The local bus service system is the cheapest way to get around Thiruvananthapuram. There are city buses run by government and private companies. Most of these are very crowded especially during peak hours. Route descriptions on the buses are mainly in Malayalam. Route numbers are displayed, but not very consistently. Pick pocketing is not very uncommon. Women, especially of foreign origin can some times be the subject of verbal harrassment or the occasional groping.

By auto rickshaw :

This is a cheap way of transport between attractions. It is always possible to get an auto rickshaw from a bus stand, railway station or special auto rickshaw stand. Agree on a fare before you start the journey.

By taxi :

Taxis are convenient and cheap especially if you travel in groups. Taxis can be hired not only for short distances, but also for a few days at a stretch. Most of the taxis are Ambassador cars which are more suited for stuffing passengers at the expense of comfort or safety. Some times upto 10 passengers are crammed into these. Most of these cars lack the basic security features like seat belts or airbags. Even if seat belts are installed, most of the locals ignore them.

When you hire the taxi with a driver over a few days, a minimum charge is usually paid which covers the hiring charge for the car, the driver’s fees and a certain distance. If the car covers more than that distance, additional charges are levied according to the extra distance covered as per kilometre. Most of the drivers expect to be paid for their meals during the day. If staying overnight , this will include the hotel charges as well.

By car :

There are many car rental companies offering cars with drivers or “self drive”. Many of them are unreasonably expensive by local standards. Ask someone with the local know how before you rent a car.

By two wheelers :

Scooters and motorcycles are the favoured means of personal transport on the roads. Renting or buying the motorcycle is not for the faint hearted. The mix of fast and slow traffic makes it especially dangerous.

There are companies arranging tours on Enfield Bullet motorcycles out of Thiruvananthapuram . Most of the locals zip around in modern Japanese motorcycles like the Hero Honda, Yamaha or Kawasaki Bajaj.

On foot :

Many places of attractions are nearby others, so you could walk between them.