Chennai to Velankanni distance
Chennai to Velankanni Distance, Ticket Prices, and Travel Options, a small seaside town in Tamil Nadu, is well-known for its famed Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a sacred site thousands of pilgrims visit annually. Many people from Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s capital, visit Velankanni for religious reasons, tourism, or to relax on the beach.
If you’re planning a vacation from Chennai to Velankanni, let us know the distance and how to get there. Here’s a short way to understand the route from Chennai to Velankanni.
How Far is Velankanni from Chennai?
The road distance between Chennai and Velankanni is roughly 320 kilometers (200 miles). The route takes you past several towns and gorgeous landscapes, making for a pleasant ride, especially if traveling with family or friends.
Travel Options from Chennai to Velankanni
Velankanni is accessible from Chennai via a variety of forms of transportation. Here are some of the most popular options:
- By Road (Car/Bus)
Traveling by automobile or bus is one of the most commons ways to get to Velankanni. The 320-kilometer journey can take 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Car: If you want a more private and pleasant journey, you can drive your car or take a cab. The road from Chennai to Velankanni winds through picturesque scenery, including tiny towns, farmland, and coastal locations.
By Bus: Regular bus services, including government and commercial buses, are provided between Chennai and Velankanni. You can pick between AC, non-AC, and sleeper buses. Buses usually take about 8 hours to reach Velankanni.
- By Train
If you enjoy traveling by Train, there are trains from Chennai to Velankanni. One of the direct trains is the Velankanni Express, which connects Chennai with Velankanni. The train ride takes about 10 to 12 hours and is a comfortable and cheap choice for travelers.
You can also take a train to Nagapattinam, the following central railway station to Velankanni, and then take a taxi or bus to the town around 12 kilometers away.
- By Flight
There are no direct flights from Chennai to Velankanni because the latter does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), around 150 kilometers away. To get to Velankanni from Trichy, take a taxi or the bus. However, this alternative may be more convenient if you’re planning a journey to multiple destinations. Chennai to Velankanni Distance, Ticket Prices, and Travel Options
Best Time to Visit Velankanni
Velankanni is a year-round resort, although the best months are November through February when the temperature is milder and more comfortable. Pilgrims frequently visit at the Annual Feast of Our Lady of Good Health, which takes place from August 29 to September 8 each year and draws thousands of tourists.
Chennai to Velankanni car price
The price for traveling by car depends on your vehicle type. Below is a rough estimate of car hire prices:
- Hatchback (small car like Swift or i10): ₹4,000 – ₹5,500
- Sedan (like Dzire or Honda City): ₹5,500 – ₹7,000
- SUV (like Innova or Scorpio): ₹7,500 – ₹9,000
- Luxury Cars (like Audi or BMW): ₹10,000 and above
These prices generally include fuel, driver allowance, and basic toll charges.
- Self-Drive vs. Chauffeur-Driven
If you want solitude and freedom, consider renting a self-drive automobile. However, chauffeur-driven cars are also availables, which is an excellent choice to travel comfortably without worrying about driving. A chauffeur-driven car may cost significantly more due to the driver’s fee (often around ₹300 to ₹500 each day).
- Fuel Costs
If you drive your automobile, fuel costs are a significant consideration. Your vehicle’s fuel efficiency determines the entire cost:
- A hatchback typically consumes 20 gallons of gas or diesel, costing around ₹2,000 to ₹2,500.
- An SUV may require 30 gallons of petrol, which might cost between ₹3,500 and ₹4,000, depending on fuel prices.
- Toll Charges
The drive from Chennai to Velankanni contains multiple toll booths, and the toll rates often range from ₹300 to ₹500 every round trip. Carry enough cash or use a FASTag to go through toll plazas quickly.
- Additional Costs
Other extra costs include parking fees at Velankanni, food, snacks during your journey, and any overnight stays if you plan to rest.
Chennai to Velankanni bus ticket price
The bus fare varies depending on the type of bus you choose. Below is a general guide to the ticket prices:
- TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation) Buses: These are government-run buses that are affordable but less luxurious.
- Price: ₹200 to ₹400
- Features: Basic seating, no air-conditioning, but comfortable for budget travelers.
- Semi-Sleeper Private Buses: These are more comfortable than government buses and offer reclining seats.
- Price: ₹500 to ₹800
- Features: Reclining seats, more legroom, better maintenance.
- AC Sleeper Buses: These buses are equipped with air conditioning and sleeper berths, making the journey more comfortable, especially for overnight travel.
- Price: ₹900 to ₹1,200
- Features: Air-conditioning, fully reclining sleeper berths, personal charging ports, and sometimes entertainment options.
- Luxury or Premium Buses: These buses offer the highest comfort level with added facilities.
- Price: ₹1,200 to ₹1,500
- Features: Spacious seats, individual TVs, blankets, pillows, and premium services.
Where to Book Tickets
You can book tickets from various platforms:
- Online booking websites: RedBus, AbhiBus, or the official websites of bus operators.
- Government bus ticket counters: You can buy tickets directly at the bus terminals.
- Mobile apps: Most bus companies now have their apps for more accessible bookings.
Chennai to Velankanni train ticket price
The train journey from Chennai to Velankanni covers a distance of approximately 350 kilometers. Direct trains are available, and the most popular one is the Velankanni Express(Train No. 16185/16186), which operates on selected days of the week. The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on the Train. Chennai to Velankanni Distance, Ticket Prices, and Travel Options
Ticket Prices
The ticket prices for this route depend on the class you choose. Indian Railways offers different travel classes, from budget-friendly to more comfortable options. Here are the approximate prices:
- General Class (Unreserved)
- Fare: ₹150 – ₹200
- This is the cheapest option, but it does not provide reserved seating. It’s ideal for short-notice travel but can be crowded, especially during peak times.
- Sleeper Class (SL)
- Fare: ₹300 – ₹400
- Sleeper class offers a more comfortable journey with reserved seats that convert into beds. It’s a good choice for overnight travel if you’re on a budget.
- Third AC (3A)
- Fare: ₹800 – ₹900
- Third AC provides air-conditioned comfort and three tiers of berths (upper, middle, and lower). It’s a popular option for families or travelers looking for a more comfortable journey without spending too much.
- Second AC (2A)
- Fare: ₹1,200 – ₹1,400
- The second AC has fewer passengers per compartment, offering more privacy and better comfort with air-conditioning. It’s a good option if you want to travel in more comfort.
- First AC (1A)
- Fare: ₹2,000 – ₹2,500
- First, AC is the most luxurious option, with private cabins, bedding, and air-conditioning. This is ideal for those who prefer a premium travel experience.
Travel Tips
- Book in Advance: Trains to Velankanni can get packed, especially during festival seasons and weekends. Booking your tickets early is a good idea to secure your preferred class.
- Check Train Timings: Train schedules may change, so double-check before your trip.
- Food and Amenities: Food services are available if you’re traveling in Sleeper Class or higher. However, it’s always a good idea to carry snacks and water. Chennai to Velankanni Distance, Ticket Prices, and Travel Options
Chennai to Velankanni flight ticket price
Trichy has regular flights from Chennai, operated by domestic airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. The flight from Chennai to Trichy is about 1 hour long.
How Much Does a Flight Ticket Cost?
The price of a one-way flight ticket from Chennai to Trichy can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- How early you book – The earlier you book, the cheaper it usually is.
- Time of travel – Prices can rise during holiday seasons, weekends, or during unique festivals like Christmas and New Year.
- Airlines – Low-cost carriers (like IndiGo) often have cheaper tickets than full-service airlines (like Air India).
Typically, the prices for a one-way ticket range from ₹1,800 to ₹4,000, depending on the above factors.
Trichy to Velankanni
Once you land at Trichy, you must cover the remaining distance to Velankanni by road. You can:
- Hire a taxi – A one-way taxi ride from Trichy to Velankanni will cost around ₹2,500 to ₹4,000, depending on the type of vehicle.
- Take a bus – There are frequent buses from Trichy to Velankanni. Ticket prices range from ₹200 to ₹500, depending on whether you opt for an ordinary or air-conditioned bus.
FAQS
1) Which route is best for Velankanni?
The best route to Velankanni depends on your starting point: from Chennai, take the NH32 towards Puducherry and continue via ECR, or from Bangalore, head towards Trichy, and then take the NH83 to Velankanni. Trains and buses are available from major cities like Chennai and Bangalore, making travel convenient.
2) What is the train time from Chennai to Velankanni?
The train journey from Chennai to Velankanni typically takes 10 to 12 hours. Velankanni Express is a direct option, offering a comfortable overnight journey. However, travel times may vary slightly based on the specific Train and delays, so checking the schedule before planning your trip is good.
3) Why is Velankanni so famous?
Velankanni is famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a popular pilgrimage site in India. Located in Tamil Nadu, it attracts thousands of visitors, especially Christians, for its rich history and miraculous healing. Known as the “Lourdes of the East,” Velankanni symbolizes faith with a beautiful church and peaceful coastal surroundings.
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