5 Best Airports in Kerala

As a gateway to one of India’s most captivating states, Kerala’s airports offer travelers an exceptional experience from touchdown to takeoff. Explore all the best places to visit in Kerala with the most convenient mode of travel. Immerse yourself in the warmth of South Indian hospitality as you embark on your adventure from our carefully curated selection of top-notch airports. 

Discover the epitome of efficiency, comfort, and modern amenities as you traverse through Kerala’s skies. Explore all the best places to visit in Kerala with the most convenient travel.

Kerala: An Overview

With its lush greenery, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and mist-covered hill stations, Kerala offers a picturesque landscape that captivates visitors from around the globe. Do not forget to go through the list of Travel Tips To keep in mind while Visiting Kerala.

Kerala’s coastline stretches over 550 miles, dotted with pristine beaches that cater to every taste, whether it’s soaking up the sun on the golden sands of Kovalam or experiencing the laid-back charm of Varkala’s cliff side beaches.

Renowned for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Kerala boasts a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its vibrant festivals, classical art forms, and mouthwatering cuisine.

List of Best Airports in Kerala: International and Domestic

1. Cochin International Airport (COK)

With state-of-the-art facilities, efficient services, and connectivity to major cities worldwide, Cochin International Airport is a crucial hub for tourism and business in the region. Leading at number 1 in the list of best airports in Kerala.

Location: Airport Rd, Kochi, Kerala 683111

Services Available:

• Lost and found counter
• Medical rooms
• Lounges
• Cloakroom and more

ICAO Code: VOCI

IATA Code: COK

Area: 1300 acres

Nearby Hotels: Courtyard By Marriott, Flora Airport Hotels, Sapphire Inn, Lotus 8 and Abad Airport Hotel.

2. Calicut International Airport (CJJ)

It handles both domestic and international flights, connecting Kerala with various destinations in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and beyond. 

Kerala Airports provide essential services and facilities for travelers, contributing significantly to the economic development of the region.

Location: Airport P.O, Airport Rd, Kozhikode, Karipur, Kerala 673647

Services Available:

• Prayer room
• Shops
• Restaurants
• Banking
• Post Office
• Baby care area
• Medical services
• Currency exchange

ICAO Code: CCJ

IATA Code: VOCL

Area: 1300 acres

Nearby Hotels: Hotel Afrad International, Zahir Residency, Pushpak Hotel, Nuhman Tourist Home, Park Residency, Le Moshe Inn and Hotel Select.

3. Kannur International Airport (CNN)

It operates domestic and international flights, catering to the growing demand for air travel in the region. Kannur International Airport is equipped with modern amenities and offers a convenient travel experience for passengers.

Location: Mattannur, Kerala 670702

Services Available:

• Baby care zone
• Medical services
• Prayer halls
• Money exchange service
• ATMs
• Baggage wrapping

ICAO Code: VOKN

IATA Code: CNN

Area: 2330 acres

Nearby Hotels: Kairali Heritage, Central Avenue, Hotel Golf Inn, Green Park Residency and Aroma Resort Mattanur, Hotel Sky Park, Vintage Residency

4. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

It offers domestic and international flights and serves as a vital link for travelers visiting the southern parts of Kerala, as well as neighboring states. 

The airport features modern amenities and convenient transportation options for passengers.

Location: Airport Road, Chacka, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695008

Services Available:

• Duty-free shops
• Child care room
• Three 24X7 lounges at the International terminal at gates 1, 2 and 5
• ATMs and currency exchange
• Smoking zone
• Medical services available at both terminals
• Lost and found

ICAO Code: VOTV

IATA Code: TRV

Area: 700 acres

Nearby Hotels: Akhil Classic, Hotel SPS Kingsway, Greenfield Inn, Hotel Highland, Uday Suites – The Garden Hotel and Fortune Hotel The South Park.

Do not forget to go through the list of hotels in Kerala to decide which stay suits you the best.

Upcoming Airports in Kerala

5. Kottayam International Airport

The airport will be convenient for the inhabitants of Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Pathanamthitta. 

It will be around 150 km from Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin International Airport. It will consist of a 3.5-km long runway to cater for the operation of airplanes of all sizes.

Location: Manimala & Erumely, Kottayam District

ICAO Code: To be declared

IATA Code: To be declared

Major Attractions near these Airports:

Cochin International Airport (COK)

Marine Drive: Marine Drive is a scenic promenade located along the coastline of Kochi, offering stunning views of the backwaters and the city skyline. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely walks, enjoying sunset views, and indulging in street food from local vendors.

Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town: Situated in the Mattancherry neighborhood, the Jewish Synagogue is a significant historical landmark known for its exquisite architecture and antique furnishings. Nearby Jew Town is a bustling market area where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.

Bolgatty Palace and Island: Bolgatty Palace, located on Bolgatty Island, is a former Dutch colonial mansion converted into a heritage hotel. The lush green island offers a tranquil retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle, with opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying scenic views of the backwaters.

Kerala Kathakali Centre: For a cultural experience, visitors can attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre, located in Fort Kochi. Kathakali is a classical dance-drama form that showcases elaborate costumes, makeup, and storytelling through dance.

Calicut International Airport (CJJ)

It offers scenic views of the Arabian Sea and features a long coastline where visitors can relax, take leisurely walks, and enjoy local snacks from beachside stalls.

Kappad Beach: Kappad Beach holds historical significance as the place where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first set foot in India in 1498. 

It’s situated about an hour’s drive from Calicut Airport and is known for its tranquil ambiance, golden sands, and picturesque sunsets. Check out more beaches in Kerala with the help of our guide.

Beypore Beach: Beypore Beach is renowned for its natural beauty, especially its unique wooden shipbuilding yard where traditional Uru (dhow) boats are crafted by skilled artisans.

The beach, located around 45-60 minutes away from the airport, offers opportunities for boat rides, fishing, and exploring the local maritime heritage.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Nature enthusiasts can visit the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, situated approximately an hour’s drive from Calicut Airport. 

This sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with diverse avian species such as migratory birds, waterfowl, and raptors inhabiting its mangrove forests, estuaries, and wetlands.

Thusharagiri Waterfalls: Thusharagiri Waterfalls, located about 2 hours from the airport, is a scenic cascade nestled amidst lush greenery in the Western Ghats. 

It’s a popular trekking destination with multiple waterfalls, natural pools, and picturesque trails that attract adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Kannur International Airport (CNN)

Visitors can drive along the shoreline, enjoy water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing, or simply relax and take in the scenic views.

St. Angelo Fort: St. Angelo Fort, situated in the heart of Kannur city, is a historic Portuguese fort built in the 16th century. 

The fort offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and features well-preserved ramparts, bastions, and a lighthouse.

Payyambalam Beach: Payyambalam Beach, located in Kannur, is a serene and picturesque stretch of coastline known for its golden sands and tranquil ambiance. 

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade, watch the sunset, or indulge in beachside activities like swimming, scuba diving, jet skiing, and beach volleyball.

Arakkal Museum: The Arakkal Museum, housed in the former palace of the Arakkal Ali Rajas, showcases artifacts, memorabilia, and historical documents related to the Arakkal family, who were the only Muslim royal family in Kerala. It offers insights into the region’s maritime history and cultural heritage.

Dharmadam Island: Dharmadam Island, also known as Green Island, is a secluded and serene getaway located near Thalassery, approximately 45-60 minutes from Kannur Airport. 

Accessible via a narrow strip of land during low tide, the island offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms.

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

It comprises three crescent-shaped beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. 

Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and Ayurvedic massages at the beachside resorts.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, situated in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

It is renowned for its architectural grandeur, intricate carvings, and the deity’s idol adorned with gold and precious jewels. 

The temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a marvel of South Indian temple architecture.

Napier Museum: The Napier Museum, located in the Museum Complex in Thiruvananthapuram, is an architectural gem built in the 19th century. 

It houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, archaeological exhibits, and traditional Kerala art and artifacts, including ancient bronze sculptures, ivory carvings, and traditional musical instruments.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: Kuthiramalika Palace, also known as PuthenMalika Palace, is an exquisite example of Kerala architecture located near Padmanabhaswamy Temple. 

The museum showcases a unique collection of royal artifacts, antique furniture, traditional paintings, and sculptures belonging to the Travancore royal family.

Veli Tourist Village: Veli Tourist Village, situated approximately 10-15 minutes from the airport, is a scenic waterfront destination where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. 

The village features a floating bridge, landscaped gardens, a children’s park, and recreational facilities such as markets for shopping in Kerala, boating, pedal boats, and water sports.

Interesting Facts about Kerala:

• Kerala is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its stunning natural beauty, encompassing lush greenery, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and mist-covered hills.
• Kerala boasts one of the highest literacy rates in India, with over 95% of its population being literate. The state places a strong emphasis on education, resulting in a well-educated populace and contributing significantly to its social development.
• Kerala is a hub for Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The state is renowned for its Ayurvedic resorts, spas, and treatment centers, attracting tourists seeking holistic healing and wellness experiences.
• Kerala is famous for its intricate network of backwaters, comprising lakes, canals, and lagoons, which stretch along the coast. Houseboat cruises through the backwaters offer a unique opportunity to experience Kerala’s tranquil rural life and scenic beauty up close.
• Kerala’s cuisine is a delectable fusion of flavors influenced by its diverse cultural heritage and abundance of spices. Signature dishes such as appam with stew, fish curry, and puttu-kadala are celebrated for their distinctive taste and culinary craftsmanship.
• Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which harbor diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and exotic bird species.
• The lush hills of Kerala are adorned with tea and spice plantations, particularly in regions like Munnar and Wayanad. These plantations not only contribute to the state’s economy but also offer picturesque landscapes for visitors to explore.