Road trip to Kanyakumari: Best routes from Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Road trips are always fun! And a road trip to Kanyakumari , the southernmost tip of India, is next level, as it takes you through scenic landscapes, coastal highways, and historic towns. Once can travel from Kerala or Tamil Nadu, and both the drives are equally complemented with breathtaking views and exciting stopovers. Here’s a look at the best routes to reach Kanyakumari by road.

Best routes from Kerala to Kanyakumari
Thiruvananthapuram to Kanyakumari (90 km | 2 hours)The NH66, which travels about 90 miles, is the fastest route from Kerala to Kanyakumari. From Thiruvananthapuram, you will travel to charming seaside villages like Kovalam and Poovar. The trip is easy because there is little traffic and the highways are kept up.

Must-visit stops:

• Kovalam Beach – A great spot for a refreshing break.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace – A stunning wooden palace showcasing Kerala’s architectural heritage.
• Vattakottai Fort – Visit this scenic fort near Kanyakumari for panoramic sea views.

Kochi to Kanyakumari (300 km | 7-8 hours)For those starting from Kochi, NH66 is the best route, will will take you through Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. You pick this route to check out Kerala’s backwaters and coastal beauty.

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Must-visit stops:

• Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Known for its houseboats and backwaters.
• Varkala Beach – A stunning cliffside beach with vibrant cafes.
• Neyyar Dam – A peaceful spot near Thiruvananthapuram.

Best routes from Tamil Nadu to Kanyakumari
Madurai to Kanyakumari (245 km | 5-6 hours)A popular route for Tamil Nadu travelers, the drive from Madurai to Kanyakumari via NH44 takes about 5-6 hours. The journey passes through Tirunelveli, a city known for its temples and waterfalls.

Must-visit stops:

• Meenakshi Temple (Madurai) – A marvel of Dravidian architecture.
• Courtallam Waterfalls – A scenic waterfall near Tirunelveli.
• Suchindram Temple – Famous for its 134-foot-tall Hanuman statue.

Chennai to Kanyakumari (700 km | 12-14 hours)

For an ultimate road trip adventure, take NH32 and NH44 from Chennai. Though long, this journey lets you experience Tamil Nadu’s diverse landscapes.

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Must-visit stops:

• Mahabalipuram – A UNESCO-listed heritage site.
• Rameswaram – Known for its famous Ramanathaswamy Temple.
• Thirunelveli Halwa – A must-try sweet on your way.

A road trip to Kanyakumari is more than just reaching the destination—it’s about enjoying the journey. Whether you're driving from Kerala’s lush greenery or Tamil Nadu’s temple towns, the roads to Kanyakumari promise unforgettable experiences. Pack your bags, fuel up, and embark on a scenic drive to this stunning coastal town!