National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT Calicut) is located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, in southern India. Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, lies in the central-southern part of India. This route is popular among students, professionals, and travelers moving between Telangana and Kerala.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, costs, and practical tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views and multiple train options connecting Hyderabad to Kozhikode, the nearest major station to NIT Calicut.

• Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) and Secunderabad Junction (SC) are the main departure stations with several trains to Kozhikode (CLT), located about 50 km from NIT Calicut.

• Train travel time ranges from 12 to 16 hours depending on the train type, with fares between INR 400 to INR 1500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Popular trains include the Hyderabad-Kozhikode Express and the Kacheguda-Kozhikode Express, running daily or multiple times a week, offering good frequency.

• Book tickets early on IRCTC, especially during festival seasons like Onam or summer holidays, to avoid waitlists and secure preferred classes.

• At Kozhikode station, you can find prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach NIT Calicut, which takes about 1.5 hours by road.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option but involve longer travel times. Direct buses from Hyderabad to Kozhikode are limited, so most travelers opt for connecting buses via Bangalore or Coimbatore.

• State-run buses like TSRTC and Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operate inter-state routes, but direct Hyderabad-Kozhikode buses are infrequent.

• Travel time by bus can take 20 to 24 hours, covering around 800 km, with fares ranging from INR 700 to INR 1500 depending on the bus type.

• Overnight Volvo or deluxe buses provide better comfort and are recommended for long journeys to reduce fatigue.

• Bus terminals in Hyderabad like MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station) serve as the main departure points for long-distance buses.

• From Kozhikode bus station, local buses or taxis can take you to NIT Calicut, which is about 50 km away, so plan for additional travel time.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route covers approximately 800 km via NH44 and NH66, passing through scenic landscapes and towns.

• The drive typically takes 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and stops, so plan for breaks at rest stops and dhabas along the way.

• Major highways include NH44 from Hyderabad towards Bangalore, then NH66 along the Kerala coast to Kozhikode.

• Toll plazas are present on NH44 and NH66, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available at regular intervals, but some stretches in Kerala may have fewer options, so plan accordingly.

• Driving in monsoon season requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides in Kerala's hilly areas.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Kozhikode from Hyderabad. Although NIT Calicut does not have an airport, Calicut International Airport (CCJ) is nearby and well connected.

• Direct flights from Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to Calicut International Airport (CCJ) take about 1.5 hours.

• Several airlines operate daily flights, with fares ranging from INR 2500 to INR 6000 depending on booking time and season.

• From Calicut Airport, NIT Calicut is approximately 25 km away, reachable by prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in around 45 minutes.

• Booking flights in advance during peak travel seasons like Onam or Christmas ensures better prices and seat availability.

• Airport facilities include car rentals and shuttle services, but pre-booking a cab is recommended for hassle-free last-mile connectivity.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut, helping you organize your journey smoothly.

• Check train or flight availability on IRCTC or airline websites well in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and classes.

• Book your tickets early, especially during holidays or festival seasons, to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some travel modes may have limited food options en route.

• On travel day, reach the departure station or airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure to manage check-in and security smoothly.

• Upon arrival at Kozhikode station or airport, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and reliable transport to NIT Calicut.

• Inform your accommodation or NIT Calicut contacts about your arrival time to arrange pickups or guidance if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and tickets, as Indian transport authorities often check documents during travel.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from reputed food stalls or restaurants to avoid stomach issues common in long Indian journeys.

• Use official booking portals like IRCTC for trains and airline websites or trusted apps for flights to avoid scams or inflated prices.

• For local travel in Kozhikode, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs over street haggling to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables like wallets and phones close, as crowded stations and buses can be hotspots for pickpockets.

• During monsoon season, expect delays due to heavy rains and road conditions; carry rain gear and check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of June to September, as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery roads, especially in Kerala.

• Festival seasons like Onam (August-September) and Christmas see heavy traffic and booked accommodations, so plan and book early.

• Winter mornings in northern Telangana can have fog, causing train or flight delays, so allow extra travel time.

• Depart early in the day to avoid night driving on unfamiliar roads or late-night arrivals at stations.

• Summer months (April-May) can be hot and tiring for road travel; air-conditioned trains or flights are preferable then.

Arrival at NIT Calicut & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kozhikode railway station or Calicut Airport, you will find several transport options to reach NIT Calicut campus. The campus is located about 50 km from the city center and airport.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at both the station and airport, offering fixed fares to NIT Calicut. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate here and are convenient for direct travel. Local buses run frequently but may require multiple changes and are less comfortable with luggage.

Conclusion

Traveling from Hyderabad to NIT Calicut is straightforward with multiple options to suit your budget and time. Trains offer a balance of cost and comfort, flights save time, and self-driving gives flexibility. Buses are best for budget travelers willing to spend more time.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, especially during festivals and holidays. Use prepaid or app-based cabs for last-mile connectivity to NIT Calicut. With this guide, you can confidently organize your trip and enjoy a smooth travel experience between Hyderabad and NIT Calicut.