For those seeking respite from the scorching heat of Chennai, embarking on a drive from Chennai to Varkala proves to be an excellent escape. Located along the captivating coastline of Kerala, the town of Varkala offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm which transforms into a breathtaking paradise during monsoon rains.

Embarking on a self-drive journey from Chennai to Varkala can be a delightful experience. The journey covers approximately 700 km and takes about 13 to 14 hours non-stop by car.

The joy of travelling by road lies in the stops along the way, indulging in local cuisines, and exploring some lesser-known attractions.

Morning Departure from Chennai:

Begin your journey early morning from Chennai. The roads are generally clear and it’s a smooth ride. Your first leg of the journey should ideally be towards Villupuram. Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and the lush greenery alongside East Coast Road (ECR).

Breakfast at Villupuram (158 km from Chennai):

Villupuram is a great place for breakfast. Try the local South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, and vada at one of the many local restaurants such as Hotel Aaryas.

Villupuram is one of the largest districts in Tamil Nadu, known for its rich history and agricultural landscape. For history enthusiasts, the Gingee Fort, also known as the “Troy of the East”, is a must-visit. While primarily a transit town, it is also home to several ancient temples. The local cuisine here is dominated by traditional Tamil dishes and is a treat for food lovers.

Stopover at Pondicherry (40 km from Villupuram):

Post breakfast, proceed towards Pondicherry. Take a short detour to explore the French colonies, Auroville, and the beautiful beaches in the city. If time allows, visit the serene Aurobindo Ashram. Pondicherry is also known for its French bakeries, so grabbing a pastry or a sandwich for a quick snack might be a good idea.

Pondicherry’s French Quarter, with tree-lined streets and mustard-coloured colonial villas, offers a stark contrast to the South Indian architecture in the Tamil Quarter. Visit the serene beaches, explore Auroville, the universal city, and enjoy the delectable French-Tamil fusion cuisine here.

Lunch at Cuddalore (22 km from Pondicherry):

Drive further south to Cuddalore for lunch. Cuddalore is known for its traditional Tamil cuisine. The Nivedhanam Restaurant is a popular choice among travellers and locals.

Cuddalore is a rapidly growing industrial city known for its beautiful beaches and historical temples. Silver Beach is a popular tourist attraction, known for its pristine sand and tranquil waters. The city’s cuisine offers a variety of South Indian dishes, especially seafood due to its coastal location.

Scenic Stopover at Chidambaram (44 km from Cuddalore):

Post lunch, you can head towards Chidambaram, a town known for its magnificent temples. The Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant stopover offering a spiritual retreat.

Chidambaram is a spiritual destination, known for the Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This town is also renowned for its traditional music and dance festivals. The local markets offer a variety of handloom products that make great souvenirs.

Drive to Thanjavur (104 km from Chidambaram):

As you continue your journey, your next stop will be Thanjavur, a city steeped in history and culture. Famous for its Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thanjavur also offers an opportunity to shop for Tanjore paintings and dolls.

Also known as Tanjore, Thanjavur is a historical city famous for its exquisite art and architecture. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural marvel of the Chola dynasty. The city is also famous for its unique Tanjore paintings and handcrafted dolls.

Dinner at Tiruchirappalli (60 km from Thanjavur):

End your day at Tiruchirappalli, also known as Trichy. A late-night dinner at the famous Parthasarathy Vilas will provide an authentic experience of the local cuisine, including their special thalis.

The city is a fine blend of tradition and modernity. It is renowned for its historic Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. The bustling local markets, like the famous Gandhi Market, provide a lively shopping experience for tourists.

Drive to Madurai (133 km from Trichy) for an Overnight Stay:

Finally, head towards Madurai for your night halt. This ancient city is known for the grand Meenakshi Amman Temple. A comfortable stay at one of the city’s hotels will get you refreshed for the next day’s journey.

One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai is often referred to as the “Athens of the East” due to its significant cultural and historical importance. The city is synonymous with the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is a grand architectural spectacle. Don’t miss the famous Jigarthanda, a local dessert, while you are here. The shopping here is great for handicrafts, and silks.

Morning Drive to Tirunelveli (160 km from Madurai):

After a good sleep and a tasty breakfast in Madurai, your next stop could be Tirunelveli, a town known for its unique Wheat Halwa. Make sure to grab a box for the journey.

Tirunelveli is a vibrant city known for its unique Dravidian style of architecture, particularly in the Nellaiappar Temple. It is also famous for its distinct cuisine, particularly the Tirunelveli Halwa, a sweet delicacy made from wheat and sugar. The serene banks of the Thamirabarani River provide a perfect spot for a peaceful break.

Arrive at Varkala (240 km from Tirunelveli):

Post lunch, proceed towards your final destination – Varkala. The drive from Tirunelveli to Varkala is scenic with views of the lush countryside and coconut groves.

Arriving in Varkala, you will be welcomed by the sight of the beautiful cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, lined with shops and beach shacks. Varkala Beach, or Papanasam Beach, is a must-visit, known for its holy waters which are believed to wash away sins.

Varkala is famous for its beautiful beaches, cliffs, and religious sites. Some popular attractions include Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Lighthouse, and Kappil Lake. You can also indulge in activities like swimming, surfing, and Ayurvedic treatments.

This marks the end of your memorable self-drive journey from Chennai to Varkala. Remember, the idea of a self-drive vacation is not just to reach the destination but also to relish the journey. So, make the most of it, create memories, and have a safe trip!

We share a list of self drive car rental companies you can choose for your upcoming trip to South India.

Not owning a car is no longer a hassle if this road trip is on your list. Renting a car or opting for a self drive car which provides round-the-clock customer service and flexible rental policies is the most practical and cost-effective solution. Here are some reliable self drive cars rentals that you can check out to plan your upcoming weekend getaway in South India.

• Zoomcar
• Being India’s first self-mobility platform, Zoomcar still holds major scope in the markets. The company offers hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and premium cars along with a reputation that speaks widely of its customer service.
• IndusGo
• One of the leading technologically advanced self drive car rental companies, IndusGo provides convenient and affordable transportation options to customers. IndusGo ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing users to book a car easily through its website or mobile app and have the car delivered to their doorstep. With its strong footing in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, IndusGo is one of the best choices to make for your weekend plans.
• Onroadz
• The company takes pride in its transparency. The platform provides a wide range of fairly new cars that are well-maintained to suit the safety and quality standards of the industry.
• Revv
• Along with car rentals, Revv also provides monthly subscriptions wherein the monthly fee includes insurance, service fee, and maintenance. Additionally, there are no long-term commitments – customers can return, extend, or buy out the car when they want.
• MyChoize
• With one of the most affordable pricing in the market, MyChoize provides its customers with a versatile option of cars from across brands to choose from.

FAQs on self drive road trips from Chennai to Varkala

• Q: How long is the distance from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The distance from Chennai to Varkala is approximately 700 km (435 miles) via road.
• Q: What is the best route to take from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The most common and recommended route is to take NH38 and NH66. This route takes you through cities like Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Kollam, eventually leading to Varkala.
• Q: How long does it take to drive from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: The driving time from Chennai to Varkala can vary depending on traffic conditions and your speed, but it generally takes around 11 to 12 hours. It’s advisable to plan for breaks during the journey.
• Q: Are there any tolls on the route from Chennai to Varkala?
• A: Yes, there are several toll booths along the route from Chennai to Varkala. It’s recommended to carry some cash or use a FASTag for smoother toll payments.
• Q: Are there good places to stop for food and rest along the way?
• A: Yes, there are multiple towns and cities along the Chennai to Varkala route where you can find restaurants, dhabas, and eateries for meals and refreshments. Cities like Villupuram, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Kollam have numerous options.
• Q: Is it safe to travel from Chennai to Varkala by road?
• A: Yes, the journey from Chennai to Varkala is generally considered safe. However, it’s always recommended to practice caution while driving, especially on highways. Follow traffic rules, avoid speeding, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about your travel plans and expected arrival time.

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Switzerland has something for everyone! With snowy alps, beautiful lakes, gorgeous architecture and the best food, Switzerland will make sure you all leave with a suitcase full of memories!

For the crazy adventure junkies

Interlaken is a Swiss town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is known as Europe’s top adventure sports destination. It is located at Bernese Oberland in the shadow of three highest peaks in the Alps- Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. With activities ranging from SkyDiving to Skiing, Interlaken is a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

We recommend skydiving- A notch above gliding on the adventure scale, The rush of jumping from an aircraft and plummeting towards the ground at 200 Km/hr is like no other. Add to that the stunning landscape of the town, makes skydiving in Interlaken – a once in a lifetime experience.

To gorge on amazing cheese, chocolates and everything in between! 

There is something about food that binds people together! Get your group to indulge in some of the best cuisines in the city of Zurich. Add Confiserie Sprungli to your must-visit list to get the best swiss chocolates. Or walk down the quaint lanes of Old Town till you find Le Dezaley, a hundred years old and the best-known fondue restaurant! For vegetarians, Hiltl is one of the best known meat-free restaurants which offers Indian options on its menu.

A day of wine tasting

Swiss wine is one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets. Very few people realize that apart from chocolates and cheese, Switzerland is a fascinating winemaking country. Every canton (county) in Switzerland has its own vineyard that produces a diverse variety of wine and is usually consumed domestically.

Travel with your friends via the Golden Pass Panoramic Train that offers a mesmerizing view of mountains, overlooking lakes on your way to UNESCO-listed Lavaux terraces. This vineyard is famous as the homeland of Chasselas which is Switzerland’s most consumed wine. 

Roadtripping just got better

Switzerland has some of the best and cleanest networks of roads! A few years ago, the Swiss put together a map of the most pleasant ways through the country which is called the Grand Tour route. The route covers 1600km and takes you through five alpine passes and along 22 lakes! From Palm-lined lakeshores to sparkling glaciers, from medieval villages to buzzing cities – The Grand Tour of Switzerland packs in an incredible number of sights. 

Take the train across the Alps

Visit Zermatt, a quaint village that lies at the foot of the world-famous Matterhorn peak in  Switzerland, in case you wish to take a stroll and go for lunch with a stellar view. Getting from one place to another is super easy here – trains are on time: on all routes and always at the same minute after every full and half hour.

The Glacier Express is one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys that starts and ends in two of Switzerland’s best-known mountain resorts – Zermatt and St Moritz. With burnt orange and flaming yellows in Autumn, lush green in summers and a stark cover of white in winters – this view is just ah-mazing. Get onboard – It’s safe, it’s convenient and so worth it! 

Cruise on Swiss lakes

Lake Lucerne is a delightful destination for a group! You can sit and relax at one of the many lakeside cafes or Travel via the Gotthard Panorama Express and experience history as you board a steamboat and glide across Lake Lucerne while enjoying the past mystical coves, picturesque countryside. Don’t forget to try out some fun water activities such as Wakeboarding, Paddleboarding or even Kayaking. The boats often stop near railway stations, and you can travel free with your Swiss Travel Pass. So get those sunnies ready and enjoy your trip on the lake!

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Five travel enthusiasts on a 5000 kilometres ride, sharing a mutual love for roads and adventure decided to celebrate their nations’ freedom in their own way. This ride was born from an idea to redefine the scope of ‘freedom’ and to experience different cultures, languages, customs, and traditions with the intent of crossing boundaries, both physically and figuratively. 

The Great Independence Day Ride (5000 kilometres ride) was flagged off on Independence day, from the Indian Embassy by the Indian High Commissioner in Singapore during pre-COVID times and ended in India, journeying through Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar.  

The five travellers-Nikhil Kashyap, an independent producer and a marketing consultant; Bhanu Pratap Singh; an entrepreneur and aesthetic consultant; Harkirat Singh, a commercial pilot; Divya Raghav, a psychologist and Enaaya, their 5-year-old super trooper. They hail from different backgrounds and despite knowing each other and travelling together for more than a decade, this experience was first of its kind for them.

In Nikhil Kashyap’s words, “The Great Independence Day Ride (5000 kilometres ride) was an attempt to redefine perceptions across borders, to celebrate independence, savour food, and rejoice music. Road trips let you stop in every small town, learn the history and stories, feel the ground and capture the spirit of the place.”

While on the road, they met various biker groups and many travellers who showed them unexplored parts of their respective countries. Reminiscing the ride, Bhanu Pratap Singh, added, “The most memorable part of the trip was experiencing the feeling of fraternity and brotherhood within the biker communities that we met along the way. Their hospitality and warmth towards us, went beyond our common love for motorcycles.”

The pinnacle of this trip (5000 kilometres ride) was Myanmar which for the longest time had been closed for tourism. LA-based filmmaker Anshuvijay Rode said, “It was a pleasant surprise that while editing these videos, I felt part of the camaraderie of the group and as an added plus, I got to see untouched and uncovered parts of Myanmar.”

Highlights:

• Riding on the Formula 1 Track in Singapore
• Riding on Motorways with no speed Limits in Malaysia
• Attending a Bike Festival (Betong Bike Week) in Thailand
• Riding on a 20 lane highway in Myanmar
• Crossing 69 bridges, built by the Japanese during World War 2
• Riding on the most expensive highway in the world
• Passing through the Tropic of Cancer
• Riding Through 1300 km long Asian Highway 1 / 2

  (Tokyo to Afghanistan via Korea – China – Singapore – India – Pakistan)

The Great Independence Day Ride (5000 kilometres ride) was shot on mobile phones and has now been documented in its entirety in mini-episodes and will soon be launched as a web series. Each episode encapsulates the bikers’ exploration of exotic destinations, diverse cultures, local communities, updates of highways of all five countries along with food reviews, border formality intricacies and tips on different cultural etiquettes they experienced.

Patriotism was the heart and soul of the trip. Everyone wanted to do something to honour India’s Independence Day and hence this ride. “While we are currently stuck in our homes, this travelogue is a tribute to the freedom of travel and will hopefully encourage people to see that the Highway is the new way. We all hope that the Great Independence Day Ride web series empowers tourism and travellers to look forward to good times again when we can all get lost in the right direction,” concluded Kashyap.

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