Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws

Auto-rickshaws are a convenient and quick way to travel around town. In Thiruvananthapuram, figure Rs. 15 for the first 1½ km (1 mile) and Rs. 8 per additional kilometer—other cities will be slightly less. Don't be alarmed if your driver doesn't use the meter—it usually doesn't work (whether because it was intentionally broken or not is difficult to say). Make sure to agree on a fare before you get in, and don't trust a driver for unbiased shopping recommendations.

Auto-rickshaws (fix the price before you get in) are a good way to get around Fort Cochin; cabs are also a good option for longer distances around Kochi. Fares will run about Rs. 350 for an air-conditioned car for 25 km (15½ miles). Ask at any tourist office about the latest legal rates. Taxis hired at your hotel will have a slightly higher rate, but drivers are more likely to speak some English.