also talk about being a responsible traveler:
- Eco-Friendly Cab Options:
- See if your chosen cab company prioritizes sustainable practices.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations:
- Consider staying in a homestay or coffee estate accommodation that focuses on sustainability.
- Community Engagement:
- Try to engage with local communities to support sustainable tourism.
Additional Practical Advice
Just a few more things to keep in mind:
- Best Time to Visit:
- The ideal time is from October to May, especially during the winter months.
- What to Pack:
- Don’t forget to carry a photo ID.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change, especially when you get to the hills.
- Adjusting to Hilly Areas:
- Be aware that the AC in your cab may not work when going uphill.
- Flexibility:
- Be flexible with pickup and drop times, as there might be unexpected delays due to traffic or other issues.
Conclusion
Okay, that’s about it! Booking a cab from Bangalore to Chikmagalur can be the best way to get to your destination! It offers a ton of flexibility and convenience, allowing you to make the most of your trip.
So, start planning your trip to Chikmagalur today, experience its natural beauty, and make some lasting memories!
Call to Action
Have any questions or tips to share? Drop a comment below. We’d love to hear about your experiences! Also, if you’ve taken any great photos on your trip, feel free to share them – they might just make it into this post!
Ready to book? Here are a few links to the mentioned cab service providers:
- MakeMyTrip: https://www.makemytrip.com
- Aryan cabs : https://www.aryancabs.com
- Goibibo: https://www.goibibo.com
- EaseMyTrip: https://www.easemytrip.com
- Bangalore Ride: https://www.bangaloreride.com
- GaadiBooking: https://www.gaadibooking.com
- Guruji Travels: https://www.gurujitravel.com