How to Reach Kerala from the USA?
Air travel is the most efficient way to get from the United States to Kerala. Major international airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines & Air India operate routes with layovers (usually in their home countries or main hubs like Dubai, Doha, or Delhi) but there are no direct flights. Kochi (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Kozhikode (CCJ) & Kannur (CNN) are Kerala’s four main international airports. The majority of US tourists arrive in Trivandrum or Kochi.
- Flight Duration – About 20 – 25 hours, including layovers.
- Ticket Price – Round-trip fares from the USA typically range from ₹40,000 to ₹120,000 (approx. $500–$1,400 USD), with the lowest prices often found outside peak travel seasons.
- Cheapest Route – Often New York (JFK/EWR) or Boston (BOS) to Kochi (COK) with one or two layovers.
How to Reach Kerala by Air (Domestic)?
Before a following flight to Kerala foreign visitors frequently make stops in Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore. Direct flights which take one to three hours are offered from the majority of major Indian cities to all major airports in Kerala.
- Delhi to Kochi – Approx 2h 50m
- Mumbai to Kannur – 1h 20m
- Chennai to Trivandrum – 1h 25m
For those asking “How can I go to Kerala by air from Delhi?” & “How to reach Kerala from Kolkata by air?” there are direct options from both cities to Kerala’s airports.
How to Reach Kerala by Train?
Kerala is very well connected by train across India. Major stations include Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode & Kollam. Trains run from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Lucknow, Raipur, Bhopal & more.
- Delhi to Kerala – Direct & connecting trains take 2 – 3 days & cost ₹1,100 – ₹35,000, depending on class & train.
- Mumbai to Kerala – Several direct & indirect trains journey duration is 28 – 35 hours. Fares start around ₹600 – ₹20,000.
- Rajasthan to Kerala – One to two days by train, fares start around ₹1,100.
Important cities in Kerala such as Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Ernakulam & Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) are currently connected by the Vande Bharat Express, India’s top semi-high-speed train.
How to Reach Kerala by Car or Bus?
Travelers who enjoy road trips often travel to Kerala from nearby states like Tamil Nadu & Karnataka. Long distance travel from North India is not suggested unless you are looking for adventure as it can take up to 30 to 40 hours despite the well developed road system. Many private & public luxury buses connect Kerala to major cities in South India.
Budget Travel Tips!!
- You can Travel by train or low-cost airline, reserve tickets in advance to save money, take local buses & select homestays or guesthouses.
- Trains are very reasonably priced, especially the sleeper class. Options like buses and shared taxis are also reasonably priced.
Conclusion
For travelers from USA the recommended way to reach Kerala is by air with connecting flights through Middle Eastern & Indian hubs. Once in India travelers can use domestic flights, extensive trains or even buses & cars to reach & explore Kerala. Even if on a luxury budget or searching a affordable adventure, Kerala is accessible, beautiful & rewarding for every type of traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to reach Kerala?
A:
Flying is the fastest way to reach kerala but trains offer a scenic & cost-effective experience.
Q: Is Kerala expensive or cheap?
A:
Kerala offers both budget & luxury experiences. Daily costs can be as low as $25 – $40 for budget travelers while mid-range to luxury travelers can expect $80 – $250 daily.
Q: What will be the cost for a Kerala trip?
A:
A one-week trip can cost anywhere from ₹10,000 to ₹60,000 ($120–$720) depending on travel & accommodation choices.
Q: How many days do I need in Kerala?
A: Are 4 days enough
Q: Is Kerala worth a visit, Is it safe for travel now?
A:
Yes Kerala is known for safety & hospitality & it is open for tourism throughout the year.
Q: Which transport is best for Kerala?
A:
Flights are fastest trains are scenic & inexpensive while buses & cabs are convenient for shorter distances.
Q: How to reach popular Kerala destinations (Munnar, Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple)?
A:
-
Munnar
Fly into Kochi and then drive 3–4 hours or take a bus.
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Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Fly or train to Trivandrum and then take a cab to the temple.
Q: How to reach Lakshadweep from Kerala?
A:
Ferries and flights operate from Kochi to Lakshadweep.
Q: How to arrange a Kerala trip?
A:
Book flights or trains early research accommodations online & plan an itinerary that includes beaches, backwaters & hills.