Chennai, the bustling capital of Tamil Nadu, is well connected to the historic temple town of Kanchipuram, located about 75 km southwest. This route is popular among tourists and pilgrims eager to explore Kanchipuram’s ancient temples and silk saree markets, making it a favored weekend getaway from the city.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on various transport options from Chennai to Kanchipuram, including train, bus, car, and taxi services. We also cover travel tips, best times to visit, and what to expect upon arrival, helping you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Chennai to Kanchipuram – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and economical way to reach Kanchipuram from Chennai. The route is well-served by several passenger and express trains daily, offering a comfortable journey through Tamil Nadu’s countryside.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Chennai Beach, Chennai Central, or Chennai Egmore stations and arrive at Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is located close to the town center.

• Travel time and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, covering around 75 km. Ticket prices range from ₹30 to ₹150 depending on the train type and class.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, including passenger and MEMU services. Seating is generally unreserved, so arriving early to secure a seat is advisable, especially on weekends and festival days.

• Seasonal tips:

  During temple festivals, trains can get crowded. Booking tickets via IRCTC in advance or opting for early morning trains helps avoid rush.

• Scenic views:

  The train route offers glimpses of rural Tamil Nadu, with lush fields and small villages along the way.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Kanchipuram station is about 2 km from the main temple areas; auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the station.

Bus

Buses are a popular and budget-friendly option for traveling from Chennai to Kanchipuram. Both government and private operators run frequent services connecting the two cities.

• Bus terminals:

  Buses depart from Chennai’s CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus) and other city stops, arriving at Kanchipuram bus stand near the town center.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic, with fares typically between ₹50 and ₹100.

• Types of buses:

  Options include regular, deluxe, and air-conditioned buses. Deluxe buses offer more comfort but run less frequently.

• Frequency and timing:

  Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes from early morning until late evening. Avoid peak traffic hours in Chennai (8–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce travel time.

• Road route:

  Most buses take NH48 via Sriperumbudur, a well-maintained highway with tolls and several roadside eateries for breaks.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Chennai can cause delays, especially during festivals or weekends.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chennai to Kanchipuram offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized schedule or want to explore nearby attractions en route.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48, covering approximately 75 km in about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  The highway is mostly four-lane and well-maintained, with toll plazas near Sriperumbudur. Fuel stations and restaurants like A2B and local dhabas are available along the way.

• Navigation tips:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes during congestion.

• Parking in Kanchipuram:

  Public parking is available near major temples, but it can get crowded during weekends and festivals; arriving early is recommended.

• Seasonal advice:

  Avoid night driving during monsoon months (October to December) due to slippery roads and limited street lighting.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Chennai to Kanchipuram is a hassle-free option, especially for groups or those seeking door-to-door service without the need to drive.

• Booking options:

  Taxis can be booked via Ola, Uber, or local travel agencies. Prepaid cabs are available at Chennai airports and major railway stations.

• Cost and duration:

  A one-way trip typically costs between ₹1,200 and ₹1,800, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Flexibility:

  Many drivers offer round-trip packages with waiting time, allowing you to explore Kanchipuram at leisure.

• Comfort and safety:

  Modern AC sedans and SUVs are common, providing a comfortable ride. Confirm the fare and vehicle condition before starting.

• Traffic considerations:

  Taxis can use alternate routes to avoid congestion, especially during peak hours or festivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Chennai to Kanchipuram, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  For trains, use the IRCTC website or app to secure seats early. For buses, check MSRTC or private operators’ online portals. For taxis, book through trusted apps or agencies.

• Start early:

  Begin your journey by 7 AM to avoid Chennai’s morning traffic and reach Kanchipuram with ample daylight for sightseeing.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, light snacks, and sun protection, especially if traveling by bus or train. Comfortable footwear is recommended for temple visits.

• Reach the station or bus stand early:

  Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or boarding point without rush.

• Use local transport on arrival:

  At Kanchipuram, hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi from official stands. Negotiate fares upfront or use meter-based rides for fair pricing.

• Plan your return:

  Check train and bus timings for your return trip in advance, especially if traveling on weekends or festival days to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses. Use official prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safer local travel.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food unless from trusted vendors. Many buses and trains have limited refreshment options en route.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and MSRTC or RedBus for buses. Book early during festival seasons to avoid sold-out situations.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws are the most common local transport in Kanchipuram. Agree on fares beforehand or insist on using meters to avoid overcharging.

• Luggage:

  Travel light if using public transport. Keep valuables close and carry a small daypack for temple visits.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause traffic delays and slippery roads. Summers are hot; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Chennai to Kanchipuram is during the cooler months from November to February, which offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and temple visits.

Avoid traveling during major Tamil festivals like Pongal or Diwali if you want to skip heavy crowds and traffic jams on the route.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Chennai, especially 8–10 AM and 5–8 PM, to reduce travel time.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause road delays and occasional train disruptions.

• Early morning departures are ideal for smooth travel and to enjoy temples before midday heat.

• Weekdays generally have less crowded trains and buses compared to weekends and holidays.

Arrival at Kanchipuram & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Kanchipuram Railway Station or bus stand, travelers find themselves close to the town’s famous temples and silk markets. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot or via short auto-rickshaw rides.

Local transport options include autos, taxis, and cycle rickshaws. Many hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance of major temples like Kailasanathar and Ekambareswarar. For late arrivals, booking a cab in advance or using app-based services is recommended for safe transfers.

Conclusion

Among the various options, traveling by train offers the best balance of cost, convenience, and experience for most travelers heading from Chennai to Kanchipuram. It is frequent, affordable, and provides a glimpse of Tamil Nadu’s rural landscape.

Whether you choose train, bus, car, or taxi, this guide equips you with practical tips and insights to plan your trip confidently. With proper preparation, your journey to Kanchipuram will be smooth and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the rich cultural heritage awaiting you.