If you’ve got a layover in Trivandrum, don’t let it go to waste sitting at TRV. The city, in India, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by Local Bus / Auto-rickshaw. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Trivandrum, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for India vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Trivandrum is roughly 50 minutes from TRV via Local Bus / Auto-rickshaw. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Trivandrum International Airport into town:
- Local Bus / Auto-rickshaw: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to See and Do in Trivandrum
Two recommendations for your time in Trivandrum:
Start with Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside. Then, if time allows, make your way to Kovalam Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
If you’d rather stay inside TRV — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Executive Lounge, TRV
- TRV Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops
Where to Eat
- In the city: Villa Maya and Thakkaram Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Trivandrum.
- At the airport: TRV Airport Food Court and Malabar Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Trivandrum might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at TRV
You can store your luggage at Left Luggage Counters are located in the Arrival Hall of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Trivandrum as well.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TRV, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Trivandrum itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at TRV include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in India also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Trivandrum doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from TRV, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.