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Chennai, Tamil Nadu to Kochi, Kerala from $4: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chennai, India
to
Kochi, India

How to Get from Chennai to Kochi: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$4 by trainBest price
563 kmDistance
3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chennai to Kochi with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$47-136
Recommended
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Average Duration
11h  50m
Estimated price
$4-20
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 563 km
Duration: 3h 14m

See more options

Company
Parveen Travels
Bus
Average Duration
11h  8m
Estimated price
$15-22
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  49m
Estimated price
$80-120
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chennai to Kochi

The journey from Chennai to Kochi offers a fascinating shift from the bustling urban energy of Chennai to the serene backwaters and lush landscapes of Kochi.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kochi

Kochi's neighborhoods blend history with vibrant local culture, offering diverse experiences.

Fort Kochi
• Charming colonial architecture from the Dutch and Portuguese eras.
• Stunning coastal views and vibrant art scene.
Mattancherry
• Known for the historic Jew Town and synagogues.
• Famous for spice markets and antique shops.
Ernakulam
• Modern hub with shopping malls and restaurants.
• Excellent transport links to other parts of Kochi.

Best Times To Visit Kochi's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Kochi's top sights.

Fort Kochi
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Chinese Fishing Nets
Visit at sunset for stunning views and a quieter atmosphere.
Mattancherry Palace
Weekdays, especially in the morning, offer a more peaceful exploration.

Kochi Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kochi experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and significant humidity throughout the year, although the monsoon season from June to August can bring heavy rain. The best times to visit are from October to March, when the weather is more pleasant and conducive for exploring the city.

Dining Recommendation in Kochi

Try the local specialty, fish moilee, at the seaside restaurant, Fort Kochi, where the creamy coconut curry showcases the region's fresh seafood and vibrant spices. This dining experience contrasts with Chennai's spicier fare, offering a laid-back atmosphere and an emphasis on the delicate flavors of coastal cuisine.

Chennai - Kochi operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chennai and Kochi, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14646
Website
https://www.irctc.co.asia/en/operator/indian-railways

Train from Chennai Central to Ernakulam Jn

Average Duration
11h 50m
Estimated price
$4-20
Bus Show bus routes
Website
parveentravels.com

Bus from Koyembedu New Bus Terminus to Kalamessary

Average Duration
10h 48m
Estimated price
$15-22
Plane Show flights
Website
goindigo.in

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Kochi (COK)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$40-472
Website
spicejet.com

Plane from Madras (MAA) to Kochi (COK)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$473-474

Chennai to Kochi: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chennai and Kochi offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Chennai to Kochi, covering a distance of 439 miles by car. Experience the diverse landscapes of South India along the way, from bustling urban centers to tranquil coastal roads. 💰 Indulge in the freedom of the open road with prices ranging from $80 to $120 for a road trip adventure from Chennai to Kochi. Enjoy the flexibility to stop at charming roadside cafes and capture stunning views en route to your destination. 🌴 Arrive in Kochi after approximately 9 hours and 49 minutes of driving, ready to explore its historic Fort Kochi, vibrant markets, and serene backwaters. The road trip promises a memorable blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty in this enchanting coastal city.
Average price
$80 - $120
🚂 Traveling from Chennai to Kochi by train is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train departs from Chennai Central and arrives at Ernakulam Jn, with services operating three times a day, taking approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. 🌴 There are multiple route options for this trip, with trains typically passing through different cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Coimbatore, Alappuzha, and Mangaluru along the way. Each route offers a unique travel experience and varying durations ranging from 10 hours 50 minutes to 12 hours 15 minutes, providing flexibility for travelers.
Departure Point
Chennai Central station
Arrival Point
Ernakulam Jn station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on trains from Chennai to Kochi typically include catering options such as vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Many trains offer meals as part of the ticket price, especially in sleeper and AC coaches. You can pre-book your meals online through the Indian Railways Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website to ensure you have your preferred choices.
• The primary train operators for the Chennai to Kochi route include Indian Railways (IRCTC), which offers various seating options. For more comfort, you can opt for First Class AC, which provides a private cabin experience, or AC Sleeper, which is great for overnight journeys. If you prefer to stay on a budget, Economy Class is available with basic seating. Check the specific train service for available classes as options may vary by train. Visit IRCTC's official website at irctc.co.in for more details.
• Upon arriving at Kochi's Ernakulam Junction, you can leave your luggage at the station's cloakroom service for a nominal fee, which allows you to explore the city unencumbered. The station provides clean restrooms and basic facilities, but showers are not available. To get to the city center swiftly, hop on a city bus from outside the station; Bus number 40 or 41 will take you directly to Fort Kochi. Alternatively, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for a more comfortable ride.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Chennai to Kochi by taking a direct flight, which only takes 1 hour and 5 minutes with airlines like Spicejet and IndiGo. ✈️ Flying to Kochi from Chennai provides you with a comfortable travel time of 3 hours and 14 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination in a relatively short period. 💸 With flight ticket prices ranging from $47 to $136 for the Chennai-Kochi route, you can find an option that suits your budget and enjoy a seamless trip between these vibrant Indian cities.
Departure Point
Madras Airport
Arrival Point
Kochi Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either SpiceJet or IndiGo for the best rates and schedules; their websites are spicejet.com and goindigo.in respectively.
• Upon arrival at Kochi Airport, be prepared for a streamlined immigration and baggage claim process; follow the signs to the baggage carousel relevant to your flight and take note of the displayed flight information, as it can change frequently.
• Expect to pay approximately ₹800-₹1,200 for a taxi ride from Kochi Airport to the city center; consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola to get a fare estimate before you travel.
🚌 The journey from Chennai to Kochi by bus takes approximately 11 hours and 8 minutes, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers. With prices ranging from $15 to $22, passengers can choose from various bus services along this route.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Keep your identification and booking confirmation handy, as you may need to show them when boarding, especially since many buses on this route provide seat numbers and require previous passenger verification.
• Upon arrival at Ernakulam (Kochi) bus terminal, familiarize yourself with the layout using this map: (https://maps.keralabuses.com/bus-stand-eranakulam), where you'll find directions to public transport options, like auto-rickshaws and buses into the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chennai to Kochi.

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The distance between Chennai and Kochi is approximately 350 miles by air and 438 miles by road. By plane, it takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes to travel between the two cities. If opting for a train, the journey takes about 11 hours and 50 minutes. By car, it takes roughly 9 hours and 48 minutes, while a bus journey takes around 11 hours and 8 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chennai to Kochi is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $4 to $20. Although it takes longer, around 11 hours and 50 minutes, it offers a more budget-friendly option. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 24 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $45 to $160.
When traveling from Chennai to Kochi the prices for a train ticket range from $4 to $20. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket range from $15 to $22. These prices may vary depending on factors such as class of travel or type of bus service. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Chennai to Kochi without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is 438 miles, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 48 minutes to drive. The prices for a car rental to travel from Chennai to Kochi range from $80 to $120, depending on the type of car and rental agreement. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore the landscapes and towns along the way.
To travel from Chennai to Kochi without a car, the best options are to take a bus or a flight. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $15 and $23. On the other hand, the flight takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes and the ticket prices range from $45 to $160. Additionally, there is also the option of taking a train, which takes approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes and costs between $4 and $20.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chennai and Kochi. The train departs from Chennai Central and arrives at Ernakulam Jn. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. The train services operate three times a day, every day, and are operated by Indian Railways.
The flight from Chennai to Kochi typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the airline and any layovers involved. The cost of a flight between Kochi and Chennai ranges from $48 to $156, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel. It is recommended to check with different airlines to find the best available fare for your travel dates.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options available in Kochi. With over 795 hotels to choose from, travelers have plenty of choices. Prices start at $2 per night, making it possible to find budget-friendly options for those on a tight budget. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something to suit every traveler's preferences in Kochi.

Trips from Chennai