KL 25 Which District?

If you’re cruising through the misty hills of southern Kerala, somewhere between the eco-tourism haven of Thenmala and the backwater town of Kollam, you might spot a vehicle bearing the number plate KL 25. But what does that mean, and where exactly does it take you?

You might find yourself asking, “KL 25 which district does it belong to?” The answer: Punalur, a charming town that falls within the Kollam district in Kerala. Known for its rubber plantations, forest routes, and colonial-era suspension bridge, Punalur is a lesser-known but scenic destination for travelers exploring Kerala’s hilly interiors.

For locals, KL 25 is just another identifier on their vehicles. But for tourists, road-trippers, and those renting a car or motorbike, knowing this RTO code is useful when crossing districts, navigating checkpoints, or simply getting curious about the plates you see on the road.

Punalur RTO (KL 25): What Travellers Should Know?

The Punalur Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO) might not be on your travel radar, but it supports a vital chunk of the vehicle movement in Kerala’s hill border areas, especially if you’re taking the forest routes toward Tamil Nadu or heading into the heart of Kollam.

Whether you’re steering a rental scooter through spice plantations or making your way toward Thenmala Dam, KL 25 is the code behind many vehicles you’ll see on the road.

Here’s a quick look at the official KL 25 details:

You probably won’t need to visit the KL 25 SRTO while traveling, but knowing your vehicle’s origin, especially if you’re renting, can come in handy at checkposts, tolls, or while crossing into Tamil Nadu’s border checkpoints.

What Makes KL 25 Relevant for Travellers?

When you rent a vehicle in Kerala or embark on a self-drive road trip, the registration number offers more than just regional trivia. It’s a practical tool for understanding vehicle origin, ensuring smoother checkpoints, and connecting with local geography.

Here’s why KL 25 matters to travellers:

• It’s the code for the Punalur Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO)
• If you’re renting a vehicle near Punalur, Thenmala, or eastern Kollam, you’ll likely get a KL 25-registered vehicle
• It helps authorities verify a vehicle’s registration, especially at forest or border checkpoints
• It simplifies document verification when entering Tamil Nadu or driving through eco-sensitive areas
• It offers a unique way to trace your vehicle’s roots and connect it to the hill roads you’re cruising on

Whether you’re riding past the Punalur Suspension Bridge, exploring the Thenmala forests, or heading into Tenkasi via Aryankavu Pass, there’s a good chance you’ll be behind the wheel of a KL 25 vehicle, one that started its journey right from this scenic hill town in southern Kerala.

Other RTO Codes in and Around Kollam You Might See

Kollam is a large district with multiple RTOs serving different regions. While KL 25 specifically covers Punalur, neighboring towns and key junctions have distinct codes too.

If you’re driving across southern Kerala, keep an eye out for these plates:

• KL 02 – Kollam (Main district HQ)
• KL 24 – Kottarakara
• KL 80 – Pathanapuram
• KL 26 – Adoor (nearby town in Pathanamthitta district)
• KL 76 – Nanmanda

These codes help the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) efficiently track and manage vehicle registrations, and for travelers, they add a small but interesting detail to your driving experience.

FAQs

What is KL 25 and which district does it belong to?

KL 25 is the vehicle registration code for the Punalur Sub Regional Transport Office, located in the Kollam district of Kerala.

Is KL 25 used in Kollam city?

No. Kollam city itself uses the code KL 02, while KL 25 specifically refers to vehicles registered in Punalur, an inland town east of Kollam.

Can tourists rent a KL 25 vehicle in Kerala?

Absolutely! Many rental agencies in and around Punalur, Thenmala, and eastern Kollam offer KL 25-registered bikes and cars for self-drive tours.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a KL 25 rental vehicle?

If you’re a foreign tourist, yes, you’ll need an IDP along with your native license. Indian nationals can drive with a valid Indian driver’s licence.

Are KL 25 vehicles allowed to travel outside Kollam or into Tamil Nadu?

Yes. Vehicles with KL 25 registration can travel across Kerala and into neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, as long as proper permits and documentation are in place.

Is Punalur safe for tourists to drive around?

Yes. Punalur and its surrounding areas like Thenmala, Aryankavu, and Kottarakkara offer good roads and scenic routes. Caution is advised during monsoons when some forest roads may become slippery.

What are some places to explore around Punalur with a KL 25 rental?

You can visit the Thenmala Ecotourism Zone, Punalur Suspension Bridge, Courtallam Falls, Aryankavu forest checkpost, and even venture into Tamil Nadu’s Tenkasi.