KL 36 Which District?

If you’re cruising through Kerala’s central belt, maybe taking the scenic route between Kochi and Kottayam or exploring the backwaters near Kumarakom, you might spot a vehicle bearing the number plate KL 36. But what does that mean, and where does it point to?

You might find yourself wondering, “KL 36, which district does it belong to?” The answer is Vaikom, a heritage-rich temple town nestled in the Kottayam district of Kerala. KL 36 is the official code for the Vaikom Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO), one of the vehicle registration zones managed by Kerala’s Motor Vehicle Department.

For locals, KL 36 is just a line of code. But for road-trippers, backpackers, or anyone renting a vehicle for a journey across Kerala, understanding these regional number plates can come in handy. It’s a simple way to know where a vehicle is from, useful for check posts, border crossings, and just general curiosity as you trace your way through God’s Own Country.

Vaikom RTO (KL 36): What Travellers Should Know?

The Vaikom SRTO, or KL 36, may not be on your tourist checklist, but it plays a vital supporting role in your journey. Whether you’re gliding past the Vaikom backwaters, heading toward the Mahadeva Temple, or renting a vehicle for your own Kerala road trip, this office is the administrative base for many of the vehicles you’ll encounter in this part of the state.

Here’s a quick look at the official KL 36 details:

You probably won’t have to walk into the KL 36 SRTO while touring Kerala, but knowing what this code means helps when driving across districts, passing vehicle checkpoints, or renting cars and scooters in the region.

What Makes KL 36 Relevant for Travellers?

If you’re planning a self-drive trip in Kerala, especially in central parts like Kottayam or Kochi, KL 36 could be on your license plate.

Here’s why this seemingly small number matters:

• It’s the official code for the Vaikom Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO)
• If you’re renting a vehicle near Vaikom, Kumarakom, or western Kottayam, you’ll most likely get a KL 36 registration
• It helps officials track a vehicle’s origin, useful when driving toward Kochi, Alappuzha, or while crossing into neighboring zones
• It streamlines permit and documentation verification, especially during random inspections or at highway check posts
• It’s also a fun little clue that tells you a bit about the place your journey began

So, whether you’re driving toward Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, circling the Kumarakom backwaters, or heading inland through Kottayam’s green corridors, there’s a fair chance you’ll be behind the wheel of a KL 36-registered vehicle—your mechanical passport to central Kerala.

Other RTO Codes in and Around Kottayam You Might See

Kottayam is a diverse district and includes several different RTO and SRTO zones.

While KL 36 is specific to Vaikom, here are some other codes you might spot as you road-trip across the region:

• KL 05 – Kottayam (Main RTO for the district)
• KL 34 – Changanassery SRTO
• KL 67 – Pala SRTO
• KL 07 – Ernakulam (Cochin city, neighboring district)
• KL 32 – Kanjirappally SRTO (eastern parts of Kottayam)

These codes aren’t just bureaucratic tags—they reflect the rich diversity of Kerala’s districts and make navigating local geography a little more interesting for travelers.

FAQs

What is KL 36 and which district does it belong to?

KL 36 is the vehicle registration code for the Vaikom Sub Regional Transport Office, which falls under the Kottayam district in Kerala.

Is KL 36 used in Kottayam city too?

No. Kottayam city itself generally uses KL 05, while KL 36 is specific to the Vaikom region within the same district.

Can tourists rent a KL 36 vehicle in Kerala?

Yes! If you’re renting a car or bike around Vaikom, Kumarakom, or western Kottayam, you’ll likely be issued a KL 36-registered vehicle.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a KL 36 rental vehicle?

Foreign nationals do. An IDP along with your home license is required. Indian residents only need a valid Indian driver’s license.

Can KL 36 vehicles travel outside Kottayam?

Definitely. KL 36 vehicles can travel across all of Kerala and India, provided you carry the correct documentation and permits.

Is Vaikom safe for tourists to drive around?

Yes, Vaikom is very safe for travelers. Roads are generally in good condition. Be cautious during monsoons, when roads can become slippery.

What places can I explore around Vaikom with a KL 36 vehicle?

You can visit the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, take a detour to Kumarakom Backwaters, explore Ettumanoor Temple, or drive to nearby cultural hubs like Changanassery or Thalayolaparambu.