Kannur is a beautiful coastal town in North Kerala, famous for beaches, Theyyam, handloom, and rich history.
If you are planning a trip, this guide explains how to reach Kannur by air, train, road, and bus, in a simple, traveller-friendly way.
This article gives A to Z information, so even a first-time visitor can plan the journey easily.
Quick Answer: Best Ways to Reach Kannur
- By Air: Kannur International Airport (best for long-distance and international travellers)
- By Train: Well-connected railway station from major Indian cities
- By Road: Smooth highways from Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa
- By Bus: Regular KSRTC and private buses
Where Is Kannur Located?
Kannur is located in northern Kerala, along the Arabian Sea coast.
It lies close to:
- Karnataka (Mangaluru side)
- Kozhikode
- Wayanad
Because of this location, Kannur is easy to reach from both Kerala and Karnataka.
Kannur is not just a travel destination but a cultural hub, and understanding what Kannur is famous for helps travellers appreciate its traditions, art forms, and local lifestyle.
How to Reach Kannur by Flight (Best Option)
Kannur International Airport (CNN)
Kannur International Airport is the nearest and most convenient airport.
Distance from Kannur town: ~25 km (45–60 minutes)
Flights Available From:
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Mumbai
- Delhi
- Middle East cities (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat)
From Airport to Kannur:
- Taxi (prepaid or app-based)
- Airport bus services
- Hotel-arranged pickup
Best for:
International travellers, families, and those who want the fastest route.
How to Reach Kannur by Train (Most Popular)
Kannur Railway Station (CAN)
Kannur Railway Station is a major railhead on the Konkan Railway route.
Direct Trains From:
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Mumbai
- Kochi
- Thiruvananthapuram
Travel Tips:
- Book tickets early during festival and holiday seasons
- Overnight trains are comfortable for long journeys
- Auto and taxi services are easily available outside the station
Best for:
Budget travellers and those who enjoy scenic coastal routes.
Train schedules and availability can be checked on the official Indian Railways website.
How to Reach Kannur by Road (Scenic Option)
Kannur is well connected by national and state highways.
Major Road Routes:
- From Bengaluru → via Mangaluru – NH 66
- From Kozhikode → NH 66 (coastal road)
- From Wayanad → mountain road via Thalassery
Distance Examples:
- Bengaluru to Kannur: ~300 km (7–8 hours)
- Kozhikode to Kannur: ~90 km (2.5–3 hours)
- Mangaluru to Kannur: ~150 km (4 hours)
Best for:
Road trip lovers and travellers visiting nearby destinations.
How to Reach Kannur by Bus (Affordable Choice)
Bus Services Available:
- KSRTC (Kerala)
- Private buses
- Karnataka State buses from Mangaluru & Bengaluru
Major Bus Stations:
- Kannur Bus Stand
- Thalassery Bus Stand (nearby)
Buses run frequently from:
- Kozhikode
- Kochi
- Bengaluru
- Mangaluru
Best for:
Solo travellers and budget-conscious tourists.
State-run and private buses operate regularly, with details available on the KSRTC official website
Best Way to Reach Kannur Based on Travel Type
| Traveller Type | Best Option |
|---|---|
| International tourist | Flight |
| Family trip | Flight or Train |
| Budget traveller | Train or Bus |
| Road trip | Self-drive car |
| Short Kerala trip | Bus or Train |
Best Time to Travel to Kannur
October to March: Best weather for travel
April to May: Hot but manageable
June to September: Monsoon season (lush but rainy)
To plan your trip comfortably, it is helpful to know the best time to visit Kannur, especially if you want pleasant weather and sightseeing-friendly conditions.
Final Travel Tips for Kannur Visitors
- Book flights and trains early during Theyyam season
- Keep cash for local transport
- Use taxis for beaches and tourist spots
- Combine Kannur with nearby places like Thalassery and Wayanad
While exploring the town, many travellers also enjoy shopping for local items, and this guide on what to buy in Kannur helps you choose authentic handloom products, spices, and souvenirs
How to Reach Kannur Easily
Kannur is easy to reach by air, train, road, and bus.
For most travellers, Kannur International Airport and Kannur Railway Station are the most convenient options.
Choose your travel mode based on budget, distance, and comfort — Kannur welcomes every kind of traveller.
After reaching Kannur, travellers can explore beaches, heritage sites, and cultural events. You can find a detailed list in our top tourist places in Kannur guide.