Imagine cruising along Kochi’s scenic coastline, the sea breeze in your hair, the golden glow of the evening sun on your face, and the city’s vibrant skyline stretching out around you — all from the top of a classic open-roof double-decker bus. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it?
Kochi’s Double-Decker DelightThe Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has turned this dream into reality with its brand-new double-decker city tour in Kochi. This isn’t just a ride — it’s an experience that blends nostalgia, fun, and sightseeing into a three-hour urban adventure. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a tourist wanting a slice of Kochi’s charm, this ride is one you shouldn’t miss.
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A City Tour Like Never Before
Launched recently by KSRTC, the double-decker open-top bus ride starts every evening at 5:00 PM from the Ernakulam KSRTC bus stand and returns by around 8:00 PM. The journey lasts for approximately three hours and takes passengers on a visual treat through the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic coastal stretches.
The carefully planned route covers:
- Thevara
- Thoppumpady
- CoPT Avenue Walkway (30-minute stop)
- Marine Drive
- Goshree Bridges
- Kalamukku Junction
- And back to the starting point at the KSRTC stand
This tour offers the perfect blend of nature, heritage, and urban vibe, all from the comfort of a moving rooftop.
Meet the Conductor-Turned-Entertainer
What truly sets this journey apart is not just the view, but the vibe. The man responsible for this? Shalimar K. Thomas — a conductor by role, but a guide, historian, and singer by spirit.
As the bus meanders through the city, Thomas doesn’t just check tickets. He narrates fascinating stories about landmarks such as the Cochin Shipyard, which played a vital role in building India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. He also brings alive the history of Thoppumpady’s Harbour Bridge, comparing it to the famed drawbridges of London.
And when the sun begins to dip and the city lights start twinkling, Thomas shifts gears — quite literally — by leading sing-alongs, encouraging passengers to grab the mic and join in. One moment you’re listening to history, the next you’re clapping along to a lively tune with strangers who feel more like friends. It’s the kind of warmth and spontaneity that transforms a trip into a memory.
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Joy for All Ages
From school kids on field trips to elderly couples reliving memories of old tram rides in Mumbai, the tour has struck a chord with every kind of traveler. Many passengers find themselves reminiscing about the days of double-decker buses in Indian cities — a rare sight now — and appreciate this refreshing revival in Kochi.
What surprises most first-timers is how soothing and immersive the ride feels. The top deck offers uninterrupted views of the backwaters, colonial-era buildings, bridges, and buzzing city life. One banker, who joined the ride after work, described it as the “perfect way to unwind after a hectic day.”
However, not everything is smooth sailing. Some passengers raised concerns about safety, especially low-hanging branches brushing the open deck. While KSRTC gives a clear safety briefing at the beginning, there is room for route refinement to enhance the overall experience.
Ticket Details: Affordable Fun for Everyone
The tour has been priced to be accessible. Tickets are available at:
- ₹300 for the upper deck (open-top)
- ₹150 for the lower deck
The bus can accommodate 63 passengers — 39 on the upper deck and 24 below. Booking is simple. You can reserve your seat online via the KSRTC official site (just look for the "Kochi City Ride" option), or directly at the KSRTC Ernakulam depot.
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What You’ll See
The sights along the journey are nothing short of postcard-perfect. Highlights include:
CoPT Avenue Walkway
Here, the bus halts for 30 minutes, giving passengers a chance to soak in the tranquil views of the lake, dotted with small fishing boats and bordered by palm trees.
Marine Drive
No Kochi tour is complete without a visit to Marine Drive, where the waters of the Arabian Sea and city lights blend into a serene symphony. The breezy ride down APJ Abdul Kalam Marg lets you view the iconic Rainbow Bridge and the Chinese Fishing Nets bridge — major visual treats.
Goshree Bridges
As the bus glides over these bridges, the views of the water on both sides are truly breathtaking, especially as the sky changes colors at sunset.
Why This Ride Is a Must-Do
If you’re in Kochi — whether for a weekend or a lifetime — here’s why this double-decker tour is worth your time:
- Unique perspective: It’s not every day you get to see Kochi from a breezy open-top seat.
- Budget-friendly: Great experience for under ₹300 — a steal for three hours of scenic fun.
- Family-friendly: Safe, supervised, and suitable for all age groups.
- Cultural immersion: Learn real stories about the city’s past and present — not from a textbook, but from a local voice.
- Evening charm: The timing is perfect — neither too hot nor too dark — making it ideal for photography, relaxation, and sightseeing.
What’s Next?
KSRTC is reportedly considering adding more routes or even night tours. There are plans to possibly expand the journey to include areas like Fort Kochi and Vypin, giving the tour a more heritage-based twist. With such positive public response, these ideas may soon become reality.
Final Thoughts
In a world increasingly obsessed with speed and destination, Kochi’s double-decker bus tour is a refreshing reminder to enjoy the journey. It’s not just a ride — it’s an experience that lets you reconnect with the city, with fellow travelers, and perhaps even with yourself.
Whether you’re watching the sun dip into the backwaters or humming along to an impromptu melody, one thing is for sure: you’ll step off this bus with more than just photos. You’ll carry memories — woven from the breeze, the songs, the laughter, and the magic of Kochi.
Ready to hop on?
Book your seat now via KSRTC’s website or head to the Ernakulam bus stand. Seats fill fast — especially on weekends
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