Planning a trip to Kerala’s beautiful backwater destination of Kollam? Before you plan your itinerary, it is essential to gain information about beautiful backwater destination. Kollam, fortunately, is connected well with many cities within Kerala as well as destinations outside Kerala. Whether you’re traveling by air, rail, or road, this Kollam transport guide will cover all that you need to know. From the best way to reach Kollam to the cheapest way to reach Kollam, here’s your complete travel guide.
Kollam Connectivity At A Glance
Kollam is located in southern Kerala, and here’s an approximate distance of Kollam from major cities:
- 70 km from Thiruvananthapuram
- 145 km from Kochi
- 685 km from Bangalore
- 760 km from Chennai
- 1,250 km from Hyderabad
- 1,700 km from Mumbai
- Over 2,600 km from Delhi
Thanks to its strategic location on the Panvel-Kochi-Kanyakumari Highway and the Southern Railway line, Kollam connectivity remains excellent throughout the year.
How To Reach Kollam By Air
Kollam does not have its own commercial airport. However, it is easily accessible by flights. The nearest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport, located about 70 km away. The international airport enjoys excellent connectivity to major Indian destinations like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. It is also well-connected to major international destinations like Sri Lanka and Dubai.
For most travelers, this is the fastest way to reach Kollam.
After landing, you can choose from:
- Prepaid taxis
- App-based cabs
- Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses
- Private buses
- Rental cars
The drive from the Trivandrum Airport to Kollam is about 70 km and takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Airport Transfers To Kollam
There are several hotels and resorts that offer airport transfers to Kollam upon request. This is particularly convenient for families, senior citizens, or travelers carrying heavy luggage. If you’re wondering how to reach Kollam by air, flying into Trivandrum airport, followed by a road transfer is the most practical and preferred option. Check with the hotel you’re booking with for a hotel transfer before you book it.
How To Reach Kollam By Train
Kollam Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in Kerala. It is well connected to almost every major railway station within the state.
If you’re looking for an economical option, traveling by train is often the cheapest way to reach Kollam.
How To Reach Kollam By Train From Major Cities
From Kochi
There are several daily express and passenger trains traveling between Kollam and Kochi.
- Travel time: 3 to 4 hours
- Multiple departures every day
If you’re wondering how to reach Kollam from Kochi, then this is the easiest, cheapest, and the most economical way to travel.
From Thiruvananthapuram
There are daily trains operating between Kollam and the state capital.
- Travel time: 1 to 1.5 hours
For many visitors, this is the quickest answer to how to reach Kollam from Thiruvananthapuram.
From Bangalore
For travelers coming from Bangalore, there are multiple trains connecting Kollam to Bangalore. There are overnight trains that travelers can use to visit Kollam, making it a good weekend escape from Bangalore.
- Travel time: 14 to 16 hours
From Chennai
Just like Bangalore, Chennai is well-connected to Kollam through overnight express trains. It remains one of the most convenient ways for visitors looking into how to reach Kollam from Chennai.
- Travel time: 13 to 15 hours
From Mumbai
Many travelers from Mumbai prefer to take the longer, more scenic route of visiting Kollam by train. While the journey is longer and can be exhausting for some, the journey is rewarding with pristine views.
- Travel time: 24 to 30 hours
From Delhi
A train journey from Delhi can be quite long and hectic if you’re not used to long, exhaustive travel. As it involves more than 2500 km of travel, be ready for a journey usually spanning two days or more.
- Travel time: 40 to 48 hours
How To Reach Kollam By Bus
Kerala has one of the best developed bus networks in the country. Both KSRTC and private operators run regular bus services connecting Kollam with different cities and regions across the state.
Travelers wondering how to reach Kollam by bus will find frequent services from:
- Kochi
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Alappuzha
- Kottayam
- Thrissur
- Kozhikode
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
There are luxury Volvo buses, sleeper buses, as well as usual buses that run on select interstate routes. Traveling by bus is particularly popular among budget travelers and backpackers exploring multiple destinations across Kerala.
Also Read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Alappuzha For A Memorable Vacation
Best Way To Reach Kollam
The best way to reach Kollam depends on where you’re traveling from:
If you’re traveling from within Kerala, a train or bus is useful. If you’re from within Kerala and can drive, you can also rent a vehicle. If you’re from outside Kerala but from nearby South Indian cities like Bangalore and Chennai, reaching Kollam by train or bus is the best option. If you’re from other parts of India like Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, etc, flying down to Trivandrum, followed by a road transfer is the best option.
Cheapest Way To Reach Kollam
The cheapest way to reach Kollam is usually by train.
Indian Railways offers sleeper-class, AC coaches, and premium services catering to every budget. The pricing is usually affordable compared to flight or bus tickets.
For travelers already within Kerala, KSRTC buses also provide an economical option.
Also Read: Is It Safe To Travel To Kerala During The Monsoon? Complete June-August Guide
Fastest Way To Reach Kollam
The fastest way to reach Kollam is by flying to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and then traveling by road. For shorter distances within Kerala, express trains often prove quicker than road travel due to traffic conditions.
Public Transport In Kollam
Once you’ve arrived, getting around the city is straightforward.
Public transport in Kollam includes:
- KSRTC city buses
- Private buses
- Auto-rickshaws
- App-based taxis (availability may vary)
- Local taxis
- Rental scooters and cars
For sightseeing beyond the city, hiring a taxi for the day is often the most convenient option. App-based taxis are limited in availability but can provide reasonable rates. Auto-rickshaws are widely available but bargaining for the right price can be a hassle. Buses can be a cheap option but timings and connectivity can be a challenge.
Also Read: 8 Islands In Kerala That You Must Visit For A Tranquil Holiday
Travel Tips For Kollam
To make your journey smoother, keep these tips in mind:
- Book train tickets well in advance during peak tourist season.
- Flights to Thiruvananthapuram are often cheaper when booked early.
- Carry cash for small shops and local transport, though digital payments are widely accepted.
- If planning backwater cruises, stay overnight near Ashtamudi Lake or Munroe Island.
- Avoid driving during heavy monsoon rains if you’re unfamiliar with Kerala’s roads.
Summing Up
Whether you choose to fly, take a train, or drive to Kollam, this ‘How to reach Kollam’ guide is definitely about to be your one-stop solution for figuring out how you can reach the city and commute within.
With strong rail links, smooth highways, and its proximity to an international airport, reaching this picturesque destination is hassle-free for both domestic and international travelers.
FAQs
Which Is The Nearest Airport To Kollam?
The nearest airport to Kollam is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located about 70 km away.
What Is The Best Way To Reach Kollam?
The best way to reach Kollam depends on where you’re traveling from. Visitors from distant cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad can fly to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and then take a taxi or train to Kollam. Travelers from nearby cities in Kerala can conveniently reach Kollam by train or road.
Is Kollam Well Connected By Public Transport?
Yes, Kollam has excellent connectivity through trains, buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
