Getting Around


Introduction

Regardless of the traffic jams, bumpy roads, and crowded streets, getting around in South India can be as adventurous as you want it to be. The die hard traveler might choose public transport including buses and railway. Others may opt to take to the roads in one of Red Dot’s own airconditioned private vehicles. There is also the choice of avoiding road travel altogether and travelling by air, or even meandering along in a traditional Kettuvalm (houseboat) along the backwaters in Kerala. Travelling by car: Red Dot’s team of experienced drivers and fleet of comfortable vehicles, make road travel in South India safe, more relaxing and enjoyable. The drivers are well briefed about the client’s requirements and itinerary. Most can speak some English and do have knowledge of their own states, distances, and places to visit. India being a vast country, for longer trips across states, the drivers will seek assistance as required regarding routes and ensure that you are taken to your destination safely. Red Dot offers a variety of vehicles in South India ranging from cars to vans. For 2 – 3 passengers, the usual cars that are used include the Tata Indica and Tata Indigo. Inaddition, the Mahendra Logan as well as the Ambassador cars are being used occasionally. For 4 passengers, the Toyota Qualis or Chevrolet Tavera is used as well as the higher priced Toyota Innovas. The comfortable 10 seater Tempo Traveller is used for 5 to 8 passengers. (insert vehicle photos)

Train travel: Travelling by train in South India can be a great experience. Seemingly chaotic, crowded, and at times late, the Indian Railway system however, does work efficiently. The railway network extends throughout South India and one can book ahead to ensure your choice of seating and meal plan. Indian Railways publishes an annual time-table called `Trains at a Glance’ which is available at information counters at all train stations or newspaper stands. On line ticket reservations is available on: www.indianrail.gov.in Indian Railways sales agents are available in the UK: www.indiarail.co.uk and in Australia: www.adventureworld.com.au

Travelling by bus: There are the crowded, basic state-run buses and private buses that offer a little more leg room and maybe a reclining seat for long distance travel. On private buses, prior booking is available and is recommended to ensure you get a seat.

Air travel: Indian Airlines which is the national carrier, covers all major cities across India. Among the private, low-cost carriers are Air Deccan which covers most destinations in India and the newer Kingfisher Airlines launched in 2005.

Indian Airlines – www.indian-airlines.nic.in
Air India – www.airindia.com
Jet Airways – www.jetairways.com
Air Deccan – www.airdeccan.net
Kingfisher Airlines – www.flykingfisher.com

Travelling by House boat: Travelling along the backwaters in Kerala in a traditional Kettuvallam - a rice barge that has been converted into a houseboat -- is one of the most memorable experiences any traveller could have in India. A magnificent network of lagoons, lakes, canals, estuaries and upto 41 rivers makes up the 900 km of backwaters. The most expansive stretch of Kerala’s backwaters is the Vembanad Lake which extends 75 kms from Kollam in the South to Cochin in the North and flows out to the Arabian Sea at Cochin Port. Within this area known as Kuttanad, the most scenic stretch of backwaters is from Kollam to Alleppey and can be covered at your own pace with an overnight stay or even two to three nights aboard a houseboat. These Kettuvallams have now been transformed into houseboats maintaining its traditional exteriors and blended with modern day comforts. They offer a range of facilities to suite everyone’s budget. A houseboat is only booked by one party ensuring complete privacy.
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Red Dot's India holidays and India tours are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority as long as you buy India flights from us. For full protection on your holiday to India, book your India flights with Red Dot, as well as your India accommodation. Red Dot delivers hotels, villas and guest houses in South India at competitive prices and offers independent advice and flexible itineraries. Trust Red Dot for your holiday needs in South India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book and pay for their India tours or India hotels in the United Kingdom. [ Check our licence ]
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