Chennai
Weekend Gateways from Chennai
1. Puducherry

Puducherry also called Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. Often referred to as the ‘French Capital of India’. Hence, the most popular driving route from Chennai to Pondicherry runs along the Bay of Bengal coastline. Therefore, the roads from Chennai to Puducherry are absolutely stunning and also well maintained. Also, there are plenty of places to visit in Pondicherry. Thus, it is one of the Best Weekend Gateways from Chennai.
- Distance from Chennai: 165 km
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Places of attraction: Paradise Beach, Arikamedu, Auroville Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Serenity Beach, and Rock Beach.
2. Karaikudi


- Distance from Chennai: 420 km
- Best time to visit: May to June
- Places of attraction: Chettinad palace, Karpagavinayagar Temple, Kundrakkudi Murugan Temple, Chettinad Mansion, Sri Muthumari Amman Temple, and Vairavanpatti Temple.
3. Tuticorin


- Distance from Chennai: 605 km
- Best time to visit: December to March
- Places of attraction: Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, Kalugumalai, Tuticorin Port, Our Lady of Snows Basilica, and Beach.
4. Thanjavur

- Distance from Chennai: 343 km
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Places of attraction: Brihadeeswara Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Punnainallur Mariamman Kovil, Airavateshwara Temple, Thanjavur Royal Palace, Vijayanagar Fort, and Shiva Ganga Garden.
5. Mahabalipuram


Mahabalipuram is an important place of Classical Monuments in India. The drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram through ECR (East Coast Road) is absolutely stunning. The city has beautiful beaches, magnificent architecture, soothing weather, and offers a beautiful experience to the tourists. And also, famous for its Shore Temple. However, it attracts a large number of visitors from all over the world.
- Distance from Chennai: 70 km
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Places of attraction: Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Varaha Cave Temple, Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Tiger Caves, Arjuna’s Penance, Crocodile bank, and Krishna’s Butter Ball.