An Innova is one of the most comfortable ways to cover a day trip out of Chennai — enough room for the family, a solid boot for snacks and bags, and a driver who can take over the highway stretches so everyone else can actually relax. Here are eight popular routes worth considering.

• Mahabalipuram — Shore Temple, the rock-cut monuments and a relaxed beach stretch, easily one of the most popular short trips from Chennai.
• Kanchipuram — the temple town, well known for its silk weaving and centuries-old temple architecture.
• Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary — a quieter, nature-focused option, best in the winter migratory season.
• Pulicat Lake — a peaceful backwater and birdlife spot north of the city.
• Tiruvannamalai — home to the Arunachaleswarar Temple and the Girivalam path around the hill.
• Vellore — the Golden Temple (Sripuram) and Vellore Fort make for a satisfying combined visit.
• Tirupati — a longer but very popular pilgrimage day trip; an early start makes it comfortably doable.
• Pondicherry — the French Quarter, promenade and cafes, usually done as a full, longer day out.

Planning the Route

For the farther destinations like Tirupati or Pondicherry, we'd suggest starting early — by 5:30-6:00 AM — so you're not rushing the return leg. For the closer options like Mahabalipuram or Kanchipuram, a relaxed mid-morning start works fine.

Tell us where you're headed and roughly how many people are travelling, and we'll suggest whether an Innova, Crysta or Fortuner makes the most sense for that particular route.