The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has cut fares on many premium bus routes starting Monday, January 5, 2026. This move aims to draw more passengers during the usual off-season months of January to March. Typically, KSRTC raises fares by 10–15% during busy travel times like April to June and October to December. During slower months, fares return to normal. But this time, KSRTC has reduced prices even more to fill seats on premium buses. The new, lower fares affect buses from depots including Bengaluru Central, Mysuru Rural, Puttur, Davanagere, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Mangaluru, and others. The fare cuts apply to top-tier Ambaari Utsav multi-axle AC sleeper coaches, Ambaari Dream Class, multi-axle AC sitting coaches, Rajahamsa services, and some non-AC sitting buses. A senior KSRTC official said, "The objective is to make premium travel more affordable during the lean season and encourage passengers to continue choosing KSRTC over private operators. By offering competitive fares, we expect better seat occupancy and sustained revenue despite lower seasonal demand."