The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has introduced its first flight-based tour package to Lakshadweep, offering a four-day, three-night itinerary to the islands of Agatti and Kalpitti. The budget tourism cell of KSRTC described the package as an affordable option for travellers, bundling entry permits, transfers and a range of water-based activities.
What's included and the price
The package is being marketed at approximately ₹30,000 per person, although KSRTC has warned that the final cost may vary with fluctuations in airfare. According to the announcement, the cost covers:
- Lakshadweep entry permits
- Airport transfers (Kochi–Agatti–Kochi)
- Twin-sharing accommodation for the duration of the stay
- Meals, onboard Wi‑Fi and travel insurance
Travellers who prefer vegetarian meals are asked to notify organisers at the time of booking. Adventure activities such as scuba diving and parasailing are available for an extra fee: ₹4,000 for scuba diving and ₹3,500 for parasailing. The package also lists snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, kayaking and opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles among the included experiences.
Itinerary and travel arrangements
KSRTC's Lakshadweep tour departs from Kochi by flight and spans four days and three nights. The trip includes visits to Agatti’s beaches and sunset viewpoints, plus a special boat trip to Kalpitti Island. Accommodation options allow travellers to choose between homestays and resorts, the announcement said.
| Duration | Islands covered | Included extras |
|---|---|---|
| 4 days, 3 nights | Agatti, Kalpitti | Entry permit, transfers, twin-sharing stay, meals, Wi‑Fi, insurance |
Launch and booking details
The package will be formally launched at Thampanoor on September 22, when Transport Minister C P John is scheduled to inaugurate the new offering. KSRTC will also unveil an online booking platform and introduce a waiting-list reservation system modelled on Indian Railways during the event. Awards to top-performing KSRTC units and mementos for the first 10 passengers chosen for the inaugural Lakshadweep trip are also planned at the launch.
KSRTC has provided contact numbers for prospective travellers: 79072 73399 and 99612 28777. The corporation has said full payment will be required at the time of booking to secure seats.
Local impact and traveller considerations
For Lakshadweep, increased connectivity through a state transport corporation entering air-linked island tourism could broaden visitor profiles beyond traditional sea-route arrivals. By packaging permits, transfers and basic amenities, KSRTC aims to simplify travel logistics for first-time visitors and budget-conscious travellers.
However, prospective travellers should note a few practical points before booking:
- Final price may vary with airfare changes — confirm total cost at booking.
- Water-sport activities such as scuba diving and parasailing carry additional charges.
- Some sites may levy separate small fees for storing mobile phones, bags or footwear; these are to be borne by travellers.
- Entry to Lakshadweep requires valid entry permits; the package indicates these are handled by KSRTC.
What KSRTC is offering beyond Lakshadweep
The budget tourism cell has also announced separate luxury packages to Hyderabad, covering popular city attractions across two- and three-day itineraries with accommodation, meals and entry fees included. These Hyderabad tours form part of KSRTC’s broader push to diversify its tourism portfolio.
"The inaugural flight-based package to Lakshadweep marks KSRTC’s foray into air-linked tourism," the announcement said.
Travellers and local stakeholders will watch how the new offering influences visitor numbers and local economies on the islands. For now, KSRTC's package represents a new, organised option for those seeking short, flight-linked island holidays from the Kerala mainland.
