No, you must go to Tirunelveli station to catch a train to Trivandrum.

How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 4 hours by car.

Are there direct buses?

Yes, several state buses run this route daily.

Yes, it is a major national highway and generally safe.

Yes, private taxis are easily available in Kayathar.

Thiruvananthapuram

Bus Driving

Kayathar to Thiruvananthapuram

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Kayathar to Thiruvananthapuram is a straightforward 160-kilometer drive heading south-west. You will traverse through the Tirunelveli and Nagercoil regions before crossing the border into Kerala. The journey typically takes 4 hours via NH 44. This is a popular route for commuters and tourists heading to the capital of Kerala. The landscape changes from dry plains to the lush tropical greenery of the southern tip of India.

Total Distance: 160 km driving distance; 140 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private car takes 4 hours, offering the most flexibility.

Cheapest Way

State transport buses (SETC) are the most affordable at under 400 INR.

Compare Kayathar to Thiruvananthapuram Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	4 hours
Avg Price	300-600 INR	1500-2500 INR
Operator	SETC	Self-drive
Route	Kayathar to Thiruvananthapuram via Nagercoil.	NH 44 via Tirunelveli and Nagercoil.
Tip	Buses are frequent from the main highway junction in Kayathar.	The road is well-maintained but watch for speed cameras near Nagercoil.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Expect heavy traffic entering Thiruvananthapuram city during office hours.
Documents
Carry your driving license and vehicle registration papers at all times.
Currency
Keep small change for toll booths along the highway.
Language
Tamil is widely understood in the border regions, while Malayalam is primary in Trivandrum.
Parking
Use designated parking lots near the temple to avoid fines.