How to Get to Kovalam. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel Essentials

Gateway Airport

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), also known as Trivandrum International Airport, is closest, about 16 km north of Kovalam.

Airlines Serving TRV

Domestic: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet connect to major Indian cities.
International: Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, SriLankan, Scoot, Air India Express, Jazeera Airways.
Direct flights mainly from Middle Eastern hubs, Colombo, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur.

Flight Seasonality

Flight frequency tends to increase during the peak tourist season (October to March) to accommodate higher demand.

Pricing & Booking

Peak season prices are higher. Book well in advance for best rates.
Consider flying during shoulder or low season for more economical fares.
Check for deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities

TRV has duty-free, currency exchange, ATMs, food, and lounges for travelers.

Pre-paid Taxis

Government-approved pre-paid taxi counters are inside the airport. Fixed fares for a reliable ride.

Hotel Transfers

Many hotels offer airport pick-up services. Arrange directly with your accommodation.

Airport Transfer Choices

Ride-Sharing & Local

Uber and Ola available in Thiruvananthapuram for airport pickups.
Check app for availability and fare before booking. This often brings competitive pricing.
Auto-rickshaws are cheaper but less comfortable, not recommended for distance.
Negotiate auto-rickshaw fares beforehand to avoid disputes.

International Connection

Direct flights from Western countries to TRV are limited.
Most travelers connect through major Middle Eastern cities (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi).
Alternatively, connect via a major Indian city like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru.
Plan itinerary to include one of these connecting points for smooth travel.

Land Travel Insight

Train Travel

Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) is closest, connected to major Indian cities. Various classes available. Book in advance.

Bus Connections

KSRTC and private operators from Thiruvananthapuram to various cities within Kerala and neighboring states.

Self-Driving Notes

International Driving Permit (IDP) with original license for rentals. Driving can be challenging; expect heavy traffic.

Land Travel Connections

Train Network

Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) is the nearest major railway station, 16 km from Kovalam.

Train Travel Benefits

Well-connected to major Indian cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai).
Comfortable and scenic way to travel long distances.
Book tickets via IRCTC website or station counters in advance.

Bus Services

KSRTC operates extensive bus networks from Thiruvananthapuram to cities within Kerala and neighboring states.

Bus Travel Features

Cost-effective way to travel regionally.
Private operators hold comfortable, often AC inter-state services.
Book private buses online for direct routes and amenities.

Driving Your Own Way

Foreign nationals need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with original license for rentals.

Rental & Challenges

Rentals from Thiruvananthapuram (Zoomcar, Revv).
Driving is challenging: high traffic, varying road conditions, different etiquette.
Defensive driving recommended; expect frequent horn usage.

Two-Wheeled Exploration

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are popular and available from local vendors in Kovalam.

Rental & Safety

Valid Indian motorcycle license or IDP endorsed for motorcycles is needed.
Helmets are usually provided and mandatory by law.
Drive cautiously, roads can be busy and uneven. Stay alert.

Road Safety Brief

National Highways are generally well-maintained.
Local roads vary, can be narrow, winding, poorly maintained.
Beware of pedestrians, two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, and livestock.

Road rules often loosely followed. Drive defensively.
Expect speed breakers and potholes.
Safety is ; remain alert while driving or as a passenger.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Exit fees or departure taxes for international flights from India are typically included in the airfare.

Smooth Exit

International flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
Domestic flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure.
Utilize online check-in offered by most airlines to save time.

Departing Traveler Facilities

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) holds various facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities at TRV

Departure lounges for eligible passengers.
Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
Food and beverage outlets, currency exchange services.

Airport Lounges

Executive lounges are available at TRV for eligible departing passengers.

Shopping & Dining

TRV has duty-free shops and a selection of food and beverage outlets.

Train Station Amenities

Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station has waiting rooms and basic amenities.

Final Checks

Confirm your flight status and transfer arrangements in advance for a stress-free departure from Kovalam.

How to Get to Kovalam