Chennai to Kodaikanal Road Trip

Road trips scream adventure and spontaneity, and there is no lack of it in the "Princess of Hill Stations" located in South India. That's right, a road trip to Kodaikanal is technically a rite of passage for any avid traveller when visiting the Eastern Ghats. The Chennai to Kodaikanal route allows you to experience a serene getaway, away from the bustling city life. So buckle up and put on your helmet as you embark on this journey.

a panoramic view of a hill station during monsoon

Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Road

You do not want to jostle around in a train or take a stressful flight for your Kodaikanal trip? Travel in an absolutely peaceful state of mind from Chennai to Kodaikanal by road - you will reach your destination and have enough time to unwind there if you take the route via Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Road.

However, if you do have some time on hand there are some beautiful landmarks worth stopping for an immersive experience. Making a stop or two on the way is after all what defines an enthralling Chennai-Kodaikanal road trip.

Palar River View Point at Kanchipuram is simply beautiful with a picturesque view of the Palar River snaking its way through the state of Tamil Nadu. If you are a history buff you may consider stopping at Ranjankudi Fort at Perambalur. The 15th-century fort built by the Vijayanagar Nayaka Kings, has been host to the nawab of Carnatic and also witnessed the Battle of Valikondah. Perhaps you will witness history trapped within these walls too. The route is host to a couple of good restaurants and eateries offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals.

green trees by a water body under a cloudy sky

Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Road and NH 38 route

The Chennai - Villupuram - Trichy - Kanyakumari Road and NH 38 route might be a little longer and might take a longer time but is worth the effort and time.

This route offers a couple more tourist attractions to visit than the alternate option. You will reach your destination in a longer time but have richer memories spent on the road. A 17th-century hill fort lies on the way, waiting for you to check it out along with the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, where winter migratory birds choose to travel to. Maybe you will also do the same one winter afternoon, making the Chennai Kodaikanal trip memorable.

When you finally reach Kodaikanal, rest your aching feet and sore back in one of the rooms at The Carlton. With an array of options to choose from for a comfortable stay by the Kodaikanal Lake, our 5-star hotel strives to provide nothing but quality service. Wake up feeling refreshed for all your adventures at the hill station without a hint of any worry since the hotel is located with an easy commute to most major tourist attractions.

Read our blog on things to do in Kodaikanal and dive into an exciting time in this picturesque town.