Top 27 Best Road Trips From Chennai

A road trip is a unique travel experience and offers complete freedom over your adventure. While some include exploring offbeat travel destinations, others are witnessing well-known places that attract several tourists throughout the year.

Read more about the most amazing road trips from Chennai that you can plan to go on solo or in a group.         

Are you planning to take a short road trip on your weekend? Below are some suggestions that are only a few distances from Chennai like within 100 km, between 100 km to 200 km, 200 km to 300 km, and 300 km to 600 km.

Listed below are some of the best road trips from Chennai that are within 100 km and take only a few hours to reach:

1. Pulicat | 55 km From Chennai

source: cloudinary

Pulicat is one of the most beautiful seashores in Tamil Nadu, located across the Coromandel coast. It houses Pulicat Lake which is the 2nd largest brackish water body in India offering serene surroundings and landscapes. The Pulicat Bird Sanctuary is another major tourist attraction found here that is a seasonal home to migratory birds.

• Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Wildlife and beaches, Pulicat Lake
• Best Route: SH104

2. Mahabalipuram | 56 km From Chennai

Mahabalipuram connects through a picturesque road that runs across the coastline. One of the best one-day road trips from Chennai, Mahabalipuram has several tourist attractions certified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, being a famous beach town it is well-known for surfing, rock-cut caves and intricately carved temples. Its structures also hold great historical importance.

• Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Five Rathas, Sadras, Shore Temple, Beach, Arjuna’s Penance
• Best Route: East Coast Road

3. Kanchipuram | 84 km From Chennai

Kanchipuram is among India’s seven sacred cities. A site of historical and religious significance, the ancient structures 'Golden City of Temples’ are a legacy of the Dravidian heritage dating back to the Pallava dynasty. Whenever you are in Kanchipuram, explore its culture and the silk-weaver towns to get a different travel experience.

• Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Kanchi Kudil, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple
• Best Route: NH48

4. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary | 86 km From Chennai

source: zenger

This bird sanctuary is located on the Vedanthangal Lake and can be an ideal road trip experience from Chennai. Home to more than 40,000 species of migratory birds, most of which are rare, you can capture amazing shots of rare species of birds. All these birds migrate from Australia, Siberia and Myanmar.

• Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: November to February (peak migratory season)
• Major Attractions: Karikili Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
• Best Route: NH32

Road trips between 100 km and 200 km are more fascinating as you get to travel through several cities:

5. Nagalapuram | 117 km From Chennai

source: thetravelshots

If you are an adventure buff, opt for a road trip to Nagalapuram from Chennai. Located north of Chennai, this place promises stunning scenic views that make it an ideal place for camping. Plan a day trip to the Nagalapuram Falls and the Vedanarayana Swamy Temple which are major tourist attractions here.

• Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Swami Pushkarini Lake, Sri Venkateswara Temple, Silathoranam
• Best Route: Kanyakumari Road and NH38

6. Tirupati | 133 km From Chennai

source: wikimedia

Located north of Chennai in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is a temple town and one of the most visited sites in India. A road trip from Chennai to this place will take you to the marvellous Venkateswara Temple, topped with a gold roof. Apart from this, this place is well-known for its surroundings and serenity.

• Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Major Attractions: Nellore, Chittoor, ISKCON Temple, TTD Gardens
• Best Route: NH716A

7. Vellore | 137 km From Chennai

source: trawell

A historical town, Vellore is located along the Chennai-Bangalore National Highway. One of the major attractions here is the Vellore Fort, which is one of the largest forts in Tamil Nadu. The fort contains Jalakanteshwara Temple and a State Government Museum. You must explore some of the local delicacies around this place which include the Ambur Biryani.

• Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Palamathi Hills, Vellore Fort, Periyar Park, St. John’s Church
• Best Route: NH48

8. Chittoor | 151 km From Chennai

source: destinationtoplan

Usually a 4-hour drive from Chennai, Chittoor boasts several natural and religious attractions that travellers can visit. It is a major city of Andhra Pradesh and the former capital of the great Dravidian. The best season to visit Chittoor is during the winter and the monsoon months.

• Travel Time: 4 to 4.5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: November to April
• Major Attractions: Chandragiri Fort, Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vaari Temple
• Best Route: NH48

9. Pondicherry | 151 km From Chennai

source: traveltriangle

Pondicherry’s serene beaches and densely vegetated lands offer a spectrum of experiences for travellers. Famously referred to as ‘The French Riviera of the East’, this place can be an ideal driving getaway from Chennai. Explore cathedrals, mosques, and monuments that represent 18th-century colonial architecture. This little excerpt of France has become a popular destination for weekend road trips from Chennai.

• Travel Time: 3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, White Town, Pondicherry Museum, Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arikamedu, Auroville
• Best Route: NH32

10. Nellore | 175 km From Chennai

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A road trip to Nellore should be on the list of every traveller interested in serene beaches, landscapes, temples and handloom shopping. A paradise for bird lovers and wildlife photographers, you can spot several migratory birds in Nellore. These include - pelicans, flamingos and storks, etc.

• Travel Time: 3.5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Major Attractions: Pulicat Lake, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Somasila, Mypad Beach, Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
• Best Route: NH16

If you are willing to travel a bit further from Chennai, there are countless places within 300 km.                            

11. Pichavaram Mangrove Forests | 215 km From Chennai

source: wikimedia

Pichavaram is the world’s second-largest mangrove forest covering an area of nearly 1100 hectares. Located between two well-known estuaries, i.e., Coleroon Estuary in the South and Vellar Estuary in the North, this place is best for birdwatching. The estuaries form the Killai backwaters – a perfect destination for indulging in kayaking, rowing, and canoeing. There are an astonishing 400+ routes for boating in the Pichavaram Mangroves!

• Travel Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Major Attractions: Waterscape and backwater cruise
• Best Route: NH32

12. Yelagiri | 226 km From Chennai

source: mouthshut

A road trip to the beautiful hill station of Yelagiri in Tamil Nadu is a must if you want to indulge in rock climbing, paragliding, boating, and trekking. Yelagiri is located between the beautiful towns of Jolarpettai and Vaniyambadi. Explore boat houses at the Summer Festival, put up for showcase by local artisans, and get a glimpse of the traditional and folk art forms of South India.

• Travel Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Major Attractions: Jalakandeswarar Temple, Punganoor Lake Park, Government Silk Farm, Swamimalai Hills, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Punganoor Lake Park
• Best Route: NH48

13. Tharangambadi/Tranquebar | 267 km From Chennai

source: wikimedia

Tranquil beaches, golden sands and heritage buildings make your road trip to Tharangambadi ideal. While driving across the scenic East Coast Road, you can view the coastline that refreshes your mind. You will find a 17th-century Danish fort and Tranquebar museum where antiques and relics from the 17th and 18th centuries are well preserved.

• Travel Time: 6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: December to April
• Major Attractions: Maritime Museum, Bungalow on The Beach, Sri Masilamani Nathar Temple, Town Gate, Fort Dansborg, The Zion Church, New Jerusalem Church
• Best Route: East Coast Road and NH32

14. Horsley Hills | 276 km From Chennai

source: travelescape

Horsley Hills is situated in the southern belt of Andhra Pradesh and is a famous hill station frequented by visitors. The pleasant climate and gorgeous landscapes are reasons people love to visit this location. Moreover, nature enthusiasts and bird lovers will find eucalyptus trees and other exotic flora, giving shelter to several rare and common bird species.

• Travel Time: 6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: December to March
• Major Attractions: Whisper Winds View Point, Horsley Hills Museum, Kalyani – Eucalyptus Tree, Horsley Hills Zoo, Gali Bandalu
• Best Route: NH 48 and NH 42

15. Kumbakonam | 292 km From Chennai

source: travelduo

Kumbakonam is also known as the ‘Cambridge of South India’ and the ‘Temple City of South India’. Home to around 188 temples, this place attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the country. The rich heritage, culture and art reflected in every nook and corner of this place, make it an ideal destination for tourists to explore.

• Travel Time: 6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Major Attractions: Mottai Gopura Vasal Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, MahaMaham Tank, Divya Desam Arulmigu Sarangapani Swamy Temple, Swamimalai Temple, Airavatesvara Temple
• Best Route: Kanyakumari Road

Listed below are some of the ideal road trips that are within 300 km and 600 km that serve as ideal weekend getaways.

16. Trichy | 332 km From Chennai

A fast-emerging city in Tamil Nadu, Trichy enthrals tourists with several temples and churches that speak volumes about its rich heritage. If you are seeking a place to spend your weekend, Trichy is an ideal location.

• Travel Time: 5 hours 51 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Rock Fort Temple, Ranganathaswamy Temple, Thayumanaswamy Temple
• Best Route: Kanyakumari Road and Grand Southern Trunk Road

17. Bangalore | 335 km From Chennai

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Bangalore is the 3rd largest and one of the most fascinating cities in India. The Silicon Valley of India is famous for its pleasant weather, parks, lakes and several tourist attractions. So, if you are planning a road trip from Chennai to spend your weekend, Bangalore is ideal.

• Travel Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Major Attractions: Iskcon Temple, Nandi Hills, Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Brigade Road, Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore Palace, etc.
• Best Route: NH48

18. Thanjavur | 343 km From Chennai

Thanjavur is another significant destination from Chennai that is well-known for its rich heritage, art and culture. The beautiful temples, including the UNESCO-certified Brihadisvara Temple, opulent palaces and museums will surely take you back in time. Furthermore, this city is famous for its superb handicrafts, dolls and paintings.

• Travel Time: 6 hours 32 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Thanjavur Palace, Sivaganga Park, Royal Palace Museum, Maratha Palace, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Brihadisvara Temple
• Best Route: Kanyakumari Road

19. Nandi Hills | 346 km From Chennai

source: songsofroad

Plan a blissful one-day road trip from Chennai to bask in the awe-inspiring scenic beauty of Nandi Hills. It is a group of hills, located at an elevation of 4850 metres. It creates the backdrop for Bangalore and is perfect for nature lovers. In addition, Nandi Hills is an ideal location to indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, cycling, and many more.

• Travel Time: 7 hours
• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Major Attractions: Amruth Sarovar, Skandagiri, Tipu Sultan's Fort, Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Brahmashram, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, etc.
• Best Route: NH48

20. Yercaud | 367 km From Chennai

source: tamilnadutourism

Known for its plantations of guava, coffee, orange, jackfruit and black pepper, Yercaud is another popular tourist hill station for an ideal road trip from Chennai. It is also famous as the ‘Lake Forest’ and gets its name from Yercaud Lake or Emerald Lake. What more? Its picturesque beauty makes it one of the most prominent jewels of South India.

• Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
• Best Time to Visit: January to December
• Major Attractions: Sterling Yercaud, Shevaroy Temple, Kiliyur Falls, Botanical Garden, Anna park, etc.
• Best Route: NH79

21. Madurai | 463 km From Chennai

Madurai, one of the oldest Indian cities, is the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. A trip to this place will be an amazing one as this place holds a great cultural heritage. Madurai is famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi. However, there are many ancient temples and tourist attractions that contribute to its rich heritage.

• Travel Time: 8 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Gandhi Museum, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Vaigai Dam, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Mariamman Teppakulam, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Alagar Kovil, etc.
• Best Route: Kanyakumari Road and Grand Southern Trunk Road

22. Mysore | 482 km From Chennai

source: karnatakatourism

Mysore is a famous tourist destination in Karnataka and is home to some magnificent palaces, parks, museums and gardens. When you are here, do not forget to shop for the city’s famous items like sandalwood and silk. In addition, try the authentic Mysore Pak and the Mysore masala dosa here.

• Travel Time: 9 hours 15 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Major Attractions: Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Sri Chamundeshwari Ammanavara Temple, St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Auditorium, Karanji Lake, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
• Best Route: NH48

23. Kodaikanal | 529 km From Chennai

source: tamilnadutourism

Kodaikanal is known for its gorgeous waterfalls, lakes, cliffs, and valleys making it one of southern India’s most serene tourist destinations. Explore a range of exotic fauna and flora, besides indulging in adventure activities. Trekking makes this place the favourite getaway from Chennai for adventure buffs.

• Travel Time: 9 hours 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Major Attractions: Canopy Hill, Bryant Park, Green Valley View, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Thalaiyar Falls, Berijam Lake, Pambar Falls, Coakers Walk, Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade Falls, Dolphin's Nose
• Best Route: Chennai – Theni Highway

24. Ooty | 556 km From Chennai

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Also known as Udagamandalam, Ooty is a dominant hill station in India dotted with tea gardens, serene waterfalls, and winding country lanes. The hills surrounding Ooty are great for adventure activities. All these factors make this place the best destination for a weekend road trip from Chennai.

• Travel Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Major Attractions: Stone House, Ooty Lake, Pykara Waterfalls, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Rose Garden, Botanical Garden, Mudumalai National Park, Doddabetta Peak, The Tea Factory & the Tea Museum, Stone House, Kalhatty Waterfalls, St. Stephen’s Church, Kamraj Sagar Dam, Emerald Lake
• Best Route: Chennai – Theni Highway

25. Coorg | 576 km From Chennai

source: wikimedia

Coorg is famous for coffee plantations, majestic forts, temples, treks and forests. A beautiful destination just a few hours from Chennai, Coorg is known as the Scotland of India and the Kashmir of South India. Adding to its popularity is its pleasant weather. Moreover, every season here reveals something unique about its landscape.

• Travel Time: 12 hours 10 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Major Attractions: Mallalli Falls, Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Raja's Seat, Tadiandamol Peak, Nishani Motte, Kote Betta Hill, Burude Falls, Chelavara Falls, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumara Parvatha Hill, Kumara Parvatha Trek, Dubare Elephant Camp, Barapole River
• Best Route: NH275

26. Masinagudi | 584 km From Chennai

source: tamilnadutourism

Adding to the list of best weekend trips from Chennai is Masinagudi. Cradled by the Nilgiri range and about 1 hour from Ooty, you can get a glimpse of the unique wildlife in this region.

• Travel Time: 12 hours 25 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: March to September
• Major Attractions: Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Masinagudi Jeep Safari, Maravakandy Dam
• Best Route: NH79

27. Munnar | 593 km From Chennai

source: envato

Located between the three mountain rivulets of Nallathanni, Kundala, and Mudrapuzha is a quaint little town atop a hill, called Munnar. Munnar is a famous trekking destination for adventure lovers, and the highest peak here is Anamudi. Contributing to its beauty are waterfalls, forests and lakes. You will find several tea plantations here making it an important tea trading hub in India.

• Travel Time: 11 hours 22 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Major Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Attukal Waterfalls, Echo Point, Pothamedu View Point, Kundala Lake, Mattupetty Dam, Photo Point, Meesapulimala, Lakkam Waterfalls, Anamudi, Devikulam, Blossom Park, TATA Tea Museum, Top Station
• Best Route: NH38

These above points are all the information you would need to embark on the best road trip from Chennai. Shortlist the destination depending on the activity offered, places to visit, distance and time required. They are all going to offer a memorable experience.