Kochi (Cochin) is a culturally rich city located in the state of Kerala, India, with a number of tourist attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kochi:

Fort Kochi
Mattancherry Palace
Chinese Fishing Nets
St. Francis Church
Hill Palace Museum
Kochi Beach
Kathakali Dance Performance
Jew Town
Bolgatty Palace

Popular places to visit in Kochi (Cochin)

Here are some popular places to visit in Kochi (Cochin), India:

Fort Kochi:

A historic neighborhood is famous for its Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture.

Mattancherry Palace:

A historic palace built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch.

Chinese Fishing Nets:

Unique fishing structures are a symbol of Kochi’s seafaring heritage.

St. Francis Church:

One of the oldest European churches in India, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica:

A beautiful church with a mix of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles.

Hill Palace Museum:

A former royal palace turned museum, showcasing the history and culture of Kochi.

Kochi Beach:

A scenic beach with a view of the Arabian Sea and the Kochi skyline.

Kathakali Dance Performance:

A traditional dance-drama form originating from Kerala, showcasing mythical and religious stories.

Jew Town:

A historic neighborhood is famous for its spice market and Jewish Synagogue.

Bolgatty Palace:

A colonial-era palace turned heritage hotel, located on an island in Kochi’s harbor.

5 days itinerary for Kochi (Cochin) Trip

Here is a 5-day itinerary for a trip to Kochi (Cochin), India:

Day 1:

Arrive in Kochi and check into your hotel.
Visit Fort Kochi and explore the historic Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture.
Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch.
Watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea from Kochi Beach.
Enjoy a traditional Kathakali Dance Performance in the evening.

Day 2:

Visit St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried.
Explore the historic neighborhood of Jew Town and visit the Jewish Synagogue.
Visit the Spice Market and sample some of the local spices.
Take a sunset boat ride to see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets in action.

Day 3:

Take a half-day trip to Munnar, a hill station famous for its tea plantations and scenic beauty.
Visit the Tata Tea Museum and learn about the history of tea production in India.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills and tea plantations.

Day 4:

Visit the Hill Palace Museum, a former royal palace turned museum showcasing the history and culture of Kochi.
Visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church with a mix of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles.
Relax at the Bolgatty Palace, a colonial-era palace turned heritage hotel, located on an island in Kochi’s harbor.
Enjoy a traditional Indian Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment.

Day 5:

Shop for souvenirs and local products at the M.G. Road shopping area.
Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, showcasing the traditional art and culture of Kerala.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Keralan restaurant.
Depart Kochi and return home with memories of your trip to this beautiful coastal city.

3 days itinerary for Kochi (Cochin) Trip

Here is a 3-day itinerary for a trip to Kochi (Cochin), India:

Day 1:

Arrive in Kochi and check into your hotel.
Visit Fort Kochi and explore the historic Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture.
Visit Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch.
Watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea from Kochi Beach.
Enjoy a traditional Kathakali Dance Performance in the evening.

Day 2:

Visit St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried.
Explore the historic neighborhood of Jew Town and visit the Jewish Synagogue.
Visit the Spice Market and sample some of the local spices.
Take a sunset boat ride to see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets in action.

Day 3:

Visit the Hill Palace Museum, a former royal palace turned museum showcasing the history and culture of Kochi.
Visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church with a mix of Portuguese and Indian architectural styles.
Relax at the Bolgatty Palace, a colonial-era palace turned heritage hotel, located on an island in Kochi’s harbor.
Enjoy a traditional Indian Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment.
Depart Kochi and return home with memories of your trip to this beautiful coastal city.

Popular Historical places to visit in Kochi (Cochin)

Fort Kochi:
A colonial heritage site that features Portuguese and Dutch architecture.

St. Francis Church:

One of the oldest European churches in India, famous for being the burial site of Vasco da Gama.

Chinese Fishing Nets:

Unique cantilevered fishing nets are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders.

Jewish Synagogue:

A historic synagogue located in the Jewish Quarter of Mattancherry, famous for its intricate floor tiles and Belgian chandeliers.

Dutch Palace:

A former Dutch palace that now houses a museum, showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kochi.

Santa Cruz Basilica:

A historic church is known for its stunning interiors, stained glass windows, and frescoes.

Hill Palace Museum:

The largest archaeological museum in Kerala, displays antique sculptures, oil paintings, and manuscripts.

Paradesi Synagogue:

An old synagogue located in the heart of Mattancherry, famous for its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Bolgatty Island:

A scenic island that houses a colonial-style palace, a golf course, and a scenic lake.

Maritime Museum:

A museum dedicated to showcasing the rich maritime heritage of Kochi and its impact on the region’s history and culture.

Top Temples to visit in Kochi (Cochin)

Sri Krishna Temple:

A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its traditional South Indian architecture.

Pallippuram Fort:

A Portuguese fort that houses the ancient Vymanikam Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Pareekshith Thampuran Museum:

A museum that showcases the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Kerala, along with a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Thirumala Devaswom Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Chottanikkara Temple:

One of the most popular Hindu temples in Kerala, dedicated to the mother goddess Bhagavathi.

Trippunithura Hill Temple:

A historic temple dedicated to Lord Sri Rama, known for its stunning views of Kochi and its surrounding areas.

Bhuvaneshwari Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhuvaneshwari, known for its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere.

Edappally Sreekrishna Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, famous for its traditional South Indian architecture and colorful festivals.

Adi Sankara Keerthi Sthamba Mandapam:

A temple dedicated to Adi Shankara, a famous Hindu philosopher, and saint, known for its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple:

A historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Best street foods corner in Kochi (Cochin)

Fort Kochi Beach:

A popular street food hub, famous for its seafood delicacies like Karimeen Fry, Tuna Curry, and Prawns Masala.

Mattancherry:

A historic neighborhood known for its street food stalls, serving traditional Kerala dishes like Puttu, Dosa, Idli, and Sambar.

Maharaja’s College Ground:

A popular food street, famous for its street food stalls serving chaat, kebabs, and South Indian delicacies.

Broadway:

A busy shopping street in Ernakulam, famous for its street food stalls serving delicious street food, including biryani, paratha, and pakoras.

Kallumthattam:

A bustling street food hub, famous for its street food stalls serving spicy dishes like Vada, Bonda, and Samosa.

S.N. Park:

A popular park and street food destination, known for its street food stalls serving savory snacks like Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, and Pani Puri.

Marine Drive:

A scenic walkway along the coast, famous for its street food stalls serving delicious seafood and street food.

Ernakulam Junction:

A busy railway station, surrounded by street food stalls serving hot and spicy street food, including Dosa, Idli, and Vada.

Lulu Mall Food Court:

A popular shopping mall in Kochi, known for its street food court, serving a wide range of street food from different parts of India.

Cochin Spice Market:

A bustling spice market, famous for its street food stalls serving delicious and aromatic street food, including Samosa, Kachori, and Aloo Tikki.

Best beaches to visit in Kochi (Cochin)

Cherai Beach:

A popular beach known for its calm waters and golden sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Fort Kochi Beach:

A historic beach that offers a picturesque view of the Chinese fishing nets and the Arabian Sea.

Marari Beach:

A peaceful beach that is known for its serene atmosphere and traditional fishing villages.

Vypin Beach:

A popular beach that offers breathtaking views of the sunset and a fun-filled atmosphere with water sports and activities.

Shanghumugham Beach:

A scenic beach that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic sculpture of a mermaid.

Kuzhupilly Beach:

A relatively less-crowded beach that offers a serene atmosphere and scenic views of the backwaters.

Kappad Beach:

A historic beach that is believed to be the landing place of Vasco da Gama in India.

Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach:

A unique beach that offers an adventurous experience of driving on the sand, along with swimming and sunbathing.

Alleppey Beach:

A popular beach that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and a laid-back atmosphere.

Thevara Beach:

A scenic beach that is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

Best street foods to have in Kochi (Cochin)

Appam and Stew:

A popular breakfast dish made with fermented rice batter and served with a flavorful stew made of vegetables or meat.

Puttu:

A traditional steamed snack made with rice flour and coconut typically served with bananas or kadala curry.

Dosa:

A crispy savory crepe made from fermented rice batter and served with a variety of chutneys and sambar.

Idiyappam:

A traditional breakfast dish made from rice flour, steamed, and served with a variety of curries and stews.

Parotta:

A flaky layered flatbread made with wheat flour popularly served with beef or chicken curry.

Pazhampori:

A delicious snack made from ripe plantains, sliced and coated in batter, and fried till crispy.

Fish Fry:

A popular street food in Kochi, made with fresh fish that is marinated, coated in batter, and fried until crispy.

Karimeen Fry:

A popular seafood dish made with the freshwater fish Karimeen, marinated and fried to perfection.

Paddu:

A small and crispy snack made from a batter of rice flour and lentils usually served with chutneys and coconut milk.

Bhel Puri:

A popular snack made from puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy sauce, perfect as an on-the-go snack.

Famous market in Kochi (Cochin) for shopping

Broadway:

A bustling street market in Ernakulam is known for its street-side shops selling clothing, jewelry, and textiles.

Mattancherry:

A historic neighborhood in Kochi, known for its traditional bazaars selling spices, antiques, and handicrafts.

Ernakulam Market:

A vibrant market in the heart of Ernakulam, known for its wholesale shops selling a wide range of goods, including spices, textiles, and electronics.

Jew Town:

A historic market in Mattancherry, known for its shops selling antiques, traditional jewelry, and artifacts.

Lulu Mall:

A large shopping mall in Kochi, offering a wide range of international and local brands, along with food courts and entertainment options.

MG Road:

A busy shopping street in Ernakulam, known for its street-side shops selling clothing, footwear, and electronics.

AB Mall:

A popular shopping mall in Kochi, known for its stylish boutiques, high-end brands, and food court.

South Indian Shopping Center:

A popular shopping center in Ernakulam, known for its shops selling traditional South Indian saris, jewelry, and textiles.

Cochin Spice Market:

A bustling spice market in Ernakulam, known for its shops selling fresh spices, herbal remedies, and aromatherapy products.

Gold Souk:

A historic market in Mattancherry, known for its shops selling traditional gold jewelry, ornaments, and artifacts.

Cheap and best shopping places in Kochi (Cochin)

Broadway:

A bustling street market in Ernakulam is known for its street-side shops selling clothing, jewelry, and textiles at affordable prices.

Mattancherry:

A historic neighborhood in Kochi, known for its traditional bazaars selling spices, antiques, and handicrafts at reasonable prices.

Ernakulam Market:

A vibrant market in the heart of Ernakulam, known for its wholesale shops selling a wide range of goods, including spices, textiles, and electronics at wholesale prices.

Jew Town:

A historic market in Mattancherry, known for its shops selling antiques, traditional jewelry, and artifacts at low prices.

South Indian Shopping Center:

A popular shopping center in Ernakulam, known for its shops selling traditional South Indian saris, jewelry, and textiles at affordable prices.

Cochin Spice Market:

A bustling spice market in Ernakulam, known for its shops selling fresh spices, herbal remedies, and aromatherapy products at low prices.

Flea Markets:

Kochi has several flea markets that take place periodically, offering a wide range of goods at bargain prices, including clothing, jewelry, and antiques.

Street Vendors:

Kochi has several street vendors selling a variety of goods, including souvenirs, street food, and clothing, at low prices.

Government Emporiums:

Kochi has several government-run emporiums that offer a wide range of handicrafts and textiles at affordable prices.

Local Shops:

Kochi has several small local shops that sell a variety of goods, including clothing, textiles, and souvenirs, at budget-friendly prices.

Best Budget restaurants in Kochi (Cochin)

Sree Krishna Hotel:
A popular vegetarian restaurant in Ernakulam known for its South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Paragon Restaurant:

A seafood restaurant in Ernakulam is known for its fresh seafood dishes and budget-friendly prices.

Chakara Restaurant:

A traditional restaurant in Ernakulam known for its authentic Kerala cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Hotel Annas:

A vegetarian restaurant in Mattancherry known for its South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Vasco’s Restaurant:

A family-style restaurant in Ernakulam known for its Indian and Continental cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Shri Krishna Cafe:

A vegetarian restaurant in Ernakulam is known for its South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Hotel Janatha:

A budget hotel in Ernakulam known for its budget-friendly prices and delicious South Indian cuisine.

Karachi Restaurant:

A popular street-side eatery in Ernakulam is known for its fast food and budget-friendly prices.

MTR Restaurant:

A well-known South Indian restaurant chain with a branch in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and delicious food.

Ananda Bhavan:

A popular vegetarian restaurant chain with a branch in Ernakulam, known for its South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Best street food stalls in Kochi (Cochin)

The Egg Shop:

A popular street-side stall in Ernakulam known for its variety of egg dishes, including omelets and scrambled eggs.

Aroma Cafe:

A street-side coffee stall in Ernakulam known for its strong, flavorful coffee and budget-friendly prices.

Raghavan Pillai’s:

A street-side snack stall in Ernakulam is known for its traditional Kerala snacks, including banana chips and vadas.

Hotel Annapurna:

A street-side snack stall in Ernakulam is known for its variety of vegetarian snacks, including samosas and bonds.

Bhima’s:

A popular street-side stall in Ernakulam known for its traditional South Indian dishes, including dosas and idlis.

Kadavanthra Kallu Stall:

A street-side drink stall in Ernakulam known for its traditional tender coconut water and fresh juices.

The Seafood Stall:

A street-side seafood stall in Ernakulam is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including crab and fish fry.

The Chai Stall:

A street-side tea stall in Ernakulam known for its strong, flavorful tea and budget-friendly prices.

The Bhel Stall:

A street-side snack stall in Ernakulam known for its traditional bhel puri and sev puri.

The Pazham Pori Stall:

A street-side snack stall in Ernakulam known for its sweet, fried plantain fritters.

Popular pubs and bars in Kochi (Cochin)

Xandari Harbour:
A popular bar and lounge located in Fort Kochi, known for its cocktails, wine, and scenic views of the harbor.

Lulu Bar:

A popular bar located in Lulu Mall, Ernakulam, is known for its wide selection of drinks and casual atmosphere.

The High 5 Sky Lounge:

A popular rooftop bar located in Ernakulam, known for its panoramic views of the city and signature cocktails.

Cocktails & Dreams Speakeasy:

A speakeasy-style bar located in Fort Kochi, known for its unique cocktails and vintage atmosphere.

Toit:

A popular microbrewery located in Ernakulam, known for its craft beers and casual atmosphere.

The Pint Room:

A popular sports bar located in Ernakulam, known for its extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere.

The Terrace Bar & Lounge:

A rooftop bar located in Ernakulam, known for its views of the city and signature cocktails.

Teapot Cafe & Bar:

A popular bar located in Ernakulam, known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide selection of teas and coffees.

On The Rocks:

A popular bar located in Fort Kochi, known for its beach views, cocktails, and live music.

Liquid Lounge:

A popular bar and lounge located in Ernakulam, known for its signature cocktails and chic atmosphere.

Cheap and best pubs and bars in Kochi (Cochin)

The Local:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its casual atmosphere and low-priced drinks.

The Booze Hub:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its wide selection of drinks and budget-friendly prices.

Joe’s Beerhouse:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its casual atmosphere and budget-friendly prices on beer and other drinks.

The Chilling Room:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its casual atmosphere and low-priced drinks.

The Tippler’s Den:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and relaxed atmosphere.

The Tipsy Turtle:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and casual atmosphere.

The Dive:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and casual atmosphere.

The Cheap Thrills:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and casual atmosphere.

The Poor Man’s Pub:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and casual atmosphere.

The Pocket-Friendly Bar:

A budget-friendly bar located in Ernakulam, known for its budget-friendly prices and relaxed atmosphere.

Cheap and best restaurants in Kochi (Cochin)

Kashi Art Cafe:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Fort Kochi, known for its casual atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.

Savoury:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious local cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Hotel Anns:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Taste of Kerala:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious local cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Sree Krishna Cafe:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Hotel Saravana Bhavan:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Oceanos:

A budget-friendly seafood restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious seafood and budget-friendly prices.

Keralan Seafood:

A budget-friendly seafood restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious seafood and budget-friendly prices.

Spice Inn:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Aahaar:

A budget-friendly restaurant located in Ernakulam, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine and budget-friendly prices.

Cheap and best clothes shopping in Kochi (Cochin)

Broadway:

A budget-friendly shopping street in Ernakulam, known for its variety of clothing and budget-friendly prices.

MG Road:

A budget-friendly shopping street in Ernakulam, known for its variety of clothing and budget-friendly prices.