{"id":872,"date":"2025-08-21T11:44:16","date_gmt":"2025-08-21T06:14:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/?p=872"},"modified":"2025-08-21T11:45:19","modified_gmt":"2025-08-21T06:15:19","slug":"best-rental-car-services-kottayam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/best-rental-car-services-kottayam\/","title":{"rendered":"Explore the top 5 weekend getaways from Kottayam with self-drive car rentals."},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"872\" class=\"elementor elementor-872\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-78af055 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"78af055\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5b18c21e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5b18c21e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<style>\/*! elementor - v3.23.0 - 25-07-2024 *\/\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block}<\/style>\t\t\t\t<p>Situated between the backwaters and the Western Ghats, the town of Kottayam makes an excellent starting point for weekend escapes. A couple of hours away is all it takes to get a whiff of Kerala, be it for that quick weekend escape from work or a soothing monsoon trip. Any self-drive car goes a long way in making these escapes even more convenient and decent at the same time.<\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p>In this blog, we would be looking at the Top 5 Weekend Getaways from Kottayam for your pleasure, all requiring that you rent a car for freedom, comfort, and control over your trip.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ae6b150 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"ae6b150\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm elementor-animation-grow\" href=\"https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?phone=918281896677&#038;text=Hi%20MaazCars,%20I%20would%20like%20to%20know%20more%20details!\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-icon\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fab-whatsapp\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M380.9 97.1C339 55.1 283.2 32 223.9 32c-122.4 0-222 99.6-222 222 0 39.1 10.2 77.3 29.6 111L0 480l117.7-30.9c32.4 17.7 68.9 27 106.1 27h.1c122.3 0 224.1-99.6 224.1-222 0-59.3-25.2-115-67.1-157zm-157 341.6c-33.2 0-65.7-8.9-94-25.7l-6.7-4-69.8 18.3L72 359.2l-4.4-7c-18.5-29.4-28.2-63.3-28.2-98.2 0-101.7 82.8-184.5 184.6-184.5 49.3 0 95.6 19.2 130.4 54.1 34.8 34.9 56.2 81.2 56.1 130.5 0 101.8-84.9 184.6-186.6 184.6zm101.2-138.2c-5.5-2.8-32.8-16.2-37.9-18-5.1-1.9-8.8-2.8-12.5 2.8-3.7 5.6-14.3 18-17.6 21.8-3.2 3.7-6.5 4.2-12 1.4-32.6-16.3-54-29.1-75.5-66-5.7-9.8 5.7-9.1 16.3-30.3 1.8-3.7.9-6.9-.5-9.7-1.4-2.8-12.5-30.1-17.1-41.2-4.5-10.8-9.1-9.3-12.5-9.5-3.2-.2-6.9-.2-10.6-.2-3.7 0-9.7 1.4-14.8 6.9-5.1 5.6-19.4 19-19.4 46.3 0 27.3 19.9 53.7 22.6 57.4 2.8 3.7 39.1 59.7 94.8 83.8 35.2 15.2 49 16.5 66.6 13.9 10.7-1.6 32.8-13.4 37.4-26.4 4.6-13 4.6-24.1 3.2-26.4-1.3-2.5-5-3.9-10.5-6.6z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Whatsapp Us<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-63c1ade e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"63c1ade\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9882021 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9882021\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Why Use a Rental Car from Kottayam?<\/h3><p>Before getting into the locations, here are some reasons why car rental seems to be the most sensible choice in your travel plans:<\/p><p><strong>Flexibility<\/strong>: Forget about rushing to catch a bus or depending on that erratic auto rickshaw man.<\/p><p><strong>Comfort<\/strong>: Travel on your own clock, stop anywhere you choose.<\/p><p><strong>Cost-effective<\/strong>: Perfect for a group journey or family road trip.<\/p><p><strong>Availability<\/strong>: Car hire in Kerala works 24 hours a day into all seven days, so you can book the vehicle any time.<\/p><p>A wide fleet is available from Kochi car rental to Kerala car hire for family trips-hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs-as they are all eager to hit the road with you.<\/p><h4>Vagamon \u2013 The Pine Paradise<\/h4><p>Distance from Kottayam: 65 km<\/p><p>Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours<\/p><p>Vagamon is a serene hill station tucked away in the Idukki district. With mist-covered meadows, rolling hills, pine forests, and tea plantations, Vagamon is perfect for a peaceful weekend escape. A self-drive journey to Vagamon is full of scenic curves and views, especially beautiful during the monsoon.<\/p><h5>Top attractions:<\/h5><p>Vagamon Meadows<\/p><p>Pine Valley<\/p><p>Murugan Mala<\/p><p>Kurisumala Ashram<\/p><p>Why go by rental car?<\/p><ul><li>Explore remote viewpoints and offbeat roads<\/li><li>Stop for scenic photos along the way<\/li><li>Ideal for couples or solo drives using self-drive cars Kerala<\/li><\/ul><p>Best for: Nature lovers, photography trips, monsoon car rentals<\/p><h4>Alleppey \u2013 The Venice of the East<\/h4><p>Distance from Kottayam: 47 km<\/p><p>Travel Time: Approx. 1.5 hours<\/p><p>Alleppey (Alappuzha) is world-famous for its enchanting backwaters and houseboat cruises. While many opt for public transport, renting a car gives you access to quieter parts of Alleppey \u2013 untouched beaches, paddy fields, and village life beyond the tourist map.<\/p><h5>Top attractions:<\/h5><p>Houseboat cruises through Vembanad Lake<\/p><p>Marari Beach<\/p><p>Alleppey Lighthouse<\/p><p>Pathiramanal Island<\/p><p>Why go by rental car?<\/p><ul><li>Visit both touristy and hidden gems<\/li><li>Great for family trip car rentals<\/li><li>Save time and customize your itinerary<\/li><\/ul><p>Best for: Family vacations, romantic getaways, day tours<\/p><h4>Kumarakom \u2013 Serenity by the Backwaters<\/h4><p>Distance from Kottayam: 17 km<\/p><p>Travel Time: Approx. 40 minutes<\/p><p>Just a short drive from Kottayam, Kumarakom is an oasis of calm. Known for its bird sanctuary, luxurious resorts, and backwater canals, it\u2019s perfect for a laid-back weekend. With a rental car, you can plan a flexible day trip or an overnight stay without the hassle of fixed transport schedules.<\/p><h5>Top attractions:<\/h5><p>Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary<\/p><p>Houseboats and Shikara rides<\/p><p>Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls<\/p><p>Driftwood Museum<\/p><p>Why go by rental car?<\/p><p>Easy to reach and explore at your own pace<\/p><p>Avoid tourist crowds<\/p><p>Affordable options available with car rentals for tourists<\/p><p>Best for: Nature trips, family bonding, short getaways<\/p><h4>Thekkady \u2013 Spice-scented Wilderness<\/h4><p>Distance from Kottayam: 110 km<\/p><p>Travel Time: Approx. 3.5 hours<\/p><p>For those seeking a mix of wildlife, adventure, and spice plantations, Thekkady is a must-visit. Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers trekking, boating, and cultural experiences. Driving through the winding roads is a scenic adventure in itself.<\/p><h5>Top attractions:<\/h5><p>Periyar Tiger Reserve<\/p><p>Bamboo rafting and boating<\/p><p>Kadathanadan Kalari Centre<\/p><p>Spice gardens and elephant rides<\/p><p>Why go by rental car?<\/p><ul><li>Explore plantations and eco-tourism spots en route<\/li><li>Pack in more attractions in less time<\/li><li>Reliable car rental in Kerala options for long drives<\/li><\/ul><p>Best for: Group trips, wildlife lovers, Kerala car hire for family trips<\/p><h4>Munnar \u2013 The Queen of Hill Stations<\/h4><p>Distance from Kottayam: 150 km<\/p><p>Travel Time: Approx. 4.5 hours<\/p><p>Munnar is a dreamy hill town that needs no introduction. From tea gardens and waterfalls to echo points and national parks, Munnar is a perfect weekend escape from Kottayam. The long drive is made enjoyable with a sturdy rental SUV or sedan, offering comfort through the hilly terrain.<\/p><h5>Top attractions:<\/h5><p>Tea Museum and Eravikulam National Park<\/p><p>Mattupetty Dam and Top Station<\/p><p>Attukal Waterfalls<\/p><p>Blossom Park<\/p><p>Why go by rental car?<\/p><ul><li>Long but rewarding drive \u2013 better with personal vehicle<\/li><li>Ideal for monsoon car rentals and chilly hill drives<\/li><li>More flexible than bus packages<\/li><\/ul><p>Best for: Honeymooners, scenic explorers, tea lovers<\/p><p>Bonus Travel Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience<\/p><p>Book in advance \u2013 especially during weekends and monsoon season.<\/p><p>Choose the right car \u2013 hatchbacks for short distances, SUVs for hills.<\/p><p>Check for 24\/7 support \u2013 many services now offer 24\/7 car rental service in Kerala.<\/p><p>Inspect the car before the trip \u2013 especially tires, brakes, and wipers during monsoon.<\/p><p>Carry physical maps or download offline ones \u2013 mobile signals may be weak in hill stations.<\/p><h4>Why Weekend Road Trips Are Better with a Rental Car<\/h4><p>The idea of hitting the road on a weekend in Kerala is nothing short of rejuvenating. And with self-drive cars Kerala, you&#8217;re no longer tied down by bus schedules or fixed tour packages. You get:<\/p><p>Privacy: No sharing your ride with strangers.<\/p><p>Freedom: Stop for chai, waterfalls, or just enjoy the mist.<\/p><p>Cost-efficiency: Share costs with friends or family.<\/p><p>Safety: Especially crucial in the monsoon season.<\/p><p>With a range of vehicles available through car rental in Kochi and Kottayam, you can choose the right vehicle to match your trip \u2013 be it compact cars, family sedans, or powerful SUVs.<\/p><h5>Conclusion<\/h5><p>From lush hill stations like Munnar and Vagamon to the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey, Kottayam is your perfect weekend launchpad. With the growing popularity of car rentals for tourists and family trip car rentals, exploring Kerala at your own pace is easier and more comfortable than ever.<\/p><p>So whether you&#8217;re planning a monsoon drive, a family getaway, or a solo exploration, pick your destination, choose your wheels, and get ready to create memories that last a lifetime.<\/p><p>Travel smart. Drive safe. And let Kerala surprise you around every curve.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-84c5912 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"84c5912\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d11edae elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"d11edae\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm elementor-animation-grow\" href=\"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Book Now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Situated between the backwaters and the Western Ghats, the town of Kottayam makes an excellent starting point for weekend escapes. A couple of hours away [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":880,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-872","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-rental"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/872","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=872"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/872\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":888,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/872\/revisions\/888"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/880"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=872"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=872"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/maazcars.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=872"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}