Kottayam: With the onset of summer vacations, KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) services to major tourist destinations across Kerala are witnessing a sharp surge in passenger traffic. Popular locations such as Munnar, Vagamon, Gavi, Thekkady, Kumarakom, and Alappuzha are among the top choices for travelers opting for KSRTC buses.

Munnar to Vagamon

Munnar remains the most sought-after destination, especially for those boarding from Kottayam.

A trip to Munnar via Ettumanoor, Koothattukulam, Muvattupuzha, Kothamangalam, and Adimali costs Rs 212 per person, with a travel time of four to five hours.

Following Munnar, Thekkady is another favourite among tourists. Direct services are available from Kottayam at 9:50 AM and 5:10 PM daily, alongside additional services from other depots. The ticket fare to Thekkady is Rs 161, and the travel time is around three to five hours. Buses to Thekkady pass through Pampady, Ponkunnam, Kanjirappally, Mundakkayam, Kuttikkanam, Peermade, and Kumily.

Alappuzha is a popular tourist attraction. KSRTC offers regular services to Alappuzha from 8:10 AM to 5:40 PM at half-hour intervals. The fare is Rs 100.

Ordinary, Fast Passenger and Super Fast buses operate via Illikkal, Kumarakom, Kavanattinkara, Thanneermukkom, Bund Road, and Mannanchery.

Services from other stations

Apart from Kottayam, KSRTC operates buses to tourist spots from Erattupetta, Cherthala, Pala, and Changanassery as well.

Buses from Erattupetta head to Alappuzha, from Cherthala to Palani, from Pala to Illikkal Kallu and Ilaveezhapoonchira, and from Changanassery to Munnar and Gavi.

Pilgrimage travel

Alongside trips to popular tourist spots, the people are also opting for journeys to pilgrim destinations.

Popular religious spots such as Guruvayur, Chakkulathukavu, Madurai, and Velankanni are drawing crowds.

With rising demand, the previously suspended Kottayam–Velankanni KSRTC service has been reinstated.

The Velankanni service departs from Changanassery daily and reaches Kottayam by 3 PM before proceeding. The ticket fare to Velankanni is Rs 850.

There has also been a significant rush to Madurai at the start of the vacation season, with services available at 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Additionally, services to Mangalapuram, Tenkasi, and Bengaluru are available from Kottayam.