How to use the Kochi1 card on the metro and Water Metro: buying, recharging, and tips for exploring all of Kochi's transport modes.
How to Get the Kochi1 Card
Buy at any Kochi Metro station customer service counter or ticket machine. ₹100 deposit (refundable) + minimum balance of ₹100. Also available at select partner outlets.
Kochi1 Card Benefits
- Works on Kochi Metro, KMRL Water Metro ferries, select KSRTC buses, and partner autos.
- Discount on metro fares vs token purchase.
- One card for exploring both the city metro and the unique Kerala backwaters Water Metro.
- Refundable ₹100 deposit.
- Top up via UPI at station machines or the Kochi Metro app.
Fare Reference (INR)
Payment methods: Kochi1 card · Token (single-trip) · UPI at machines.
💡 The Kochi1 card (₹100 deposit + balance) works on the metro, KMRL Water Metro ferries, and select buses, a unique multi-modal card. Highly recommended for exploring Kochi's famous backwaters alongside the metro.
| Journey | Off-Peak (INR) | Peak (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 km | ₹10 | ₹10 |
| 2–4 km | ₹20 | ₹20 |
| 4–6 km | ₹30 | ₹30 |
| 6–10 km | ₹40 | ₹40 |
| 10–15 km | ₹50 | ₹50 |
| 15+ km | ₹60 | ₹60 |
Peak hours: No peak surcharge, flat distance-based fares.
Kochi1 Card vs Single-Journey Ticket
| Kochi1 Card | Single-Journey Token / Ticket | |
|---|---|---|
| Fare benefit | Works on Kochi Metro, KMRL Water Metro ferries, select KSRTC buses, and partner autos. | Standard full fare |
| Queue time | Tap and go, no queue | Buy at a machine each time |
| Initial cost | ₹100 | Journey cost only |
| Best for | Frequent riders | A single one-off journey |
Tips for Using the Kochi1 Card
- Tap in and tap out with the same card at every gate. The fare is worked out when you exit.
- Top up before you travel, through the official Kochi Metro app or website where available, or at station machines using UPI.
- If you ride most days, the card pays for itself quickly. For a short visit, a QR ticket on your phone may be simpler.
- Travelling to or from the airport? See the airport transfer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a Kochi1 card online?
Kochi1 cards are primarily purchased at metro station counters. The balance can be recharged via the Kochi Metro app. Check the KMRL website for any online card delivery options.
How do I use Kochi1 on the Water Metro?
At KMRL Water Metro jetty terminals, tap your Kochi1 card on the reader at the entry gate. The ferry fare is deducted automatically. Ferries run every 15–30 minutes on various backwater routes.
What happens to my Kochi1 card balance if I leave?
The balance doesn't expire. Keep the card for your next visit to Kochi. If you want a refund, visit any metro customer care centre, ₹100 deposit plus remaining balance is returned.
Is Kochi1 available for NFC mobile payment?
NFC mobile support for Kochi1 is being developed. As of 2026, the physical card is the primary form. Check the KMRL app for the latest updates on mobile payment support.
See also: Kochi Metro ticket prices · Airport connection · Full Kochi Metro guide
Source: Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL). Fares and card terms change from time to time, so verify before travel.