Chennai to Kanyakumari: Best Travel Routes & Tips
Ever wondered how to travel from Chennai to Kanyakumari hassle-free? Whether you’re a budget traveler, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for the quickest way to reach, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through all the available travel options—flights, trains, and road trips, along with handy travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
📍 Distance and Travel Time
Kanyakumari is located about 705 km from Chennai, making it a perfect getaway for a weekend trip or an extended vacation. The travel time depends on the mode of transport you choose:
🚆 By Train: 11 – 14 hours (depending on the train) ✈️ By Flight: 1.5 hours flight + 3-hour road trip from Trivandrum 🚗 By Road: 10 – 12 hours (via NH44)
Each travel option has its perks, so let's explore them in detail.
🚆 Best Way to Travel (Flight, Train, Road)
1️⃣ By Train – Budget-Friendly & Scenic
Traveling by train from Chennai to Kanyakumari is one of the most comfortable and budget-friendly ways to reach. Several trains run between these two destinations daily, with sleeper and AC class options.
⏰ Duration: 11 – 14 hours
💰 Cost: ₹300 – ₹1,800 (depending on the class)
🚆 Popular Trains:
- Kanyakumari Express (12633/12634) – Overnight train, arrives early morning
- Chennai Egmore – Kanyakumari Superfast Express (12665) – Quickest train option
- Anantapuri Express (20635/20636) – Runs via Trivandrum, great for sightseeing
👉 Tip: Book your train tickets in advance on IRCTC to get the best seats.
2️⃣ By Flight – Fastest Option
There is no direct flight from Chennai to Kanyakumari, but you can fly to Trivandrum International Airport (95 km away) and take a taxi or bus to Kanyakumari.
✈️ Duration: 1.5 hours flight + 3 hours road travel
💰 Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹6,000 (one-way flight) + ₹1,500 for a cab to Kanyakumari
🚖 Getting from Trivandrum to Kanyakumari:
- By Taxi: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 (3-hour ride)
- By Bus: Frequent government and private buses available (₹200 – ₹400 per ticket)
👉 Tip: If you’re short on time, flying is your best bet!
3️⃣ By Road – Perfect for Road Trip Lovers
If you love long drives, a road trip from Chennai to Kanyakumari is an exciting adventure! The most popular route is via NH44, offering scenic views and multiple stopovers.
🛣️ Route: Chennai → Villupuram → Madurai → Tirunelveli → Kanyakumari
⏰ Duration: 10 – 12 hours (without long stops)
💰 Cost: Fuel cost ₹4,500 – ₹6,500 (one way)
🚗 Best Stops Along the Way:
- Madurai – Visit the famous Meenakshi Temple
- Tirunelveli – Try the famous Tirunelveli Halwa
- Suchindram Temple – A hidden gem just before reaching Kanyakumari
👉 Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic and enjoy a smooth drive!
💰 Budget-Friendly Travel Tips
1️⃣ Train is the most affordable option if you're looking to save money. 2️⃣ Book flights early for cheaper airfares (3-4 weeks in advance). 3️⃣ For road trips, travel with friends to split fuel costs. 4️⃣ Use local buses from Trivandrum to Kanyakumari to save on taxi fares. 5️⃣ Pack snacks and water for train or bus journeys to avoid unnecessary spending.
❓ FAQs: Chennai to Kanyakumari
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel from Chennai to Kanyakumari?
A: Taking a train is the cheapest option, with fares starting at ₹300.
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Kanyakumari from Chennai?
A: A flight to Trivandrum followed by a taxi or bus ride to Kanyakumari.
Q: Is Kanyakumari worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! Kanyakumari Beach, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, and Thiruvalluvar Statue make it a must-visit place.
Q: Is there a direct flight from Chennai to Kanyakumari?
A: No, the nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (95 km away).
🚀 Final Thoughts
No matter how you choose to travel from Chennai to Kanyakumari, the journey itself is an adventure worth experiencing! Whether you’re enjoying a comfortable train ride, zooming through the skies, or taking a scenic road trip, Kanyakumari’s beauty is waiting for you!
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