If you are planning a Madurai trip, the fun of road trips from here is different because the city is considered to be the best for road connectivity, along with being the cultural hub of South India. Many destinations around Madurai make for a perfect option for weekend getaways. Its smooth highways, greenery-filled routes and local vibes make every journey memorable. So if you are thinking about your next short break, then you should definitely explore some of the best places to visit near Madurai by road. As easy as it is to plan road trips from Madurai, it is equally enjoyable, as each destination comes with its own unique beauty. Whether you like the chilled environment of hill stations or the cultural charm of temples and heritage spots, there is a perfect spot here for every mood. The roads are mostly well-maintained, and the scenic views on the routes keep you engaged all the time.
The best time for weekend getaways from Madurai is considered to be from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and you can really enjoy travelling. With a little planning and a two-hour drive, you can easily take a relaxing break that will give you a refreshing experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Why Take a Road Trip from Madurai?
The Madurai road trip experience is absolutely unique, as this city is connected to the heart of Tamil Nadu, and you can easily get multiple weekend escapes from Madurai. Whether you want to explore the hills or enjoy coastal drives, each route has its own charm. Road trips from Madurai usually range from 100 km to 300 km with travel time between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the destination. Roads are mostly well-maintained highways with scenic ghats, lush green fields and sometimes temple towns that make the route even more special. The scenic appeal is most visible during the monsoon and winter months when nature is at its best and the drive is comfortable. That's why taking road trips from Madurai is a refreshing escape that makes your weekend perfect.
Best Places to Visit Near Madurai by Road (Under 300 km)
Madurai offers a great travelling experience to its nearby. There are lots of great places to visit near Madurai within 3000 Km, that offer you a diverse experience and fun. Whether you are looking for short drives or weekend getaways near Madurai, you can choose the best-suited place. Here, we handpicked the best road trip options from Madurai for you, so read and find which one will be perfect for your next trip.
Dhanushkodi: Dhanushkodi, located approximately 200 km from Madurai, is a unique destination where driving a car to get there is an adventurous experience. The drive takes around 4-5 hours, and the journey is very scenic as there are roads on both sides of the sea on the last stretch. This place is famous for its clean beaches and the historical touch of Ram Setu. The best season to visit is from October to March, when the weather is a bit cool and pleasant.
Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal is located at a distance of 115 km from Madurai. You can easily travel there either by taking local transport or a Madurai to Kodaikanal cab. The road trip is approximately 3-4 hours. The greenery and waterfalls look quite scenic while driving through the curvy ghat roads. The charm of this place is the lakes, valleys and cool weather, which makes it a perfect hill station. April to June and September to December are its best months when one can enjoy the foggy weather and blooming flowers.
Munnar: Munnar is around 160 km away and is a 4-5 hour drive from Madurai. The road passes through winding ghats and tea gardens, which make the journey magical. This hill station is known for its lush greenery and misty climate. It is best to visit between October and May when the weather is clear and the tea estates display their full charm.
Thanjavur: Thanjavur is just 190 km away, and it takes approximately 4 hours to reach. The drive is comfortable as it passes through smooth highways and villages. This city is famous for its Brihadeeswara Temple and cultural heritage. October to March is the best time for sightseeing when the heat is manageable.
Trichy: The distance from Madurai to Trichy is 140 km, which can be covered in 3 hours by car. The road is mostly a highway, which gives a smooth driving experience. The Rockfort Temple and Srirangam Temple are famous attractions here. November to February is considered the best season for this trip.
Courtallam: Courtallam is approximately 160 km away and is a 4-hour drive. This destination is known for its waterfalls, and the road trip is even more charming during the monsoon season. The roads pass through ghat sections where greenery and mountains look quite beautiful. The monsoon months from June to September are the best for Courtallam.
Kanyakumari: Kanyakumari is 245 km from Madurai, and the drive takes 5-6 hours. Smooth highways on NH44 and coastal views make the journey interesting. Watching both sunrise and sunset here is a lifetime experience. The best season is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing is easy.
Palani Murugan Temple: Palani Murugan Temple is 120 km away from Madurai and is a 3-hour drive. The road is mostly plain and smooth, which makes the journey comfortable. This temple is one of the most revered shrines of South India, and devotees come here for special darshan. The best season is from November to March when the heat is less and the pilgrimage seems easy.
Hill Stations Near Madurai by Road
If you are looking for great summer gateways from Madurai, don’t worry. The city offers a wide range of hill stations that offer a serene environment, a picturesque backdrop for your pictures, and a vast green landscape to stroll. In this article, we handpicked some of the best cool places to visit near Madurai that you can easily add to your itinerary. Let’s read one by one to find the unique experience of each site.
Thekkady: If you want to explore the hill stations near Madurai by road, then Thekkady is a perfect option, which is approximately 140 km away, and it takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to reach here. The road route is through NH 183, which is quite smooth, and one gets views of dense jungle and tea estates in between. This place is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is a dreamy spot for nature lovers. You will get the best weather here from October to May, which makes it an ideal summer getaway from Madurai.
Sirumalai Hills: Sirumalai Hills is the closest option in the list of cool places to visit near Madurai, which is just 25 km away and can be reached in less than 1 hour. The road stretch here is winding but is also quite scenic, from where green valleys and forest cover can be seen. This hill station is largely untouched and feels like a hidden gem for peace-loving travellers. The best season to visit Sirumalai is during the monsoon and winter months when the climate remains pleasant.
Peermade: Peermade, about 165 km away from Madurai, is a stunning summer getaway from Madurai that takes about 4.5 to 5 hours to reach. The coffee and spice plantations along the NH routes and ghat sections make for a very attractive hike. The height and greenery of Peermade make it a cool and peaceful retreat. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is clear and refreshing.
Vattavada: If you like a little long drive, then Vattavada is a unique option, which is approximately 180 km away from Madurai, and the travel time is approximately 5 hours. The road journey is a bit hilly and narrow, but at every turn, you will get to view picturesque valleys and vegetable farms. Vattavada is also called the vegetable bowl of Kerala, and it is a great place for photography and nature walks. The best season here is observed from November to February, when you get a combo of cold wind and clear skies.
Kumily: The distance from Madurai to Kumily is approximately 140 km, which takes 3.5 to 4 hours to cover. The road is mostly smooth, and the view of lush greenery and spice gardens between the Ghats makes the trip even more memorable. Kumily is also known as the gateway to Thekkady, where one can enjoy a combination of wildlife and plantation tours. October to March is the peak season to visit Kumily, when the climate here is perfect for travellers.
Offbeat & Less-Crowded Escapes Near Madurai
For something offbeat and less crowded, you can plan your trip to these hidden places near Madurai. These are blessed with the natural charm that still offers you unadulterated beauty and captivates your eyes and heart. And one of the best things is that you can easily explore these offbeat places near Madurai by just taking a car rental in Madurai. You can also plan your weekend trips from Madurai to these less-crowded places just for relaxation and fun.
Meghamalai: If you want to plan a peaceful weekend trip from Madurai, then Meghamalai is the right choice. It is approximately 120 km away from Madurai, and the road journey takes around 4 hours. The route is a bit hilly, but driving amidst greenery and tea estates is a different kind of fun. There is very little crowd here, and the view looks like a postcard. The best time to visit here is between November and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Kolli Hills: Kolli Hills is a hidden gem that is about 160 km away from Madurai, and it takes 4-5 hours to reach here. The road is quite adventurous as it has 70 hairpin bends, which give a unique experience to driving lovers. Its natural charm, waterfalls and misty climate make it a peaceful offbeat place. The season from October to February is the perfect time to visit.
Thenmala: If you want to explore a little offbeat nature escape, Thenmala is a good option, which is around 190 km from Madurai, and the travel time takes around 5 hours. The drive till here is mostly smooth, and one gets views of forests and valleys on the route. This is an eco-tourism spot where adventure activities and trekking also take place. The beauty of Thenmala is enhanced even more during the monsoon and winter months.
Theni: It is just 75 km away from Madurai and can be easily reached in about 2 hours. The road conditions are good, and one gets views of endless greenery and mountains during the drive. This place is famous for its calm vibe, spice plantations and waterfalls. It is an absolutely perfect spot for weekend relaxation. The time from December to March is considered the best time to visit here.
Vaigai Dam & Suruli Falls: Another peaceful escape near Madurai is Vaigai Dam and Suruli Falls, which are approximately 70-80 km away from Madurai and can be covered in a road trip of 2 to 3 hours. The drive here is smooth, and the surroundings are full of natural beauty. Vaigai Dam is a picnic-friendly spot, while Suruli Falls attracts everyone in its full flow during the monsoon. The monsoon season from July to September and the cool weather from November to January are both perfect for visiting here.
Adventure & Wildlife Getaways Near Madurai
Madurai open the way to several adventure and wildlife destinations, where you can easily reach by road. Whether you are planning a Madurai road trip with safari, a wildlife drive or an adventure gateway from Madurai, these sites will offer you something unique and unexplored.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: If you want a proper jungle safari experience, then Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the best option. It is approximately 140 km away from Madurai and takes around 4 hours to travel by car. The road is mostly smooth, and there are winding valley sections along the beach, which feel quite scenic. Elephant spotting in the jungle, boating on Periyar Lake and enjoying the greenery is a different kind of adventure. The best season to visit here is from October to May, when the weather is cool and the journeys are comfortable.
Topslip: If you want to make a short road trip from Madurai, then Topslip is a hidden gem. This sanctuary is approximately 160 km away from Madurai and takes 4.5 to 5 hours by car. The road stretch is mainly of highways, but as you reach the Anamalai Hills side, the charm of the greenery and curvy hill roads begins. Along with wildlife, activities like trekking and bamboo rafting are also available, which are perfect for adventure seekers. The best season here is from November to April, when the entire jungle is fresh and lively after the monsoons.
Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary (Srivilliputhur): For those who want a unique experience, the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary in Srivilliputhur is a must-visit. This sanctuary is just 75 km away from Madurai and takes approximately 2 hours to drive. The roads are mostly state highways, where one gets a cultural touch as they cross villages and small towns. The highlight of this place is the endangered grizzled giant squirrel, which is very rare to see. The best season to visit is from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: If you want to enjoy a proper offbeat safari road trip, then Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a superb option. It is approximately 180 km away from Madurai and takes around 5 to 6 hours to drive. The route is mostly highways, but the last stretch makes for an adventurous drive along less congested roads. You get to see elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, as well as exotic birds here. The dry forest landscape of the sanctuary is different from the typical Kerala greenery, which gives a different vibe. The best season to visit is from October to February, when the weather is cool and the journeys are enjoyable.
Spiritual Places Near Madurai
If you are wondering about some spiritual indulgences near Madurai, you can plan your religious road trips from Madurai to these destinations. They are the best spiritual places near Madurai and offer you an unforgettable divine experience. Evan, some of them are age-old and visited by thousands of travellers year-round.
Tirupparankunram Murugan Temple: Tirupparankunram Murugan Temple, just 8 km away from Madurai, is an iconic religious spot where crowds of devotees always gather. It takes around 20-25 minutes to reach here, and the road is completely smooth, which passes through the city area. The temple is built inside a hill, which further highlights its uniqueness. The best season to visit here is from October to March, when the heat is less and the experience of darshan seems peaceful.
Srivilliputhur Andal Temple: Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, around 75 km away from Madurai, is a popular spiritual destination famous for its towering gopuram. It takes about 2 hours to drive here, and the NH road is quite well-maintained. The green villages and local culture en route are quite attractive, making the road trip memorable. The temple is mainly special for Vaishnavite devotees, and the best time to visit here is between July and March.
Rameswaram: Rameswaram, approximately 170 km from Madurai, is one of the most famous spiritual towns in India, known for its Ramanathaswamy Temple. Your Madurai to Rameshwaram cab drive takes 3.5 to 4 hours, and travelling on NH 87 is a different kind of fun as you get to see the stunning view of the Pamban Bridge. The sea view and coastal beauty make this road trip extremely unique. The best season to visit here is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant.
Thiruparankundram Jain Caves: Thiruparankundram Jain Caves is a historical and spiritual mix destination located about 10 km from Madurai. It is just a 25-minute short drive to reach here, and the road is quite easy and city-connected. These caves date back to the 2nd century BC and showcase the rich history of Jainism. En route, you get to see rocky landscapes and local markets. Winters and early summers are perfect for exploring here.
Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple: Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple, 120km from Madurai, is a rare temple where Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are worshipped in the same form. The drive till here is around 3 hours, and while travelling on the NH44 road, you get to see beautiful coconut trees and green fields. The architecture of the temple and the sound of the bells create a spiritual calmness. The weather from December to March is the best for a trip here.
Travel Tips for Road Trips from Madurai
If you are planning a road trip from Madurai, then it is very important to do a little smart planning so your journey becomes smooth and enjoyable. Here are some useful Madurai road trip tips that will be useful for every traveller and will make your ride hassle-free.
Start early, especially on weekends – If you are going to nearby destinations from Madurai, like Rameswaram (170 km, approx 3.5 to 4 hours) or Kodaikanal (115 km, approx 3 to 4 hours), then it is best to start early in the morning. There is more traffic on weekends, especially on highways, and with an early departure, you will enjoy smooth highway driving along with cool weather. Highways like NH44 and NH85 are broad and well maintained, and at sunrise time par drive karna ek scenic experience deta hai.
Carry snacks, water, and power banks – On long drives from Madurai, like Ooty (290 km, 6 to 7 hours) or Munnar (150 km, 4 to 5 hours), there are many hilly and scenic routes. Eating here can limit joints, so it is important to keep light snacks and enough water bottles with you. Carrying a power bank is also helpful as charging points are not easily available in hilly regions.
Check weather and road conditions – Checking the weather while planning a Madurai road trip is a must, especially if you are going towards hill stations. During the rainy season from July to September, the roads become slippery, and the duration can seem a bit longer. The winter and post-monsoon season from October to February are considered the best times to travel from Madurai, as the temperature is pleasant and the views are clear.
Keep cash for tolls – There are multiple tolls on highways like Madurai to Chennai (460 km, approx 7.5 to 8 hours on NH38). Though FASTag is used, keeping backup cash is a wise decision, as sometimes there can be a problem due to a network issue. This tip will save you from unnecessary delay, and you will be able to stick to your schedule.
Use CabBazar for easy online cab booking – If you want to avoid the stress of driving and just enjoy the trip, booking a cab online from CabBazaar is the best way to travel from Madurai. You get clean cars with verified drivers, and you get the assurance of a safe and comfortable ride to every destination.
Best Time to Visit These Places from Madurai
However, you can easily travel to these sides at any time of the year from Madurai, but to experience the best of these, planning a trip during the best time is a great way. Each destination has its own best time to travel from Madurai. Some of the destinations are perfect for seasonal travel near Madurai, while some are open year-round.
Summer (Mar–Jun): The summer season is definitely a bit hot to plan short getaways from Madurai, but the nearby hill stations seem perfect at this time. Places like Kodaikanal and Palani Hills are available within a radius of around 120-160 km, where the drive takes approximately 3-4 hours and mostly offers lush greenery along with smooth Ghat roads. This route is a bit twisty, but the cooling breeze and scenic valleys make the drive memorable. It is the best time for those who want to escape the heat of the city and enjoy the cool air.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): The monsoon season brings life to the waterfalls and nature escapes around Madurai. Destinations like Sirumalai and Courtallam are located within 90-170 km and can be reached in a 2-4 hour drive. Road conditions can be a little slippery, but the NH roads and winding hill routes offer an adventure along with greenery and misty views. This time is best for those who love to see rain-soaked landscapes and flowing waterfalls.
Winter (Oct–Feb): The winter season is considered the most ideal time to travel from Madurai, as the weather is pleasant and clear. The coastal drive to Rameswaram, which is approximately 170 km away, takes approximately 3.5-4 hours to complete, and the route on NH44 and NH87 is smooth and with scenic sea views. Similarly, hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries are also worth exploring at this time, as the fog-free views and mild temperatures give a perfect sightseeing experience. This is the peak season for travellers looking for comfortable road trips near Madurai.
FAQs
- What are the best weekend getaways near Madurai by car?
If you are planning a weekend getaway from Madurai, then Rameswaram is the best option, which is approximately 170 km away and takes 3.5-4 hours by car. This road trip is via NH87 and the Pamban bridge, from where one gets a breathtaking view of the sea. Another option is Kodaikanal, which is 120 km away and takes 3-3.5 hours on winding roads. The best season is from October to March, when the weather is a bit cool and the drive also feels comfortable.
2. Can I take a one-day road trip from Madurai?
Yes, a road trip is absolutely possible even for a day. The Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal and Meenakshi Amman temple are within Madurai city, but if you want to go a little outside, Thanjavur, which is 190 km away, can easily be covered in a day in a 4-hour drive. The road is mostly on the smooth NH36, and one can see greenery and small towns along the route. Avoid summer as it is very hot, and it is best to go after winter and the monsoon.
3. What are some good family-friendly destinations from Madurai?
A favorite spot for families is Kanyakumari, which is 245 km away and takes approximately 5 hours. The highway is good, the drive is smooth, and the family gets a chance to enjoy both sea view and sunrise-sunset together. Another family spot is Yercaud, which is 250 km away and approximately a 5.5-6-hour drive along winding hill roads. Children like the cool weather of the hill station, and parents like the plantations and viewpoints. The best time is from October to February.
4. How can I book a cab for a road trip near Madurai?
Cab booking is very easy as Madurai is a major city. You get the option of both online taxi booking apps and local cab services. One can enjoy a road trip with comfort by taking an AC cab, be it a short trip of 100 km or a weekend plan of 300 km. For longer trips, it is best to take a sedan or SUV as both bad roads and highways have to be covered. It is better to do booking during peak season so that there is no problem of availability.
5. Are there hill stations within 300 km of Madurai?
Yes, there are multiple hill stations within 300 km of Madurai. The most famous is Kodaikanal, which is 120 km away and takes 3 hours via winding roads. Another option is Munnar, which is on the Kerala side at a distance of 155 km and takes approximately 4.5-5 hours. Both places provide greenery, tea plantations and a cool climate. The roads in Munnar are a bit narrow and scenic, where the view is even more stunning during the monsoon and winter seasons. April to June is also a good time when the plains are hot and the hills are cool.
Planning to take a break from city hustle? Now is the best time to plan road trip from Madurai. Multiple weekend getaways from Madurai around here can be easily explored on a cab ride. Every destination has its own distinct charm – like some places are 120-150 kms away, which are a 3-4 hour drive, mostly through smooth NH roads, where greenery and small town vibes give you pure scenic appeal. Some hill stations are around 160-180 kms away, which take around 4-5 hours to reach with winding ghat roads that look most beautiful during the monsoon and winter seasons. Even in summer, the early morning or late evening drive is peaceful. Overall, every route offers a unique experience and is perfect for a short, refreshing trip.
To make your travel stress-free, choose CabBazar where you get clean cabs, verified drivers and affordable fares. With a simple cab booking, you can easily enjoy weekend getaways from Madurai without worrying about driving or fuel stops. So, don't delay any further – pack your bags, select your destination and start a perfect road trip with CabBazar!
