By Air
Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is 14 km north of Kovalam and receives direct flights from several Indian cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Kochi) and international connections from the Gulf states, Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. It is the most convenient airport for Kovalam. A pre-paid taxi from the airport to Kovalam costs around ₹400–500 and takes 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
By Train
Thiruvananthapuram Central (Trivandrum Central) railway station is 16 km from Kovalam and connects to all major Indian cities. The Kerala Express runs daily to Delhi; Rajdhani and Duronto express trains connect to Mumbai. From the station, take a local bus (routes 114A or 114E from the KSRTC bus stand adjacent to the station) directly to Kovalam, or an autorickshaw for around ₹350–400.
By Bus
KSRTC buses run from Thiruvananthapuram East Fort bus stand to Kovalam every 20–30 minutes during the day. The fare is minimal and the journey takes around 45 minutes. Private buses and tourist coaches also operate from various points in Thiruvananthapuram.
By Road
Kovalam is 16 km south of Thiruvananthapuram on the NH66 (old NH47). Autorickshaws from the city centre cost ₹350–400. Taxis and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber operate in Thiruvananthapuram) will take you to Kovalam but may not be available for the return journey — have a phone number for a local taxi.