Tirunelveli to Kollam by cab
Kollam, on the Kerala coast at the edge of Ashtamudi Lake, can be reached from Tirunelveli by two very different roads. One climbs from Tenkasi over the Aryankavu ghat through forest and small towns to Punalur. The other follows the coastal highway through Nagercoil and Trivandrum. The distance is about 170 to 220 km depending on which you take, and the drive takes four to five hours.
The forest road is the more scenic and passes waterfalls and an eco-tourism area, while the coastal road is faster on some days. We suggest a route based on the season and the time you need to be there.
Route and travel time
The usual route is either the Tenkasi and Punalur ghat road or the coastal highway through Trivandrum. The distance is about 170 to 220 km, depending on the route, and the drive takes 4 to 5 hours. A round trip is about 390 km.The best time to go is october to March.
What to see in Kollam
Ashtamudi Lake
The large lake at the heart of Kollam, with backwater boat rides.
Thangassery lighthouse and beach
An old Portuguese-era settlement on the coast, with a lighthouse you can climb.
Palaruvi Falls and Thenmala
A waterfall and an eco-tourism area on the Tenkasi road, worth a stop if you take the ghat route.
Jatayu Earth’s Center
A hilltop rock sculpture and adventure park at Chadayamangalam.
Route choices
- Scenic route: Tenkasi, the Aryankavu ghat, Thenmala and Punalur, with time for a waterfall stop.
- Faster route: the coastal highway through Nagercoil and Trivandrum.
- Trip length: a same-day return is possible but long, so many guests stay a night.
Good to know before you go
- Inter-state travel to Kerala needs a permit, which carries extra charges. Toll and parking are extra.
- The ghat road has sharp bends and can be slow in heavy rain.
- Weekends and holiday periods raise traffic on both routes.
Which car to book
A sedan works for a couple. Families take an SUV for more room on the ghat road, and groups a Tempo Traveller.
Fare guide
Taxi fare for Tirunelveli to Kollam
Outstation trips of 300 km and more are charged per kilometre by vehicle, plus driver bata of ₹400 to ₹700. A round trip to Kollam is about 390 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 | ₹5,070 |
| Toyota Innova | Family of 6 to 7 | ₹18 A/C | ₹500 | ₹7,020 |
| Toyota Crysta | Family of 6 to 7, extra comfort | ₹21 A/C | ₹500 | ₹8,190 |
| Tempo Traveller | Groups of 12 and more | ₹24 A/C | ₹600 | ₹9,360 |
The distance charge is the per-km rate multiplied by about 390 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.