Looking for the perfect weekend escape from the busy city life of Chennai? Then get ready for an unforgettable ECR road trip by car with Padmavathi Travels Chennai!
The East Coast Road (ECR), connecting Chennai to Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry, is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in India. Stretching alongside the Bay of Bengal, this route offers a mix of beaches, heritage temples, adventure spots, and peaceful seaside cafés, making it the ideal trip for families, couples, and groups.
Why Choose the ECR Route?
The ECR Road is not just a highway — it’s a journey through beauty, history, and relaxation. Starting from Thiruvanmiyur in Chennai, this scenic stretch of around 165 km (up to Pondicherry) takes you past the shimmering sea, casuarina trees, and charming fishing villages.
Whether you plan a one day trip to Mahabalipuram or a weekend drive to Pondicherry, the ECR is the best way to experience the coastal charm of Tamil Nadu.
Chennai ECR Road Trip Highlights
Here are some must-visit attractions along your ECR road trip from Chennai, carefully planned by Padmavathi Travels for maximum comfort and enjoyment:
1️⃣ DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum (20 km from Chennai)
Start your journey by exploring South Indian culture and traditions through architecture, art, and crafts.
2️⃣ Muttukadu Backwaters & Boating (30 km)
Enjoy boating, kayaking, and water sports at the Tamil Nadu Tourism Boat House.
3️⃣ Crocodile Bank (40 km)
A reptile conservation center that houses crocodiles, snakes, and turtles — a favorite among families and kids.
4️⃣ Mahabalipuram (60 km)
The crown jewel of the ECR road — a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and Arjuna’s Penance.
5️⃣ Covelong (Kovalam) Beach (40 km)
A peaceful beach perfect for swimming, surfing, and relaxing under palm trees.
6️⃣ Kalpakkam & Sadras Fort (70–80 km)
Explore this historical fort built by the Dutch, along with peaceful coastal surroundings.
7️⃣ Alamparai Fort (110 km)
A hidden gem — a seaside fort in ruins, ideal for photography lovers.
8️⃣ Pondicherry (165 km)
End your road trip in style by exploring French architecture, beaches, Auroville, and local cafés.
Chennai ECR One Day Trip Itinerary
If you’re planning a short ECR road trip by car, here’s a perfect one day itinerary curated by Padmavathi Travels Chennai:
Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM):
Pickup from your Chennai location.
Drive along the scenic ECR coastal route.
Stop for breakfast near Thiruvanmiyur or Muttukadu.
Forenoon (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM):
Visit DakshinaChitra Museum and Crocodile Bank.
Proceed to Mahabalipuram, exploring Shore Temple and Arjuna’s Penance.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM):
Lunch near Mahabalipuram Beach.
Visit Five Rathas and Krishna’s Butter Ball.
Relax and shop for handicrafts or sculptures.
Evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM):
Return to Chennai with optional stops at Kovalam Beach or Muttukadu Boat House.
Chennai ECR Road Trip by Car – Vehicle Options & Pricing
| Vehicle Type | Seater | Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Etios / Swift Dzire AC | 4+1 | ₹3,999 | Couples / Small Families |
| Innova / Ertiga AC | 6+1 / 7+1 | ₹5,999 | Families / Friends |
| Innova Crysta AC | 6+1 / 7+1 | ₹6,999 | Luxury Travel |
| Tempo Traveller AC | 12+1 | ₹7,999 | Groups / Corporate Trips |
All vehicles are air-conditioned, clean, and driven by professional chauffeurs familiar with the ECR route.
Why Choose Padmavathi Travels Chennai
✔️ Doorstep Pickup & Drop anywhere in Chennai ✔️ Customizable itineraries (Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Kovalam, etc.) ✔️ Affordable packages with no hidden charges ✔️ Experienced drivers with excellent route knowledge ✔️ 24/7 booking support & assistance
At Padmavathi Travels Chennai, we make your ECR road trip safe, scenic, and unforgettable.
Ideal Time for Chennai to ECR Road Trips
The best months for an ECR drive from Chennai are October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Start early in the morning for cool breezes and a crowd-free experience at tourist spots.
Sunrise views along the ECR are truly magical — perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
What to Expect During Your Trip
Breathtaking coastal views
Historical temples & monuments
Delicious South Indian coastal food
Adventure water sports
Peaceful beaches for relaxation
Whether it’s a romantic drive, a family day out, or a heritage exploration, this ECR road trip by car from Chennai has something for everyone.
How to Book Your ECR Tour Package
Booking your Chennai ECR Road Trip Package with Padmavathi Travels is quick and easy:
🌐 Visit: www.balajidarshanbooking.com 📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91-9962717100
Our team will help you plan a one-day, two-day, or customized ECR travel package to match your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ How long is the Chennai to Mahabalipuram drive on ECR? It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours (60 km) with beautiful coastal scenery.
2️⃣ Can we cover Pondicherry along with Mahabalipuram in one day? You can, but a two-day trip is better for relaxed sightseeing.
3️⃣ Are meals and entry fees included? No, but we guide you to the best restaurants and manage all entry logistics.
Final Thoughts
The Chennai ECR Road Trip by Car is more than a journey — it’s an experience filled with heritage, adventure, and sea breeze. With Padmavathi Travels Chennai, you get the comfort of private cars, expert drivers, and a well-planned itinerary that lets you make the most of every moment.
✨ Plan your next Chennai to ECR road trip today and explore Mahabalipuram, Covelong, and Pondicherry at your own pace — the Padmavathi way!
📞 Call +91-9962717100 to book your ECR car tour now!
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