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How to get: by plane |
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Cochin International Airport (COK)
- Location: Near Kochi (Cochin), central Kerala
- Distance to venue: 34kms / 1h (car)
- International flights: Direct connections to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe
- Domestic flights: Frequent flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai
Mre info
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Tips for Air Travel
- We recommend choosing Cochin International Airport (COK) if it's closest to the conference venue.
- Prepaid taxis, ride-sharing apps (like Uber/Ola), and airport shuttle services are available at all airports.
- Ensure you check visa requirements in advance. Most international travelers will need to apply for an Indian e-Visa.
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| How to get: by train |
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Kerala is well connected by an extensive railway network that links it with all major cities across India. Traveling by train is a scenic and economical way to reach the state. |
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Major Railway Stations in Kerala
Depending on the location of the conference venue, here are some of the main railway stations you might arrive at:
- Ernakulam Junction (ERS) – Located in Kochi; one of the busiest stations in Kerala
- Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) – In the state capital, Trivandrum; well connected to the rest of India
- Kozhikode (CLT) – For those coming from the northern part of Kerala
- Kottayam, Alappuzha, Kollam, and other local stations – Useful if the venue is located in those regions
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Train Connections
- Kerala has daily trains to/from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
- Both superfast trains (like Rajdhani, Duronto, and Shatabdi Express) and regular express trains are available.
- Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
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Booking Tickets
- Tickets can be booked through the official Indian Railways portal: https://www.irctc.co.in
- Foreign tourists can also book through the IRCTC Tourism website or apps that support international cards
- Sleeper and AC classes are available for long-distance journeys
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Getting from the Station to the Venue
- Most stations offer taxis, autorickshaws, and app-based rides (Uber/Ola) for local transport
- Some hotels also offer pickup services upon request
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| How to get: by boat |
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Barcelona has become the Mediterranean's foremost cruise ship harbour. It has nine passenger terminals, seven for cruise liners and four for ferries. It has connections with the Balearic Islands and the main Mediterranean harbours. More Info |
| How to get: by bus |
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Kerala has a well-developed road network and is accessible by long-distance and regional bus services. Traveling by bus is an affordable and flexible option to reach your destination within the state. |
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Intercity and Interstate Buses
- Kerala is connected to neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh via a large fleet of government-run and private buses.
- Major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Coimbatore offer overnight deluxe and Volvo AC buses to various destinations in Kerala.
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Government Bus Operators
- KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation): Operates regular, express, and luxury services across the state. Website: www.keralartc.com
- KSRTC (Karnataka) and SETC (Tamil Nadu) also offer cross-border services to Kerala.
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Booking Bus Tickets
Tickets can be booked online through platforms such as:
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Local Transportation
- Once you arrive at the bus station nearest to the venue, local transport options such as taxis, autorickshaws, and ride-sharing apps (Uber/Ola) are widely available.
- For shorter distances, frequent local buses connect nearby towns and cities.
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| How to get: by road |
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Kerala is well connected by a network of national and state highways, making travel by road a convenient option whether you're coming from within the state or from neighboring regions. |
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Driving to Kerala
- Kerala shares its borders with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and is accessible by well-maintained highways.
- Popular road routes include:
- Bangalore → Kochi (approx. 550 km / 10–11 hours) via NH 44 and NH 544
- Chennai → Thiruvananthapuram (approx. 770 km / 12–13 hours) via NH 32 and NH 66
- Coimbatore → Kochi (approx. 190 km / 4–5 hours) via NH 544
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Car Rentals & Taxis
- You can rent a car for self-driving or hire a taxi with a driver from most major cities in South India.
- Ride-sharing and taxi apps like Uber and Ola are available in major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut.
- Local taxi operators also offer intercity drop-off and round-trip packages.
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Road Conditions
- Most major highways are in good condition, but travel times can vary due to traffic or weather, especially during the monsoon season.
- Driving through Kerala offers scenic views of lush landscapes, backwaters, and hill stations, making it a pleasant journey for those who enjoy road trips.
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Parking & Venue Access
- Please check with your accommodation or the conference organizers for parking availability at or near the venue.
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| How to get around in metro/tram |
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Kochi Metro is a modern, clean, and efficient way to travel around the city. It connects key areas and offers a fast alternative to road transport, especially during peak hours. |
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Kochi Metro Highlights
- Operates daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Air-conditioned coaches with clean stations and escalators
- Trains run approximately every 8–10 minutes
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Key Stations (Near Venue)
- The closest station to Le Méridien Kochi is Vyttila (around 10 minutes by car or autorickshaw)
- Vyttila is a major mobility hub, connecting metro, bus, and water transport
- Other important stations: M.G. Road, Lissie, Aluva (for airport connection)
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Tickets & Smart Cards
- Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or ticket counters at stations
- You can also use Kochi1 smart card, available at stations and online
- Fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on distance
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Accessibility
- All metro stations are wheelchair accessible and have security screening, lifts, and CCTV surveillance
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| How to get around in bus |
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Kochi has a large network of local and regional buses that provide affordable transportation across the city and nearby areas. Buses are a good option for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore like a local. |
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City Bus Services
- Operated by KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and private operators
- Buses connect most parts of Kochi, including Ernakulam, Fort Kochi, Vyttila, MG Road, and other key locations
- Most buses are non-air-conditioned, but some AC low-floor buses are available on major routes
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Bus Fares & Tickets
- Fares are very affordable, usually ranging from ₹10 to ₹30 for short trips
- Tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor (cash only)
- No advance booking is needed for local city buses
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Main Bus Hubs
- Vyttila Mobility Hub – Major terminal connecting city buses, long-distance buses, metro, and water transport
- KSRTC Bus Station, Ernakulam – For intercity and regional travel
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Tips for Travelers
- Bus destinations are usually displayed in Malayalam, but conductors are generally helpful if you ask for assistance
- Buses can get crowded during peak hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM)
- Google Maps and local apps like Where Is My Bus (WIMB) can help track buses in real time
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