The road trip from Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, to Kochi (Cochin), the state’s vibrant commercial hub, is a journey through the heart of coastal Kerala. This route is one of the most important and busiest in the state, connecting two major cities. For anyone planning this trip, understanding the driving distance and time from Trivandrum to Kochi is essential. This comprehensive 2026 guide provides all the details you need on the best route, travel duration, road conditions, and scenic stops along the way.
Trivandrum to Kochi Drive: A Quick Overview
The driving distance from Trivandrum to Kochi is approximately 210 kilometres. The journey primarily follows National Highway 66 (NH66). Thanks to ongoing road widening projects and generally good road quality, the drive can be completed in about 4.5 to 5.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.
The Best and Primary Route: Via NH66
There is one main and direct route that connects Trivandrum and Kochi, which is National Highway 66 (NH66). This highway runs parallel to the coastline of Kerala and is the lifeline for travel between the southern and central parts of the state.
Route Description: Trivandrum -> Kollam -> Alappuzha -> Kochi
- Starting from Trivandrum: The journey begins by heading north out of Trivandrum city on NH66.
- Trivandrum to Kollam: The first major city you will pass is Kollam, which is about 70 km away. This stretch can have considerable traffic as it passes through several towns and populated areas.
- Kollam to Alappuzha: Continuing on NH66, you will head towards Alappuzha (Alleppey), famous for its backwaters. This section offers glimpses of Kerala’s lush greenery and water bodies.
- Alappuzha to Kochi: The final leg of the journey takes you from Alappuzha to Kochi. The road here is generally good, but traffic can increase as you get closer to the bustling city of Kochi.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- Road Conditions: NH66 has been undergoing significant upgrades to a six-lane highway. While some sections are complete and offer a fantastic driving experience, others might still have construction work in progress in 2026. This can lead to diversions and potential delays. Overall, the road is well-paved and motorable.
- Scenic Beauty: The drive is quintessentially Keralan, with coconut groves, backwaters, and vibrant green landscapes lining the road.
- Amenities: The highway is dotted with numerous restaurants, hotels, and petrol pumps, so you will have no trouble finding places to rest and refuel.
Analysing the Driving Time from Trivandrum to Kochi
The 4.5-5.5 hour estimate is a realistic average, but the travel time can be quite variable.
Factors That Influence Your Travel Time:
- City Traffic: Exiting Trivandrum and entering Kochi can be very time-consuming. The traffic within the city limits at both ends can easily add 45 minutes to an hour to your total journey time.
- Ongoing Roadwork: As NH66 is being widened, you may encounter construction zones and diversions, which can slow down traffic significantly. It’s advisable to check for real-time traffic updates on a GPS app.
- Narrow Stretches: The highway passes through many towns like Kollam, Kayamkulam, and Haripad, where the road becomes narrower and congested with local traffic. Bypasses have been built for some towns, which help, but slowdowns are common.
- Time of Day: Starting very early in the morning (by 6 AM) is the best way to avoid the worst of the traffic and have a relatively smoother drive.
Estimated Time Breakdown:
| Segment | Estimated Time |
| Exiting Trivandrum City Limits | 45 minutes – 1 hour |
| Trivandrum to Kollam | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Kollam to Alappuzha | 1 – 1.5 hours |
| Alappuzha to Kochi | 1 – 1.5 hours |
| Total Estimated Time | 4.5 – 6 hours |
To plan your travel in Kerala effectively, you should also be aware of the state’s holiday schedule. Check out the complete list of bank holidays in Kerala.
Toll Charges on the Trivandrum-Kochi Route
With the upgradation of NH66, new toll plazas are being established. As of early 2026, you can expect to pay a total one-way toll of approximately ₹150 – ₹200 for a private car. This amount may increase as more stretches of the widened highway become operational. Using FASTag is mandatory and essential for a hassle-free journey.
Recommended Pit Stops and Attractions
The route from Trivandrum to Kochi is filled with places that showcase the unique culture and natural beauty of Kerala.
Popular Stops:
- Varkala Beach: A stunning cliff beach that requires a small detour from the main highway. Perfect for a short break and some beautiful photos.
- Jatayu Earth’s Center (Chadayamangalam): Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture. This is a major tourist attraction and requires a detour, but it’s well worth a visit.
- Kollam (Quilon): Known as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. You can stop here to enjoy the views of Ashtamudi Lake.
- Alappuzha (Alleppey): The Venice of the East. Stop here to see the houseboats and enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant by the backwaters.
For those interested in exploring Kerala’s natural wonders further, our guide on hidden waterfalls in Kerala might inspire your next adventure.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Drive
- Be Patient with Traffic: Kerala is a densely populated state, and the highways are always busy. Drive patiently and be prepared for slowdowns.
- Stay Updated on Road Conditions: Use Google Maps or similar apps for real-time updates on traffic and road construction.
- Monsoon Driving: During the monsoon (June to October), roads can be slippery, and visibility might be low due to heavy rain. Drive with extra caution.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: The route has some of the best food in Kerala. Don’t miss the chance to stop at a local ‘Toddy Shop’ (for food) or a ‘Chaya Kada’ (tea shop) for authentic flavours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Trivandrum to Kochi by road?
The road distance between Trivandrum and Kochi is approximately 210 kilometres. The journey is almost entirely on National Highway 66 (NH66), which runs along the coast of Kerala.
How long does it take to drive from Trivandrum to Kochi?
The drive typically takes between 4.5 and 5.5 hours. The travel time is highly dependent on traffic conditions, which can be heavy, and any ongoing road widening work on NH66.
What is the condition of the Trivandrum-Kochi highway?
The condition of NH66 is generally good but variable. Many sections have been upgraded to a modern six-lane highway, offering a smooth ride. However, you may still encounter older two-lane stretches and areas with construction work in 2026.
What is the best time of day to start the drive?
To avoid heavy traffic, especially while exiting Trivandrum, it is best to start your journey early in the morning, ideally before 6:30 AM. This allows for a much smoother and faster drive.
Are there any toll booths on the way to Kochi from Trivandrum?
Yes, as NH66 is being upgraded, new toll plazas are operational. You can expect to pay a total one-way toll of around ₹150-₹200 for a car. This amount may vary as more sections of the highway get completed. FASTag is mandatory.