Chennai is not just a metropolitan city but also a base from which you get endless travel experiences. If you need a short break or want to get away from the hustle and bustle, the best option is road trips from Chennai. From here, in just a few hours ' drive, you get to see beautiful beaches, ancient temples, lush green hills and heritage towns. So if you are looking for weekend getaways from Chennai, there is absolutely no dearth of options. Road trips have their own unique fun as you get to explore small food joints on the route, relax on nature's beaches and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Whether you want adventure or peace of mind, places to visit near Chennai by road provide you with both. So while planning your next weekend, just pack one bag, start the car and set out on these amazing road trips around Chennai that will turn your tiredness into refreshment.
Why Take a Road Trip from Chennai?
The fun of a Chennai road trip is different because this city is not only an IT hub and cultural capital, but is also a perfect starting point for weekend escapes from Chennai. Coastal charm, lush greenery and historical towns are easily reachable within a few hours' drive. Road trips from Chennai offer a unique combo to travellers that includes beaches, hill stations and ancient temples. If you want a relaxing weekend or want to explore a little adventure, every drive from Chennai gives a new experience. Smooth highways, scenic routes and multiple stopovers make the journey as exciting as the destination. Hence, a Chennai road trip is not just a journey; it is a refreshing break that makes every weekend memorable.
Best Places to Visit Near Chennai by Road (Under 300 km)
If you like road trips, then there are many amazing destinations near Chennai that can make perfect weekend getaways. Here we have made a list of all those places to visit near Chennai within 300 km, which are easily reachable by road and where the fun of going is different. These destinations are perfect for family trips, outings with friends or solo travel.
Mahabalipuram – It is one of the enchanting cities that is located just 60 km away from Chennai on the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Coast. The city is home to several natural beauties and ancient wonders, which make it one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, famous for its ancient temples and rock-cut caves. With a drive on the scenic ECR highway, it makes for a short and relaxing road trip.
Pondicherry – It is another wonderful place that you can choose for road trips from Chennai. It is located only 150 km from Chennai, and you can easily plan a trip by booking a Chennai to Pondicherry cab. This is a peaceful coastal town with French charm and a mix of cafes, beaches and ashrams, making your trip a great experience.
Nellore – This is also a coastal city of Andhra Pradesh that you can visit from Chennai very easily. It is located just 175 Km from it with a road that you can easily cover with private cabs or public transport. It offers a unique blend of cultural richness, natural charm and historical heritage that is found in its temples and bird sanctuaries. Which marks it a perfect spot for peace and nature lovers.
Tiruvannamalai – Nestled on the foothills of Annamali Hills, Tiruvannamalai is one of the major tourist attractions near Chennai, just 195 km away. This is a picturesque city adorned with alluring natural charm, but also known for its spiritual aura of ancient temples like Arunachaleswarar Temple and Girivalam Walk. A must-visit for a peaceful road trip.
Tirupati – It is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites among Hindus, located 135 km away from Chennai. The town is world-famous for the Lord Venkateswara Temple, also known as Tirupati Balaji Temple, which is nestled in the center of the city. Thousands of tourists come here annually to soak in its divine charm, spiritual aroma and timeless devotion that you can witness in each and every corner of the temple town.
Kumbakonam – It is also one of the best places to visit near Chennai. Kumbakonam is a temple town located in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. From Chennai, it is 280 km away and connected by a well-developed road. This temple town is renowned for its ancient beauty and South Indian heritage. It is a perfect trip for a long weekend.
Karaikal – It is a serene coastal town of Pondicherry, situated only 285 km from Chennai. You can also add this to your Chennai to Pondicherry itinerary, as it is close to Pondicherry. The town is known for its peaceful beaches and old temples that offer a trail to the timeless beauty.
The road journey to all these destinations becomes memorable with smooth highways and scenic views. If you need inspiration for your next trip, these are the best road trips from Chennai. As soon as you plan for the weekend, get your backpack ready and set out for these exciting journeys.
Hill Stations Near Chennai by Road
Chennai also opened the gateway to several nearby hill stations. You can easily plan a trip to these hill stations near Chennai by road. These summer gateways from Chennai not only offer tourists an opportunity to explore the charm of the state, but also for locals they are perfect cool places to visit near Chennai during the hot summer or lush monsoon. They are
Yelagiri Hills: If you need a quick escape, Yelagiri Hills is the most convenient option. It is about 230 km from Chennai, and the road trip takes about 5 hours. The highway is mostly smooth, and as you approach the hills, there are sharp curves and greenery. The charm of this place is the peaceful valleys and orchards, which make a cool retreat in summer. The time from October to March is considered the best.
Horsley Hills: Horsley Hills is a small but very scenic hill station situated around 260 km from Chennai. The drive takes approximately 5.5 to 6 hours, during which you will travel on state highways and slightly winding roads. The pine trees and natural viewpoints here give out romantic vibes. The weather here is very pleasant during summer, so it is a perfect summer getaway from Chennai.
Yercaud: Yercaud is also called the "Jewel of the South", which is about 360 km from Chennai, and the drive takes about 7 hours. During the road journey, you get to see hairpin bends and coffee plantations, which make the drive even more beautiful. The climate here is mild year-round, but it is best to visit from October to June.
Kolli Hills: Kolli Hills is a dream drive for adventure lovers. The distance from Chennai is around 370 km, and the travel time takes 7-8 hours. The most special thing here is its 70 hairpin bends, which make the road trip full of thrills. Green forests and waterfalls make it more charming. The season from September to February is the best.
Kodaikanal: If you like long scenic drives, Kodaikanal is a perfect choice. It is about 530 km from Chennai and takes about 9 hours to reach here. The road is mostly smooth, but the last stretch has twisty and hilly roads. Famous for its lakes, valleys and pine forests, Kodaikanal can be visited throughout the year, but the coolest time is April to June and September to October.
Ooty: Ooty, called the Queen of Hill Stations, is around 550 km away from Chennai, and the drive takes 9–10 hours. The roads are winding and scenic, especially when you enter the Nilgiris. Tea gardens and misty valleys are specialties here. April to June and September to November are the best times to visit.
Valparai: If you like offbeat and less crowded hill stations, then Valparai is a unique pick. It is approximately 600 km from Chennai and takes a 10-hour drive. The road offers endless tea plantations and chances of spotting wildlife, especially near the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. The weather here remains cool throughout the year, but monsoons and winters are most charming.
Coorg: If you want to take a long road trip, then Coorg is the best, which is around 600 km from Chennai, and the journey takes around 11 hours. The highways are quite smooth, and as soon as the Karnataka hills start, one can see coffee estates and lush greenery. The weather of Coorg is pleasant throughout the year, but October to March is the perfect time to explore it.
Offbeat & Less-Crowded Escapes Near Chennai
If you want a little break from the city hustle and want to explore offbeat places near Chennai, then these destinations are perfect. These hidden places near Chennai are not only for nature lovers but also for those who want to enjoy a peaceful weekend trip from Chennai.
Nagalapuram – About 70 km away from Chennai, this trekking spot falls near the Andhra border. It is a 2-hour journey by car, and most of the NH roads are well-maintained. Here you will find lush green trails and waterfalls, which look most beautiful during the monsoon and post-monsoon season. Ekdum is the best for trekking and adventure lovers.
Tada Falls – It is 80 km away, a 2-2.5 hour drive where the highways are smooth and the last stretch feels a little off-road. The trek here is moderate, and when you reach the falls after passing through the jungle trails, the whole scenic beauty becomes worth it. The best time to visit is the monsoon and winter, when there is a lot of rain.
Pulicat – It is just 55 km from Chennai and takes around 1.5 hours to drive. The road conditions are good, and the drive is quite soothing with the coastal vibes. This is a hidden place where both Pulicat Lake and the bird sanctuary are worth exploring. Migratory birds come here during winter, and that time makes the trip even more special.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary – It is 90 km away, approximately a 2-hour journey, which has smooth highways. Scenic appeal is mainly around greenery and water bodies. The best season is from November to March when migratory birds come in thousands. It is a perfect weekend destination for bird watching and a peaceful escape.
Chidambaram – It is a bit of a long drive, 215 km from Chennai, which takes 4.5-5 hours. The drive on the NH32 highway is quite smooth, and one gets coastal charm along the way. The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is famous for its spiritual vibes, and the mangroves and backwaters here are also worth exploring. Winters and early summers are the best times to visit here.
Adventure & Wildlife Getaways Near Chennai
Looking for an adventure gateway from Chennai, so do not limit yourself, as there are lots of adventure gateways from Chennai that offer you a great escape from the buzzing and busy city life. They offer lots of adventure activities and wildlife exploration opportunities to the visitors. Visiting these wildlife places near Chennai will surely make your road trip an incredible experience. From Chennai, you can easily explore them by car rental in Chennai.
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: If you are in the mood to explore wildlife places near Chennai, then Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is the perfect spot. It is approximately 230 km away from Chennai, and the road trip takes 5 to 6 hours to cover it. The route mainly passes through well-maintained highways where there are green landscapes and village scenes in between. The biggest attraction here is the boat ride, which passes through the dense mangroves and gives an absolutely cinematic feel. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. This place offers a peaceful safari-style experience along with adventure.
Kaigal Waterfalls: If you want a Chennai road trip with safari vibes, then Kaigal Waterfalls is a hidden gem, which is 220 km away in the Chittoor district. The drive is approximately 5 hours, during which you will get a mix of both state highways and forest roads. The scenic beauty of green hills, small streams, and dense forests refreshes you completely. This waterfall looks most beautiful during the monsoon and post-monsoon season, i.e. from July to December. Wildlife and birds are quite common in this area, which is enjoyed by both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Amirthi Zoological Waterfalls: Amirthi Zoological Waterfalls is just 130 km away from Chennai, and the road trip takes approximately 3.5 hours. It is located in the Vellore district, and the route goes mainly through smooth highways. There is also a small zoological park where one can see deer, peacocks and rare birds. The waterfall is small, but the natural forest surroundings make it a calm getaway. The scenic appeal is quite soothing, and the best time to visit is from September to January when the water flow is good and the heat is less.
Talakona Waterfalls: Talakona Waterfalls, which is located in Sri Venkateswara National Park in Andhra Pradesh, is approximately 190 km away from Chennai. It takes about 4.5 hours to reach here, and along the route, there are highways as well as some forest roads, which add to the adventurous feel. This waterfall falls from a height of 270 feet and offers a royal view amidst the lush green jungle. Trekking trails and safari-style jungle walks are also available here. The best season to visit is from August to January, when the water is in full flow and the surrounding greenery is at its peak.
Spiritual Places Near Chennai
If you want to enjoy a road trip with spirituality, then there are many sacred destinations near Chennai where visiting becomes a divine experience. These places not only give religious vibes but also make you experience a peaceful journey and a scenic drive. Here are some top spiritual places near Chennai that should be on your next trip list:
Tirumala – Tirumala, about 135 km away from Chennai, is a world-famous pilgrimage destination where the grand temple of Lord Venkateshwara is located. The road trip takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, mostly involving NH16 and Ghat roads. The scenic appeal is best because of the hills and greenery. The best season to visit here is from October to March, as the weather remains a little cool.
Kanchipuram – Kanchipuram, just 75 km from Chennai, is famous as the "City of Thousand Temples". The drive here takes around 2 hours, and there are smooth highways on NH48. For scenic views, you will get a chance to see the lush green fields and traditional villages of rural Tamil Nadu. Winters and monsoons are the best times to visit here.
Sri Kalahasti – This temple town is 120 km from Chennai and can be reached in almost 3 hours. The drive from NH16 and SH59 is quite smooth, and one gets to see cotton fields and countryside views on the side of the road. Sri Kalahasti Shiva temple is also famous by the name of "Dakshina Kailasam". The best season to visit here is from September to February.
Madurai – The distance from Chennai to Madurai is 460 km, which takes around 7 to 8 hours by road. The highways connected to NH38 and NH32 are quite wide and well-maintained. The road trip is long, but the beauty of the small towns, rivers and farmlands in between keeps you engaged. Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is a significant temple near Chennai, and the best season to visit here is from November to March when the heat is less.
Auroville – Auroville, located near Puducherry, is 150 km from Chennai, and the road trip takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. A drive on the NH32 coastal highway provides a unique sense of peace as the sea views and the journey amidst coconut trees make the journey memorable. Auroville is a spiritual township that is world-famous for meditation and peace. The best time to visit is during winter or after the monsoon season.
Vellore – Located at a distance of 140 km, Vellore is one of the historic cities that is known for its fort and golden temple. A Chennai to Vellore cab drive only takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. So you can easily plan a short trip to the city to explore its magnificent granite fortress, ancient temples and other unique spiritual landmarks that offer a glimpse of the city's rich heritage and cultural richness.
Travel Tips for Road Trips from Chennai
If you are planning a road trip from Chennai, then some smart planning is a must. The first and most important tip is to always start the journey early in the morning, especially on weekends, so that you can avoid traffic and enjoy a smooth drive. Also, keep some snacks and water bottles with you, as small cravings occur during long drives. Do not forget to carry power banks as well, so that your devices always remain charged and there is no problem in navigation or music. It is helpful to check the weather and road conditions once before the road trip, as it makes your travel experience more comfortable. Cash should always be kept handy because digital payments sometimes do not work at tolls. And the easiest and most reliable option is CabBazar, from where you can book a hassle-free online cab. If you follow all these Chennai road trip tips, your journey will not only be safe but also memorable.
Best Time to Visit These Places from Chennai
When it comes to the best time to travel from Chennai, choosing the season becomes very important because every route and every destination has its own charm. If you are planning a short getaway from Chennai, choosing the right timing makes the trip doubly memorable.
Summer (Mar–Jun): It is a bit hot during this time, but hill stations like Ooty (560 km, approx. 10 hours by road, along the smooth ghat roads of NH32 and NH181) and Kodaikanal (530 km, approx. 9 hours) are perfect options. The scenic valleys and cool weather make you forget the heat of summer. It is best for those who plan a Chennai getaway to escape the weekend.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): This season is absolutely dreamy for rain lovers. Mahabalipuram (60 km, approx. 1.5 hours via ECR highway) and Pondicherry (150 km, approx. 3 hours) look even more vibrant during the monsoon. The combo of raindrops and lush greenery on a coastal drive gives a unique experience. The road type is mostly a coastal highway, which is both safe and scenic.
Winter (Oct–Feb): This is the most popular season as the weather is pleasant and every destination exudes full charm. Yelagiri (230 km, approx. 5 hours, smooth ghat roads) and Yercaud (365 km, approx. 7 hours) are best for both family and friends. At this time, every road trip is at the peak of scenic appeal, and for every traveller, this is the best window for seasonal travel near Chennai.
FAQs
Q1. What are the best weekend getaways near Chennai by car?
A1. If you want to escape for the weekend, then destinations like Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry and Yelagiri are perfect. All these are easily accessible by car, and you can reach them in 2-4 hours of driving.
Q2. Can I take a one-day road trip from Chennai?
A2. Yes, absolutely, Mahabalipuram, Pulicat Lake and Kanchipuram are the best options for one-day road trips. Leave early in the morning and you will easily return by night.
Q3. What are some good family-friendly destinations from Chennai?
A3. Pondicherry, Yercaud and Kanchipuram are quite popular for family trips. These destinations are safe, peaceful and provide attractions for every age group.
Q4. How can I book a cab for a road trip near Chennai?
A4. Cab booking is quite easy. You can make a booking through online cab services or trusted taxi operators. Comfortable AC cabs with drivers are easily available for road trips.
Q5. Are there hill stations within 300 km of Chennai?
A5. Yes, you will find hill stations like Yelagiri, Yercaud and Kolli Hills within 300 km. These spots are perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and cold air.
If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, then now is the best time to pack your bags and start a refreshing journey. Whether you want to enjoy the cool breeze of hill stations or feel the calm vibes of beaches, a short trip always refreshes the mind. So plan your next road trip from Chennai and explore the nearby destinations that will make your weekend truly memorable. And when it comes to travelling, the ride should be comfortable and stress-free. So choose CabBazar where you get clean cabs, verified drivers and budget-friendly fares that make every journey safe and smooth. Now what's the point, book your weekend getaways from Chennai cab with CabBazar and enjoy a hassle-free ride towards nature and adventure.
