Is there a direct train from Arcot?

No, you must travel to Katpadi Junction to board trains to Thiruvananthapuram.

How far is Arcot from Katpadi?

Arcot is approximately 25 km away from Katpadi Junction.

Which is the best highway?

NH 44 is the most reliable highway for this route.

Are taxis available in Arcot?

Yes, private taxi services can be booked for intercity travel.

Is the road route scenic?

Yes, the stretch through the Western Ghats near Nagercoil is very scenic.

Arcot

Thiruvananthapuram

Train Driving

Arcot to Thiruvananthapuram

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Arcot to Thiruvananthapuram spans approximately 750 km. You must first reach Katpadi Junction, the nearest major rail hub, located 25 km from Arcot. From Katpadi, several express trains connect directly to Thiruvananthapuram Central. Alternatively, driving involves taking NH 44 through Salem and Madurai. The route offers a transition from the plains of Tamil Nadu to the lush landscapes of Kerala.

Total Distance: 750 km by road, 680 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Train, taking roughly 14 hours from Katpadi Junction.

Cheapest Way

Train via Katpadi Junction, costing approximately 600 INR in sleeper class.

Compare Arcot to Thiruvananthapuram Routes

Train

Direct from Katpadi

Duration

14 hours

Avg Price

600 - 2500 INR

Operator

Kanyakumari Express

Route

Katpadi Junction to Thiruvananthapuram Central via Erode and Palakkad.

Book your tickets at least 30 days in advance for confirmed berths.

Driving

Direct

Duration

16 hours

Avg Price

5000 - 8000 INR

Operator

Self-drive or Taxi

Route

NH 44 via Salem, Dindigul, and Nagercoil.

Expect heavy traffic near Madurai; start your journey before dawn.

Travel Tips

Rail Hub
Always use Katpadi Junction (KPD) for train bookings as Arcot has no direct rail connectivity.
Local Transport
Use the KSRTC bus network for affordable travel within Thiruvananthapuram.
Language
Malayalam is the primary language, but English and Tamil are widely understood.
Food
Try the traditional Kerala Sadya served on banana leaves for an authentic experience.
Connectivity
Prepaid auto-rickshaws are available at the railway station for safe transit.

Safety Tips

Night Travel
Avoid driving on the Nagercoil-Trivandrum stretch late at night due to narrow roads.
Valuables
Keep your bags locked and secure while traveling on public transport.
Emergency
Save the local police helpline number 100 on your phone.
Health
Carry bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.