Auto Rickshaw: The cheapest mode of hired transport. Autos ply to small towns in and around Kumbakonam less than 10 km. As with any other town in Tamil Nadu, negotiate the price before making the trip.
You can negotiate an Auto for half-day or full day rates for the nearby places and temples within Kumbakonam. Charges range from 500/- to 750/- approximately for half-day, depending on the places you need to visit. For a 1.5 days I paid ~Rs.900/- in total.
Taxis: There are two prominent taxi stands in the town. One near the bus stand and the other near town hall. As with any tourist place, the prices are hiked up once they know you are from out of town.For the Navagraha trip, one can base the trip from Kumbakonam.It taken 1.5 days to cover the 9 temples.Taxis charges approximately 10 Rs per Km.For covering 250 Kms , I paid Rs 2500/- including driver charges
Its a good idea to check with locals on the average fare for autos and taxis.
Bus: State and private operated buses ply to all towns in the vicinity.
