Ahoy travellers! We know you have missed out on all your spring travel plans following the COVID-19 outbreak, and it seems like you may have to skip the summer vacations too. But once this curse lifts, there’s no reason why you can’t at least hit the road if not fly or take the train. That’s got to be okay, right? After all, you’ll be safe within the confines of your own car, protected from any contaminants lingering in public spaces. So why don’t you put this lockdown to good use and narrow down all the road trips that you can possibly take in times to come… just make sure that it’s a short haul.
One of the best road trips in India that you can take post lockdown is from Chennai to Tirupati – the drive is short, scenic and beautiful with lots of amazing pit stops that you can take along the journey. Moreover, the blend of natural beauty and spirituality that you’ll experience once you’re in Tirupati is sure to revive and revitalise your mind, body and soul after all the months of staying home.
Chennai to Tirupati by Road
Chennai to Tirupati by Road: Quick Facts
| Distance from Chennai to Tirupati: | 135 km |
| Travel Time from Chennai to Tirupati: | 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) |
| Best Routes from Chennai to Tirupati: | Via Tirupati Road, Via Srikalahasti Road, Via Thiruvallur High Road |
| Stops between Chennai and Tirupati: | Puzhal Lake, Periyapalayam, Kailasakona Waterfalls, Nagalapuram, Thiruthani |
| Best Time to Visit Tirupati: | October to February |
Chennai to Tirupati by Road: Best Routes
There are multiple routes that you can take when you’re travelling from Chennai to Tirupati by own car. Here’s a list of the three best routes between the two cities to help you make the choice:
ROUTE 1: Via Tirupati Road
Chennai to Tirupati by Road
Chennai – Puzhal – Nagalapuram – Puttur – Tirupati (135 km)
ROUTE 2: Via Srikalahasti Road
Chennai to Tirupati by Road
Chennai – Tada – Srikalahasti – Renigunta – Tirupati (150 km)
ROUTE 3: Via Thiruvallur High Road
Chennai to Tirupati by Road
Chennai – Tiruvallur – Thiruthani – Puttur – Tirupati (155 km)
Route 1 is the shortest, fastest and thus the most travelled route between Chennai and Tirupati. But, if you want to drive through the unparalleled scenic beauty of the Eastern Ghats, then Route 3 might be the best option for you, despite being 20 km longer. You might even get less traffic on this one.
Chennai to Tirupati by Road: Pit Stops
No matter which route you take of the three, you’ll definitely have a chance to make your journey all the more interesting by taking a short break to explore any of the following places on the way:
- Puzhal Lake: Dating back to the British period, this lake is one of the main rain-fed reservoirs in the state of Tamil Nadu. Should you wish to take an early break to soak in the serene environment and chill out with your travel buds before the journey continues, there isn’t a better spot than this.
- Periyapalayam: When crossing through this village, make sure you take a halt at Sri Bhavani Amman Temple located on the Arani River. Dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, this revered temple is known for its beautiful carvings. You might even get to witness one of its grand festivals (on special days).
- Kailasakona Waterfalls: You certainly shouldn’t miss this one en route Tirupati from Chennai. This iconic waterfall in the Chitoor district gushes down from a height of just 40 feet but what’s exciting about it is that its water never dries up. There is a small Vishnu temple situated too at its base.
- Nagalapuram: This town has everything that you need to bring your Instagram feed alive with travel pictures – from a beautiful water cascade and small serene lakes to the perfect backdrop of hills and a rustic little temple for you to get blessings at. Don’t you forget to keep your cameras ready!
- Thiruthani: Situated about 80 km from Chennai, this small town has a renowned temple that can be explored en route. Thiruthani Murugan Temple attracts devotees from far and wide as it is counted among the six holy abodes (‘Arupadai Veedu’) of Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva, in India.
To make the most of your road trip, it is best if you start from Chennai during early hours or at a time when you won’t get much traffic. The journey to Tirupati thereafter is going to be smooth drive. Just roll down your windows, feel the cool breeze hitting you and enjoy the beautiful vistas en route.
Fab Safety Tips for Road Trips from Chennai to Tirupati
All set to hit the road? Before you head off, take our two cents on the dos and don’ts of taking a trip from Chennai to Tirupati.
- Wear masks & gloves
- Wash your hands whenever you get out of the car or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Choose a 100% hygienic hotel for a safe stay
- Prefer bottled water and eat only at a clean restaurant
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth frequently
- Take Vitamin C and D along with zinc daily to boost your immunity
- Carry essentials like torch, hand sanitizer, light food, protein bars, sleeping bag and water
- Carry a pair of comfortable shoes in your luggage
- Always keep a map handy or download offline maps when you are on your own and out exploring any unknown territory
- And obviously, follow all the COVID-19-related guidelines issued by WHO including hygiene practices and social distancing
Find the best budget hotels in Tirupati here.
Read more: List of Best Places to Visit in Tirupati
