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ToggleIf you’re winding through the heart of Kerala, somewhere between the towering Western Ghats and the open plains of Palakkad, you might spot a vehicle with the number plate KL 49. But what does that number mean, and where does it lead you?
You might find yourself wondering, “KL 49, which district does it belong to?” The answer is Alathur, a laid-back town nestled in the Palakkad district of Kerala. Though it might not be the first name on your travel list, Alathur is an essential waypoint for anyone road-tripping through Kerala’s central corridor.
For locals, KL 49 is just another code on their vehicle’s plate. But for tourists, road-trippers, and those renting a car or bike for self-drive adventures, understanding the meaning behind this code helps track where a vehicle is registered, especially useful when you’re crossing district lines, passing police checks, or simply curious about the places you’re passing through.
Alathur RTO (KL 49): What Travellers Should Know?
The Alathur Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO) isn’t likely to be featured in travel brochures, but it plays a silent role in helping travellers move smoothly across Kerala’s central highways.
Whether you’re heading from Thrissur to Coimbatore, making your way to Nelliampathy Hills, or driving into Palakkad town, chances are you’ll encounter vehicles managed by this SRTO.
Here’s a quick look at the official KL 49 RTO details:
| Field | Details |
| KL Registration | Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO) |
| Number | KL-49 |
| City | Alathur |
| State | Kerala |
| Phone | 04922-224909 |
| kl49.mvd@kerala.gov.in | |
| Address | Mini Civil Station, Alathur, Palakkad 678541 |
While you probably won’t need to step inside the KL 49 RTO during your trip, it’s helpful to know the origin of your rental car or bike, especially if you’re travelling long distances or navigating inspections at district borders.
What Makes KL 49 Relevant for Travellers?

If you’re driving a rental vehicle in Kerala or planning a self-drive trip, knowing the RTO code helps you understand:
- Where the vehicle is registered
- Which SRTO office manages the vehicle records
- What region the vehicle is legally allowed to travel in (and how far you can take it)
- How local authorities track vehicles across district boundaries
Here’s why KL 49 matters to travellers:
- It’s the code for the Alathur Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO)
- If you’re renting a car or scooter in or around Palakkad, there’s a good chance it’ll have a KL 49 number plate
- It helps officials identify a vehicle’s origin quickly, especially during police checks near district borders
- It can help speed up documentation checks and ensure a smooth ride, especially if you’re heading to Tamil Nadu or deeper into the Western Ghats
Whether you’re cruising toward Malampuzha Dam, weaving through the Nelliampathy plantation routes, or heading inland to explore Silent Valley National Park, chances are you’ll be in or passing by KL 49 territory, the green gateway of Alathur.
Other RTO Codes in and Around Palakkad You Might See
Palakkad is a large and diverse district with multiple RTO zones. While KL 49 specifically belongs to Alathur, the surrounding areas are also designated with distinct RTO codes.
Here are a few others you might spot along your drive:
- KL 09 – Palakkad (Main City RTO)
- KL 50 – Mannarkkad
- KL 70 – Pattambi
- KL 48 – Ottapalam (nearby sub-region)
- KL 08 – Thrissur (if you’re heading westward)
These codes are used by the Motor Vehicles Department of Kerala to manage transport administration efficiently, and for curious travellers, they’re also a fun way to decode where your fellow road-trippers are coming from!
FAQs
What is KL 49 and which district does it belong to?
KL 49 is the vehicle registration code assigned to the Alathur Sub Regional Transport Office (SRTO), which falls under the Palakkad district in Kerala.
Is KL 49 used in Palakkad city?
Not exactly. Palakkad city mainly uses KL 09, while KL 49 refers specifically to the Alathur area, which is part of the same district but forms a separate transport zone.
Can tourists rent a KL 49 vehicle in Kerala?
Absolutely! Many rental providers in Palakkad, Alathur, and nearby areas offer vehicles registered under KL 49, including bikes, scooters, and cars.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a KL 49 rental vehicle?
Foreign nationals do need an IDP along with their original license. Indian citizens only need a valid Indian driving license.
Are KL 49 vehicles allowed to travel outside Palakkad?
Yes. KL 49 vehicles are legally permitted to travel throughout Kerala and across India, as long as the vehicle documents and permits are in order.
Is Alathur safe for tourists to drive around?
Yes. Alathur offers smooth and relatively quiet roads. But as with all regions in Kerala, it’s best to be extra cautious during the monsoon season, when roads may be slippery and visibility lower.







