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Kochi, Kerala to Madurai, Tamil Nadu from $3: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Kochi, India
to
Madurai, India

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

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$3 by trainBest price
254 kmDistance
4h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kochi to Madurai 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
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation
Bus
Average Duration
9h  33m
Estimated price
$6-11
Recommended
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Average Duration
11h  10m
Estimated price
$3-16
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 254 km
Duration: 4h 7m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$55-70
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Kochi to Madurai

Traveling from Kochi to Madurai offers a fascinating contrast between Kochi's vibrant coastal culture and Madurai's rich historical heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madurai

Madurai features diverse neighborhoods each offering unique experiences for travelers.

Nellaiappar Temple Area
• Home to the stunning Nellaiappar Temple.
• Bustling markets nearby for local crafts.
Anna Nagar
• Known for its lively street food scene.
• Close to major shopping outlets.
Chokkikulam
• Quiet residential area with a local vibe.
• Nearby parks and temples for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Madurai's Attractions

Timing your visits to Madurai's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Meenakshi Amman Temple
Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed exploration of the palace.
Gandhi Museum
Late afternoons provide quiet moments to absorb the museum's exhibits.

Madurai Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madurai experiences a hot tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons; the best times to visit are from October to March, when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel experience, impacting outdoor activities and comfort levels.

Dining Recommendation in Madurai

Try the iconic Jigarthanda at Famous Jigarthanda, a unique cold dessert that contrasts sharply with Kochi's seafood-centric cuisine. This indulgent treat, made with condensed milk and local herbs, showcases Madurai's distinct flavor profile and offers a refreshing experience in a bustling, local setting.

Kochi - Madurai operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0471 - 2463799
Website
http://keralartc.com

Bus from Ernakulam to Mattuthavani Bus Stop

Average Duration
9h 20m
Estimated price
$6-60
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14646
Website
https://www.irctc.co.asia/en/operator/indian-railways

Train from Ernakulam Jn to Madurai Jn

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
$3-16
Taxi
Contact phone
+91 99 47 27 66 20
Website
http://keralatouristtaxi.com

Taxi from Kochi to Madurai

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
$55-70
Contact phone
+91 96 56 07 50 00
Website
http://cochincoastalcabs.com

Taxi from Kochi to Madurai

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
$55-70
Contact phone
+91 98 95 11 88 77
Website
http://bcabs.com

Taxi from Kochi to Madurai

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
$55-70

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

Traveling between Kochi and Madurai 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 road trip from Kochi to Madurai covering a distance of 158 miles, offering scenic views and cultural insights along the way. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $29 to $45 for a comfortable journey by car as you traverse from Kochi to Madurai. ⏱️ Enjoy a leisurely drive of approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Indian countryside before reaching the vibrant city of Madurai.
Average price
$29 - $45
🌉 The journey between Kochi and Madurai by train takes approximately 11 hours and 10 minutes. Indian Railways operates the train services, ensuring a reliable and comfortable travel experience for passengers. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride from Kochi to Madurai range from $3 to $16, offering an affordable way to explore the picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture of South India.
Departure Point
Ernakulam Jn station
Arrival Point
Madurai Jn station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Kochi to Madurai, you'll find that the catering services vary depending on the train operator. The major operators like Indian Railways, Kerala Railways, and Southern Railways typically offer meal options through onboard catering, which can include vegetarian and non-vegetarian selections. Meals are served on most long-distance trains, and you can pre-book them or choose from the options provided by the train's pantry car. Bringing your own snacks is also a good idea, especially if you have dietary preferences.
• The primary train operators on this route include Indian Railways and Keralatourism. Indian Railways offers various seating classes such as Sleeper Class, AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier, and 1st AC. Business Class options may not always be available on all trains. Sleeper Class is the most economical but lacks air conditioning, while AC classes provide more comfort with climate control and bedding. You can check the official Indian Railways website IRCTC for booking and details or the Southern Railways website Southern Railway.
• Upon arrival at Madurai Junction, expect to navigate a busy station. You will find a luggage counter where you can securely store your bags for a small fee if you want to explore the city unencumbered. While restrooms are available, showers may not be accessible. To get to the city center most efficiently, take a local bus from the station. Bus number 6 is a convenient option which will take you straight to the heart of Madurai in about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Kochi to Madurai by bus, a route that takes approximately 9 hours and 33 minutes to traverse. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you travel through the heart of southern India. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options when it comes to booking a bus ticket between Madurai and Kochi, with prices typically ranging from $6 to $11. Compare different bus operators and schedules to find the most convenient and cost-effective option for your travel preferences.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before booking your bus ticket, compare the schedules and prices of different operators such as SRS Travels (srsbooking.com), KPN Travels (kpntravels.com), and VRL Travels (vrltravels.com) to find the best fit for your schedule and budget.
• Bring snacks and water for the journey, as the bus ride takes over 9 hours, and while some buses may offer refreshments, it’s best to be prepared; local snacks like banana chips or murukkus can be a great travel companion.
• Upon arriving at Madurai Bus Stand, be aware that it can be quite busy; use the clearly marked information desk or inquire with local staff to navigate easily, and if you need onward transport, auto-rickshaws are readily available just outside the terminal.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kochi to Madurai.

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The distance between Kochi and Madurai is 127 miles by air. The travel time by flying and then taking a train is approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes. If traveling by car, the distance is 157.9 miles and typically takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes. Taking a bus from Kochi to Madurai usually takes about 7 hours and 1 minute.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Kochi to Madurai is by bus, with fares ranging from $2 to $7. Although it takes around 7 hours and 1 minute to reach Madurai by bus, it is a budget-friendly choice. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which costs between $55 and $70 and takes approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes. Both options provide reliable transportation and allow travelers to reach their destination comfortably.
The prices for a train journey from Kochi to Madurai range from $3 to $16, depending on the class and type of train. Alternatively, a bus ticket from Madurai to Kochi can cost between $2 to $6, depending on the bus company and type of service. Prices can vary based on factors such as the time of travel and the type of ticket purchased, so it is advisable to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Kochi to Madurai without public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is approximately 158 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes to reach Madurai by car. The prices for car rentals on this route vary between $29 to $45. Driving yourself gives you the flexibility to stop and explore places along the way at your own pace.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Kochi to Madurai is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 1 minute and costs around $2-$7. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for traveling between these two cities without a personal vehicle.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Kochi and Madurai. The train services operated by Indian Railways depart from Ernakulam Jn station and arrive at Madurai Jn station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 10 minutes, and there is one train that operates daily. This direct train option provides a convenient and reliable mode of transportation between Kochi and Madurai.
The flight between Kochi and Madurai typically takes around 55 minutes. The quickest route is a direct flight from Kochi Airport to Trivandrum Airport. As for the cost, prices can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but generally, you can expect to pay around $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket. It is advised to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are 129+ hotels available in Madurai. Prices for these hotels start at $11 per night. Some popular hotel options in Madurai include Taj Gateway Pasumalai, The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai, and Fortune Pandiyan Hotel. With such a wide range of accommodations available, travelers can find a hotel that suits their budget and preferences near Madurai.

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