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How to get there by Air
Kerala has three airports served by international as well as domestic carriers. The largest is the Kochi International Airport that connects several countries in the Middle East and South East Asia to God’s own country- Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram Airport comes next in the list. Well linked to most international and national routes, the airport is strategically placed in the capital and a preferred option for those who want complete access to the state’s transit services. Kozhikode International Airport is the city’s newest addition to its aviation network served by a few international flights. Carriers serving Kerala’s airports include Air India, Jet Airways, Kingfisher Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates.
Irrespective of where you land in Kerala, the most convenient way out of the airport is a classic cab ride. There are private and pre-paid taxis to be hired. For a regular cab head towards the exit where a large fleet of white taxis line up for passengers. Or book a pre-paid taxi and hop in for a smooth ride to the hotel. If you’re landing at Kochi International Airport, reserve a prepaid taxi at the booking counter in the arrivals which will save on precious time and money.
Light weight luggage, tight budget and a keen interest in the local topography might prompt you for a bus ride in one of the KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses. Regular services and Volvo buses are parked outside the departure gates of the international terminal. A regular bus can be boarded for about Rs 50-60.
High rollers can make a grand exit in one of the helicopter taxis that access major cities and landmark destinations. Kochi International Airport has recently joined hands with Bharat Airways to launch a service for Thiruvananthpuram, Kozhikode and Sabrimala.
In case you’re well versed with the routes and in possession of a valid driving license, rental services offer numerous deals that may interest you.
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How to get there by Rail
Kerala is well-connected to all major cities of India through an efficient rail network. While there are frequent services from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, distant metropolitans like Delhi and Mumbai have weekly services that provide direct access to various districts of the coastal state. These trains are usually crowded and advance reservations are highly recommended.
Thiruvananthpuram and Kochi stations are abuzz with activity as they handle the lion’s share of kerala’s rail traffic. Once you de-board and walk out through the exit, there are taxis and local buses that will drop you to your desired destination.
Indian Railways has also launched a few deluxe services in the region due to its increasing popularity among the tourists. One such service is the Golden Chariot’s South Indian Rail Tour , a southern odyssey that covers some breathtaking views along the stretches of Western Ghats.
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How to get there by Road
Buses operated by transport agencies of different states enable travelers to access Kerala with great ease. Karnataka State Road Traffic Corporation operates frequent buses that make the journey during the night. Similar services are available in Tamil Nadu as well. Volvo shuttles owned by private organizations are a step ahead as their services are divided in different categories depending upon the luxury and comfort offered.
If you love the idea of travelling in accordance with your convenience renting a car is a feasible option. The most commonly used highway is NH 47 that leads to Kochi. While driving on the highway, keep your license handy as you’re likely to come across the state authorities at various check posts. Smart drivers will adhere to the prescribed speed limits since routes to Kerala are prone to accidents under heavy traffic situations.
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Getting around
Kerala’s public transport provides easy and affordable connectivity to most districts within the state. There are helicopters, buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and ferries for inter-city transfers. Just board your ride and you’re all set to feel the charm of God's own country.
Air
Helicopter taxis can be hired at Kochi and Thiruvanathpuram from the city airports. These services require travellers to make advance reservations, which are mandatory during the festive season especially if you’re planning to head to pilgrimage spots like Sabrimala.
Ferry
With a coastline running over 500 sq Kms of land along the Arabian sea, Kerala’s marine transportation is just as active as it road and air transit system. Small boats and sea jets ferry passengers from one district to the other, while houseboats cruise on the backwaters. The port city of Kochi is Kerala’s marine transit hub. Here you can book a journey on any of the vessels of your choice and receive info on the various routes connected with the local waterways.
Train
The inter-city rail network is the best for long haul trips to villages and attractions scattered within the territory of state. There are local services and express trains to choose from. The express trains run nonstop between any two cities whereas the local service will make a few stops before getting to a destination.
Tickets are fairly priced and can be obtained at any of the stations. Keep in mind that the local network is subject to technical snags resulting in short delays. Passenger trains are practical for short trips to areas that are left out by the express services which are slightly expensive. But on a tight schedule, spending a few bucks extra on express tickets may prove to be extremely beneficial.
Bus
Budgetary constraints will never spoil your vacation in Kerala as its transit system offers diverse options to cater to different pockets. State-run buses and privately operated ‘coaches’ to Kerala come in various degrees of speed and comfort. There are regular, fast, super fast and deluxe buses that cover long and short distances throughout the state.
Regular buses may be a little too rugged and appropriate for short journeys. Fast buses are certainly better in terms of condition and ideal for a trip to large towns and villages. Super fast and deluxe services operate widely on the routes of the cities.
Auto Rickshaws and Taxis
Taxis are convenient but at times outrageously expensive. Ambassador taxis painted in black and yellow are common in a few districts. Indica cabs have also registered their presence on the roads. All cabs charge passengers in accordance with the distance travelled. Since fares are revised in every few months, it is advisable to gain relevant information on taxi charges from tourist offices and residents.
Auto Rickshaws often end up charging more than the prescribed rates. Therefore, while hiring an auto, make sure that the driver has agreed to use the meter. If the driver’s insistent on going by a fixed rate, bring your bargaining skills in action before striking the deal.
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