Hassan is a major district in Karnataka and a hub for exploring Belur, Halebidu, Shravanabelagola, and other heritage sites. Though Hassan does not have metro or tram services, it is well connected by railways, buses, and roads.
1. By Car / Taxi
- Local Taxis: Available through private operators, Ola, and local taxi stands. Cars are the best option for covering temples and nearby attractions such as Belur (40 km), Halebidu (35 km), and Shravanabelagola (50 km).
- Self-Drive Cars: Rental options are available from Bengaluru and Mysuru. Tourists often drive down as roads are in good condition.
- Approx. Cost: ₹10–15 per km for taxis; ₹2500–3500 per day for full-day rental.
2. By Rail (Hassan Junction)
- Hassan Railway Station (HAS): The main station in the city, well-connected to Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangalore, Hubli, Karwar and other towns.
- Train Frequency: Multiple daily trains from Bengaluru and Mysuru make rail one of the most convenient travel options.
- Tourist Advantage: Cheaper and comfortable for inter-city travel, with taxis or auto-rickshaws available outside the station for local sightseeing.
3. Metro & Tram
- Metro: Hassan does not have a metro system. The nearest metro service is in Bengaluru (BMRCL).
- Tram: No tram network exists in Hassan. Local travel is through autos, taxis, or buses.
4. By Road (Highways and Private Vehicles)
- Hassan is located on NH 75 (Bengaluru–Mangalore Highway). Roads are in good condition and ideal for road trips.
- Distance from Major Cities:
- Bengaluru – 180 km (4–5 hours by car)
- Mysuru – 115 km (3 hours)
- Mangalore – 170 km (4.5 hours)
- Many tourists prefer driving from Bengaluru to Hassan for flexibility.
5. By Bus
- KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation): Operates regular services to Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangalore. Luxury AC buses (Airavat, Rajahamsa) are also available.
- Local Buses: City and inter-district buses connect villages and nearby heritage towns like Belur, Halebidu, and Shravanabelagola.
- Approx. Cost: ₹20–₹80 for local buses; ₹200–₹400 for intercity travel.
Transportation Table
| Mode of Transport | Availability in Hassan | Connectivity | Approx. Cost | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car / Taxi | High | Local & nearby towns | ₹10–15/km or ₹2500–3500/day | Best for flexible sightseeing |
| Self-Drive Car Rental | From Bengaluru/Mysuru | Intercity & local | ₹2500–4000/day | Good for family/group travel |
| Rail (Hassan Junction) | High | Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangalore, Hubli | ₹100–₹600 | Comfortable intercity option |
| KSRTC Buses | High | Intercity + Local | ₹20–₹400 | Budget-friendly travel |
| Local City Buses | Moderate | Within Hassan & nearby villages | ₹20–₹80 | Basic facilities |
| Metro | Not Available | Nearest at Bengaluru | – | Use buses/rail/taxi in Hassan |
| Tram | Not Available | – | – | Not applicable |
| Road (NH 75, NH 73) | Excellent | Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangalore | Depends on vehicle | Scenic & convenient drives |
Other Tourist Information
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather).
- Languages Spoken: Kannada (local), Hindi & English understood in tourist areas.
- Local Transport Tip: Auto-rickshaws are available but fares are not always metered; negotiate before travel.
- Accommodation: Wide range of hotels from budget stays to luxury resorts.
- Nearby Attractions: Belur, Halebidu, Shravanabelagola, Shettihalli Church, Gorur Dam.
- Food to Try: Ragi mudde, Bisi Bele Bath, Maddur Vada, and South Indian thali meals.