Apurv,
I had been there a couple of weeks back. I suggest you take the
Thanisandra route and come back through Kannur if you want to avoid
NH. Also, the Thanisandra route is a bit more greener. Unfortunately
no shade though since the trees have been chopped off. So, start
early.
Never take the Tumkur route. The traffic there is a nightmare.
Regards,
Joseph