Chennai to Mangalore: 667 km Road Guide NH-169 · 10h 00m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Chennai to Mangalore? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 667km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Chennai to Mangalore
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 10h 00m | ₹6,370 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 1h 20m | ₹2,335 - ₹4,669 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹508 – ₹1,649 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹824 – ₹5,603 |
How to Reach Mangalore from Chennai: Car, Train, Bus & Flight Options
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
Drive Chennai to Mangalore (667 km, 10h 00m)
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
Fly Chennai to Mangalore (1h 20m flight)
Speed, long distances, business travel
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 667km long-distance journey, consider flying (1h 20m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
What to Eat in Chennai Before You Hit the Road
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Must-Try Food in Chennai Before Your Drive
- local_dining Idli and Sambar - Soft, steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup and chutney (try at Murugan Idli Shop).
- local_dining Dosa - Crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with potatoes or other fillings (try at Saravana Bhavan).
- local_dining Chettinad Chicken - Spicy chicken curry with a blend of aromatic spices (try at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant).
Saravana Bhavan • Various locations
Road Trip Stops: Best Cities Between Chennai and Mangalore
These cities sit along your Chennai to Mangalore route corridor and are worth a brief stop:
Chengalpattu Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Chengalpattu, a district headquarters in Tamil Nadu, offers a glimpse into South Indian history and local life. You will find an ancient fort, serene lake, and several important temples here. It is not a major tourist destination, so expect a quieter, more authentic experience.
attractions Top Attractions
Chengalpattu Fort
Kolavai Lake
Kothandaramar Temple
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Idli Sambar - soft steamed rice cakes with lentil stew, available at any local tiffin center, rupees 40-60
Srimukundavalli Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Srimukundavalli is a small, traditional village in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district. It is primarily known for its ancient Sri Mukundavalli Perumal Temple, a significant pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites. This rural destination offers a glimpse into authentic South Indian village life, far from urban bustle.
attractions Top Attractions
Sri Mukundavalli Perumal Temple
Local Village Pond (Kulam)
Sri Mariamman Temple
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Idli - Steamed rice cakes, soft and fluffy, served with sambar and chutneys. Available at any local eatery, rupees 30-50.
Sriperumbudur Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Sriperumbudur is an industrial town in Tamil Nadu, primarily known for its manufacturing hubs and as the birthplace of Saint Ramanuja. It is not a typical tourist destination, but rather a functional town with significant historical and religious sites.
attractions Top Attractions
Rajiv Gandhi Memorial
Sri Ramanujar Temple (Adikesava Perumal Temple)
Vallakottai Murugan Temple
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Idli Sambar - Steamed rice cakes with lentil stew, available at local eateries, rupees 40-60.
Tiruvallur Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Tiruvallur is a district capital in Tamil Nadu, primarily known for its ancient temples. It serves as a significant pilgrimage destination, drawing devotees to its sacred sites. The city also has a strong agricultural base and textile industry.
attractions Top Attractions
Sri Veeraghavar Temple
Thiruthani Murugan Temple
Poondi Reservoir
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Idli Sambar - soft steamed rice cakes with lentil stew, available at any local tiffin centre, rupees 40-60
Pallu Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Pallu is a small, agricultural town in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district. It offers a glimpse into authentic rural South Indian life. Do not expect grand monuments or bustling tourist infrastructure here.
attractions Top Attractions
Sri Perumal Temple, Pallu
Pallu Village Market
Agricultural Fields Walk
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Idli - Steamed rice cakes, soft and fluffy, served with sambar and chutney. Available at local tiffin shops, rupees 30-50.
Things to Do in Mangalore: Attractions & Highlights
Mangalore offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.
Chennai to Mangalore FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)
More Road Trips from Chennai: Popular Nearby Routes
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Chennai:
How to Reach Mangalore from Other Cities
Traveling to Mangalore from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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