By Air: The nearest airbase to Kottayam is the Kochi International Airport, 90 km North. The Trivandrum International Airport lies almost 120 km South of Kottayam. These are well connected to most of the important cities of India as well as abroad.

By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station is located at the heart of the city. Served by the Southern Railways, this is well connected to most of the important cities of India like, Bengaluru, Chennai, New Delhi and Mumbai

By Road: Kottayam lies on NH220, connecting Kollam and Theni. This Natinal Highway connects Kottayam to the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu and the tourist destination of Thekkady and Kuttikanam. Kottayam can be reached from the different other cities of Kerela through inter-state bus service run by KSRTC. Hired forms of transport includes hired taxis and autorickshaws.

By Boat: Ferries are run pretty frequently by the Kerela State Water Transport Corporation from Alpuzzha. These boats ply through the backwaters and though they take almost two hours to reach Kottayam, the ferries are undoubtedly one of the cheapest modes of transport to reach the city.

Bus: These are the cheapest mode of travel within the city. Despite being frequent in service and having a widespread route, the buses are usually crowded during the peak hours of the day.

Autorickshaw: This is another cheap and easily obtainable mode of travel within the city. The rates are Rs.12 for the first kilometer and Rs. 6 for every additional kilometer. However, bargaining the rate before boarding the Autorickshaw is advised.

Taxi: Local Taxis can be easily got hold of from the District Collector ate and the District Hospital.

Car: Several Car rental companies are available in Kottayam with a driver as well as on self drive agreement. However, it is advised not to drive in Kerela unless one is an experienced driver with spontaneous reflexes.

Walk: Kottayam being a small town, can easily be covered on foot