Getting Around Kollam
Kollam offers visitors several practical options for moving around the city and reaching nearby areas. The main transportation modes include buses, taxis, auto rickshaws, and trains, with walking suitable for exploring central areas.
City Buses
Green-coloured private buses dominate local city transportation in Kollam, supplemented by services from KSRTC's urban transport wing. The private bus system connects various neighbourhoods and suburbs throughout the metropolitan area. Major routes link areas like Chavara, Kottiyam, Chinnakkada, and Eravipuram.
Be aware that the city bus system has some limitations for visitors. Buses lack route numbering systems and formal information signage, and waiting sheds at bus stops are not always adequate. However, buses remain an affordable and widely available option for getting around.
Regional and Long-Distance Buses
For travel beyond the city, KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) operates inter-city bus services. Kollam is one of five KSRTC zones in Kerala. You can find buses connecting Kollam to other major cities including Kochi, Alappuzha, Thiruvananthapuram, Bangalore, and other destinations across Kerala and beyond. Some KSRTC services offer air-conditioned options on routes to Punalur, Trivandrum, and Kochi.
Bus Stations
Kollam has three main bus hubs where you can catch both city and long-distance services:
- City bus station at Andamukkam
- KSRTC bus station at Cutchery
- Bus terminal at Tangasseri
Taxis and Auto Rickshaws
Taxis and auto rickshaws are available for getting around Kollam. These are particularly useful for shorter distances within the city or when you prefer not to use buses.
Train Services
Kollam Junction railway station connects the city to various destinations by rail. You can access trains to major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore. The railway code for Kollam is QLN. Regular commuter services (MEMU trains) also operate on routes including Kollam-Ernakulam and Kollam-Kanyakumari, offering affordable options for longer journeys within Kerala and beyond.
Water Transport
The state-owned Kerala State Water Transport Department operates boats and ferry services serving Kollam and its surrounding areas, reflecting the city's historic importance as a port.
Walkability
Kollam's central areas are walkable for exploring neighbourhoods and local attractions. However, for covering greater distances across the metropolitan area, you'll need to use buses, taxis, or trains.
Getting from Thiruvananthapuram Airport to Kollam
The nearest airport to Kollam is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located approximately 70 km from the city. From the airport, you can reach Kollam by:
- Long-distance bus services that connect Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam and other destinations
- Train services operating from Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam Junction
- Taxi or ride-hailing services for a more direct journey
The train option offers a practical and affordable way to reach Kollam from the airport, with regular services available on the broad-gauge electrified line connecting the two cities.