Kochi Metro Network: Timings, Fares, Ticket Booking, Future

Kochi metro, operated by Kochi Metro Rail Limited or KMRL, is a rapid transit system serving God’s own country. Known as one of the fastest-completed metro projects in India, Kochi metro has successfully brought a change to urban transportation in the region. In 2012, Dr Manmohan Singh laid the foundation for the project, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the line from Aluva to Palarivattom on June 17, 2017. The Phase II corridor has been under construction since 2022. If you are in Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, for work or other purposes, travelling via the Kochi metro will be a breeze. However, it may feel difficult to navigate the metro system in a city. Below, we discuss Kochi metro timings, route lines, and fares to help you understand better. 

About Kochi Metro: An Overview

Did you know every metro is 66.55 metres long and can carry 975 passengers? As per recent reports, the daily ridership has crossed 100,000. The Kochi metro system is to be built in three phases, and currently, it has one active line, which runs from Aluva to Petta. On the other hand, there is another one under construction connecting Kakkanad to the airport. Plus, there will be phase 3 which is a proposed extension to run from Aluva with branches to Angamaly and Cochin International Airport. 

Moreover, the Kochi metro has successfully integrated with Kochi Water Metro, a feeder service to the suburbs. The original estimated cost of the Kochi Metro project was Rs. 51.46 billion; however, it increased to Rs. 55.37 billion upon completion. With an elevated route extended for 25 km from Aluva to Tripunithura Terminal, the metro has been a saviour for many. 

Also Read: Hyderabad Metro: Map, Timings, Routes and Fares

Kochi Metro Timings to Know

For the first time in India’s metro system, communication-based train control has been used for signalling. Not only can you expect a hassle-free journey but you can also beat the traffic blues. Hence, Kochi metro timings are thoughtfully curated to assure commuters of seamless connectivity at any time of the day. Below we break down the operational hours and frequency:

1. On Monday to Saturday, the metro system runs from 6 AM to 10:30 PM.
2. On Sundays, the metro runs from 8 AM to 10:30 PM.
3. To reach Petta Metro Station from Aluva, it takes 21 minutes.
4. It takes 16 minutes to cover the Aluva University route and 7 minutes to cover the Pathadipalam to Petta route.

Kochi Metro Fares and Ticketing System 

Booking for the Kochi Metro system is hassle-free as it assures smooth connectivity throughout the city. You can purchase a single admission ticket at the metro station. Also, group ticketing is available. Here, we mention the Kochi metro fares to help you navigate better.

1. The minimum fare for Kochi metro network is INR 10 and the maximum fare is INR 60.
2. The fare depends on the distance – if you start from Aluva station, you can reach Petta Metro Station for INR 60, Cochin University Metro Station for INR 30, Muttom for INR 20 and JLN Stadium Metro Station for INR 40.

Also Read: Bangalore Metro Timings: Know About Lines, Fares & Tickets

How to Book Tickets for Kochi Metro Online 

Apart from booking tickets at the metro station, Kochi Metro offers several online modes for booking tickets online. Here are three convenient ways you can get Kochi Metro tickets online: 

1. WhatsApp Ticket Booking 

In the digital era, Kochi Metro Rail Limited or KMRL has taken an effective initiative to promote digital ticketing. It is one of the best ways to avoid long queues! Plus, you can get a 10% discount on tickets purchased via WhatsApp. During non-peak hours, you may get a 50% discount.

1. Save the Kochi Metro WhatsApp number: +91 90486 90486.
2. Send a message: Type “BOOK” followed by your desired route and date.
3. Receive a confirmation: You’ll receive a confirmation message with your booking details and payment link.
4. Complete payment: Follow the link to complete your payment using a preferred method.
5. Receive a QR code: Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a QR code that you can scan at the station’s automatic fare collection (AFC) gate to enter and exit.

2. Digital Wallet

Kochi Metro system also allows Google Wallet to book the tickets, and we mention the steps below:

1. Download the Kochi Metro app: Search for “Kochi Metro” on your app store and download the official app.
2. Create an account: Register for an account using your mobile number and email address.
3. Choose your route and date: Select your preferred route and travel date.
4. Add passengers: If travelling with others, add their details.
5. Select payment method: Choose your digital wallet from the available options.
6. Complete payment: Follow the instructions to complete your payment using your digital wallet.
7. Receive QR code: Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a QR code that you can scan at the AFC gate to enter and exit.

3. Online Portal

Apart from the digital wallets and WhatsApp ticketing systems, you can go to its official website and book the ticket. 

1. Visit the Kochi Metro website: Go to https://kochimetro.org/
2. Choose your route and date: Select your preferred route and travel date.
3. Add passengers: If travelling with others, add their details.
4. Select payment method: Choose your preferred payment method (credit/debit card, net banking, UPI).
5. Complete payment: Follow the instructions to complete your payment.
6. Receive QR code: Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a QR code that you can scan at the AFC gate to enter and exit.

You can get a Kochi Metro day pass or season ticket the same way. However, it’s best to inquire at the station. The fare is decided depending on a lot of factors, and it costs INR 2.2 per km. 

Also Read: Delhi Metro Map 2024: Lines, Apps, Future Development

Kochi Metro Line and Future Development 

Kochi Metro currently operates two primary lines:

1. Aluva-Pettah line: This is the main line of the system, connecting Aluva in the north to Pettah in the south.
2. Pettah-Tripunithura line: This line branches off from the main line at Pettah and extends south to Tripunithura.

Kochi Metro Future Development

Kochi Metro is actively expanding its network to cater to the growing demand for public transportation in the region. Several extension projects are underway or planned:

1. Pettah-Thrissur extension: This extension aims to connect Pettah to Thrissur, significantly expanding the metro’s reach and serving a larger population.
2. Kakkanad extension: This extension will connect Kakkanad, a major IT hub, to the existing metro network, providing convenient transportation for IT professionals and residents.
3. Edappally-Cheranelloor extension: This extension will connect Edappally to Cheranelloor, serving industrial areas and residential neighbourhoods.

These extensions will not only improve connectivity within Kochi but also boost economic development and reduce traffic congestion. Kochi Metro’s commitment to expansion reflects its role as a vital component of the city’s transportation infrastructure and its potential to drive sustainable urban growth. In case you have recently moved to Kochi, we have got you covered with the best appliances and furniture on rent. Save huge on your first move and rent from Rentomojo!

Also Read: Delhi Airport Metro 2024: Overview Of Route, Timings & Fares

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Kochi Metro run 24 hours?
No, Kochi Metro does not run 24 hours a day. It typically operates from early morning to late evening, with specific timings that may vary depending on the day of the week and special events.

2. What is the minimum fare in Kochi Metro?
The minimum fare in Kochi Metro is ₹10. This applies to the first 2 kilometres of travel.

3. What is Kochi Metro opening time?
Kochi Metro typically operates from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM on weekends and holidays.

4. What is the starting and ending point of Kochi Metro?
The Kochi Metro currently operates between Aluva in the north and Tripunithura in the south. This covers the main line and the extension line.

5. How successful is Kochi Metro?
In a report published in 2024, KMRL has garnered 145% greater revenue in the financial year 2022-2023, resulting in profit for the first time.