Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a captivating blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Located on the southwest coast of India, this coastal city has played a pivotal role in trade and cultural exchange for centuries. From the remnants of colonial forts to the bustling spice markets, Kochi warmly welcomes travellers, offering a journey through time and a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of Kerala.
Kochi has a rich history that is closely linked to Indian maritime trade. As a significant port along the spice route, Kochi attracted traders worldwide, which has left a lasting impression on its cultural landscape. The city has many historic sites, such as the iconic Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace, which stand as evidence of its colonial past. Kochi has embraced its multicultural identity, with the architectural style, cuisine, and way of life being influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlers.
Fort Kochi is a seaside area and part of the city of Kochi. It's known for its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture and bamboo fishing nets. Travellers can stroll through the cobbled streets of Fort Kochi, where colonial-era buildings, charming cafes, and vibrant street art create an atmosphere of timeless beauty. The Chinese fishing nets along the coast add to the area's unique charm.
Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a 16th-century Portuguese palace in Kochi. The palace is a fine example of Kerala architecture with colonial influences. It features Kerala murals with portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. The palace also features stunning murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and is a window into the region's royal history.
Located in the heart of Jew Town, the synagogue is a testament to Kochi's cultural diversity. It was built in 1568 after the beginning of the Jewish connection with Kerala. It is situated on the land, adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace, given by the erstwhile king of Cochin. Its exquisite interiors, adorned with Belgian glass chandeliers and Chinese tiles, reflect the city's syncretic past.
Oceanos Restaurant: Overlooking the Arabian Sea, Oceanos Restaurant offers a seafood extravaganza with a variety of coastal delicacies. The ambiance complements the fresh and flavorful dishes.
Address: Elphinstone Residency, Elphinstone Rd, near St. Andrews Parish Hall, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
Cost: INR 1,500 for two
Paradesi Bazaar Restaurant: Nestled in Jew Town, Paradesi Bazaar Restaurant serves authentic Kerala cuisine, including traditional thalis and seafood specialties. The restaurant's setting adds to the cultural experience.
Address: Seaport - Airport Rd, Chittethukara, Kakkanad, Kerala 682037
Timings: Open 24 hrs
Cost: INR 1,000 for two
Kashi Art Cafe: A cultural hub in Fort Kochi, Kashi Art Cafe combines art, literature, and culinary delights. Enjoy a range of organic dishes, baked goods, and art exhibitions in a laid-back atmosphere.
Address: Burger St, near Police Station, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 8:30 am to 10 pm
Cost: INR 700 for two
Latest Recipe: A part of Le Meridien, Kochi, Lates Recipe is known for its sophisticated ambiance, great service, and good food. Some popular dishes at Latest Recipe include: Paratha basket, Vada, Prawns biryani.
Address: Nettoor, Maradu, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682304
Timings: 6:30 am to 10:30 am and 12:30 pm to 3 pm and 7 pm to 11 pm
Cost: INR 2,500 for two
Rasa Gurukul: Experience the richness of Kerala's vegetarian cuisine at Rasa Gurukul. The restaurant's thalis showcase a variety of regional dishes, allowing diners to savour the diverse flavours of Kerala.
Address: Chalakudy, Kovilakam Kadavu Rd, Poolany, Meloor, Kerala 680311
Timings: 8 am to 9 pm
Cost: INR 1,000 for two
Kochi Beach Street Food Stalls: The area around Kochi Beach is a haven for street food enthusiasts. From local snacks to fresh seafood, the stalls offer a delightful culinary journey.
Address: Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi, India
LuLu Mall Food Court: As one of the largest malls in India, LuLu Mall houses a diverse food court with options ranging from Kerala street food to international cuisines.
Address: 34/1000, Old NH 47, Edappally Junction, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682024
Broadway Street Food: Explore the bustling Broadway area for a variety of street food options. From dosas to chaats, the street vendors cater to different taste preferences.
Address: Broadway, Marine Drive, Kochi, Kerala 682031
Jew Town Street Food: The narrow lanes of Jew Town are filled with street food stalls offering a mix of Kerala and international flavours. Don't miss the opportunity to try local snacks and sweets.
Address: Jew TownAnavathil, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Marine Drive Food Trucks: Enjoy a scenic culinary experience along Marine Drive, where food trucks offer a range of snacks and beverages against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.
Address: X7JF+4WM, Marine Drive, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682031
Kochi-Muziris Biennale: As a prominent art festival in India, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale showcases contemporary art from around the world. The event transforms the city into a vibrant hub of creativity, with exhibitions, installations, and cultural programs.
Address: X69W+8QG, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Kerala Folklore Museum: Immerse yourself in Kerala's cultural heritage at the Kerala Folklore Museum. The museum displays traditional artefacts, costumes, and art forms, offering insights into the state's rich cultural tapestry.
Address: 2059C, No 26, Pandit Karuppan Rd, near Thevara Ferry Road, Junction, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682013
Kathakali Performances: Witness the captivating art of Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. Several venues in Kochi host nightly performances, allowing visitors to experience this classical art form.
Backwater Cruise: Explore the serene backwaters of Kochi on a houseboat cruise. The backwaters offer a tranquil escape, with opportunities to witness local life along the waterways.
Cherai Beach Water Sports: Cherai Beach, a short drive from Kochi, is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.
Kodanad Elephant Training Center: Experience the thrill of interacting with elephants at the Kodanad Elephant Training Center. Visitors can watch the elephants being bathed and trained in a picturesque setting.
Address: Vallom Panamkuzhi Road, Malayattoor, PO, Kaprikad, Kerala 683544
Spice Market: Dive into the aromatic world of spices at Kochi's Spice Market. From cardamom to cinnamon, the market offers a variety of spices that have been a part of the city's trading legacy.
Jew Town Antique Shops: Explore the antique shops in Jew Town for unique finds, including vintage furniture, artefacts, and collectibles. The area is known for its historical charm and eclectic offerings.
LuLu Mall: One of the largest malls in India, LuLu Mall is a modern shopping destination with a diverse range of brands, boutique stores, and a hypermarket.
Fort Kochi Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along Fort Kochi Beach, where the Chinese fishing nets and colonial-era structures create a picturesque setting. The beach is ideal for a relaxing evening by the sea.
Kochi Backwaters: Explore the backwaters of Kochi on a boat ride, witnessing the tranquil waterways, coconut groves, and traditional villages along the way.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: A green oasis in the heart of Kochi, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is home to various bird species. The sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Address: High Ct Rd, Marine Drive, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682031
Timings: 10 am to 5pm
Cost: INR 10 per head
Ayurville Wellness Center: Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and wellness programs at Ayurville Wellness Center. The centre offers rejuvenating massages, yoga sessions, and Ayurvedic consultations.
Address: 11/685 Mac Kenzie Lane, Bishop Kureethara Rd, behind St.Anthony's Chapel, Pattallam, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
Contact: 095626 55577
The Spa at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty: Located on Bolgatty Island, this luxury spa offers a range of wellness treatments, including massages, facials, and holistic therapies.
Address: Mezzanine Level, Grand Hyatt Kochi, Mulavukad, Bolgatty, Kochi, Kerala 682504
Timings: 7 am to 10 pm
Contact: 0484 266 1234
Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital: Experience authentic Ayurveda at Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital. The hospital provides Ayurvedic consultations, therapies, and wellness programs in a serene environment.
Address: Chakkothmala Road, Pallikkara Kakkanad, Kochi, Kerala 683565
Timings: Open 24 hrs
Contact: 062829 80003
Kochi Carnival: Join the festivities during the Kochi Carnival, a vibrant celebration featuring parades, cultural programs, and street events. The carnival brings together locals and visitors in a joyous atmosphere.
Greenix Village: Experience traditional Kerala arts and performances at Greenix Village. The cultural centre hosts Kathakali shows, traditional music performances, and dance recitals.
Address: C.C. 2/481, Calvathy Rd, Calvathy, Aspinwall Junction, Kunnumupuram, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Contact: 0484 221 7000
David Hall Art Gallery: Attend art exhibitions, cultural events, and live performances at the David Hall Art Gallery. The gallery promotes contemporary art and serves as a platform for artists and art enthusiasts.
Address: 1, 264, Napier Street, opp. Parade Ground, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 8:30 am to 9 pm
Contact: 092880 01961
Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty: A waterfront luxury retreat, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty offers spacious rooms, upscale amenities, and panoramic views of the backwaters.
Address: Mulavukad, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682504
Contact: 0484 266 1234
Price: Starts at INR 24,700 per night
Brunton Boatyard: Located in Fort Kochi, Brunton Boatyard is a heritage hotel that blends colonial charm with modern comforts. The hotel provides a unique experience amid historical surroundings.
Address: 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Contact: 075940 12555
Price: Begins at INR 23,900 per night
Fort Castle: A budget-friendly option in Fort Kochi, Fort Castle offers comfortable accommodations with essential amenities and a central location.
Address: X68R+RW2, Rose St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Contact: 096450 78220
Price: INR 2,800 per night
Niyati - Boutique Stay: Niyati, a boutique stay in Kochi, provides budget-friendly yet stylish accommodations. The property reflects the cultural ethos of Kochi.
Address: 1/635, Quiros St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 68200
Price: INR 3,500 per night
Eighth Bastion: Experience the warmth of Kochi's hospitality at Eighth Bastion, a homestay that combines modern comforts with traditional charm.
Address: 1, 259, Napier Street, Fort, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Contact: 075940 12555
Price: Starts at INR 15,600 per night
Kochi Riverside Homestay: Nestled by the waterfront, Kochi Riverside Homestay offers a homely stay with personalised service and a scenic setting.
Address: PWD Rd, north end, Nettoor, Maradu, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682040
Contact: 099950 18432
Price: Starts at INR 2,700 per night
Air: Kochi has a well connected air network both international and domestic that operate from Kochi International Airport. It is located in Nedumbassery.
Rail: Kochi has a total of three railway station, namely, Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town and Cochin Harbour Terminus.
Road: Kochi is connected by excellect roadways to major nearby cities. It is at 848 km from Goa, 694 km from Chennai, 565 km from Bengaluru, 470 km from Mysore, 312 km from Ooty and 223 km from Coimbatore.
