Thinking about traveling from Chennai to Madurai? Whether you're planning a road trip, train journey, or flight, this guide covers the distance, best routes, travel time, cost, and top attractions along the way.
📍 Distance & Best Route Options
🚗 Chennai to Madurai Distance by Road
- Total Distance: 460 km
- Estimated Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Best Highway Route: NH38 (Fastest)
- Alternative Route: NH45 (Scenic drive via Trichy)
🚆 Chennai to Madurai Distance by Train
- Total Distance: 496 km
- Average Travel Time: 6 to 10 hours (depends on the train)
- Best Train Option: Pandian Express (Train No: 12637)
- Ticket Cost: ₹150 (Sleeper), ₹900 (AC)
✈️ Chennai to Madurai Distance by Flight
- Total Distance: 420 km (Aerial Distance)
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 mins
- Average Ticket Price: ₹2000 - ₹5000
🚌 Chennai to Madurai Distance by Bus
- Total Distance: 460 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 9 hours
- Bus Types: Sleeper, AC, and Volvo buses available
- Fare Range: ₹600 - ₹1200
🚌 Tip: Night buses are a good option to save time and avoid daytime traffic!
🛣️ By Car, Train, Bus & Flight – Travel Time & Cost
🚗 Best Route for a Road Trip (By Car)
🔹 Route 1 (Fastest) – NH38
- Distance: 460 km
- Travel Time: 7 hours
- Route: Chennai → Tindivanam → Trichy → Madurai
- Why Choose This?
✅ Best road conditions
✅ Less traffic compared to NH45
✅ Well-maintained highways
🔹 Route 2 (Scenic) – NH45 via Trichy
- Distance: 480 km
- Travel Time: 7.5 to 8 hours
- Highlights:
✅ Trichy stopover (Srirangam Temple)
✅ Beautiful countryside views
🚆 Chennai to Madurai by Train – Best Options
| Train Name | Departure (Chennai) | Arrival (Madurai) | Duration |
|---|
| Pandian Express (12637) | 9:40 PM | 6:40 AM | 9h |
| Vaigai Express (12635) | 1:40 PM | 9:30 PM | 8h |
| Ananthapuri Express (16723) | 7:15 AM | 3:50 PM | 8.5h |
🚆 Tip: If you prefer a comfortable journey, book an AC coach on Pandian Express!
✈️ Chennai to Madurai by Flight – Fastest Option
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Major Airlines: IndiGo, Air India
- Ticket Price: ₹2000 - ₹5000 (book early for lower prices)
✈️ Tip: Early morning flights are cheaper and less crowded!
🚌 Chennai to Madurai by Bus – Budget-Friendly Option
- Bus Duration: 7 to 9 hours
- Bus Operators: TNSTC, Parveen Travels, KPN Travels
- Ticket Price: ₹600 - ₹1200
🚌 Tip: If you’re traveling overnight, choose an AC sleeper bus for a more comfortable journey.
📍 Places to See Along the Way
🚗 If you're taking a road trip, you can explore some amazing stopovers:
🏛️ Srirangam Temple (Near Trichy)
- One of the largest Hindu temples in the world
- Beautiful architecture and spiritual vibes
🌉 Kallanai Dam (Near Trichy)
- An ancient dam built over the Kaveri River
- Ideal for a quick nature break
🏰 Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal (Madurai)
- A historic palace built in the 17th century
- Best for photography & architecture lovers
🍽️ Best Stops for Food & Sightseeing
🚗 If you’re driving, don’t miss these food stops!
🥘 Best Restaurants Along the Highway
| Place | Specialty Dish | Location |
|---|
| A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) | South Indian Meals | Tindivanam |
| Sri Krishna Bhavan | Masala Dosa | Perambalur |
| Amma Mess | Mutton Kothu Parotta | Madurai |
🌮 Tip: Try Madurai’s famous Jigarthanda drink when you arrive!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest way to travel from Chennai to Madurai?
The cheapest option is by train (₹150 for Sleeper Class). Buses are also affordable, starting from ₹600.
2. What is the fastest way to reach Madurai from Chennai?
Flights take just 1 hour 15 minutes, making them the fastest option.
3. Are there direct trains from Chennai to Madurai?
Yes! The Pandian Express, Vaigai Express, and Ananthapuri Express are direct trains.
4. What is the best time to travel from Chennai to Madurai?
The best time is morning or late evening to avoid traffic.
5. Are there good hotels in Madurai?
Yes! Check out our Best Hotels in Madurai guide for recommendations.
🚀 Final Travel Tips
✅ For a quick trip, take a flight.
✅ For budget travelers, choose a train or bus.
✅ For adventure lovers, do a road trip and explore Srirangam & Trichy.
✅ Book tickets early during peak seasons.
✅ Try local food in Madurai
🚗 Ready to Travel from Chennai to Madurai?
Whether you're taking a road trip, train, flight, or bus, this guide has everything you need for a smooth journey.
