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Are you planning for road trips from Chennai? Being the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai offers the perfect starting point for road trips that lead to stunning destinations, historical towns, and coastal getaways. Whether you prefer the misty hills, sandy shores, or cultural centres, road trips from Chennai promise an unforgettable experience. From spiritual trips to natural sanctuaries, each destination has its own appeal, making every journey an escape from the city’s crowd. With comfortable driving distances and well-maintained roads, these trips are perfect for weekend getaways or short vacations.
10 Scenic Road Trips From Chennai
Let’s explore the ten best road trips from Chennai with the best scenery:
1. Mahabalipuram
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabalipuram is one of the quick yet enriching road trips from Chennai. Explore the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas, and the famous Arjuna’s Penance, all while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The short drive, paired with Mahabalipuram’s coastal backdrop, makes it an ideal day trip destination.
Distance From Chennai: 60 km
Recommended Route: Take the East Coast Road (ECR) for a scenic drive along the coast.
2. Pulicat
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons
Pulicat is the second-largest lagoon in India. Being one of the short road trips from Chennai, it leads you to a peaceful spot rich in natural beauty and birdlife. You can take boat rides at Pulicat Lake and witness migratory birds such as flamingos during the season. The Dutch Cemetery and Pulicat Fort add a historical touch to this scenic destination.
Distance From Chennai: 55 km
Recommended Route: Via NH16 and then take the road to Pulicat.
3. Kanchipuram
Photo: Joelsuganth / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the ‘City of a Thousand Temples,’ Kanchipuram is a spiritual destination among the short road trips from Chennai. The town is famous for the Ekambareswarar and Kailasanathar Temples, as well as for its exquisite silk sarees. The drive to Kanchipuram is smooth and offers views of fields and villages. This makes Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, a must-visit road trip destination.
Distance From Chennai: 75 km
Recommended Route: Via NH48
4. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons
A paradise for bird lovers, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India. It is one of the scenic road trips from Chennai, and upon arrival, you’re greeted by flocks of migratory birds, especially during the winter months. Painted storks, pelicans, and egrets can be spotted here. This makes Vedanthangal a refreshing road trip for wildlife lovers.
Distance From Chennai: 105 km
Recommended Route: Take NH45 towards Chengalpattu and then follow local roads to the sanctuary.
5. Vellore
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its impressive Vellore Fort and the spiritual Golden Temple, Vellore is a historically significant town. The fort, with its well-preserved moat and architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s past. The Sripuram Golden Temple, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, draws devotees and travellers alike. The drive to Vellore is smooth, making it one of the perfect one-day road trips from Chennai.
Distance From Chennai: 136 km
Recommended Route: Via NH4, part of the Golden Quadrilateral.
6. Pondicherry
Photo: Darshika28 / Wikimedia Commons
It is the most popular road trip from Chennai to Pondicherry. The scenic ECR that leads to this beautiful coastal town is an attraction in itself, with stunning sea views along the way. Once in Pondicherry, stroll along the Promenade Beach, visit Auroville, and explore the quaint French Quarter. This charming town offers great food, cosy cafes, and a calming atmosphere.
Distance From Chennai: 150 km
Recommended Route: The ECR for its scenic beauty.
7. Yelagiri
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Eastern Ghats, the journey from Chennai to Yelagiri is filled with beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as trekking to Swamimalai Hill, boating in Punganoor Lake, and exploring the Jalagamparai Waterfalls. With its peaceful ambience and cool weather, Yelagiri is ideal for relaxing summer road trips from Chennai away.
Distance From Chennai: 226 km
Recommended Route: Take NH4 to Vellore, then follow the route to Yelagiri.
8. Tharangambadi
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Tharangambadi, also known as Tranquebar, is a small coastal town with a rich history of Danish colonisation. Being one of the best road trips from Chennai, it offers scenic views of Tamil Nadu’s rural life and coastal stretches. Once in Tharangambadi, explore the majestic Danish Fort, the 17th-century Zion Church, and the beautiful beach, which adds to the beauty of this region.
Distance From Chennai: 280 km
Recommended Route: Via NH45 and then local roads leading to Tharangambadi.
9. Thanjavur
Photo: Anupam Mukherjee / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur is famous for its grand Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Road trips from Chennai to Thanjavur pass through fields and villages. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the temple’s Chola architecture, along with the city’s rich history of art, culture, and classical music.
Distance From Chennai: 326 km
Recommended Route: Via NH38, which is a direct route with good road conditions.
10. Yercaud
Photo: Tamal Das / Wikimedia Commons
Yercaud, a charming hill station in the Shevaroy Hills, offers a refreshing escape from Chennai’s heat. Road trips from Chennai take you through the countryside, perfect for nature lovers. Known for its coffee plantations and relaxing spots such as Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat, and Bear’s Cave, it’s an ideal weekend getaway with a cool climate and serene environment.
Distance From Chennai: 323 km
Recommended Route: Via NH38 and then take the road leading up to Yercaud.
Chennai is surrounded by an abundance of scenic destinations, each offering unique experiences ranging from hill stations to coastal towns and bird sanctuaries. Whether you seek adventure, spiritual peace, or just a change of scenery, these road trips from Chennai provide the perfect escape from city life. For a hassle-free travel experience, book your personalised trip packages with TripXL and explore the beauty of Tamil Nadu at your own pace. Contact us today to plan your dream road trip in the beautiful state of Tamil Nadu.
Cover Photo: RajeshUnuppally / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
