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How to Get to Kurnool

How to Get to Kurnool

Kurnool Andhra Pradesh, India Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Connectivity

While Kurnool has a regional airport (KJB) with limited domestic flights, most travelers from abroad arrive via major hubs before connecting to the city.

Airports

  • Kurnool Airport (KJB): Regional, limited domestic routes.
  • Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD): Major international hub, 200 km north.
  • Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport (BLR): Major international hub, 300 km south.

Routes & Facilities

No direct international flights to KJB. Fly into HYD or BLR, then connect to Kurnool by domestic flight, train, bus, or taxi. KJB offers basic facilities. HYD and BLR are modern international airports with extensive services.

Transfer Options

  • KJB to city: Taxis, auto-rickshaws (30-45 min).
  • HYD/BLR to Kurnool: Taxis (3-6 hrs), frequent buses, trains.
  • Consider pre-booking private cab from HYD or BLR for easy travel.

Flight Deals

KJB flights may vary seasonally. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are good resources for flight deals.

Booking Advice

Book well in advance for better rates, especially for international legs and during peak season (Nov-Feb).

International Connectivity

HYD & BLR provide extensive global connections via major domestic and global airlines.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Kurnool City Railway Station (KRNT): Major station on Guntakal-Secunderabad line.
  • Good rail connectivity to Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi.
  • Book on IRCTC website several weeks in advance for popular routes/classes.
  • Classes from unreserved to AC first-class sleepers.

Long-Distance Buses

  • Kurnool APSRTC Bus Station: Central hub for frequent services.
  • APSRTC and private companies connect Kurnool to Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu.
  • Direct buses to Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Tirupati, Vijayawada.
  • Various comfort levels: ordinary, express, deluxe, AC multi-axle buses.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Requirements

International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license are mandatory. Self-driving is less common for tourists.

Road Quality

National Highways (NH44, NH40) are generally good. State/district roads vary with potholes.

Driving Culture

Indian driving can be challenging: aggressive patterns, pedestrians, animals. Defensive driving is prudent. DiscoverCars.com offers choices if you choose to self-drive.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply when departing India by air, as these costs are usually incorporated into your air ticket price. No exit fees apply for land or rail departures from Kurnool.

Departure Timing

  • Air Travel (HYD or BLR): Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic, 3-4 hours before international flights.
  • Train/Bus Travel: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to locate platform/bus.
  • This timing allows for check-in, security, and immigration (international).

Airport/Station Facilities

Kurnool Airport (KJB) offers simple waiting areas. Hyderabad (HYD) and Bengaluru (BLR) airports provide comprehensive facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • HYD/BLR: Check-in, luggage drop-off, security, lounges, dining, retail, currency exchange.
  • KRNT Railway Station & APSRTC Bus Stop: Waiting rooms, basic food stalls, restrooms.
  • These facilities are functional for essential needs during your wait.

Pre-Departure Check

Reconfirm your flight or train schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This accounts for any last-minute changes.

Checklist

  • Confirm flight/train times.
  • Verify ticket details.
  • Understand your departure gate/platform.

General Tips

Ensure all luggage is correctly tagged and weighed to avoid issues at check-in. Keep essential documents, like passports and tickets, readily accessible.

Final Reminders

  • Check weight limits for luggage.
  • Keep all boarding passes and travel documents.
  • If encountering flight delays, AirHelp can help with compensation claims.

Road Safety Concerns

  • Roads: Quality varies; expect potholes, unmarked speed breakers.
  • Safety: Night driving hazards due to poor lighting, unlit vehicles, stray animals.
  • Traffic: Rules are often not strictly followed; extra caution.
  • Toll Plazas: Multiple on national highways; have small cash or FASTag.
  • Recommendation: Car rentals with drivers are usual and often chosen for tourists.
  • Always prioritize defensive driving.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland Location

Kurnool is a city not on the coast, situated far from any coast. Sea or river arrivals are not relevant for reaching this destination.

Fact

  • Kurnool is located within Andhra Pradesh, away from the seaside areas.
  • The Tungabhadra River runs through the city but is not used for passenger transport to the city.
  • No sea ports or major river terminals serve Kurnool for passenger arrivals.

Main Access

The city's main access points for visitors remain through established air and land transportation networks.

Modes of Entry

  • Air travel (via Hyderabad or Bengaluru airports, then connecting modes).
  • Train services to Kurnool City Train Terminal.
  • Long-distance bus services to Kurnool APSRTC Bus Stop.

Air Connectivity

Domestic flights to Kurnool Airport (KJB) from primary Indian cities.

Rail Network

Kurnool is well-connected by train to various parts of India.

Road Access

Extensive bus services from neighboring states and cities.

Transfer Options from Major Hubs

From Hyderabad HYD

The journey from Hyderabad to Kurnool takes approximately 3-4 hours by road or train, providing multiple options for travelers.

Options

  • Taxi/Private Car: Pre-book or arrange on arrival.
  • Bus: Frequent direct buses from MGBS or Aramghar to Kurnool.
  • Train: From Hyderabad Deccan Nampally or Secunderabad to Kurnool City.

From Bengaluru BLR

Travel from Bengaluru to Kurnool takes approximately 5-6 hours by road or train, offering good connectivity.

Options

  • Taxi/Private Car: Pre-book or arrange on arrival.
  • Bus: Lots of direct buses from Majestic Bus Stand (KSRTC) to Kurnool.
  • Train: From KSR Bengaluru City or Yesvantpur to Kurnool City.

Airport Services at Major Hubs

Hyderabad HYD

Modern international airport with lounges, duty-free, diverse dining, car rentals, currency exchange, Wi-Fi.

Bengaluru BLR

Also a modern international airport with extensive facilities and ground transit services.

Kurnool KJB

Basic facilities: terminal, check-in, baggage claim, limited food options.

Travel Tip

For train travel, book your tickets on the IRCTC website several weeks in advance, especially for popular routes and higher classes. This makes sure you get your preferred travel class and seat.