East Coast Road - A Scenic Drive Along the Tamil Nadu Coast

East Coast Road (ECR) is a 220-kilometer long road that connects Chennai with Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.

The road starts in Chennai and passes through the towns of Mahabalipuram, Puducherry, and Cuddalore. Along the way, it offers stunning views of the coastline, including beaches, temples, and fishing villages.

One of the most popular attractions along ECR is Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient town is home to a number of temples and other historical monuments, including the Shore Temple, which is one of the most important Dravidian temples in India.

Another popular destination is Puducherry, a former French colony that is now a union territory of India. Puducherry is known for its French-style architecture, its beaches, and its vibrant culture.

ECR is also a popular spot for birdwatching. The area is home to a variety of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and egrets.

If you are looking for a scenic drive along the Tamil Nadu coast, then East Coast Road is a great option. The road offers stunning views of the coastline, as well as a number of historical and cultural attractions.

Things to do along East Coast Road

Here are some of the things you can do along East Coast Road:

• Visit Mahabalipuram and explore its temples and other historical monuments.
• Go birdwatching in the area's many wetlands.
• Relax on one of the many beaches along the ECR.
• Visit Puducherry and experience its French-style architecture and culture.
• Take a boat ride on the Bay of Bengal.
• Enjoy the local seafood.

Tips for driving along East Coast Road

Here are some tips for driving along East Coast Road:

• Be aware of the speed limits.
• Drive carefully, as the road can be narrow and winding in some places.
• Be prepared for traffic, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Allow plenty of time for your drive, as the ECR can be a long and scenic route.

Places to stay along East Coast Road

Here are some places to stay along East Coast Road:

• Mahabalipuram: There are a number of hotels and resorts in Mahabalipuram, including the Taj Fisherman's Cove and the Le Meridien Chennai Mahabalipuram.

• Puducherry: There are also a number of hotels and resorts in Puducherry, including the Auroville Guesthouse and the Hotel Dupleix.

• Cuddalore: There are a few hotels and resorts in Cuddalore, including the Hotel Sea Shell and the Hotel Grand Southern.

East Coast Road is a great place to visit if you are looking for a scenic drive, a historical and cultural experience, or a relaxing beach vacation. With its stunning views, its variety of attractions, and its easy accessibility, ECR is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit East Coast Road is during the off-season, which is from November to March. During this time, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, East Coast Road can be visited year-round.

Best places to visit

Here are some of the best places to visit along East Coast Road:

• Mahabalipuram: This ancient town is home to a number of temples and other historical monuments, including the Shore Temple, which is one of the most important Dravidian temples in India.
• Puducherry: This former French colony is known for its French-style architecture, its beaches, and its vibrant culture.
• Cuddalore: This town is home to a number of temples, including the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is one of the largest temples in India.
• Marina Beach: This is one of the longest beaches in India and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
• Pondicherry Beach: This is a beautiful beach that is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Food to try

When visiting East Coast Road, make sure to try the following:

• Tamil Nadu cuisine: This is a delicious and diverse cuisine that is influenced by a variety of cultures, including Tamil, Telugu, and Chettinad. Some of the most popular dishes include idli, dosa, vada, sambar, and rasam.
• Seafood: The East Coast Road is home to a number of seafood restaurants that serve fresh and delicious seafood. Some of the most popular seafood dishes include fish curry, crab masala, and prawns fry.

Accommodation options

There are a number of accommodation options available along East Coast Road, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Some of the most popular hotels and resorts include:

• Taj Fisherman's Cove: This luxurious resort is located in Mahabalipuram and offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
• Le Meridien Chennai Mahabalipuram: This 5-star hotel is located in Mahabalipuram and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
• Auroville Guesthouse: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in Puducherry and offers a homely atmosphere.
• Hotel Dupleix: This 4-star hotel is located in Puducherry and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.