KSRTC launches second double-decker bus in Munnar for sightseeing

Following the success of its initial double-decker service, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched a second bus for sightseeing, Royal View 2.0, at Munnar. According to officials, the new bus began service on Friday. Devikulam MLA A. Raja inaugurated the service at the KSRTC Munnar depot, with KSRTC Managing Director P.S. Pramoj Shankar presiding over the event.

The launch follows a promise made by the Transport Minister to allot an additional double-decker bus to Munnar due to the high demand for the existing service. On Wednesday, Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar officially flagged off the vehicle in Thiruvananthapuram.

Rajeev N.R., the Idukki district coordinator for KSRTC’s budget tourism cell, stated that the second bus will also operate on the Anayirankal route along the Munnar-Bodimettu stretch of the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway.

Time slots

“The time slots for the first bus are fixed at 8 a.m., 11.30 a.m., and 3 p.m. The second bus will depart at 9 a.m., 12.30 a.m., and 4 a.m.,” Mr. Rajeev said. “The bus provides a panoramic view of the Munnar hill station. The new bus has 12 seats on the lower deck and 38 on the upper deck,” said Mr. Rajeev.

The KSRTC originally launched the glass-panelled ‘Royal View’ double-decker tourist bus in Munnar in February 2025. Designed to provide a 360-degree view of the tea plantations and high ranges, the transparent bus soon become a major attraction.

Officials said that the double-decker service earned ₹1 crore in November alone, with total earnings recently reaching ₹1.2 crore. “Munnar is currently witnessing a massive tourist rush. We hope the introduction of this second bus will attract even more visitors and further increase revenue,” said an official.