How to get to Trivandrum

When planning a trip to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), you are heading to the "Evergreen City of India," located in the far south of the country. This administrative center of the state of Kerala harmoniously combines colonial architecture with the rhythm of a modern metropolis, attracting travelers from all over the world. The question of how to get to Trivandrum is easily answered: thanks to its status as a capital, the city boasts excellent transport accessibility, and you can reach it by plane, train, bus, or car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by air. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is located just a few kilometers from the center and handles regular flights from major cities in India, as well as extensive connections from Middle Eastern countries. The airport is well-connected to the city infrastructure, allowing tourists to easily reach their hotel immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring cities. The nearest airports are located in Thoothukudi (135 km) and Kochi (172 km), from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport. An alternative option is the airport in Madurai, situated approximately 200 km from the Kerala capital.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the capital of Kerala. The city is served by the major Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) station, which is a key hub of the Southern Railway. Numerous express trains arrive here from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore, offering tourists a comfortable journey through tropical landscapes.

It is also convenient to travel by train from neighboring regions. Regular services run from Kochi (about 172 km) and Madurai, allowing you to enjoy views of the coast and green hills from the carriage window. If tickets to the central station are unavailable, you can consider a route via Thoothukudi followed by a transfer to a bus or taxi.

Bus services are a popular and budget-friendly option for traveling around the region. The route from Thoothukudi, which is 185 km long, usually takes about 6 hours, and the journey from Kochi (about 198 km) will require approximately the same time. This is a convenient way to get to the state capital while enjoying the local scenery.

For travelers departing from Madurai, the journey will be longer and may take up to 12–13 hours depending on the bus class and number of stops. On long routes, it is recommended to choose comfortable Volvo or Sleeper class buses (with sleeping berths) for a more pleasant trip.

Traveling by car or taxi gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops at interesting places. A trip from Thoothukudi (201 km) will take about 4.2 hours, offering a relatively quick route. The road from Kochi, spanning about 210 km, will require approximately 5.5 hours of driving.

If you are departing from Madurai, expect to spend about 6 hours on the road, covering a distance of 317 km. When booking a taxi for long distances, it is recommended to agree on the full cost of the trip in advance, including potential road tolls and the driver's return fee.

To make your stay in the capital of Kerala as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local customs in advance. Here are a few practical recommendations that will help you adapt quickly to this vibrant Indian city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is tropical and humid, so choose light clothing made of natural cotton or linen. For visiting temples, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is mandatory; footwear must be removed before entering sanctuaries.
2. Transport: For short trips around the city, it is most convenient to use auto-rickshaws. Always agree on the price in advance or ask the driver to turn on the meter. For longer journeys, you can use ride-hailing apps (such as Uber).
3. Finances: The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but always carry small denomination cash for markets, small shops, and transport fares.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. It is recommended to carry insect repellent, as there may be mosquitoes in the evening.
5. Communication: The official language of the state is Malayalam, but in tourist areas, hotels, and shops, many people understand and speak English well.
6. Local Etiquette: You can greet locals by folding your palms together (the "Namaste" gesture). Remember that the left hand is considered reserved for hygiene purposes—please eat and pass money using only your right hand.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph people (especially women) without their permission and strictly observe bans on photography inside temples.
8. Bonus Tip: Be sure to try the traditional Kerala lunch "Sadhya", a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf—it is not just food, but a true cultural experience.

Observing these simple rules will help you show respect for the local culture and avoid misunderstandings, making your holiday in Trivandrum unforgettable and pleasant.