Getting Around in Kerala

Transportation Options in Kerala

Getting around in Kerala is relatively easy as the state administration has established an intricate and well planned network of highways and railways.  These connect even the most remote reaches of the state to more urban centers.  Kerala also has three airports that link the state to the rest of the country and the world.  The state is also famed for its backwaters, and transport on the rivers is easily available in the form of ferry services and boats. 

Getting in to Kerala

On your medical tourism vacation, the best way to arrive is by plane.  Kerala’s three airports are located in Calicut, Cochin, and Thiruvananthapuram.  These cities form gateways into the smaller towns and villages of Kerala, famed for their natural beauty and rustic way of life.  All major towns and cities in Kerala are well connected to other parts of India by rail.  The state of Kerala has 200 railways stations.  While traveling by train is time consuming, it does offer medical tourism travellers a glimpse of rural life in India.  

Road Transport in Kerala

The roads in Kerala are usually in good condition and traveling by road here is a pleasure.  The state runs a bus transport service, the Kerala Road Transport Corporation, which has regular services to different parts of the state.  Costs vary depending on the kind of bus you’re on, with transports ranging from air conditioned video coaches to more basic vehicles with no modern conveniences. A more comfortable way to travel is by chauffeur-driven car.  There are a number of car rental agencies that hire out cars in different models.  In bigger towns and cities, black and yellow taxis offer a comfortable and safe way to get around. Fares depend on distance travelled and is decided based on the meter.  Stay away from liveries that want you to pay an agreed upon price. 

Water Transport in Kerala

Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) offers ferry services that link towns on the coast.  To explore the famed backwaters of Kerala at Alleypey, Kumarakom, and Alapuzha, tourists can hire houseboats, locally known as Kettuvalloms.  These offer a lazy and relaxed way to explore the backwaters without compromising on amenities.