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How to Get from Alappuzha to Ernakulam

Get from Alappuzha to Ernakulam by KSRTC bus, train or private transfer, with departure times and what to check before you go.

India

Last updated: November 3, 2026

How to Get from Alappuzha to Ernakulam
Contents

Alappuzha's quiet canals and Ernakulam's busy harbour front are a short hop apart. You can wake up on a houseboat and be walking Kochi's waterfront by lunchtime. Buses, trains and private cars all make the trip.

Train, Bus, Flight and Ferry tickets

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Alappuzha to Ernakulam by Bus

KSRTC runs low-floor A/C buses from Alappuzha to Ernakulam. Departures include 07:30 (arriving 09:00), 18:30 (arriving 20:00) and 19:30 (arriving 21:00). A 06:00 service continues to Fort Kochi and arrives at 08:10.[1]

Alappuzha to Ernakulam by Train

Alappuzha is a starting point for trains up Kerala's coast. The 16307 Cannanore Express leaves at 14:55 for Kannur, and the 13352 Alleppey-Dhanbad Express leaves at 05:55.[2] Ernakulam has two main stations, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town, so check which one your train serves before you book.

Alappuzha to Ernakulam by Private Transfer

A private car collects you at your hotel or houseboat jetty in Alappuzha and drops you at your door in Ernakulam, which is the easy choice with heavy luggage or a group. On booking platforms, private transfers start at about $77 (November 2026), and the drive takes from about 1 hour, longer in heavy traffic.[3]

Tips for Travelling from Alappuzha to Ernakulam

  • Pick your arrival point: Tell your driver or the bus conductor which part of Ernakulam you are heading to, since the city is spread out.
  • Agree the fare first: Settle the price of a taxi before you get in.
  • Best season: The backwaters are at their best from October to March, and the monsoon runs from June to September.[4]

Timetable

Alappuzha - Kochi India More info / Tickets
Bus Alappuzha - Kochi India $ 9.52โ€“31.53 1h 16m โ€“ 2h 15m
  • โ†’ย  AC Sleeper 18:50, 19:10, 21:30
  • โ†’ย  AC Seater 19:05, 22:30
Taxi Alappuzha - Kochi India $ 58.67โ€“79.79 1h 30m
  • โ†’ย  Comfort 3pax
  • โ†’ย  Van 6pax
Train Alappuzha - Kochi India $ 3.84โ€“12.93 45m โ€“ 1h 58m
  • โ†’ย  2S - Second Sitting Class 06:18, 08:08, 15:50, 20:15
  • โ†’ย  2A - AC 2-Tier Sleeper 11:23, 22:03
  • โ†’ย  3A - AC 3-Tier Sleeper 03:00, 06:00, 15:20, 22:03
  • โ†’ย  3E - AC 3-Tier Economy Sleeper 11:23
  • โ†’ย  CC - AC Chair Class 06:18, 08:08, 15:50, 17:57, 20:15
  • โ†’ย  SL - Sleeper Class 03:00, 06:00, 11:23, 15:20, 19:15, 22:03
Alappuzha - Ernakulam More info / Tickets
Taxi Alappuzha - Ernakulam $ 76.98โ€“102.59 1h 1m
  • โ†’ย  SUV 6pax
  • โ†’ย  Hatchback 4pax
  • โ†’ย  Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I book tickets from Alappuzha to Ernakulam?

Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Alappuzha to Ernakulam, including current prices and schedules.

How do I get from Alappuzha to Ernakulam?

You can take a KSRTC bus, a train up the coast or a private car. The bus and the car drop you in Ernakulam itself.

How long does the bus from Alappuzha to Ernakulam take?

The 07:30 KSRTC bus arrives in Ernakulam at 09:00, so plan on about 1 hour 30 minutes.

How much does a private transfer cost?

On booking platforms, private transfers start at about $77 (November 2026), and the drive takes from about 1 hour.

Is there an evening bus?

Yes, KSRTC buses leave Alappuzha for Ernakulam at 18:30 and 19:30.

Which train station should I use in Ernakulam?

Ernakulam has two main stations, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town. Check which one your train stops at.

Sources and background

Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.

  1. [1] Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC): KSRTC buses from Alappuzha (schedule information). Retrieved November 4, 2026.
  2. [2] Indian Railways (CRIS): Mail/Express Trains list. Retrieved November 4, 2026.
  3. [3] 12Go: 12Go timetable Alappuzha - Ernakulam. Retrieved November 4, 2026.
  4. [4] Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala: Alappuzha Beach. Retrieved October 22, 2026.

Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.