Kochi Travel Guide: the jewel of Kerala

Kochi, also known as Cochin,is located in the state of Kerala. Is one of the most vibrant cities of this state, on the southwestern coast of India. With a rich history that fuses Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, this port city is a must-see destination for those who want to know the India's colonial legacy combined with the local culture and the beauty of the local tropical landscapes🌴🥥.

If you are preparing your trip to South India and want to discover what to do, what to see in Kochi and my tips for your trip, this travel guide to Kochi will help you make the most of your stay in this fascinating city. I am personally very fond of this place and I have to tell you that the gastronomic options are endless and delicious 😊.

What to see in Kochi: How many days do I recommend?

Kochi, or Cochin, is a city you can explore in 2 or 3 days, especially if you focus on the historical sites and the essence of the popular Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. However, if you want to enjoy its gastronomic offerings, take a tour of the nearby backwaters or discover more about the culture of Kerala, you can stay 4 to 5 days without getting bored.

What to see and do in Kochi

If you like the history, culture and coastal landscapes, Kochi will make you fall in love. It is a city where bazaars, temples and colonial buildings mingle with a vibrant art and food scene. Here I share the 10 must-see places you must visit in Kochi:

1. Chinese Fishing Nets 🐟

One of the most photographed symbols of Kochi are these enormous fishing nets introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. They are located along the Fort Kochi waterfront and offer a unique sight, especially at sunset. You can watch the local fishermen maneuvering the nets and, in some cases, even participate in the process. This fishing tradition is still alive and well and is a reflection of the history of trade between India and China.

2. Kochi Fort

This historic district is the heart of the city and is full of colonial buildings, old churches and charming cafes. Strolling through its cobblestone streets is like traveling back in time, with a mixture of Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. It is also an ideal place to discover art galleries and cafes that fuse the best of Indian and Western cuisine. It is the most picturesque area of Kochi 📸.

3. Basilica of Santa Cruz

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and rebuilt several times, this Catholic church stands out for its Gothic style and its colorful interior frescoes. It is one of the most important churches in India and its imposing façade, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of its interior, makes it a perfect place for a cultural and spiritual visit.

4. San Francisco Church

The church of San Francisco is the oldest in India built by Europeans. It was originally erected by the Portuguese in 1503 and served as Vasco da Gama's final resting place before his remains were transferred to Portugal. Its sober architecture and history make it a living testimony to Kochi's colonial past.

5. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)

Gifted by the Portuguese to the rajah of Kochi in the 16th century, this palace is a museum of history with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Its architecture is a mixture of European and Indian influences.It houses a collection of royal artifacts, paintings and antique furnishings that provide a glimpse of the grandeur of the era.

6. Jewish Quarter and Paradesi Synagogue

This historical area is a fascinating corner of Kochi, with narrow streets lined with antique and spice stores. The Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568, is the oldest in India and is notable for its stunning Belgian crystal chandeliers and hand-painted tiles from China. It is a testament to the city's multicultural past and the global trade that flourished here.

7. Colon Art District 🎨

If you are interested in art, this district is a visual paradise with vibrant murals that adorn the walls. In addition, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India's largest contemporary art event, is held here, where artists from all over the world exhibit their works.

8. Cherai Beach Walk

Located about 30 km from Fort Kochi, this beach is perfect for a relaxing getaway. With its golden sand and leaning palm trees, it is an excellent place to enjoy the sea breeze and watch the fishermen in their traditional boats.

9. Kathakali and traditional dances

The Kathakali is one of India's oldest dance-theater forms, characterized by elaborate costumes, vibrant make-up and intense facial expressions. In Fort Kochi there are several cultural centers where you can attend performances of this dance along with other traditional forms of Kerala.

10. Tour of the Backwaters of Kerala

From Kochi you can explore the famous backwaters of Kerala, a system of canals surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. You can choose between a ride on a luxury houseboat or a more intimate tour in a small canoe, enjoying the leisurely pace of life in the riverside villages.

Where to stay in Kochi - Hotels in Kochi

Kochi has accommodations for all tastes and budgets, but choosing the best place to stay can be tricky if it's your first time in the city. To make it easier for you, here is a guide to the best areas to stay in Kochi, with recommendations based on the type of experience you are looking for.

Budget hotels in Kochi

If you are looking for an economical option without sacrificing comfort, in Kochi there are several homestays and hostels ideal for travelers on a tight budget. Most of them are in Fort Kochi, a safe area with plenty of cultural and gastronomic offerings.

A recommended option is Dream Catcher Homestay, a cozy place with clean rooms and great local hospitality.

If you want to stay in a budget hotel in the center of the city, I recommend the Abad Plaza Hotel. The hotel has a very good location, very comfortable rooms and at a very good price. Right next door there is a shopping center and the area itself is a very commercial area.

Remember to check the reviews of the accommodation and verify the location before booking and depending on your plan in the city, choose the best hotel near your areas of interest.

Boutique hotels in Kochi

If you want to live a charming experience, boutique hotels in Kochi are an excellent choice. These restored colonial houses combine history and comfort in a unique setting.

One of the most recommended is The Old Court House Fort Kochi, the hotel is an old colonial building with spectacular architecture and an exclusive ambiance. Also Old Harbour Hotel, which offers a unique historical ambiance. Forte Kochi is another option with a lot of personality, located in one of the best areas of Fort Kochi and is a very picturesque place 📸💛.

These hotels tend to offer a more intimate atmosphere and are full of historical details that will transport you to another era.

Luxury hotels in Kochi

For those seeking maximum comfort and an unforgettable experience, Kochi has luxury options with spectacular views and exclusive services.

The Brunton Boatyard is one of the most emblematic hotels in the city, with a privileged oceanfront location and a style that evokes the colonial era. Another great option is the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, combining modern luxury with breathtaking natural surroundings.

If you prefer a reputable hotel chain, Le Meridien Kochi is a safe bet with all the comforts of a five star hotel. I also recommend the hotel Fragrant Nature in Fort Kochi, with an excellent location in Fort Kochi and WOW rooms!

No matter what your travel style is, you will find an accommodation option in Kochi that is perfect for you. The most important thing is choose a location that allows you to enjoy the city to the fullest and move around easily.

Experiences and Activities (Kochi Guide)

There are endless activities, experiences and themed tours in the city of Delhi. From street food tours, stroll through the best bazaars, route of perfect enclaves to take the best pictures...

Find the best experiences here to get the most out of your trip and as always I advise you, remember to always travel with travel insurance. I travel with HeyMondo insurance because they have the best coverage and prices, and for being a reader of MiViajealaIndia you have a discount of 5% on this one link.

The weather in Kochi - Cochin

The weather in Kochi will depend on the time of year you decide to travel. The city has a tropical climate with three main seasons:

• Winter in Kochi (October - March): It is the best time to visit the city, with maximum temperatures between 28-32ºC and minimum temperatures between 20-24ºC. The days are sunny and the humidity is moderate, which allows you to comfortably enjoy the walks.
• Summer in Kochi (April - May): It is the hottest season, with maximum temperatures of up to 36ºC and high humidity. Although it is a period of intense heat, sea breezes can alleviate the thermal sensation.
• Monsoon in Kochi (June - September): During this time, Kochi receives abundant rainfall, with a high level of humidity and average temperatures of 27-30ºC. If you travel during this period, be prepared for intermittent showers and cloudy skies.

The weather in Kochi by months

Here are some graphs about the weather by month in New Delhi from the website Weather Atlas.

Temperature in Kochi:

The hottest month is April, with an average temperature of 36ºC, and the coolest month is August, with an average temperature of 25ºC.

Humidity in Kochi:

June and July have the highest humidity levels, while January and February are the driest months.

Rains in Kochi:

June and July are the months with the highest rainfall, while January and February are the driest.

You can read more about the climate in India in this article.

Shopping in Kochi

Kochi is a shoppers' paradise 🛍️, with a perfect combination of traditional markets, handicraft boutiques and modern shopping malls. Here you will find everything from unique local products to international brands.

The markets The traditional markets (bazaars) are the soul of Kerala's culture and I recommend you to explore them, as they offer a unique sensory experience full of colors, aromas and sounds. In these markets you will find spices, fabrics, jewelry, wood crafts, etc. and other products characteristic of the region. Do not leave Kochi without buying a good selection of fresh spices that will give an incredible flavor to your preparations.

Jew Town is the epicenter of the antiques and spices trade in Kochi. Its narrow streets are lined with stores selling everything from colonial furniture to incense and exotic perfumes. If you are looking for a unique souvenir, this is the ideal place to lose yourself for a few hours.

Broadway Market is another of Kochi's busiest markets, with a variety of stores selling local clothing, accessories and handicrafts at more affordable prices. It is an excellent place to buy traditional Kerala textiles and high quality cottons.

If you are looking for specific products from Kerala, such as the famous "Kasavu Saree" (gilt-edged sarees), you can't miss visiting MG Road, one of the main shopping streets of the city. Here you will also find stores of spices and authentic teas.

For a modern shopping experience, Kochi has several shopping malls where you can find national and international brands. Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in India, offers a huge variety of stores, a hypermarket, cinemas and entertainment areas.

From history-filled bazaars to designer boutiques and shopping malls, Kochi offers a shopping experience for all tastes. Do not forget to practice the art of bargaining in traditional markets and enjoy the authenticity of local products.

How to get to Kochi

1. By plane

To get to Kochi by plane, you should land at the Kochi International Airport (COK)It is the main entry point for international and domestic travelers. It is about 40 minutes drive from Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. From the airport, you have several options to reach the city:

• Prepaid cab or ride-sharing: You can book a prepaid cab at the airport or use apps such as Ola Cabs and Uber to travel comfortably and safely.
• Bus: There are bus services operated by KSRTC that connect the airport with different points in Kochi, although it is not the fastest option if you are carrying a lot of luggage.

Don't miss my article with tips to find flight at the best price.

2. By train

The train is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Kochi from other cities in India. The city has two main railway stations: Ernakulam Junction (ERS), the most important and best connected to the rest of the country and to the rest of the world. Ernakulam Town (ERN), another station with good connections, especially with nearby cities.

If you are traveling by train, I recommend you to read my Guide "Trains in India"with many tips for your adventure and I also recommend you to book your tickets in advance through the web site of IRCTC.

3. By private car with driver

Another option is to rent a car with driver, which will allow you to move more comfortably and without worries. From cities like Munnar, Alleppey or Thekkady, it is an excellent alternative to travel around Kerala at your own pace.

I do not recommend driving on your own unless you are used to the chaotic traffic in India.

4. By bus

If you are looking for an economical option, there are intercity buses connecting Kochi with major cities in Kerala and neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The buses KSRTC operate regular routes from Bangalore, Chennai and other locations.

Buses can be a convenient option, but be aware that trips are often long and that the level of comfort varies depending on the category of bus (sleeper, semi-sleeper or AC Volvo).

Transportation in Kochi

Bus

Bus is the most economical means of public transport in Kochi. There are routes operated by KSRTC that connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas. However, buses can be slow and are not always in the best condition. For longer journeys, air-conditioned buses are a more comfortable option.

Auto Rickshaw or Tuk Tuk

Auto rickshaws are a quick and inexpensive way to get around Kochi, especially for short trips within Fort Kochi and Ernakulam. Although some drivers use a meter, it is common that you have to negotiate the price before getting in. To avoid overcharging, I recommend using the Ola Cabs app, where you can book a fixed-fare rickshaw.

I recommend that you read the article on the most popular scams in India and get the most out of it.

Cab

Cabs are not as common on the streets of Kochi as in other cities, but you can easily book them through apps like Uber and Ola Cabs. These options are usually safer and allow you to know the fare in advance, avoiding negotiations.

Ferris

One of the most scenic and economical ways to get around Kochi is the ferry service. There are several routes connecting Ernakulam with Fort Kochi, Vypin and other nearby islands. The ferries are fast, cheap and offer a spectacular view of the city from the water. It is a recommended option if you want to avoid land traffic.

Kochi Guide Map - Where Kochi is located

Tours in Kochi or Cochin

Interesting Apps in Kochi

• OlaCabs:The perfect App to make your cab and rickshaw reservations quickly and conveniently.
• MyCityWay: this digital guide provides information on events, places of interest, opening hours of museums and attractions, where to eat and other details of New Delhi.
• KSRTC Kerala Bus:Official application of the bus service in Kerala, useful to consult schedules and routes of public transport.
• Kerala Tourism App:Official tourism app of Kerala, with information on places of interest, events and activities in Kochi and other cities of the state.

Websites of interest

• Kerala Tourism Official Website
• Contact Embassy of Spain in India

I hope that this Kochi Travel Guide helps you planning your trip and enjoy every corner of this beautiful coastal city in India.