Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Planning a quick Bengaluru escape this weekend? Today, September 23, IMD flags heavy rain across Coorg and Chikkamagaluru. Orange alerts cover Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan and Uttara Kannada, with yellow for nearby districts. Expect thunderstorms, lightning, and gusts near 30–40 kmph from morning into late evening. Rain peaks are likeliest over the Malnad in late afternoon, easing overnight.
That means swollen streams, slick ghats, and lower visibility near passes this afternoon. Start early and keep 60–90 minute buffers for KSRTC buses or self‑drives. Carry rain covers, dry bags, and footwear with grip. IMD’s district map refreshes through the day; recheck warnings before departure and after lunch for returns. Avoid dusk descents on hairpins, when glare and fog combine with slick leaves.
Ghat road status, safer routes and timings
As of this morning, officials report no planned closure on Shiradi Ghat, with maintenance ongoing. Expect brief blocks near works or rain accidents; Charmadi saw treefalls and hour‑long jams in July. Prefer daylight driving and avoid shoulder halts on blind curves. If Shiradi snarls, Mysuru–Madikeri–Sampaje is steadier, though slower. Keep fuel topped up at Sakleshpur or Ujire to avoid idling shortages.
Trek permit and safari slot status
Forest treks need permits on Karnataka Eco‑Tourism’s MyEcoTrip; slots can pause for weather or wildlife movement. Check the portal on travel morning for Kudremukha, Bandaje, Ettina Bhuja and Netravati. Safaris at Nagarahole and Bandipur are open for booking, yet rangers may pause rounds during cloudbursts. Keep alternate time windows. Carry original identity cards; most gates verify names against permits at entry.
What to postpone vs proceed
Postpone waterfall dips, riverfront picnics and off‑road crossings; Kodagu recently barred unsafe water access. Proceed with estate stays, coffee tastings and short heritage stops between showers. Rail travellers should add buffers; the Mangaluru–Bengaluru ghat saw an August landslip. Temporary 10–20 kmph limits still apply at restored sections. Coaches usually run, but hill detours and wet platforms can slow boarding.