Travelling from Edinburgh (EDI) to Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) is a long-haul journey that blends the efficiency of a modern UK airport with the cultural gateway of southern India. Here's what to expect before and after your flight, along with key information on travel logistics, flight partners, and visa requirements.
Departing from Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Located around 8 miles west of Edinburgh city centre, Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest hub, easily accessible by tram, bus, and taxi. If you're taking public transport, the Airlink 100 bus service runs 24/7 from Waverley Bridge, while the tram connects from Princes Street to the terminal in about 35 minutes.
Upon arrival, expect a smooth check-in process with clearly signposted terminals and security. Southall Travel works with leading airlines operating out of Edinburgh, such as British Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. These partners typically provide one-stop or two-stop options to TRV via major Middle Eastern or European hubs like Doha, Istanbul, Dubai, or Frankfurt.
Flight Duration and Route
A typical journey from Edinburgh to Thiruvananthapuram can take between 13 to 18 hours depending on the airline and layover duration. While there are no direct flights, the connection times are usually manageable and tailored for international transit. Southall Travel can assist in securing competitive fares and convenient itineraries with trusted global carriers.
Arrival at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)
Trivandrum International Airport is located just under 4 miles from the city centre of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Compact yet efficient, the airport has both domestic and international terminals, offering quick immigration procedures and access to prepaid taxis and ride-share apps right outside the arrivals area.
The closest train station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, roughly 3 miles away, making it easy to connect to onward destinations in Kerala and beyond. Taxis to the station typically take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
UK passport holders must obtain a visa before entering India. The most convenient option is the e-Tourist visa, which can be applied for online through the official Indian visa portal. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date and that you apply for the correct visa category well in advance of your travel.
Fly Cheap to Trivandrum from Edinburgh with Southall Travel
Looking for affordable flights to India? Southall Travel offers some of the best-value fares when flying from Edinburgh to Trivandrum. Booking early is key, especially for travellers eyeing a winter holiday to India when demand is lower and prices drop. The cheapest months to fly are typically May to early June and late September to November, when the monsoon eases and tourist traffic remains light.
For the best deals, aim to avoid peak travel times like Christmas or mid-summer, and instead book mid-week departures, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Edinburgh to Trivandrum routes is often available with minimal stopovers or direct links via London, making your journey smoother and faster. If you’re flexible, flights from London Heathrow to Trivandrum or Gatwick to Trivandrum can sometimes yield better fares and shorter connections.
Southall Travel also compares regional gateways, so if you’re considering flying Manchester to Trivandrum, you’ll still find great rates with customisable routes. Trivandrum airport tends to be less crowded mid-morning and mid-week, so plan your arrival outside local and international rush hours for a relaxed experience.