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How to Reach Kerala
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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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Travel Tools
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