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Chennai to Kodaikanal Distance & How to Reach

Tamil Nadu · 438 km · Compare trains, buses & driving options

Chennai to Kodaikanal distance: 438 km (aerial), approximately 514 km by road. By train: ~7 hrs 54 min. By road: ~7 hrs 45 min.
Chennai
Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal
Tamil Nadu
438 km
aerial distance (straight line)
272 miles · Road distance: ~514 km (via road)
🗺 Route map
514 km
Road distance
7 hrs 45 min
Drive time
438 km
Aerial distance
Route data via OpenStreetMap
How to get from Chennai to Kodaikanal
By Flight
1 hrs 20 min
Fly to Madurai (IXM), nearest to Kodaikanal
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🚌
By Bus
10 hrs 17 min
514 km · AC/Non-AC available
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🚗
By Car
7 hrs 45 min
514 km via highway
🚆 Chennai to Kodaikanal Trains (1)
Train Dep Arr Duration Classes
Kanniyakumari SF Express
#12689 · SF
19:00 04:58 15h 00m 2A,3A,SL
View full train schedule →
Quick facts
Aerial distance
438 km (272 mi)
Road distance
~514 km
Recommended
Train (7 hrs 54 min)
Most affordable
Bus
📍 Chennai to Kodaikanal distance overview

The straight-line distance from Chennai to Kodaikanal is approximately 438 km (272 miles). By road, the distance increases to about 514 km due to terrain, highways, and road networks.

438 kmAerial distance
~514 kmBy road
7 hrs 54 minTrain
✈️ Reaching Kodaikanal by air
No direct airport

Kodaikanal does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest airport is Madurai (IXM). Fly to the nearest airport and continue by road or rail.

Search Flights to Nearest Airport
🚆 By train — Chennai to Kodaikanal
7 hrs 54 min ~514 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Chennai and Kodaikanal with multiple daily services. The journey takes approximately 7 hrs 54 min. Rajdhani and Shatabdi express trains are faster, while mail and passenger trains make more stops but cost less.

AC 2-Tier (2A)Curtained berths, comfortable
AC 3-Tier (3A)Popular, good value
Sleeper Class (SL)Budget, non-AC

Book in advance through IRCTC, especially during festivals and holidays when seats fill up quickly.

Check Trains on IRCTC
🚌 By bus — Chennai to Kodaikanal
10 hrs 17 min ~514 km Most affordable

Bus travel is a popular and affordable option for the Chennai to Kodaikanal route. The journey takes approximately 10 hrs 17 min covering ~514 km. Both government and private operators service this route.

Volvo ACPremium comfort, reclining seats
AC SleeperFull-length beds, ideal for overnight
AC SeaterAir-conditioned, mid-range
Non-ACBudget-friendly, frequent service

Night buses are popular for this distance — travel while you sleep and arrive fresh at your destination.

Search Chennai to Kodaikanal Buses
🚗 By car — Chennai to Kodaikanal
7 hrs 45 min ~514 km

A road trip from Chennai to Kodaikanal covers approximately 514 km and takes around 7 hrs 45 min. Start early to make the most of daylight hours.

💡 Travel tips for Chennai to Kodaikanal
📅
Book early
Book trains 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Mar) for better prices and availability.
🌧️
Check weather
Avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) for road trips. Road conditions can deteriorate and flights may face delays.
💳
Carry valid ID
Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID is required for train travel and recommended for bus journeys.
💤
Plan rest stops
For drives over 7 hrs 45 min, plan overnight halts. Fatigue driving is dangerous on Indian highways.
Where to stay in Kodaikanal
Budget to luxury hotels. Compare prices on FareEagle.
View Kodaikanal Hotels
🔗 Useful travel resources

For official travel information, regulations, and booking services:

IRCTC — Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation — Book train tickets online

Airports Authority of India — Airport information and flight status

DGCA — Directorate General of Civil Aviation — Indian aviation regulator

Incredible India — Official tourism portal of India

Frequently asked questions
What is the distance from Chennai to Kodaikanal?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Chennai to Kodaikanal is approximately 438 km (272 miles). The road distance is approximately 514 km, which takes about 7 hrs 45 min by car.
What is the best way to travel from Chennai to Kodaikanal?
The most comfortable option is by train, taking approximately 7 hrs 54 min. Buses take about 10 hrs 17 min and are the most affordable. Kodaikanal doesn't have a major airport — the nearest is Madurai (IXM).
Are there buses from Chennai to Kodaikanal?
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Chennai to Kodaikanal route. The journey takes approximately 10 hrs 17 min. You can search and book bus tickets on FareEagle with AC Sleeper, AC Seater, and Non-AC options.
How long does the train take from Chennai to Kodaikanal?
The train from Chennai to Kodaikanal takes approximately 7 hrs 54 min. Express trains are faster while passenger trains make more stops. Check train schedules and availability on IRCTC.
Can I book Chennai to Kodaikanal travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book bus tickets, and hotels for the Chennai to Kodaikanal route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
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