#DriveInKozhikode

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The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Kozhikode, Kerala: Explore the City and Beyond

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a vibrant coastal city in Kerala, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're a tourist looking to explore the historic landmarks or a local planning a road trip to nearby hill stations and beaches, rent a car in kerala kozhikode can make your travel experience much more enjoyable and flexible.

In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of renting a car in Kozhikode, the various car rental options available, and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Why Rent a Car in Kozhikode?

Convenience and Flexibility Kozhikode, with its mix of urban areas and scenic landscapes, is best explored at your own pace. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to design your own itinerary. Whether you're visiting the popular Kozhikode Beach or planning a day trip to the nearby Wayanad hills, you won't have to worry about public transport schedules or the limitations of taxis. You can leave whenever you want and take as many detours as you like.

Comfort and Privacy A rented car provides you with a level of comfort and privacy that public transport simply cannot offer. You can travel in air-conditioned comfort, store your belongings, and even enjoy the company of your family or friends without feeling cramped. For couples or families, renting a car ensures you can enjoy a stress-free journey, with plenty of space for everyone.

Affordable for Group Travel If you're traveling in a group or with family, renting a car can be more cost-effective than booking multiple taxis or relying on ride-sharing services. You can rent a spacious SUV or a minivan, which offers ample room for everyone and is often more affordable than arranging separate transport for each person.

Easy Access to Offbeat Destinations While Kozhikode itself has plenty to offer, renting a car makes it easier to explore the stunning surrounding areas. Whether it’s a visit to the tranquil hill stations of Wayanad, a road trip to the beautiful Kappad Beach, or exploring the remote villages, a car rental gives you access to hidden gems that may be off the beaten path.

Types of Cars Available for Rent in Kozhikode

Compact Cars For solo travelers or couples, compact cars are an ideal choice. These cars are fuel-efficient, easy to navigate through narrow city streets, and perfect for those looking to explore the city and its nearby attractions. Popular models like the Swift, Alto, or Hyundai i10 are great options for small groups or individuals.

Sedans If you're looking for a more comfortable and spacious option, sedans like the Honda City, Toyota Etios, or Hyundai Verna are perfect for longer drives. Sedans provide more legroom and boot space while still offering great fuel efficiency, making them ideal for both city commutes and road trips.

SUVs and Crossovers For those planning to explore rugged terrains or travel in larger groups, SUVs or crossovers are the best choice. Models like the Toyota Innova, Mahindra XUV500, or Hyundai Creta offer plenty of space, powerful engines, and comfortable rides for both city drives and countryside exploration. SUVs are also ideal if you're heading to hill stations or areas with challenging road conditions.

Luxury Cars If you want to add a touch of glamour and style to your trip, luxury car rentals are available in Kozhikode. Vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or Audi are perfect for those looking to travel in style. These cars offer premium interiors, top-notch comfort, and advanced features, making them ideal for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or business trips.

Vans and Minivans For large groups or family trips, renting a van or minivan is the best option. Vehicles like the Toyota Innova Crysta or Mahindra Marazzo offer ample space for up to 7 or 8 people and plenty of luggage space. These vehicles are ideal for group tours to places like Wayanad, Vythiri, or even to nearby beaches, where comfort and space are key.

How to Rent a Car in Kozhikode

Choose a Reliable Rental Service Several car rental companies offer services in Kozhikode. Some well-known brands include Zoomcar, Revv, MyChoize, and local services. Make sure to check the reviews and ratings before booking. You can also use online platforms like Savaari, RentoMojo, or VroomDrive, which allow you to book cars based on your preferences and rental duration.

Select Your Vehicle Based on your requirements, choose a vehicle that fits your needs. Consider factors such as the number of passengers, luggage, type of roads you’ll be traveling on (city roads vs. rural roads), and your budget. If you're planning to visit hilly areas like Wayanad, an SUV may be a better option than a sedan.

Check the Rental Terms Before booking, review the rental company’s terms and conditions. Pay attention to details like the rental duration, mileage limits, fuel policy, security deposit, and any extra fees for tolls or insurance coverage. Most car rental services offer either full or half-day rentals, as well as discounts for longer durations.

Book Online Once you’ve chosen a car and reviewed the terms, proceed with the booking. Most services allow you to book your rental car online, where you can choose the pick-up and drop-off locations, select any extra services (like a chauffeur or GPS), and make payment. Many companies also offer the option for home delivery and pick-up, which can be extremely convenient.

Inspect the Car When you pick up the car, do a thorough inspection for any pre-existing damages. Take photos or videos if necessary to avoid being charged for damages you didn’t cause. Also, check that all the essentials—like air conditioning, lights, brakes, and tires—are working properly before you drive off.

Return the Car When returning the car, make sure it’s clean, with a full tank of fuel (if the rental policy requires it). Keep track of the rental period to avoid extra charges for late return. If you're opting for a home pick-up service, ensure you schedule the return time in advance.

Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience in Kozhikode

Keep Your Documents Handy Ensure you have the necessary documents with you, including your driver’s license, identification proof, and a credit card for the security deposit. Some rental companies may also require an additional form of ID, like a passport or voter ID card.

Drive Carefully While Kerala's roads are generally well-maintained, be prepared for varying traffic conditions in urban areas. Driving in Kozhikode can be a bit chaotic, so it's best to be patient and follow traffic rules. Make sure you have a GPS or use Google Maps to navigate the city and surrounding areas.

Insurance Coverage Check if the rental price includes insurance coverage, as this will help protect you in case of accidents or damage. Some services may offer optional insurance upgrades for additional coverage.

Fuel Policy Understand the rental company’s fuel policy—whether you’re required to return the car with a full tank or if you can pay for the fuel used at the time of return. Some services may charge you a premium rate for refueling, so it's usually best to return the car with a full tank.

Top Places to Visit in and Around Kozhikode with Your Rental Car

Kozhikode Beach One of the most iconic spots in the city, Kozhikode Beach is perfect for a leisurely evening stroll or a relaxing day by the sea. With your rental car, you can easily explore the beach and nearby attractions like the Lion's Park and the Calicut Lighthouse.

Wayanad A picturesque district located around 80 kilometers from Kozhikode, Wayanad is famous for its lush greenery, wildlife sanctuaries, and waterfalls. The drive to Wayanad through winding roads and hills is a scenic experience, and a car rental makes it convenient to explore its many attractions, including Edakkal Caves and Pookode Lake.

Kappad Beach Just 16 kilometers from Kozhikode, Kappad Beach is where Vasco da Gama first landed in India. The serene atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a great spot for a day trip.

Thusharagiri Waterfalls Located about 50 kilometers from Kozhikode, Thusharagiri is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The drive through the Western Ghats adds to the adventure, and the car rental ensures you can make stops along the way to take in the breathtaking views.

Beypore Known for its traditional shipbuilding industry, Beypore is a historic coastal town about 10 kilometers from Kozhikode. The tranquil setting is perfect for a relaxed day trip.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Kozhikode offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience for exploring the city and its beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or planning a long road trip, having your own vehicle ensures that you can travel comfortably, at your own pace, and with a sense of adventure. With a variety of car rental options available, there’s something for everyone—whether you're traveling solo, with family, or in a large group.

So, the next time you find yourself in Kozhikode, consider renting a car and unlock the freedom to explore this enchanting part of Kerala with ease!