Leaving the bustling spice markets and colonial charm of Fort Kochi for the serene gateway of the Kerala backwaters in Kollam is a classic South Indian transition. While Kochi represents the cosmopolitan face of Kerala, Kollam offers a slower pace, centered around the massive Ashtamudi Lake. The journey south along the Malabar Coast is a short but vital link for those looking to explore the state's intricate waterways without the crowds often found in more northern hubs.
The geography of this route keeps you close to the Arabian Sea, passing through lush palm groves and over countless bridges spanning the lagoons. Most travelers find that the rail network is the lifeblood of this corridor, though there are alternative ways to approach the journey depending on whether you are heading directly to Kollam or using a nearby airport as your entry point. You can easily book your preferred transport for this coastal route on GoAsia.cc to ensure a seamless transition between these two historic port cities.
Kochi to Kollam by Train
The train is undoubtedly the most popular and efficient way to cover the distance between Kochi and Kollam. It is a journey that captures the essence of Indian Rail travel, offering a window into the daily lives of Keralites as they commute between the state's major urban centers. Trains typically depart from either Ernakulam Junction (ERS) or Ernakulam Town (ERN) and arrive at Kollam Junction (QLN).
Prices for this route are incredibly affordable, ranging from $4 for basic seating to $20 for the most premium air-conditioned cabins. The duration varies depending on the specific service, with the fastest express trains reaching Kollam in about 1 hour and 55 minutes, while some slower services may take up to 3 hours and 37 minutes.
Choosing Your Class of Service
Indian Railways offers a staggering variety of classes on this route, allowing you to tailor the experience to your budget and comfort needs. For a short daytime hop, the AC Chair Class (CC) or Extended AC Chair Class (EC) are excellent choices. These provide comfortable, padded seating in a climate-controlled environment, which is a welcome relief from the tropical humidity. Prices for these seats are mid-range and offer a great balance of comfort and value.
If you prefer a more traditional experience or are traveling on a tight budget, the Second Sitting Class (2S) is the most economical option. These are non-AC reserved seats. For those arriving on long-distance trains from further north, you might find yourself in Sleeper Class (SL), which uses open-window carriages with bunks. While you likely won't need to sleep on such a short trip, these classes offer the best views and the most social atmosphere.
For maximum privacy and luxury, the AC First Class Sleeper (1A) and AC 2-Tier Sleeper (2A) provide the quietest environment. These are perfect if you want to catch up on work or rest in a secluded, chilled cabin. The AC 3-Tier (3A) and AC 3-Tier Economy (3E) options provide a similar cooled environment but with more passengers per bay, making them a popular middle-ground for families and solo travelers alike.
Kochi to Kollam via Trivandrum by Flight
While Kollam does not have its own commercial airport, some travelers choose to fly from Kochi to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) and then take a short taxi or local train ride north to Kollam. This is generally less practical than taking the direct train, but it can be a viable option for those who prefer air travel or have specific connections at the capital's airport.
Flights from Kochi to Trivandrum are very short, usually taking only about 50 minutes. Prices typically range from $49 to $53 for an Economy seat. Once you land in Trivandrum, Kollam is approximately 65 kilometers away, which can be covered in about 90 minutes by road or an hour by train. This mode is best suited for those who find the flight schedules more convenient for their overall itinerary.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Second Sitting) | $4 | 2h - 3h 30m | Basic |
| Train (AC Chair/3-Tier) | $8 - $12 | 2h - 3h | High |
| Train (AC First Class) | $20 | 2h | Premium |
| Flight (to Trivandrum) | $49 - $53 | 50m | High |
Tips for Traveling from Kochi to Kollam
- Station Selection: In Kochi, check whether your train departs from Ernakulam Junction (South) or Ernakulam Town (North). They are a few kilometers apart, and mixing them up is a common mistake for travelers.
- Book in Advance: Even for short distances, AC classes on popular express trains can sell out days in advance. Use GoAsia.cc to secure your seat before you arrive at the station.
- Window Side: If you are traveling in a non-AC class, try to get a window seat on the right-hand side (when facing south) for occasional glimpses of the backwaters and lush greenery.
- Monsoon Travel: During the monsoon season (June to September), train travel is incredibly scenic as the landscape turns a vibrant emerald green, but do expect occasional minor delays due to heavy rainfall.
- Food and Water: While most express trains have vendors selling tea (chai), coffee, and snacks like vada or samosas, it is always a good idea to carry a bottle of water for the two-hour journey.
Timetable
| Flight Kochi India - Trivandrum $ 47.67–51.38 50m | |
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| Train Kochi India - Kollam $ 4.32–19.90 1h 55m – 3h 37m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Kochi India to Kollam directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by train in the Second Sitting (2S) class, which costs approximately $4. This provides a reserved seat in a non-air-conditioned carriage and is a very popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way to reach Kollam is by taking an express train, which can complete the journey in as little as 1 hour and 55 minutes. While flights to nearby Trivandrum take only 50 minutes, the total travel time including airport transfers makes the train the quicker door-to-door option.
The journey duration depends on the train service you choose. It typically takes between 1 hour 55 minutes and 3 hours 37 minutes. Most express trains average around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
In Kochi, you will most likely depart from Ernakulam Junction (ERS) or Ernakulam Town (ERN). In Kollam, almost all trains arrive at Kollam Junction (QLN), which is centrally located and well-connected to the backwater ferry terminals.
For air-conditioned classes like AC Chair Class or Sleeper tiers, booking in advance is highly recommended as these spots fill up quickly. For Second Sitting (2S), you can often find tickets closer to the departure date, but booking ahead ensures a more relaxed experience.
Most trains on this route feature local vendors who walk through the aisles selling snacks, hot tea, and cold drinks. However, for a short 2-hour trip, full meal services are rarely provided, so it is best to eat before boarding or bring your own snacks.