Thiruvananthapuram: With a slew of enticing tour packages, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has captured the hearts of travel enthusiasts lately. Their budget trips to popular tourist destinations in the state such as Munnar, Athirappilly, Nelliyampathy, Vagamon, Parunthumpara, and Malakkappara have become massive hits. The latest in its special projects is a city tour of Thiruvananthapuram – the state capital which is steeped in history, culture and royal traditions – on an open double-decker bus. The special service which is being conducted as part of the KSRTC's Budget Tour programme has become a fan favourite in no time after its launch.
According to KSRTC authorities, on the inaugural day, free trips were offered for the ‘City Ride’ and during the following four days, the public carrier earned a decent collection of Rs 27,000. Among the travellers were a number of tourists from North India. With the service gaining publicity, bookings are getting quickly filled during the holidays.
Open double-decker
The open double-decker bus ride that provides the perfect platform to enjoy the scenic beauty of Thiruvananthapuram is part of KSRTC budget tours, which were well-received by travellers in a short span of time. The open roof double-decker bus service, which is popular in foreign countries and other metro cities, is a first in Kerala.
The bus ride will provide a unique experience to the travellers and the service is available during daytime and night. Apart from enjoying the charming beauty of Thiruvananthapuram, the bus ride will give travellers an opportunity to visit must-see places in the capital city.
Tour details
The bus seats had been rearranged in such a way that the travellers can get the best view of the evening and night vistas of the city. There are 28 seats on the lower deck and 39 on the roof. Two trips are conducted.
While the ‘day city ride’ starts at 9 am and winds up by 4 pm, the ‘night ride’ begins at 5 pm and lasts till 10 pm. The fare for both rides is Rs 250 per person, while both rides could be booked together for Rs 350. Travellers will be served a welcome drink and snacks.
The day ride sets off from East Fort at 9 am and covers Museum, Zoo, Planetarium, Vellayambalam, Statue, Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple and Kuthira Malika, with a one-hour lunch break. The night bus service will cover Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Secretariat, Kerala Assembly building, Museum, Kanakakunnu Palace, Vellayambalam, Kovalam and Lulu Mall.
How to book
At present, only phone booking is available for the city ride. Travellers have to book seats by providing their names, mobile number, date of journey and number of seats by WhatsApp to 9447479789, 8129562972.
