Life in the city can be exhilarating, but sometimes, a quick break is all you need to recharge your batteries. Thanks to its central location in Kerala, Kochi is surrounded by pristine beaches, calm hill stations, lush forests, and tranquil backwaters—all within a few hours’ drive. And what can make your trip, be it a romantic retreat, a solo adventure, or a fun-filled family outing, more exciting? A car that is tailored according to your comforts is your answer. Road tripping in Kerala not only provides you with scenic splendor and cultural richness but also allows you the luxury of discovery at your own pace. With flexible options for weekend car hire in Kochi, it’s now easier than ever to plan a spontaneous weekend getaway. Choosing self drive car rentals also means no reliance on chauffeurs or set timetables. You can break for roadside chai as you please, make detours to off-beat spots and thereby utilise the most of your travel time. Whether you prefer a rental car that is an automatic or a robust SUV for driving on hills, car rental facilities in Kochi will not leave you disappointed.
The central location of Kochi enables easy access to a number of major tourist destinations across the state.
- You can start your journey from Athirappilly Waterfalls which is closer to the city as it provides a refreshing start to your ideal getaway.
- Munnar is only around 130 kilometers from Kochi and is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. The misty mornings and evenings, vast tea gardens, and the towering hills make it a first preference for a perfect weekend trip. The drive uphill is itself a treat to the eyes with its hairpin turns and waterfalls. Eravikulam national park is a must-visit site in Munnar.
- Wayanad’s forests—albeit nearly 280 kilometers from Kochi—are a long weekend drive worth making for.
- If you are a nature lover who prefers a journey of solitude and serenity packed with adventure, then Ponmudi Hills in Trivandrum is yet another choice for the perfect weekend getaway.
- For a beach and seaside foodie, Alappuzha is most definitely the 1st destination on your list. It’s just 60 kilometers from Kochi and it’s a completely different atmosphere with its serene backwaters and lively sunny beach culture.
- Varkala provides a breathtaking cliff-top town beach experience that’s spiritual and relaxed.
- For those who want to visit off-the-beaten-path places, Kumarakom, only 85 kilometers from Kochi, is the way to go. It’s serene, full of birds, and has some of Kerala’s finest lakeside resorts.
Thrissur, approximately 80 kilometers away, has history, temples, and pulsating local markets
- For adventure-seekers in wildlife, Thekkady in Idukki district, approximately 155 kilometers from Kochi, is ideal since you can trek through wildlife sanctuaries and spice plantations.
Selecting the best cars for Kerala getaways is essential to enjoying these places to the fullest. Compact hatchbacks like the Tata Tiago, Hyundai i10, or Maruti Swift are perfect for quick trips to Alappuzha or Thrissur. These vehicles are affordable , fuel-efficient, and easy to drive on small village roads. Sedans with roomy cabins and sufficient boot space, like the Honda Amaze, Hyundai Verna, or Maruti Ciaz, offer a smoother ride if you’re traveling to areas with better highways and roads. Mid-size SUVs like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Creta, or Kia Seltos provide the ideal balance of comfort, power, and ground clearance for hill stations like Munnar or Thekkady. When you are travelling to places with winding roads and uneven terrain these cars prove to be useful. If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, 7-seater MUVs like the Maruti Ertiga, Renault Triber, or the ever-reliable Toyota Innova offer plenty of space for passengers and luggage. For long drives to destinations like Wayanad or Ponmudi, premium SUVs such as the Mahindra Scorpio-N, XUV700, or MG Hector are ideal, giving you top-tier performance and comfort for extended journeys.
Thankfully, renting a car in Kerala without a driver is now incredibly convenient with Maaz cars. In Kochi, you’ll find our Govt approved rent a car services at major transit points like Cochin International Airport and Ernakulam Junction, as well as in popular neighborhoods such as Edappally, Vyttila, and Fort Kochi. You can also book online through well-rated platforms that let you browse cars, compare pricing, and even have the vehicle delivered to your doorstep.
We provide a range of flexible packages customised for your trip. If you’re planning a quick getaway, daily rental options are perfect, giving you full-day usage without long-term commitment. For those who want to make the most of an extended weekend, weekly rentals offer better value and more mileage. All packages generally include insurance, and most vehicles are well-maintained and serviced regularly.
Before heading out, it’s a good idea to inspect the vehicle thoroughly—check the tires, lights, fuel level, and brakes. Ensure you always have your driving license, ID proof, and the rental document with you. Keep a lookout for any conditions pertaining to fuel usage, additional kilometers, or damage liability.
We also have a 24/7 customer care facility which is totally a must for your trip particularly while traveling to hills or remote areas.
Using a self drive car rental provides you with unparalleled freedom. You don’t have to be stuck on public transport timetables or put up with the hassle of packed buses or taxis. If you want to stop off at a roadside waterfall, visit a small village, or redirect your route at will, an own car is the key. And taking an automatic car for rent can cut driving fatigue dramatically, particularly if you’re driving long distances or through lots of hills.
The increased use of digital platforms has rendered car rental even more convenient, with in-depth reviews, honest prices, and secure payments. You can even sort by location, car type, fuel type, and transmission type, making it a breeze to spot the best price for your own requirements. Several services also have seasonal promotions and loyalty schemes, allowing you to save even further on car hire .
If you’re staying in or traveling to Kochi, weekend getaways have never been easier. From hill treks and backwater cruises to wildlife safaris, Kerala has an infinite number of weekend escapades. Using the best car rental services in Kerala guarantees that you travel in comfort, elegance, and at your own rhythm. Whatever your travel needs, from a small car for a solo journey to a luxury SUV for a hill drive or an MUV for a family outing, you can get excellent choices with Govt approved rent a car facilities and up-to-date self drive car rentals in Kochi , Trivandrum , and other places.
With convenient availability of rental automatic cars , and the finest cars for all types of terrain, there is no reason to keep yourself at home this weekend. So go and rent a car from Maaz cars, take to the road, and experience the magic of Kerala in its full glory, drive by drive.