Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 6 (PTI) In a move to facilitate travel for Sabarimala pilgrims arriving by air, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will introduce direct AC bus services from Thiruvananthapuram and Nedumbassery airports to Pampa during the upcoming pilgrimage season.
State Transport Minister C P John announced the initiative while flagging off wet-lease buses at the KSRTC Central depot here.
The proposed services are part of the corporation's efforts to improve transport facilities for pilgrims during the 2026-27 Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, according to an official statement on Friday.
The plan was finalised following discussions between KSRTC officials and representatives of the two airports.
According to the proposed schedule, buses from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will leave for Pampa at 9.30 pm, while the return service will depart from Pampa to reach the airport at 7 pm.
From Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery, the bus service to Pampa will begin at 8.30 pm. The return service will be scheduled to reach the airport at 7 pm, it said.
Facilities for pilgrims to rest and take a break after arriving on different flights will be arranged at both airports.
KSRTC will facilitate advance ticket bookings through its website and flight booking portals. Pilgrims will also be able to book chartered buses for groups.
Links to the KSRTC booking portal will be incorporated into flight ticket booking websites, making it easier for passengers to plan their onward journey.
In another arrangement, real-time flight schedules from both airports will be displayed at the Pampa bus station to facilitate coordination.
The initiative is expected to provide a convenient travel option for pilgrims flying into Kerala, eliminating the need to make separate transport arrangements to reach Pampa, the KSRTC officials added.
The 41-day annual Mandalam pilgrimage season begins on November 17.
(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)