Travel Guide - Cochin

Flaunting one of the finest natural harbours of the world, the Queen of the Arabian Sea - Kochi, is the pride of Kerala. Kochi ranks first in overall tourist footfall in Kerala and it ranks sixth among the best tourist destination in India. Situated on the south-west coast of India bordering the Laccadive Sea, Kochi is known for its exotic islands, stunning beaches, historical monuments, magnificent palaces, amazing museums, sanctuaries, parks, shopping malls, and a lot more, making it a fascinating holiday destination.

Kochi has been the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries and maintained a trade network with Jewish, Chinese, Portuguese, Greeks, Arabs and Roman merchants. As a result, the lifestyle of Kochi is a blend of these different cultures.

Kochi is blessed with a pleasant climate which makes it favorable to travel to the city throughout the year. This beautiful place entertains all types of tourists, be it singles, couples, honeymooners, backpackers or families - everyone will suck the fun out of this enchanting city.

Its prosperous historical past makes it a paradise for the history buffs. Mattancherry Dutch Palace and the Thripunithura Hill Palace are a surprise for the archaeological buffs. The gorgeous scenic beauty and the plethora of flora and fauna of Kochi means a lot for nature lovers. Lulu Mall and Jew Town are there for shopping enthusiasts. A boat ride through the backwaters dotted with many small islands is worth enjoying. Explore Kochi to cherish for your lifetime.

Tourist Attractions

Must Visit Places

• Architectural and history buffs don't forget to visit the Mattancherry Dutch Palace
• Hill Palace Museum, Museum of Kerala history (Edappally)
• Folklore Museum, and Indo-Portuguese Museum.
• Beach lovers make sure to check out Cherai, Vypin and Andhakaranazhi Beach.
• Do visit Marine Drive.
• Explore the history of Jew community in India by visiting the Pardesi Synagogue.
• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher's paradise.
• Enjoy a ferry ride at Fort Kochi.
• Pay homage at Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple.
• Enjoy elephant ride at Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary.

Travel Tips

• Make sure to carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen if you are visiting Kochi during the summer season.
• As you can expect few to heavy rain during monsoon season, don't forget to carry an umbrella

Things to Do

Best time to Visit

Winter season (October to February) is the best time to visit Kochi. The temperature during winter ranges between 17 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. Most of the tourists don't prefer summer season (March to June) to visit Kochi as the weather is too hot and humid. The monsoon season (July to September) is an ideal time to visit Kochi to admire its rain-washed glory.

Way to Reach

By Air :   Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of 37.3 Km, is the nearest airport to Kochi.

By Train : Cochin is well linked to all the major railway stations in India. Ernakulam Town Station and Ernakulam Junction Station are the two railway stations in Kochi.

By Road :Kochi is well connected to all the major cities of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

What to Shop

• Lulu Mall Kochi is a one-stop place for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• ABAD Nucleus Mall & Centre Square Mall are the popular malls in Kochi.
• For cheap shopping, Marine Drive is a good option.
• Check out the Jew Town for some beautiful antique pieces.
• Purchase some aromatic spices from the Cochin Spice Market.
• Don't forget to try and buy delicious crispy banana chips from Malabar Chips, Banana Chips, and Groves Snacks.