How long is the drive from Cochin or Kochi to Kovalam Beach by road? This is the first question you have been wondering about. The travel distance and time between these two towns of Kerala is supposed to be 213 kilometers/6 hours (approx.). Tourists or locals within Kerala have two to three options to traverse this distance, including road, air, train, and backwater cruise. From a traveler’s point of view, a scenic road trip from Cochin to Kovalam is the most invigorating way to reach the Blue Flag Certified Kovalam Beach.
We are assuming that you want to know how to reach Kovalam Beach via Cochin or Kochi. Accordingly, we will let you know a few pointers about the same, from where to stop in between to the road options you must take along with National Highways. Let’s dive in! But first;
Why You Must Take Cochin to Kovalam Beach Road Trip?
One must take a road trip from Kochi to Kovalam Beach as it is one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Kerala. The same activity is rewarding for far-flung tourists who want to explore Kerala’s beauty on a road trip.
What Are the Various Available Routes to Reach Kovalam from Kochi?
If you choose to cover the entire road stretch between Kochi to Kovalam in a single day, you can; within 6-7 hours (approx). Accordingly, there are three routes to take; via MC Road, via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari Highway & NH 66, NH 183, via Panvel – Kochi – Kanyakumari – Highway & MC Road. The fastest route is MC Road. However, check the traffic movement on Google Maps before selecting any of the routes.
What Are the Towns That Will Come in Between Road Kochi to Kovalam?
During your entire road journey that will start from Kochi, you will travel via 4 impressive towns of Kerala – Kovalam-Alleppey-Varkala-Trivandrum-Kovalam.
How Long Should I Stay in the In-Between Towns of Kochi to Kovalam?
At Least spend a minimum of a full day at each of the towns between Kochi to Kovalam Beach.
Important Note: Also, note that Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the capital of Kerala and Kovalam is a region within the capital of Kerala. Once you reach Trivandrum, it hardly takes a half hour to reach Kovalam Beach.
Know About the Distance of Every Destination from Each Other
First Stop Would Be Alleppey | Via Panvel-Kochi-Kanyakumari Highway
Your trip will start from Kochi/Cochin, and your first town will be Alleppey (Alappuzha district). The travel distance between Kochi to Alleppey is roughly 53 kilometers/1 hour 30 minutes (approx.). Once you arrive at Alleppey, it is suggested to spend a night here.
Must-Have Experiences in Alleppey in One Day Trip | Places to Visit in Alleppey
- Enjoy the backwater kayaking followed by an overnight stay at the traditional houseboat
- Visit 13th-century Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple.
- Witness sunset at the Alappuzha Beach
Second Stop Would Be Varkala | Via Panvel-Kochi-Kanyakumari Highway or NH 183
On your second day, kickstart the day early and arrive at Varkala from Alleppey within 3 hours/107 kilometers (approx.). Again, it is your choice how long you would stay here, but we suggest spending a full day in Varkala.
Must-Have Experience in Varkala in One Day Trip | Places to Visit in Varkala
- Enjoy paragliding over the Varkala Cliff adjacent to the Varkala Beach
- Sip mocktails during sunset hours at the cliff cafes
- Visit Varkala Aquarium
Third Stop Would Be Trivandrum | Via Chilakkoor – Vallakkadavu Rd or NH 66
Irrespective of the routes you select to reach Trivandrum, the capital town, the travel distance and time would be roughly within 2 hours/43 kilometers (approx.). There is no need to stay here overnight. Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is your entry point to reach Kovalam. Make a few minutes of food halt and then gear up towards your final destination – Kovalam Beach.
Fourth Stop Would Be Kovalam | Via Kazhakuttom – Kovalam Bypass Road
So your final destination would be India’s First Tourist Enclave – Kovalam! Within 45 minutes, by covering 20 kilometers (approx.), you will reach the internationally certified Blue Flag tag Kovalam Beach. The beach is famous for its low tides, shallow waters, chic cafes, and the strong influence of Western tourists.
Must-Have Experience in and Around Kovalam Beach| Places to Visit in Kovalam
- Nosh on Ayurvedic meals or seafood at German Bakery
- Recharge at the beachside Ayurvedic spa center to break the road trip stress
- Witness migratory birds at Vellayani Lake
When are you planning your Kerala tour to embark on the scenic road trip from Cochin to Kovalam Beach?
Frequently Asked Questions About A Scenic Road Trip from Cochin to Kovalam Beach
Q. What is the distance between Cochin to Kovalam Beach?
Ans: It takes around 6-7 hours (approx.), and the travel distance is supposed to be 213 kilometers (approx.) between Cochin to Kovalam Beach by road. However, time hovers due to the number of halts a person takes.
Q. How many attractions come in between the route to Kovalam Beach and Cochin?
Ans: When you embark on a road trip to Kovalam town/beach from Cochin, 4 attractions come in between; Kovalam-Alleppey-Varkala-Trivandrum-Kovalam. Each of these destinations is worthy of taking a halt at least for one day!
Q. When is the best time for a scenic road trip from Cochin to Kovalam Beach?
Ans: Winter duration between November to March is a good time to take a scenic road trip from Cochin to Kovalam Beach. Otherwise, many people plan their visit even in monsoon and summers but with careful planning! During winters, temperature and climatic conditions are great for hopping and enjoying the road journey.