Sankara Nethralaya is a renowned eye hospital located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu's capital city. It is situated in the heart of Chennai, near the Nungambakkam area, making it accessible from various parts of the city and beyond.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Sankara Nethralaya Chennai using different transport modes. Whether you are traveling from within Chennai or arriving from other cities, you will find detailed advice on trains, buses, cars, and local transport to plan your visit confidently.

Getting from Chennai to Sankara Nethralaya – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable if you are coming from outside Chennai or nearby towns. Chennai has multiple railway stations well connected to the rest of India, and local trains can help you reach nearby areas.

• Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore are the major railway stations serving long-distance trains from across India, located about 6-8 km from Sankara Nethralaya.

• From these stations, you can take local suburban trains to Nungambakkam station, which is the closest railway station to Sankara Nethralaya, about 1 km away.

• Train fares vary depending on the distance, with suburban train tickets costing between ₹10 and ₹30, and long-distance trains ranging widely based on class and route.

• Local trains run frequently throughout the day, but avoid peak office hours (8-10 AM and 5-7 PM) to escape heavy crowds and ensure comfort.

• During monsoon season, trains may face minor delays, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach Sankara Nethralaya, especially if you are traveling within Chennai or nearby suburbs. The city’s bus network is extensive and connects most areas.

• Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) operates buses that stop near Nungambakkam and nearby areas, with routes from major bus terminals like Broadway and Koyambedu.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹10 to ₹30 depending on distance and bus type (ordinary or air-conditioned).

• Buses run frequently, but traffic congestion during peak hours (8-11 AM and 5-8 PM) can cause delays, so plan accordingly.

• Major roads like Anna Salai (Mount Road) and Poonamallee High Road provide direct access to the hospital area, with several bus stops nearby.

• Night buses are limited, so if traveling late, consider alternate transport options.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Sankara Nethralaya is convenient if you prefer privacy and flexibility. The hospital is well connected by Chennai’s main roads and highways.

• From Chennai Central, take Anna Salai (Mount Road) heading towards Nungambakkam; the distance is about 6 km and takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

• Parking is available near the hospital, but it can be limited during busy hours, so arrive early if possible.

• Toll plazas are not on the direct route within the city, but if coming from outskirts, expect tolls on highways like NH48 or GST Road.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along Anna Salai and surrounding roads for breaks during travel.

• Traffic congestion is common during morning and evening rush hours; avoid traveling between 8-10 AM and 5-7 PM for a smoother drive.

Flight

Flights are relevant if you are traveling from other states or countries to Chennai. Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to Sankara Nethralaya.

• Chennai International Airport is about 18 km from Sankara Nethralaya, connected by the GST Road and Anna Salai.

• Airport taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available 24/7, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹700 depending on traffic and cab type.

• The airport is well connected to major Indian cities and international destinations, with frequent flights daily.

• From the airport, you can also take the suburban train from Meenambakkam station to Nungambakkam station, though this requires a transfer and is less convenient.

• Traffic near the airport and city can be heavy during peak hours, so allocate extra time when traveling to or from the airport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Sankara Nethralaya Chennai, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance using IRCTC or MTC online portals to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• If arriving by train, disembark at Nungambakkam station for the shortest last-mile commute; use prepaid autos or app-based cabs for safe and fair travel to the hospital.

• If traveling by bus, check the MTC route numbers that stop near Nungambakkam and plan your trip outside peak traffic hours to avoid delays.

• For self-drive, use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps to find the best route and check live traffic updates to avoid jams on Anna Salai and surrounding roads.

• If flying in, pre-book an Ola or Uber from Chennai Airport to Sankara Nethralaya to avoid waiting in taxi queues and ensure a fixed fare.

• Carry a water bottle and light snacks, especially if traveling during Chennai’s hot months, and keep emergency contacts handy for local transport or hospital queries.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs from railway stations and airports to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid street food near transit points to prevent stomach issues during your trip.

• Book tickets online in advance for trains and buses, especially during festival seasons or long weekends, as services get crowded quickly.

• Use local autorickshaws for short distances but agree on fares beforehand or insist on using the meter to avoid disputes.

• Carry minimal luggage if possible, as crowded local transport can make handling large bags difficult and tiring.

• During monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat and check for any transport delays or road closures before starting your journey.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

Chennai experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers and a monsoon season that can affect travel. Planning your trip during favorable weather improves comfort and reduces delays.

The city sees heavy traffic during festivals like Pongal and Deepavali, which can increase travel time significantly. Avoid these peak periods if possible.

• Avoid traveling during Chennai’s peak traffic hours: 8-10 AM and 5-8 PM, as roads and public transport get congested.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause waterlogging and slow traffic, so allocate extra travel time during these months.

• Winter months (December to February) offer pleasant weather and smoother travel conditions, making it the best time to visit.

• Early morning departures (before 7 AM) usually face less traffic and provide a more comfortable journey to Sankara Nethralaya.

Arrival at Sankara Nethralaya & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Sankara Nethralaya, you will find the hospital located on College Road, Nungambakkam, a busy but well-marked area. The hospital entrance is accessible from main roads with clear signage.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, app-based cabs, and autorickshaws. It is advisable to use prepaid or app-based cabs for safety and fixed fares. Nearby, you will find hotels and guesthouses in Nungambakkam and Teynampet areas, suitable for visitors.

Conclusion

Traveling to Sankara Nethralaya Chennai is straightforward with multiple transport options. For most visitors, using the suburban train to Nungambakkam station or taking a direct bus are efficient and affordable choices. Self-driving offers flexibility but requires planning around traffic.

Booking tickets in advance, avoiding peak traffic hours, and using reliable local transport services will help you reach the hospital comfortably. With this guide, you can plan your journey confidently and focus on your visit to this important eye care center.