CIAL opens special travel hub for Sabarimala pilgrims in Kochi

Cochin International Airport Limited has opened a new pilgrim facilitation centre for Sabarimala visitors at the airport.

Facility Details

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will open the facility on November 17. The centre covers an area of 5,000 square feet and sits near the police aid post next to the domestic arrival terminal. It will stay open 24 hours a day. Visitors can use a Devaswom help desk, get prasadam coupons, book prepaid taxis, eat at a vegetarian food outlet, and use a rest area. A screen showing real-time flight details is also set up.

Transport Options

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation buses run to and from the airport from this spot, and a booking counter is available inside. Pilgrims can also book private chartered buses when needed. A separate counter is set up to book helicopter services.

Context

Around 11,000 pilgrims used this centre last year, coming from states like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, as well as countries like Malaysia and Singapore. Major transit hubs often set up special zones during large religious festivals to help travelers move smoothly between flights, roads, and local transport.