Is there a direct train from Athani to Kanyakumari?

No, you must board from the nearby Aluva Railway Station.

How long does the bus take?

The bus journey typically takes between 9 to 11 hours depending on stops.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, there are multiple toll plazas on NH 66 between Ernakulam and the Tamil Nadu border.

Can I travel by flight?

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, followed by a 3-hour road trip.

Is the road safe for night driving?

It is generally safe, but avoid night driving due to ongoing road construction work.

Athani

Kanyakumari

Train Driving

Athani to Kanyakumari

Updated: 20 May 2026

The journey from Athani to Kanyakumari spans approximately 320 km along the scenic NH 66 corridor. You can reach the southernmost tip of India by taking a KSRTC bus from Aluva or boarding a train from Aluva Railway Station. The route passes through major hubs like Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Expect a travel time of 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic conditions near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. This route offers a transition from the lush backwaters of Kerala to the rocky coastal landscapes of the Indian Ocean.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 320 km and straight-line air distance is 285 km.

Fastest Way

Train travel via the Kanyakumari Express is the fastest and most comfortable option.

Cheapest Way

KSRTC Ordinary bus service from Aluva KSRTC stand costs approximately 500 INR.

Compare Athani to Kanyakumari Routes

Train

Direct

Duration

7 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

450 - 1200 INR

Operator

Kanyakumari Express

Route

Aluva (AWY) to Kanyakumari (CAPE) via Thiruvananthapuram Central.

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

Driving

Direct

Duration

8 hours

Avg Price

2500 - 4000 INR

Operator

Self-drive

Route

NH 66 through Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Expect heavy traffic near the Attingal and Parassala stretches.

Travel Tips

Early Start
Start your journey before 5 AM to avoid the dense urban traffic of Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Ferry Tickets
Purchase ferry tickets for the Vivekananda Rock Memorial early in the morning to avoid long queues.
Hydration
Carry sufficient water as the coastal humidity can be draining during the afternoon.
Local Transport
Use auto-rickshaws for short distances within Kanyakumari town; negotiate the fare before boarding.
Dress Code
Wear modest clothing when visiting the Bhagavathy Amman Temple as there are strict dress codes for entry.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
NH 66 is currently undergoing expansion; drive cautiously near construction zones.
Crowd Management
Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas like the ferry terminal and bus stand.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police station numbers of the districts you pass through on your phone.
Sun Protection
Use high-SPF sunscreen as the coastal sun is intense even on cloudy days.