Travel in Kerala is mainly organised by private car with driver (€60-80/day including fuel) — the most practical formula for a 10-14 day trip visiting several distinct regions. Distances are significant (Kochi-Munnar 130 km in 4-5h, Munnar-Alleppey 180 km in 4-5h, Alleppey-Varkala 150 km in 3-4h) and roads sometimes winding in the ghats.
The train is an economical and cultural option. The Konkan line (along the west coast) connects Mumbai-Goa-Mangalore-Kochi-Trivandrum in comfortable trains. Kochi-Alleppey 1h30, Kochi-Varkala 4h, Trivandrum-Kanyakumari 2h.
In cities and villages, several options. Auto-rickshaws (30-150 INR by distance) are everywhere for short distances. Uber and Ola apps work in Kochi, Trivandrum and Calicut.
In the Alleppey backwaters, you board your houseboat from the terminal flotilla (15 min by tuk-tuk from Alleppey centre). For short backwater visits without overnight: shikara (motorised canoe for 4-6 people, 500-1,500 INR for 2-4h).
At Munnar, certain visits (Eravikulam Park, Top Station) require official park shuttle use.
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