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Leaving the coastal breezes of Trivandrum for the temple spires of Madurai takes you from the greenery of Kerala across the Western Ghats into Tamil Nadu. The Meenakshi Amman Temple dominates the skyline on the banks of the Vaigai River, and the route is well worn by pilgrims and history lovers.
Trivandrum to Madurai by Train
The Amritha Express (16343) leaves Trivandrum Central at 22:30 and reaches Madurai Junction at 13:10 the next day. The return train (16344) leaves Madurai at 15:45 and reaches Trivandrum at 06:25.[1] Madurai Junction is the headquarters of the Madurai division of Southern Railway and has direct trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.[2]
Sleeper (SL) is the cheapest class, with open windows and fans. The AC classes (3A, 2A, 1A) are cooler and quieter.
Trivandrum to Madurai by Private Transfer
A private car drives you from your door in Trivandrum to Madurai. The drive takes from about 3 hours 50 minutes, longer with traffic. On booking platforms, private transfers cost from about $70 up to about $302, depending on the vehicle (November 2026).[3] Choose from a hatchback, sedan, SUV or a van for 6 or 8 passengers.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Train | Amritha Express departs 22:30, arrives 13:10[1] |
| Private transfer | From about 3 hours 50 minutes, about $70 to $302 (November 2026)[3] |
Tips for Traveling from Trivandrum to Madurai
- Book trains early: AC classes tend to sell out weeks ahead.
- Station navigation: Trivandrum Central is a busy hub, so arrive early to find your platform. In Madurai you may need an auto-rickshaw to reach your hotel.
- Climate: Madurai is hotter and drier than Trivandrum, so an AC coach or car is worth it.
- Scenery: If you travel by day, keep your camera ready for the Western Ghats, where road and rail wind through hills and plantations.
Timetable
| Bus Trivandrum - Madurai $ 30.44โ74.41 4h 50m โ 6h 5m | |
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| Taxi Trivandrum - Madurai $ 69.50โ302.07 3h 48m โ 10h 30m | |
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| Train Trivandrum - Madurai $ 4.84โ20.58 5h 5m โ 13h 15m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Trivandrum to Madurai, including current prices and schedules.
The train, especially in Sleeper (SL) class.
A private transfer, from about 3 hours 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes. The Amritha Express (16343) leaves Trivandrum Central at 22:30 and reaches Madurai Junction at 13:10.
Madurai Junction, the main station of the Madurai division of Southern Railway.
On booking platforms, from about $70 to about $302 depending on the vehicle (November 2026).
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Indian Railways (CRIS): Mail/Express/Superfast Train Names with Details. Retrieved November 4, 2026.
- [2] Madurai District Administration, Government of Tamil Nadu: How to Reach. Retrieved October 26, 2026.
- [3] 12Go: Trivandrum - Madurai timetable. Retrieved November 4, 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.