How To Reach

Transportation & Travel Tips

Tamil Nadu has a well-connected transportation system that makes traveling easy for both domestic and international tourists. Whether you prefer air travel, trains, buses, or local transport, Tamil Nadu offers multiple options. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the state smoothly.

 Air Travel (Flights)

Tamil Nadu has 4 major international airports and several domestic airports:

• Chennai International Airport (MAA) – The busiest airport in South India, with flights to Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and domestic cities.
• Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – Connects to Sri Lanka, Singapore, and major Indian cities.
• Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) International Airport (TRZ) – Serves flights to Malaysia, Singapore, UAE, and Sri Lanka.
• Madurai International Airport (IXM) – Handles flights to Sri Lanka and Gulf countries.
• Other domestic airports: Salem, Thoothukudi, and Vellore.

 Tip: If traveling internationally, Chennai and Trichy offer the most flight options.

 Railways (Train Travel)

Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network, with Chennai Egmore, Chennai Central, Coimbatore, and Madurai being the major railway hubs.

• Trains connect Tamil Nadu to all major cities in India: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, etc.
• Scenic train routes:
  • Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) – A UNESCO-listed heritage train to Ooty.
  • Rameswaram–Pamban Bridge Train – A thrilling experience over the sea!
• Popular train stations: Chennai Central, Madurai, Trichy, Coimbatore, and Salem.

 Tip: Book tickets in advance via IRCTC (www.irctc.co.in), especially for long-distance or tourist trains.

 Bus Travel (State & Private Buses)

Tamil Nadu has a well-maintained bus network run by:

• TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation) – Affordable state-run buses covering all districts.
• SETC (State Express Transport Corporation) – Luxury and sleeper buses for intercity and interstate travel.
• Private buses – More comfortable options with AC sleeper coaches.

 Tip: For intercity travel, book buses on apps like RedBus or MakeMyTrip.

 Road Travel (Cabs, Rental Cars, & Self-Drive)

Tamil Nadu has smooth national highways and scenic routes.

• Car rentals: Available in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and other cities.
• Ride-hailing services: Ola, Uber, and Rapido are available in major cities.
• Popular road trips:
  • Chennai to Pondicherry (East Coast Road – scenic beach highway)
  • Coimbatore to Ooty (Winding hill roads)
  • Madurai to Rameswaram (Crossing the Pamban Bridge over the sea)

 Tip: Drive cautiously on hilly roads and avoid night travel in forest areas.

 Local Transport (Auto-rickshaws, Metro, & Taxis)

• Metro Rail: Chennai has a modern metro system (Chennai Metro) for fast city travel.
• Auto-rickshaws: Available everywhere, but always negotiate the fare or use Ola Auto.
• Taxis: Uber, Ola, and local taxis are common in big cities.
• Bicycle Rentals: Available in Pondicherry and some tourist towns.

 Tip: For short distances, use metro, local buses, or ride-sharing apps to save money.