Yes, the Punalur-Tenkasi stretch is one of the most beautiful mountain roads in South India.

Are there direct buses?

Yes, there are limited direct KSRTC buses from Kollam to Tirunelveli.

What is the best time to start?

Start early morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the mountain views.

It is better to avoid the ghat road at night due to limited visibility and wildlife movement.

Yes, private cabs are available from Kundara for a one-way trip to Tirunelveli.

Kundara

Tirunelveli

Train Bus

Kundara to Tirunelveli

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Kundara to Tirunelveli spans about 165 km, crossing the Western Ghats via the scenic Tenkasi-Kollam road. You can take a bus through the Punalur-Tenkasi ghat section, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Alternatively, trains from Kollam Junction provide a comfortable journey to Tirunelveli. The travel time is approximately 4 to 5 hours by road. This route is popular for pilgrims and tourists visiting the Nellaiappar Temple.

Total Distance: 165 km driving distance; 135 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private vehicle via the Punalur-Tenkasi road, taking about 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Train from Kollam Junction is the most cost-effective and comfortable way.

Compare Kundara to Tirunelveli Routes

	Train Connecting	Bus Connecting
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	5 hours
Avg Price	150-600 INR	300-500 INR
Operator	Indian Railways	KSRTC/TNSTC
Route	Kollam Junction to Tirunelveli Junction.	Via Punalur, Tenkasi, and Shenkottai.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via IRCTC as this route is popular with commuters.	The ghat road is narrow; choose a bus with good suspension for comfort.

Travel Tips

Ghat Driving
If driving, be cautious of sharp curves and heavy vehicle traffic in the Punalur-Tenkasi stretch.
Train Booking
Check for trains departing from Kollam Junction to Tirunelveli early in the morning.
Food
Try the local 'Halwa' in Tirunelveli; it is world-famous and a must-buy souvenir.
Weather
The ghat section can be misty; keep your headlights on if driving during early hours.
Connectivity
Mobile network can be patchy in the deep forest sections of the ghat road.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Do not stop or feed animals in the forest reserve areas of the ghat road.
Driving
Avoid overtaking on blind curves in the mountain pass.
Public Transport
Keep your luggage secure while traveling on state transport buses.
Emergency
Keep a physical map or offline GPS, as network signals are unreliable in the ghats.