How to Travel from Chennai Airport to CMC Vellore by Train

The journey from Chennai Airport to CMC Vellore, a renowned medical college, can be efficiently managed by taking a train. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip from gate to graduation.

Step 1: Travel from Chennai Airport to Chennai Central Station

There are several convenient options to choose from when it comes to traveling from Chennai Airport to Chennai Central Station. The most straightforward and time-saving methods include taking a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Depending on traffic, this journey may take between 30 and 60 minutes.

Step 2: Alternative Transport Choices

For those preferring public transportation, an alternative route is available using the Chennai Metro followed by a transfer to the MRTS Mass Rapid Transit System. However, this method may involve multiple transfers and could potentially take longer. It's advisable to check the schedules and adjust your plans accordingly.

Step 3: Board the Train from Chennai to Vellore

Once you arrive at Chennai Central Railway Station, your next journey involves boarding a train to Vellore. The shortest and most direct route involves traveling to Vellore Cantonment Station, which is the nearest to CMC Vellore.

Step 4: From Vellore Cantonment Station to CMC Vellore

After your train journey, you'll need to navigate to CMC Vellore. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available from Vellore Cantonment Station, and the journey typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Be prepared to use your digital payment method or carry cash for these services.

Additional Tips for Your Journey

Train Booking

To avoid queues and ensure availability, it’s highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance, particularly during peak travel times. Check the official Indian Railways website or app for updated schedules and ticket booking details.

Timing and Planning

Be mindful of the train schedules as they can vary. Allow extra time to travel from Chennai Airport to Chennai Central and account for the duration of your train journey. This will help you avoid any delays at your final destination.

Local Transportation

For local transport in Vellore, keep some cash or a digital payment method handy as these tend to be the most widely accepted forms of payment for taxis and city buses. Familiarize yourself with the route numbers and stops in the area to ensure a smooth pickup and drop-off.

Alternative Routes and Switching Methods

Alternatively, you can choose to travel to Katpadi Junction from Chennai Central, where you can catch a bus or auto-rickshaw to Vellore. Another option is to take the Chennai Park Station train towards Beach Station, then cross the road to reach Chennai Central. Alternatively, you can take any train towards Bangalore, Coimbatore, or Kerala, as Vellore’s station is called Katpadi Junction. Purchase an open ticket to Katpadi and you will reach Vellore in approximately 2 hours. After arriving, you can use an auto-rickshaw (charging around Rs. 120-150) or city bus route number 12 to get to CMC Vellore.

Lastly, if you prefer a bus, several bus routes from Chennai Central Bus Terminal (CMBT) can take you to Vellore. Route No. 502/502 UDC or any bus towards Bangalore Hosur and Dharmapuri will lead you directly to Vellore. These buses are located on platform 3 at CMBT.

Conclusion

Planning ahead and leveraging these methods will ensure a seamless journey from Chennai Airport to CMC Vellore. Safe travels and best of luck to students and visitors alike on their trip to CMC Vellore!