How to Reach Alleppey from Kochi, Bangalore & Mumbai — Full Transport Guide
Flying into Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram? Or arriving from Bangalore or Mumbai? Here's the complete guide to reaching Alleppey by every transport option available.
Getting to Alleppey — The Big Picture
Alleppey (officially Alappuzha) is located in central Kerala, approximately 85 km south of Kochi and 155 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. It has its own railway station (Alleppey/Alappuzha Station), is well-connected by state and private buses, and is easily accessible by taxi from both major airports.
The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport (Cochin International Airport / COK), approximately 85 km away — roughly 1.5–2 hours by road depending on traffic.
From Kochi (Cochin) to Alleppey
By Train: The Ernakulam–Alleppey section has several daily trains. The Alleppey Express (16301/16302) and several passenger trains cover the route in 1.5–2 hours. Alleppey Station is central — most homestays and hotels are within 3–5 km. This is the most comfortable and reliable option.
By Bus: KSRTC state buses run frequently from Ernakulam (Kochi) bus stand to Alleppey — journey time approximately 1.5 hours, tickets very cheap. Private bus operators also cover this route with air-conditioned coaches.
By Taxi/Cab: OLA and Uber are available from Kochi Airport and Ernakulam. A cab to Alleppey takes 1.5–2 hours and costs approximately ₹1,200–₹1,800 depending on traffic and vehicle type. This is the most convenient option if you have luggage.
By Ferry (the scenic route): A passenger ferry operates between Alleppey and Kottayam (not Kochi directly) through the backwaters — approximately 2.5 hours and extraordinary for the journey itself. Not the fastest option, but one of the most memorable ways to arrive.
From Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) to Alleppey
By Train: Multiple daily trains connect Thiruvananthapuram Central to Alleppey — journey time approximately 2.5–3 hours. The Alleppey–Thiruvananthapuram Intercity Express is a popular choice.
By Bus: KSRTC buses run regularly from Thiruvananthapuram to Alleppey — approximately 2.5–3 hours by road. Private coaches with AC are also available.
By Taxi: Approximately 2.5 hours from Trivandrum Airport or city centre. Cost: ₹2,000–₹2,800.
From Bangalore to Alleppey
The most practical route from Bangalore is to fly into Kochi International Airport and then travel to Alleppey by train or taxi (1.5–2 hours). Direct flights from Bengaluru to Kochi run multiple times daily on IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet — the flight is approximately 1 hour.
Alternatively, overnight trains from Bangalore City to Ernakulam (Kochi) are popular — the journey takes approximately 11–12 hours and several trains operate this route. From Ernakulam, take a connecting train or taxi to Alleppey.
From Mumbai to Alleppey
Fly from Mumbai (BOM) to Kochi (COK) — multiple daily flights, approximately 2 hours. From Kochi, travel to Alleppey by train (1.5 hrs) or taxi (1.5–2 hrs). This is the most time-efficient route.
Mumbai–Thiruvananthapuram trains also run if you prefer a full train journey — the Kerala Express and several other trains cover this route, taking approximately 40–45 hours.
Getting Around Inside Alleppey
Auto-rickshaws are the main mode of local transport inside Alleppey town — they are metered and inexpensive. Cycle rickshaws operate in the town centre. OLA and Uber are available but coverage is less consistent than in Kochi.
If you are staying at a waterfront property on Punnamada Lake, your host will typically arrange a boat transfer from the main finishing point — meaning your local transport begins the moment you arrive at the lake, before you've even reached your room.
Zen Homestay · Punnamada Lake
Arrive in Style — Speedboat Pickup from the Finishing Point
When you arrive at the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Finishing Point, host Abhijith meets you with a private speedboat. No searching for an auto, no navigating to the property — just a scenic 5-minute boat crossing straight to your lake-view room. Complimentary for all guests.