Tirunelveli to Alappuzha by cab
Alappuzha, also called Alleppey, is the gateway to the Kerala backwaters and about 290 km from Tirunelveli. The drive takes six to seven hours along the coastal highway through Trivandrum and Kollam. Most guests come for a houseboat stay, which is why the timing of the drive matters more than usual.
Houseboats have fixed check-in and check-out times, so an early start on the first day makes the difference between a relaxed cruise and a rushed one. We plan the pickup around your booking, and we tell you when to leave.
Route and travel time
The usual route is the coastal highway through Trivandrum and Kollam. The distance is about 290 km, and the drive takes 6 to 7 hours. A round trip is about 580 km.The best time to go is october to March, when the backwaters are calm and the weather is cooler.
What to see in Alappuzha
Houseboat cruise
The classic experience: a day or overnight on a traditional kettuvallam boat through the backwaters.
Alappuzha beach
A long beach with an old pier and a lighthouse, popular for sunset.
Kuttanad
The below-sea-level rice-farming region, seen best from a canoe or boat.
Marari beach
A quieter beach a short drive north of the town.
Suggested plan
- Day 1: Leave early, arrive in time for a midday houseboat check-in, and cruise through the afternoon.
- Day 2: Check out in the morning, see the beach and the town, and stay a second night ashore.
- Day 3: Drive back to Tirunelveli, or continue north to Kochi or Munnar.
Good to know before you go
- Inter-state travel to Kerala needs a permit, which carries extra charges. Toll and parking are extra.
- Houseboat operators set their own check-in times. Tell us the time on your booking.
- Backwater weather is warm and humid. Carry light clothes and insect repellent.
Which car to book
A sedan or an SUV suits most couples and families. Groups can take a Tempo Traveller, though a houseboat has a fixed capacity, so check it first.
Fare guide
Taxi fare for Tirunelveli to Alappuzha
Outstation trips of 300 km and more are charged per kilometre by vehicle, plus driver bata of ₹400 to ₹700. A round trip to Alappuzha is about 580 km. Prices are as of 19 September 2026.
| Vehicle | Suits | Per km | Driver bata | Distance charge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swift Dzire / Etios | Up to 4 guests | ₹13 A/C | ₹400 | ₹7,540 |
| Toyota Innova | Family of 6 to 7 | ₹18 A/C | ₹500 | ₹10,440 |
| Toyota Crysta | Family of 6 to 7, extra comfort | ₹21 A/C | ₹500 | ₹12,180 |
| Tempo Traveller | Groups of 12 and more | ₹24 A/C | ₹600 | ₹13,920 |
The distance charge is the per-km rate multiplied by about 580 km. It leaves out driver bata, toll, parking, permits and night charges, and trips of more than one day add local sightseeing kilometres. We confirm the exact fare before you travel.
See the full cab price list for every vehicle and package.