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Chennai, Tamil Nadu to Madurai, Tamil Nadu from $3: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chennai, India
to
Madurai, India

How to Get from Chennai to Madurai: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$3 by trainBest price
426.1 kmDistance
2h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chennai to Madurai with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$43-145
Recommended
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$3-16
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 426.1 km
Duration: 2h 58m

See more options

Company
IntrCity SmartBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  15m
Estimated price
$9-30
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  31m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$70-191
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  15m
Estimated price
$102-214
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  31m
Estimated price
$120-150

Traveling From Chennai to Madurai

Traveling from Chennai to Madurai offers a journey through bustling urban life to the serene charm of ancient temples and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madurai

Madurai's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences reflecting the city's heritage.

Nagarathar
• Home to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple.
• Vibrant street markets filled with local delicacies.
Vallaiyankulathupatti
• Close to historical sites and ancient temples.
• Features colorful festivals showcasing local traditions.
Tallakulam
• Known for its lush gardens and parks.
• Offers a mix of modern cafes and traditional eateries.

Best Times To Visit Madurai's Attractions

Timing your visits to Madurai's attractions enhances your experience and enjoyment.

Meenakshi Amman Temple
Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and appreciate serenity.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
Weekdays offer a quieter experience; mornings are best for photography.
Gandhi Memorial Museum
Visit on weekdays for a peaceful atmosphere and engaging exhibits.

Madurai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madurai experiences a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters; the best times to visit are from October to March when the temperatures are more comfortable. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan activities, ensuring you enjoy the city's sites without being hindered by extreme heat or rain.

Dining Recommendation in Madurai

Try the iconic Jigarthanda at Famous Jigarthanda, a unique cold dessert that stands out with its rich flavors and creamy texture, offering a delightful contrast to Chennai’s spicy culinary scene. The bustling atmosphere and the local ingredients used in this traditional treat provide a genuine taste of Madurai’s vibrant food culture.

Chennai - Madurai operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chennai and Madurai, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
goindigo.in

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Madurai (IXM)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$45-170

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Tiruchirapalli (TRZ)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$45-190
Website
airindia.in

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Madurai (IXM)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$45-190

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Madurai (IXM) via Colombo

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$45-190
Website
spicejet.com

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Madurai (IXM)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$40-320

Plane from Tirupati (TIR) to Madurai (IXM)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$150-1400
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14646
Website
indianrail.gov.in

Train from Chennai Egmore to Madurai Jn

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$3-16
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+917303093510
Website
intrcity.com

Bus from Chennai Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.R. Bus Terminus (CMBT Koyambedu) to Madurai

Average Duration
7h 15m
Estimated price
$9-30
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+91 94 99 97 36 69
Website
tenride.com

Other from Chennai Madhavaram to Tirupati

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
$30-45
Contact phone
+91 79 99 22 20 00
Website
droptaxi.in
Contact phone
+91 89 39 33 40 40
Website
chennaitaxiservice.com

Chennai to Madurai: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chennai and Madurai offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Chennai to Madurai, covering a distance of 284 miles in approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes. Enjoy the journey through lush landscapes and vibrant towns along the way. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $50 to $80 for a car ride from Chennai to Madurai. Explore the flexibility of a road trip while admiring the diverse culture and heritage of South India.
Average price
$50 - $80
⭐️ Experience a scenic train journey from Chennai to Madurai with a direct train departing from Chennai Egmore and arriving at Madurai Jn. 🚂 Services operate every day, with departures every three hours, making it a convenient option for travelers. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, offering a comfortable and affordable way to reach Madurai. ⭐️ Traveling a distance of 494 km, the train ride from Chennai to Madurai allows you to witness the diverse landscapes of Tamil Nadu. 🌳 Choose from different routes such as via Tirunelveli Junction, Kollam Junction, Kanniyakumari, Tuticorin, or other routes, each offering its own unique charm and experience. 🌟 Indian Railways operates these services, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for passengers. ⭐️ Whether you opt for a quicker 5-hour 40-minute route or a longer scenic journey, the train trip from Chennai to Madurai promises a delightful experience for travelers. 🌟 Sit back, relax, and soak in the sights and sounds of South India as you make your way to the vibrant city of Madurai, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. 🚆 Traveling by train is not just a mode of transportation but an opportunity to create lasting memories of your Indian adventure.
Departure Point
Chennai Egmore station
Arrival Point
Madurai Jn station
🛫 Flying from Chennai to Madurai is a convenient and quick journey, with the direct flight taking only 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines like Spicejet, SriLankan Airlines, Air India Limited, and IndiGo Airlines provide options for this route. 🛬 The total duration of the flight from Chennai to Madurai is approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination swiftly and comfortably. Whether for business or leisure, air travel offers a convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities. 💰 Prices for flights between Madurai and Chennai can range from $43 to $145, making it an affordable and time-saving option for travelers looking to explore the rich cultural heritage and bustling streets of Madurai.
Departure Point
Madras Airport
Arrival Point
Madurai Airport
🚌 A direct bus service operates twice daily from Chennai to Madurai, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. 🛣️ The route covers a distance of 398 kilometers and offers various bus options such as Mercedes Multi-Axle Semi Sleeper and NON A/C Sleeper, with departures from different stations in Chennai. 💰 Prices for the Chennai to Madurai bus journey range from $9 to $30, providing budget-friendly travel options for passengers seeking to explore Tamil Nadu.
Departure Point
Chennai Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.R. Bus Terminus (CMBT Koyambedu) station
Arrival Point
Madurai station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chennai to Madurai.

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The distance between Chennai and Madurai is approximately 265 miles. The quickest mode of transportation is by plane, which takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes. Taking a train from Chennai to Madurai usually takes around 7 hours and 10 minutes, while driving by car takes approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, the travel time is typically around 12 hours and 12 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chennai to Madurai is by train, which can cost between $3 and $16 and takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination in a reasonable amount of time. Alternatively, if time is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 2 hours and 53 minutes. However, it is important to note that this option may be more expensive, with prices ranging from $40 to $150.
The prices for a train ticket between Chennai and Madurai range from $3 to $16, depending on the class and amenities selected. Additionally, the prices for a bus ticket between Madurai and Chennai range from $9 to $16, depending on the type of bus and level of comfort. It is advisable to check with specific transport providers for up-to-date prices before making travel arrangements.
To travel from Chennai to Madurai without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of approximately 284 miles. The journey takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes by car. Rental prices for a car vary from $50 to $80, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company you choose. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore other attractions, making it a convenient and customizable option for your journey.
The best way to travel from Chennai to Madurai without a car is by train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $3 and $16. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes and costs between $40 and $150. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which takes about 12 hours and 12 minutes and costs between $9 and $16. These modes of transportation offer convenient and affordable options for travel between Chennai and Madurai.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chennai and Madurai. The train departs from Chennai Egmore and arrives at Madurai Jn, with departures every four hours and operating daily. The journey by train takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, but there are bus services available with transfers that take around 12 hours and 12 minutes.
The flight between Chennai and Madurai typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travelers. The cost of a flight between Madurai and Chennai can vary, with prices ranging from $44 to $145. It is recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites for the most up-to-date prices and deals.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Madurai. With over 129 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at just $11 per night, making it affordable for different types of travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, or comfortable hotels, Madurai has options to cater to your needs.