You’ll find Kochi or Cochin, enchanting, thanks to its colonial history, gentle waterways, lively arts and fun along the coast. Because it mixes tradition with modern life, Kochi appeals to cultural travellers, backpackers and honeymooners all at once on its west coast in Kerala.
If you’re looking for a cultural adventure, a date weekend or just a break in Kochi, this guide has the best places to help you have an excellent trip.
1. Fort Kochi: Friendly Colonial Buildings and Peaceful Sea Shores
If there’s one place in Kochi that feels most historic places, it’s Fort Kochi. The old cobbled roads, old colonial architecture, cosy cafés and art galleries make for an enchanting place to be seen on Instagram.
Highlights:
- Fishing nets are a unique sight in Kochi, having most likely been brought by Chinese traders in the 14th century. You’ll love the view best at sunset.
- Original resting place of Vasco da Gama at St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European religion building.
- If you head to Princess Street, you’ll discover many delightful shops, art galleries, bakeries and homestays—not to mention a calm, pleasant stroll in the afternoon.
- Check out more small towns along the shoreline in Kerala.
2. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Home to the History of Royal Family
The Mattancherry area is where you’ll find the Dutch Palace, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later improved by the Dutch. Kerala-style architecture is showcased there and you’ll find plenty about the region’s royal past.
Must-see:
- Wonderful murals showing stories found in the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still in place.
- This section features displays of spectacular artefacts, as well as worn by and used by the Kochi royal family.
- One of the top keywords recently is heritage tourism in Kerala.
3. A History Walk Inside Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue
In Mattancherry, only a short walk from the Palace, is Jew Town filled with old shops, spice markets and the Paradesi Synagogue from 1568—the oldest synagogue still being used across the Commonwealth.
Chinese-painted tiles and elaborate Belgian chandeliers give the synagogue a reflection of Kochi’s colourful background.
If you want insider information on historical places in India, check out our full travel guides here.
4. Kerala Folklore Museum Is Full of Cultural Artefacts
Kerala’s traditional stories come alive for visitors to the Folklore Museum in Thevara. On its three floors, the museum includes more than 4,000 items such as masks, musical instruments, paintings and traditional jewellery.
A visit to South India won’t be complete without: cultural activities and live classical dances like Kathakali or Mohiniyattam in the museum’s theatre directly under the open sky.
5. Visiting Marine Drive: A Wonderful Break from the City
Do not mix up Kochi Marine Drive with Marine Drive in Mumbai—it’s an excellent places to walk or sit in the evenings. The walkway gives visitors fantastic views of the backwaters and harbour, most of all at sunset.
Activities:
- Food found on the street such as pazham pori and ice gola
- Evening trips out on the water
- You can shop for local produce a short walk from the school at Broadway Market.
- This spot makes for great shots of travel moments without posing!
6. A Spiritual Place to Visit in the Centre of Ernakulam
The Ernakulathappan Temple is situated downtown beside the bay and honours Lord Shiva. It’s more than a holy place; it’s a peaceful break away from the city centre.
You’ll have the best experience on Shivaratri which is when the temple is decorated with lights and music abounds.
check out our guides to help you create your temple trail in South India.
7. Willingdon Island forms the entrance to Kochi’s Port Life
Using technology in Viceroyal India, Willingdon Island, the country’s biggest artificial island, was created and acts as a link between Ernakulam and the Port of Kochi. Nowadays, it helps drive much of Canada’s commerce and is home to beautiful hotels, navy offices and lovely waterfront places.
This course is meant for:
- Noticing when ships travel into and out of the harbour
- Getting a true feel for the place by staying in luxury hotels
- Boat tours going from here
8. The bird sanctuary of Mangalavanam shows urban wildlife up close
Found near the Kerala High Court, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a surprise burst of green in the middle of the city. Due to its migratory birds and mangroves, the place is a quiet paradise for lovers of nature and watching birds.
It’s best to go bird watching as the sun is rising or just setting.
9. An Experience with Style at Lulu Mall
Shopping and wanting to catch a movie? Lulu Mall in Kochi has everything you’ll need. A trip to this centre includes a chance to eat, relax and find entertainment, so it’s a wonderful way to get a break from sightseeing.
If you’re there, try the local biryani and seafood in the food court.
What to check : shopping destinations in Kochi places
10. Enjoy the Calm on Cherai Beach and Look for Dolphins
At just 25 kilometres from the city, Cherai Beach is calmer and cleaner than many other beaches, with both sea and backwaters. Because dolphins are common and the water sports are fun, families often choose it for a quick day out.
Activities:
- Jet skiing and riding on a banana boat.
- Taking time to lay out in the sun and volleyball on the sand
- Eating fresh sea creatures at local shacks by the sea.
- See more calm beaches near Kochi by checking out our blog.
- A Food Lover’s Guide to Restaurants in Kochi places.
People who love food are sure to enjoy Kochi. The food you will find here reflects all the cultures that live together in this city.
Top picks:
- Kashi Art Café: Join the Conti-Fusion trend in Fort Kochi.
- Modern versions of classic Kerala food are called Dhe Puttu.
- Fine dining in a lovely setting by the backwaters is possible at Ginger House Restaurant
- Be sure to eat: Karimeen pollichathu, appam with stew, beef ularthiyathu and Kerala-style prawn curry
Where to Find Hotels in Kochi: From Small Luxury to Affordable
- Brunton Boatyard, Taj Malabar Resort is a landmark in luxury.
- Old Harbour Hotel and Abad Plaza are in this price category.
- I stayed at Zostel Kochi and Dream Catcher Homestay.
- If you are after colonial charm, stay in Fort Kochi, but if you want to explore and buy, try Ernakulam.
When Should You Visit Kochi
- This period, starting in October and ending in March, is a great time to see the sights and go on a boat tour on India’s backwaters.
- In the months of June through September, lush, green rainy areas attract nature lovers.
- April and May are both hot and wet and prices are lower.
- It’s best to organise your trip early if you’re visiting Kochi-Muziris Biennale (which is held every two years).
Guide to Getting to Kochi
- Cooperate with our travel experts to arrange your flight from Cochin International Airport (COK) which has good connections to both Indian and overseas destinations.
- Trains from Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town reach most parts of Kochi
- You can take NH 66 from Bangalore, Coimbatore or Mangalore and reach by with no trouble
A Final Look at Kochi
Kochi is much more than a place to visit; it’s also an experience. Less than 12 miles apart, some of Kochi’s most interesting landmarks are just waiting to be explored.
All types of visitors, especially those drawn to culture, history, beach fun and food, will find that Kochi lets them see Kerala’s true character.
Make sure your bags are packed, lace up your walking shoes and join in on the colours, flavours and interesting storeys around Kochi.
