Top 10 Refreshing Weekend Road Trips from Chennai in 2023

Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu, is well-known for its delicious food and rich cultural history, but it’s also close to plenty of interesting places that are only a short drive away. A weekend getaway from Chennai by car gives you freedom over your journey and is quite a different kind of travel. Some travel plans include seeing unique locations, while others involve seeing favoured tourist spots. Experience the best 10 weekend road trips from Chennai by following us on a virtual adventure through this blog. You’ll find something to fit with your interests on these amazing adventures, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to unwind.

Top 10 Refreshing Weekend Road Trips from Chennai in 2023

10 Best Weekend Road Trips from Chennai by Car in 2023

Booking a rental car for your weekend getaway from Chennai ensures freedom and convenience. Whether you’re seeking a compact car for a romantic getaway or a spacious SUV for a family adventure, the options are vast.

So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, and hit the road to explore these incredible destinations just a short drive away from Chennai. Remember that the trip is just as worthwhile as the final destination!

1. Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)

Distance from Chennai: 60 km

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 Minutes

Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Coromandel Coast, is known for its exquisite sculptures, spectacular rock-cut temples, and beautiful coastline drives quick Weekend Road Trips from Chennai using a car rental service.

Here’s what to explore:

Shore Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the famous Shore Temple is a marvel of Dravidian architecture that rises majestically against the Bay of Bengal backdrop.
Arjuna’s Penance: This massive outdoor bas-relief carving, a masterpiece of ancient Indian art, portrays episodes from the Mahabharata.
Krishna’s Butter Ball: This enormous rock rests recklessly on a hill, seemingly defying gravity.
Beaches: Enjoy the seaside charm and unwind on the peaceful Mahabalipuram Beach.

Best time to visit: November to February

2. Kanchipuram

Distance from Chennai: 70 km

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Kanchipuram, also known as Kanchi, is famous for its temples and silk sarees. It is one of the seven Moksha-puris in Hinduism and it is also called the golden city of a thousand temples.

Here’s what to explore:

Kailasanathar Temple: Famous for its intricate sculptures, this historic temple to Lord Shiva is a breathtaking specimen of Dravidian architecture.
Ekambareswarar Temple: The biggest temple in Kanchipuram, is devoted to Lord Shiva and is distinguished by its thousand-pillared hall and four-branched mango tree.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple: Located in Kanchipuram, which is an 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Silk Sarees: The workmanship and quality of Kanchipuram silk sarees are well known. To see the craft of creating sarees, stop by the weavers and shops in your area.

Best time to visit: October to March

3. Pondicherry

Distance from Chennai: 70 km

Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

The most alluring location in South India is Pondicherry, sometimes referred to as the French Riviera of the East. Situated on India’s seashore, this little union territory is the perfect retreat for individuals seeking tranquility and those who appreciate the natural world. The French Quarter takes you back in time with its quaint streets, vibrant architecture, and cafés.

Here’s what to experience:

The French Quarter: It is a charming place to stroll about on cobblestones while taking in the colonial architecture. You can also stop by charming cafés for a tasty pancake or a cup of coffee.
Auroville: Known as the “City of Dawn,” Auroville is an experimental community based on the ideas of human potential, sustainability, and harmony. See the renowned meditation centre, Matrimandir.
Aurobindo Ashram: Find spirituality and inner serenity in the tranquil Aurobindo Ashram.
Promenade Beach: Take a leisurely stroll down the beach and take in the tranquil atmosphere.

There are also many places to visit here like Gingee Fort, Jawahar Toy Museum apart from taking part in a variety of water activities.

Best time to visit: November to February

4. Vellore

Distance from Chennai: 140 km

Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

With several ancient buildings and pilgrimage sites, Vellore is one of Tamil Nadu’s most popular tourist attractions. Multiple dynasties including the Pallavas, the Cholas, and the Vijaynagar Empire all called the city home.

Here’s where to visit:

Vellore Fort: This 16th-century fort is a magnificent example of military design. Explore its impressive walls, the Jalakanteswara Temple, and the Long Cannon, which has historical significance.
Golden Temple (Sripuram): A heavenly location for seekers, the Golden Temple is a spiritual masterpiece embellished with elaborate gold leafwork.

Apart from this, there is a lot of history and culture to engage on this road trip by booking an outstation car rental service from Chennai.

Best time to visit: October to March

5. Yelagiri

Distance from Chennai: 230 km

Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes

Yelagiri is a hill station known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and trekking trails which are ideal for a relaxed road trip. You may book a car for an outstation trip from Chennai to get to this stunning location.

Here’s what to explore:

Nature Trails: Take a trip or take a nature walk in the captivating Swamimalai Hills. Relish the peace and quiet of Punganur Lake and the magnificent vistas from the summits of the hills.
Jalagamparai Waterfalls: Revel in the beauty of the natural world in this tranquil retreat surrounded by gushing water.

Best time to visit: October to March

6. Horsley Hills

Distance from Chennai: 280 km

Travel Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours

Located in Andhra Pradesh’s southern region, Horsley Hills is a well-known hill station that attracts plenty of tourists. There are several options for reasonably priced driver-only car rental from Chennai to ensure a pleasant and pleasurable journey. The lush greenery and captivating viewpoints offer a rejuvenating experience, making it an ideal addition to your trip.

Here’s what to explore:

Mallama Temple: Explore the Mallama Temple, which is renowned for its serene atmosphere and lovely surroundings.
Overlooks: For breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, stop by one of the many overlooks, such as Horsley Hills Viewpoint or Wind Rocks Viewpoint.
Kalyani and Horsley Hills Zoo: This family-friendly location offers a tiny zoo and a tranquil pond.

Best time to visit: December to March

7. Yercaud

Distance from Chennai: 356 km

Travel Time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours

Yercaud, the Jewel of the South, is a hill station offering a serene escape. Ever since its creation and adaptation into the Madras Presidency in the mid-1800s, Yercaud has gained recognition for its dense bamboo forests and coffee plantations, which serve as a haven for a diverse range of flora and wildlife. It is revived in light of its historical stone applications.

Here’s where to travel:

Yercaud Lake: Engage in boating activities on the tranquil Yercaud Lake and relish the serene ambiance of the surroundings.
Kiliyur Falls: Explore the cascading Kiliyur Falls, a beautiful sight especially during and after the monsoon season.

You can also check for car rental services that offer unlimited kilometres for worry-free Weekend Road Trips from Chennai to visit more places like Shevaroy Temple, Botanical Garden, Anna Park, etc.

Best time to visit: January to December

8. Pichavaram Mangrove Forests

Distance from Chennai: 215 km

Travel Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours

Pichavaram, covering about 1100 hectares, is the second biggest mangrove forest globally. A trip to the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is an amazing chance to see nature and learn about the importance of mangrove ecosystems for the environment. For those looking for a distinctive natural weekend getaway from Chennai, this place offers an exciting and instructive experience.

Here’s where to visit:

Mangrove Boating: Take a boat ride through the intricate system of coastlines, mangrove forests, and backwaters. During the boat voyage, you will pass through constricted canals surrounded by tall mangrove plants.
Biodiversity: Learn about the various plants and animals that make up the mangrove environment. Many bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets, may be found in the area.

Best time to visit: November to February

9. Nandi Hills

Distance from Chennai: Approximately 350 to 400 km (depending on the route)

Travel Time: About 5 to 6 hours

Introducing Nandi Hills to the list of weekend escapes from Chennai is a great idea. It is hard to recreate the feeling of seeing the splendor of nature, and the views from the hills are breathtaking. Search for reliable and affordable car rental services in Chennai for your incredible path that goes to the Nandi Hills.

Here’s where to go:

Sunrise and Sunset Views: Enjoy the stunning dawn or sunset views from the hilltop, affording breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside.
Trekking & Hiking: Take a walk or hike down one of the many routes, including Tipu’s Drop, to visit historic temples and the Summer Palace of the Tipu Sultan.
Experience the exhilaration of paragliding, which is provided by nearby adventure sports companies (weather allowed).

Best time to visit: September to November

10. Tharangambadi

Distance from Chennai: Approximately 270 km

Travel Time: About 6 to 7 hours

Tharangambadi, formerly known as Tranquebar, is a small town located about 270 km from Chennai. It is a former Danish colony and is known for its Danish Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here’s where to explore:

Visit the Danish Fort, which was built in the 17th century.
Explore the Tharangambadi Maritime Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history as a trading port.
Visit the St. Bartholomew’s Church, which is a Dutch-built church dating back to the 17th century & Sri Masilamani Nathar Temple

Best time to visit: December to April

Here Are a Few Tips for Planning Your Road Trip from Chennai:

Book your hotel and car rental from Chennai in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Choose a destination that is within driving distance of Chennai.
Make sure your car is in good condition and has a full tank of gas before you start your trip.
Pack plenty of food and water, especially if you are traveling to remote areas.
Every few hours, take a pause to stretch and relax your legs.
Be aware of the traffic conditions and road closures before you start your trip.
Plan your route and make sure to stop at interesting places along the way.
Have a fantastic day and take in the sights!

Conclusion

Chennai is an excellent starting point for discovering South India’s undiscovered beauties. The best 10-weekend road trip from Chennai provides a variety of experiences, whether your interests are in history, spirituality, natural beauty, or a combination of these. Thus, if you live in Chennai, consider using a car rental for an outstation travel from Chennai with a driver to arrange a gateway and go to one of these fascinating locations.