How To Reach Trivandrum

The state capital of Kerala and India’s evergreen city, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum is located in the southernmost part of Kerala. Having a year round tropical climate, the ideal time to visit Trivandrum would be from October to February. Trivandrum is well connected to other parts of the country by rail, road and airways. One can even consider waterways to travel to Trivandrum from neighbouring towns or cities. Read on for more information on how to reach Trivandrum.

Established in 1935, the Trivandrum International Airport began international operations in the early 70’s. Most domestic carriers fly in daily to Trivandrum from Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi, Cochin, Vizag, etc. Some international carriers from the Gulf, Sri Lanka, Singapore, etc. also have direct flights to Trivandrum. Tourists can get taxis or buses from the airport to take them to the city.

Kerala is a state which will make you want to opt for train journeys given the beautiful scenic rail routes to different towns. Being a terminus, Trivandrum Central Railway Station located in Thampanoor, is the starting point or the destination of almost all trains to or from the west coast. Built by the Maharaja of Travancore as part of the Travancore Railways, it is the only station in India to be built in stone, without the use of steel or concrete. Major trains that ply to and from Trivandrum on a daily basis are Ernad Express, Chennai Gurvayur Express, Jan Shatabdi, Parshuram Express, Sabari Express, Kerala Express and Island Express.

The long distance bus station is located just next to Trivandrum Central Railway Station. Several KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses run from the Thampanoor bus station at regular intervals. These buses will take tourists to different towns within the state as well as to neighbouring states. Depending on your budget, you can choose between a luxury, deluxe and a sleeper bus. Many private bus operators also offer similar services. The main roadway that connects to Thiruvananthapuram is the NH47. A drive to Trivandrum is truly mesmerising. Don’t forget to keep your camera charged.

Trivandrum has an excellent public transport system with buses connecting the different ends of the city. One can also use cabs or autos to go from one tourist spot to another. Bicycles are also available on rent for the day. Or you could even choose to take a leisurely walk through the city.

While in Trivandrum, do not forget to visit the Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Napier Museum, the Kanaka Kunnu Palace, Kowdiar Palace and the Kovalam beach which is located 17 kms away from the city. Do make a stop at the Indian Coffee House Thampanoor for some light bites and local snacks in its unique, windowless spiral building. The city looks ethereal during the festival of Onam when the locals celebrate for a stretch of 10 days. Do enjoy a Kathakali and a Kalaripayattu performance to soak in the culture of Kerala.