There are 3 way(s) to get from Chennai to Ahmedabad
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Indian Railways trains, especially popular routes and AC classes, sell out weeks in advance. For long journeys like Chennai to Ahmedabad, aim to book at least 2-3 weeks ahead, or even a month, to secure your preferred class and avoid waitlists.
If choosing a bus for overnight travel or hill station routes, always prioritize AC sleeper coaches. They offer significantly more comfort and a better chance of getting some rest compared to non-AC or seated buses, even if slightly more expensive.
Many popular hill stations like Manali or Dharamshala do not have direct railway access. Always confirm if your destination is reachable by train or if a road journey (usually by AC Volvo coach) is the only viable option from the nearest railhead.
For very long distances or when time is precious, a budget domestic flight can be a game-changer. While more expensive, a 3-hour flight is often preferable to a 20-30 hour train or bus journey, saving you valuable travel time and fatigue.
To ensure instant confirmation and avoid scams, book your trains, buses, and flights through recognised online platforms like 12go.asia or directly with airline/bus operator websites. This also helps in comparing options reliably.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating India's vast distances can be a puzzle, with multiple options for every route. For a long journey like Chennai to Ahmedabad, you're faced with trains, buses, and flights, each offering a different balance of time, comfort, and cost. Knowing whether a leg is best by train, AC coach, or flight, and understanding real durations, especially for overnight options, is key to a smooth trip.
Between Chennai and Ahmedabad, you have a few clear choices. The train is an overnight journey, typically 27 hours for around €11, offering a chance to see the landscape and save on accommodation. Buses are slightly faster at 21 hours for €18, often with AC sleeper options that can be surprisingly comfortable. The fastest, though most expensive, is flying, taking just 3 hours but costing around €80.
Ultimately, deciding which transport to pick depends on your priorities. For this route, if budget is tight and you don't mind a long but comfortable overnight ride, an AC sleeper train booked well in advance is a solid choice. If time is of the essence and you want to avoid lengthy travel, a domestic flight is unbeatable. The key is to compare all options side-by-side and book early, especially for trains, to avoid sold-out tickets and ensure a pleasant journey across India.
Frequently asked questions — Chennai → Ahmedabad
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For speed, a flight (3h, ~€80) is unmatched. For a balance of cost and comfort, an overnight AC sleeper train (27h, ~€11) is popular. Buses (21h, ~€18) offer a middle ground, often with comfortable AC sleeper options, but are generally slower than trains on this route due to road conditions.
By flight, the journey takes approximately 3 hours. By bus, you can expect around 21 hours of travel. The train journey is the longest, typically taking about 27 hours. These durations are for direct services and can vary slightly based on specific operators or train routes, and if any transfers are involved.
Ticket prices vary, but generally, a train ticket is around €11 (depending on class), a bus ticket is about €18 (for an AC sleeper), and a flight costs around €80. Booking in advance can sometimes secure better flight deals, while train and bus prices are more stable but rise closer to departure if seats are scarce.
For trains, it's highly recommended to book 2-3 weeks, or even up to a month, in advance, especially for popular AC classes and sleeper berths. Bus tickets can usually be booked a few days to a week ahead. Flight tickets offer the most flexibility, but booking a few weeks in advance often provides better rates.
✨ Why visit Ahmedabad?
- ✓ Explore the UNESCO World Heritage city's intricate pols (traditional housing clusters) and havelis.
- ✓ Visit the stunning Adalaj Stepwell, a five-story architectural marvel with intricate carvings.
- ✓ Discover the Sabarmati Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi's former residence and a historical landmark.
- ✓ Indulge in authentic Gujarati thali and street food at Manek Chowk's night market.
- ✓ Wander through the Calico Museum of Textiles, showcasing exquisite Indian fabrics.
☀️ When to visit Ahmedabad?
CLIMAT TROPICAL SEC
October to March — Pleasant, dry weather ideal for sightseeing, avoiding extreme heat and monsoon rains.
What to do in Ahmedabad?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Ahmedabad?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to explore Ahmedabad's key attractions without rushing. With 2 days, focus on the Old City's heritage sites. If you have 5 days, consider a day trip to Modhera Sun Temple or Patan's Rani ki Vav.
Related searches