Do road trips excite you? Are you someone who likes long drives? If your answer is yes then we will introduce you to some greatest destinations near Chennai that will leave you spellbound. Whether you are residing in Chennai or preparing to get there, we have unfolded some astounding places to plan trips from Chennai via self-drive.
A road trip is a fantastic way to have a fun time with your family and friends. It gives you more control throughout the journey. You can take a halt and enjoy sights whenever you want, and click as many pictures as you want along the way. Simply put, you relish the journey more than the destination. If you happen to be in Chennai then believe us, you can make your entire getaway the utmost memorable one.
Certainly, Chennai attracts a flock of tourists each year as it is surrounded by such destinations that magnetize travelers of every age group. This south Indian city is an abode of several religious places, captivating hills, temples, amusement parks, untouched beaches, and much more. This place has quite a lot of amusing things to offer, you can surely enjoy a summer date with your beloved. There are numerous places near this gateway of the south. Each has a unique history and richness that can leave travelers awestruck.
In this post, we have curated a handpicked list of places that are worth planning road trips from Chennai. We can assure you that from start to end, your entire road trip is going to be extremely unforgettable.
12 most popular road trips from Chennai
Getting away from the daily hustle and bustle gives your mind the needed relaxation. Road trips are not only fun but also help in making a stronger bond with your traveling partners. It is truly a win-win state to be in.
Here is a list of some perfect destinations to plan a road trip from Chennai with your gang.
Yelagiri
230 km away from Chennai this hill station is great for chilling. You can drive at an easy pace on the beautiful green roads. The entire road trip to Yelagiri is chockfull of nature and hills. This is one of the best driving routes for bikers. It is situated far away from the chaotic and noisy city life.
Driving in the lap of nature filled with lush greenery and hills is incredibly soothing. This destination is perfect for those who are looking for mind relaxation. Yelagiri is one of the closest hill stations to Chennai. Its Nature Park, Adventure Camp, and Jalagamparai falls are the main attractions here. It will take approximately 5 hours to get here. The best time to visit this place is from November to February because summers are quite scorching in the south and without a cocktail drink you might not fully enjoy the beauty of this place.
Vellore
Situated on the bank of River Palar, Vellore is admired for its Dravidian civilization. This small city situated in Tamil Nadu offers some amazing pilgrimage sites and historical monuments. It is believed that Lord Murugan appeared in this place and is considered one of the holiest places to visit. This city is a blend of distinctive cultures and beliefs as it was ruled by different dynasties.
This place is one of the closest destinations to Chennai that is worth a road trip with friends and family. Jalankandeshwar temple, Vellore Fort, Amrithi Zoological Park, and Sri Lakshmi Golden Temple are the main attractions of this city. It is 158 km away from the main city. The road to Vellore is very smooth. It will take approximately 4 hours to reach this place from Chennai. The best time to plan your trip to Vellore is from October to March.
Tharangambadi
270 km away from Chennai, situated in the district of Nagapattinam, this place is brim-full of calming oceans. This place offers a relaxing environment to people who are missing it in their life. Tharangambadi means ‘land of swinging waves which completely justifies its name. As this place is known for its tranquillity, you can enrich your spirit with serenity. Located in the middle of the Bay of Bengal and the Kaveri River, Tharangambadi is a mixture of several cultures. It is one of the best places to plan a road trip from Chennai.
It will take you approximately 7 hours to reach Tharangambadi from Chennai. The best time to visit this place is August to February. The Zion Church, Danish museum, The Town Gate, Jerusalem Church, and Fort Dansborg are among the major attractions here.
Kumbakonam
Located in Thanjavur district, Kumbakonam is an elating town. This place is often known as the city of Temples because it is an abode of numerous enthralling temples. There are so many remarkable and attractive places to visit in Kumbakonam. So planning a road trip to this destination worth your time. You will find many bikers on your way.
A great Hindu festival is held every 12 years named Mahamaham. The sight of this place during this grand festival is worth a watch. Nageshwaran temple, Adi Kumbeswarar temple, and local shopping are the main attractions of Kumbakonam. This place is 296 km away from Chennai and will take 7 hours to get there. The best time to visit this place is from November to February
Nellore
Located just 177 km away from Chennai, Nellore contributes a lot to the trading and art of ancient times. This is a very ancient holy city. This place is considered one of the exotic locations for doing road trips. Nellore has many bird sanctuaries, temples, beaches, and waterfalls. It attracts many tourists every year. You can hit the road to Nellore with your travel partners. It’s a nice getaway for weekends. This city is situated on the bank of River Penna, Andhra Pradesh.
The climate of this place is very comfortable. Pulicat lake, Ranganatha Tempe, and Mypadu beach are the major attractions of this place. October to February are the best months to visit Nellore.
Pondicherry
This union territory is enriched with cultural beauty. Pondicherry is also known as Puducherry which is a complete package of heritage art, cultural buildings, spirituality, and great people. This city is located in the state of Tamil Nadu and was one of the French colonies of its time. It has a very strong French impact on its artistic images, architecture, local food, language, and cultural facet. Pondicherry is one of the closest cities to Chennai which is worth a visit. You can take a self-drive to this territory and enjoy a lavish French supper in cafes.
It is just 175 km away from Chennai, you will take approximately 4 hours to reach Pondicherry. Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Meeran Mosque Basilica of the sacred heart of Jesus, Aurobindo ashram, and the Church of Our Lady of Angels are the major attractions of this union territory. The best time to visit this place is from October to March and This is the best destination for monsoon
Yercaud
Located in the district of Salem, Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is counted among the most beautiful hill stations in the south. This place is well-known for its orange, guava, black pepper, jackfruit, and coffee plantation. Yercaud is commonly known as the jewel of the south. This place is one of the best options to plan a self-drive trip from Chennai. As the climate is very cool all year round, you can visit here any month.
Iconic scenery and perfect climate are what Yercaud offers to its visitors. Its Botanical Garden, Emerald Lake, Ladies Seat, Anna Park, Kiliyur Falls, Shevaroy temple, and Sterling Yercaud are one of the major attractions of this place. It is 356 away from Chennai, so it is going to take approximately 8 hours to reach Yercaud.
Thanjavur
Thanjavur is also known as Tanjore and is famous for its cultural values, antiques, textiles, handicrafts, sarees, and paintings. This city of temples is one of the best destinations for planning a road trip from Chennai. It attracts a great number of pilgrims as it is religious and rich in heritage. This enchanting place is a must-visit for checking out various ancient temples and forts. Shiva Ganga Garden, Brihadeshwara Temple, and Vijayanagar Fort are the major attractions of this place.
Its skyline is filled with amazing and colorful gopurams. You won’t see any bikers on your way to Kumbakonam because this town is a holy place. Tanjore is 349 km away from Chennai, so it will roughly take you 7 hours to reach there. The best time to visit this place is from October to March.
Horsley hills
This place is a famous hill station and tourist destination in the south. Horsley hill is a sequence of hills lying in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is rich in both flora and fauna. It is a perfect weekend destination for people who are planning to visit Chennai or already residing there. The road from Chennai to Horsley hills is very smooth and pleasant. This place has numerous viewpoints to enjoy the breathtaking sight of hills.
It is 260 km away from Chennai. You can either hire a taxi or self-drive. It will take you approximately 7 hours to get there from the city. Mallamma temple, Thalakona Waterfalls, Gangotri Lake, Kaigal Waterfalls, Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary, Horsley Hills Zoo, Viewpoint, and Wind Rocks, are among the major tourist attraction of this place.
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Kanchipuram
This ancient city was once the capital of the Pallava Dynasty. It is now known as the temple capital of Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram is home to several temples, the major one is the Vaikunta Perumal and Kailasnathar Temple. The Kailasnathar is one of the ancient structures in this city. Just 73 km away from Chennai makes this place the perfect destination weekend getaway. It will take just 2 hours to reach there. You can plan a road trip with your friends and family to enjoy and admire its historical beauty.
Kumarakottam Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, and Ekambareswarar Temple are the main ones in this city. This place is famous for its Kanchipuram silk sarees which are globally renowned for their handloom work. Kamakshi Amman Temple, Kanchi Kudhil, Perumal Temple, Devarajaswami Temple, Kachapeshwarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Vaikunda Perumal Temple, Thennangur Panduranga Temple, and Jain Temple are best places to visit in Kanchipuram.
Coorg
Coorg is well known as ‘Scotland of India. This place is covered in lush greenery, serene hills, captivating waterfalls, and valleys. It is a beautiful getaway from hustle and bustle of daily life. It is famous for its hill station and is the largest coffee producer in India. It is 586 km away from Chennai and the best months to visit this stunning place are from October to May.
Other than hill trekking and amazing sightseeing, Nagarahole National Park, Thalakaveri, Madikeri Fort, Dubare, Abbey Falls, Nisargadhama, and Iruppu Falls are the major attractions of this place.
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Mahabalipuram
Located 52 km away from Chennai Mahabalipuram is an abode of many amazing temples and monuments built by the Pallava dynasty. The Arjuna’s Penance rock carvings, the Five Rathas, and the Shore temple are UNESCO world heritage list.
Mahabalipuram offers white sand beaches, an enthralling atmosphere, and serenity. It will take 1 to 2 hours to reach this town and the best time to plan a road trip to this place is from October to March.
Wrapping Up
Travelling is a great therapy only if you plan it the right way. It gives your brain a break that it really yearns for. Self-driving to reach your tour destination has its own pleasures and excitement. You collect so many reminiscences on a road trip with your friends and family.
Every destination mentioned in the above list is charismatic in its own aspect. Now you know there are many fascinating places to explore near Chennai, so plan a self-drive to one of these destinations and treat yourself to a short yet memorable getaway.
We hope this post will help you in your escape plan from a hectic schedule. Now pick any destination from the above list, fuel up your vehicle tanks, and get ready to rock the road!
