A New Look: Refurbished Buses on the Move
· The kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) BTC has rolled out 150 buses in a refreshed yellow-and-green livery, signaling a new phase of its budget tourism push.
· These are not just any buses: many are Super Fast buses under 10 years old, refurbished with modern passenger comforts.
· Upgrades include mobile charging points, headrest-equipped seats, and music systems — making long trips more comfortable and convenient.
· The refurbishment work is being done in major KSRTC workshops (Thiruvananthapuram, Aluva, Kozhikode, Mavelikkara, Edappal) so that more depots can get these enhanced buses soon.
A Massive Tour Menu: 1,600 Packages to Choose From
· BTC now offers 1,600 tourist packages across kerala and beyond.
· Destinations include hill stations and pilgrimage spots: trips to Tamil Nadu (Thanjavur, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Chennai, Kumbakonam, Palani), already in initial phases.
· Within kerala, popular routes include Gavi (Pathanamthitta) — 3 daily services from various depots.
· Other favored kerala destinations: Munnar, Ponmudi, Nelliyampathy, and several offbeat routes.
Pilgrimage Focus: Supporting Holy Travel
· KSRTC is placing special emphasis on pilgrim packages.
· A dedicated sabarimala package has been launched, with buses from Kottayam, Chengannur, and ernakulam to Pampa.
· For these pilgrim trips, KSRTC is organizing cloakrooms, bathing facilities, and even a coordinator at Sannidhanam (Sabarimala) to enhance convenience.
Ambitious Expansion: Beyond Kerala
· BTC is now spreading outside Kerala: plans are underway for inter-state services to tamil Nadu and possibly other states.
· They’ve secured permits for several tamil Nadu destinations (e.g., Ooty, Madurai, Rameswaram), enabling KSRTC to run cross-state tour packages.
· Besides, there’s a push to tie-up with other travel agencies and to build affordable stay options (homestays, dormitories) to make budget tourism more holistic.
Unique Experiences: The Kuttanad Safari
· One of the standout offerings: Kuttanad Safari, a backwater journey inspired by desert safaris.
· The trip includes a boat ride from Alappuzha, cultural performances, local cuisine, coir-spinning demos, and handicraft showcases.
· A bamboo-and-grass amphitheater is also being set up on Pathiramanal Island to host traditional folk art performances — a major cultural highlight.
Financial & Operational Success
· Since its formal launch (BTC was operationalized in november 2021), the tourism cell has grown massively: it now runs from 80 of KSRTC’s 93 depots.
· BTC is bringing in considerable revenue: according to reports, it has generated ₹64.98 crore since 2021 by servicing 3.5 lakh tourists.
· Its success is helping KSRTC diversify revenue — not just through regular transport but also tourism-based business.
Why This Matters for Travelers
· Affordability + Comfort: You get a renovated, comfortable bus experience without paying premium tour operator rates.
· Flexibility and Variety: With 1,600 packages, there's something for every kind of traveler — pilgrim, nature lover, family, solo.
· Authentic kerala Experience: Tours like the Kuttanad Safari give you a deeper feel of Kerala’s cultural and natural heritage.
· Convenient Pilgrim Routes: If you're heading to sabarimala or other temples, KSRTC’s packages make pilgrimage travel simpler and more organized.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Booking
· Book early for popular routes, especially during pilgrim season or high-tourist months.
· Check if your depot has the newly refurbished BTC buses — not all depots may have received them in the first phase.
· For overnight or multi-day trips, check accommodation options (homestays, dorms) offered under BTC tie-ups.
· Confirm route permits for inter-state trips (especially for new tamil Nadu or karnataka tours) when booking.
Bottom Line: KSRTC’s Budget Tourism Cell is making kerala travel more accessible and enjoyable. With refurbished buses, a host of tour packages, and new experiential trips like the backwater safari — it's a big win for budget travelers who want quality exploration.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel