Kochi, also called Cochin, is a significant coastal city that has played an important role in Kerala’s maritime history. It has served as a major trade center since ancient times. With its rich colonial past, vibrant culture, and beautiful seascapes, Kochi in Kerala stands today as one of the best cities in Kerala for tourism. The city blends its modern infrastructure with ancient structures, making it ideal for travelers looking to explore history, nature, and urban life in one location.
Let us look in detail at the tourist spots in Kochi, how to reach the city, the weather, and more to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Tourist Spots in Kochi
If you’re compiling a list of must-see places to visit in Kerala, Kochi should be among the top entries. The city is home to a wide range of attractions, from historical buildings and art galleries to beaches and cultural museums.
Museums and Historical Attractions in Kochi
Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a prominent area that reflects the colonial past of the region. The streets are lined with Portuguese, Dutch, and British-style buildings. Walking through this part of the city is one of the most recommended things to do in Kochi.
- Specialty: Fort Kochi is best known for its Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, colonial bungalows, and art galleries. You can also visit cafes and antique shops that add to the charm of the area.
- Timings: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
Located near Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace is another must-see among Cochin tourist places. It was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Kochi. The Dutch later renovated it, giving it the name Dutch Palace.
- Specialty: The palace features stunning Kerala murals that depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. There are also royal artifacts, weapons, and traditional attire on display.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
- Entry Fee: Indians: ₹10, Foreigners: ₹100
Indian Naval Maritime Museum
Located in Fort Kochi, this museum highlights the naval history of India.
- Specialty: Exhibits include models of ships, uniforms, naval weapons, and historical documents.
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ₹40
Paradesi Synagogue
The Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town is one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. It remains a key attraction for those exploring the religious and cultural heritage of Cochin.
- Specialty: Visitors can see hand-painted tiles, antique furniture, and ancient scrolls. The synagogue is known for its Belgian glass chandeliers and old copper plates with Hebrew inscriptions.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays)
- Entry Fee: Indians: ₹10, Foreigners: ₹100
Kerala Folklore Museum
This museum is a cultural hub that displays over 4,000 items representing Kerala’s traditional art forms, tools, and household objects.
- Specialty: The building itself is made using traditional architectural methods and serves as an educational space about Kerala’s folk traditions.
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Indians: ₹100, Foreigners: ₹200
Hill Palace Museum
The largest archaeological museum in Kerala, Hill Palace was once the official residence of the Kochi royal family.
- Specialty: The museum has a large collection of royal ornaments, weapons, manuscripts, and paintings.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Entry Fee: Indians: ₹30, Foreigners: ₹150
Beaches and Nature Sightseeing in Kochi
Cherai Beach
Located around 25 km from the main city, Cherai Beach is where the backwaters meet the Arabian Sea.
- Specialty: Ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are shacks and small eateries nearby.
- Timings: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
Kochi Backwaters
Cruising through the Kochi backwaters is one of the most peaceful things to do in Kochi India. You can choose houseboat rides or smaller boats for a relaxed experience across coconut groves, narrow canals, and quiet villages.
- Visiting Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹600 – ₹2000 depending on boat type and duration
Kochi Water Metro
A modern addition to the city’s transport system, the Kochi Water Metro provides scenic waterway travel between key points in the city.
- Specialty: It connects the islands to the mainland using eco-friendly boats and offers a quick and scenic mode of transport.
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 to ₹40 depending on route
Marine Drive
Marine Drive is a popular hangout area for both locals and tourists. Located along the backwaters of Kochi in Kerala, it provides a quiet place to relax and enjoy the view.
- Specialty: There are multiple jetties for boat rides and floating restaurants nearby. Walking paths are lined with seating areas, and the Rainbow Bridge is an added attraction.
- Timings: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free (Boating charges: ₹50 to ₹300)
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Located in the center of Kochi, this bird sanctuary is a quiet, green space that serves as a nesting ground for several bird species.
- Specialty: It’s often referred to as the “green lung” of Kochi.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Religious Sites in Kochi
St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church
A historic church that holds religious significance for the Syrian Christian community.
- Specialty: Known for its historical background dating back to the 17th century and the ‘Coonan Cross Oath’.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
St. Francis Church
Located in Fort Kochi, this is the oldest European church in India. It was originally built by the Portuguese in 1503.
- Specialty: Vasco da Gama was buried here before his remains were taken to Lisbon. The church structure is simple yet historically significant.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Santa Cruz Basilica
One of the most impressive churches in Kochi, Santa Cruz Basilica stands out for its Gothic architecture and pastel-colored interiors.
- Specialty: The church has beautiful stained glass windows, paintings, and an intricately designed altar.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Dharmanath Jain Temple
Located in Mattancherry, this Jain temple is known for its intricate carvings and peaceful environment.
- Specialty: Built in traditional Jain style with marble interiors and adorned pillars.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
These tourist spots in Kochi form the foundation of many travel itineraries covering the region. Visiting them is among the most recommended things to do in Kochi India.
Cochin Thirumala Devaswom Temple (Gosripuram), Mattancherry
Cochin Thirumala Devaswom Temple, also called Gosripuram, is a significant spiritual site in Kochi, especially important to the Gowda Saraswat Brahmin community. Established around 1599 AD in Mattancherry, the temple houses the idol of Lord Venkatachalapathi (Vishnu).
- Specialty: This temple stands out for its Kerala style of architecture, different from typical Dravidian designs. Inside the complex, you will find four upakovils, a Nagayakshi shrine, one Swamiyar samadhi, and several smaller shrines around the main sanctum.
- Visiting Time: 6 AM – 8 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
LuLu Mall, Kochi
LuLu Mall in Edappally is among the largest retail and entertainment destinations in India and a popular place for both local residents and tourists visiting Kochi in Kerala
- Timings: 9 AM – 11 PM (open all days)
- Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit Kochi
The climate in Kochi is tropical. The region experiences warm temperatures and high humidity for most of the year. Understanding Kochi weather will help you decide the best time for your trip.
- Summer (March to May): Hot and humid. Temperatures can go up to 35°C.
- Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rainfall. Good for enjoying greenery but not ideal for sightseeing.
- Winter (October to February): Pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C.
Recommended Time to Visit: October to February offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Where is Kochi Located in Kerala?
Cochin in Kerala lies in the central part of the state, facing the Arabian Sea. Kochi is part of the Ernakulam district and plays an important role in the state’s economy and tourism sector. Its coastal location makes it a favorable destination for both domestic and international travelers.
How to Reach Kochi?
Kochi is one of the most accessible cities in Kerala. You can reach the city by road, rail, or air.
By Road
Kochi is connected to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states via National Highways 66 and 544.
- From Trivandrum: 205 km
- From Kozhikode: 180 km
- From Coimbatore: 190 km
You can find frequent KSRTC buses and private operators running services to and from the city.
By Air
Cochin International Airport (COK) is located 30 km from the city center.
- Domestic flights: Available to major Indian cities
- International flights: Operate to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe
Airport taxis and buses are available to reach various parts of the city.
By Rail
Kochi has two main railway stations:
- Ernakulam Junction (South)
- Ernakulam Town (North)
Both stations are connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. Local transport options are readily available at these stations.
Tourist Spots Near Kochi (Within 100 km)
There are several tourist spots near Kochi that offer experiences ranging from natural beauty to spiritual heritage. Here are some top destinations:
Athirapally Waterfalls (70 km)
- Specialty: Massive waterfalls amidst lush greenery. Popular for photography and film shoots.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Adults: ₹50, Children: ₹10, Foreigners: ₹200
Paniyeli Poru Waterfalls
A scenic waterfall and picnic spot about 55 km from Kochi, surrounded by forests and shallow river streams. Swimming is possible in safer areas.
- Visiting Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30
Cheeyappara Waterfalls
Located 70kms from Kochi on the way to Munnar, Cheeyappara is a cascading waterfall ideal for photography.
- Visiting Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Alappuzha (Alleppey) (53 km)
- Specialty: Known for its backwaters and houseboat stays. Great place to witness Kerala’s rural life.
- Activities: Canoeing, shikara rides, houseboat cruises
- Houseboat Charges: ₹6000 to ₹12000 per night
Kodanad Elephant Training Centre (42 km)
- Specialty: Watch elephants being trained and bathed. A good choice for families and children.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 to ₹100 depending on the activities
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (65 km)
- Specialty: Birdwatching site rich in both local and migratory species.
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Indians: ₹20, Foreigners: ₹200
Chottanikkara Temple
About 20 km from Kochi, this famous temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. It is considered spiritually powerful and draws thousands of pilgrims.
- Visiting Time: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
These destinations near Kochi add more value to your travel plan, especially if you’re spending more than a couple of days in the city.