KSRTC to launch double-decker tourist bus in Kochi: How to book, timings, route

Following the success of the double-decker tourist bus in Munnar, KSRTC is set to introduce another in Kochi. If all goes well, the bus will be flagged off by Minister P Rajeev on July 15 from the Ernakulam KSRTC Bus Stand at 11 am. At the time, the bus is undergoing its last-minute ‘touch-up’ at the garage in Aluva. The KSRTC budget tourism cell coordinators stated that the bus, with a total of 76 seats, will have 38 on the upper deck. Its daily service will be from 5 pm to 8.30 pm in the first leg. If more bookings are received, KSRTC plans to add extra services.

The double-decker starts from the boat jetty bus stand at 5 pm. It touches Marine Drive, High Court, Goshree Bridge, Kalamukku junction, Kacheripadi, MG Road, Thevara, Venduruthy Bridge, Naval Base and Thoppumpady BOT Bridge, before returning to Jetty. Passengers can also enjoy the new park and walkway along the lake's banks. The bus used for this service is an open–top tourist bus that was operated as part of the Thalassery Heritage Tourism Project. The seats and other facilities on the bus have been upgraded. The music system has also been newly installed. KSRTC also plans to launch double-decker buses in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry if this initiative is successful. Malayala Manorama reported that the tickets will cost Rs 300 for the upper deck and Rs 150 for the lower deck. 

It’s been around eight months since the bus was brought to Kochi. However, authorities couldn’t launch it so far as cables, tree branches, and electricity lines posed a hindrance to its service. Now that the obstacles are removed, the bus is ready for service. Tourists should book tickets online via onlineksrtcswift.com .The ticketing is expected to open soon.