Things To Do In Kochi

🏰 Heritage & Colonial Charm

  • Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets: Wander the colonial streets, marvel at the unique shore-mounted Chinese fishing nets, and soak in the maritime legacy. Best visited early morning or at sunset for ideal light and atmosphere.

  • Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Built by the Portuguese in 1545 and renovated by the Dutch, known for its magnificent Kerala murals, royal portraits, and palace exhibits.

  • Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue: Explore spice and antique shops, and visit one of India’s oldest functioning synagogues amid historic ambiance.

  • Vasco House: A heritage Portuguese-style residence—possibly once home to Vasco da Gama—exuding old-world charm in Fort Kochi.


🌊 Backwaters, Beaches & Islands

  • Kochi Backwater Cruise & Ferry Rides: Enjoy scenic ferry trips to islands like Vypeen, Bolghatty, and Willingdon; or take a houseboat ride with lunch through emerald canals and local villages.

  • Bolghatty Island: Visit the heritage Bolghatty Palace hotel (formerly Dutch royals’ summer home), enjoy boating, lush gardens, an Ayurvedic retreat, and on-site Kathakali shows.

  • Cherai Beach: Located ~25 km from central Kochi, this long sandy beach is ideal for dolphin sightings, swimming, and light water sports. It offers a tranquil escape blending backwaters and sea views in one frame.


🌿 Nature & Birdlife

  • Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: A small yet vital urban sanctuary in the heart of Kochi, home to migratory birds and mangrove flora—dubbed the city’s “green lung.” Perfect for birdwatching and quiet walks.

  • Marine Drive Promenade: A scenic ~1.75 km waterfront walkway along Kochi Lake, featuring bridges, benches, cafés, and boat jetties. Ideal for jogging, evening strolls, and sunset views of city lights.


🎭 Culture & Performing Arts

  • Kathakali Performance: Witness Kerala’s classical dance-drama at venues like the Kerala Kathakali Centre—complete with ornate costumes, expressive gestures, and epic storytelling.

  • Culinary & Spice Culture: Taste local delicacies or join cooking classes to master dishes like biryani, fish curry, and sadyas. Explore spice markets in Jew Town, famous for cardamom, pepper, and rosewood crafts.


🏛 Museums & Royalty

  • Hill Palace Museum (Tripunithura): Once the official residence of the Cochin Maharajas, now Kerala’s largest archaeological museum with a heritage complex, deer park, prehistoric gallery, and botanical gardens.


Quick Highlights

  • Sunrise strolls at Marine Drive or ferry rides to nearby islands

  • Cultural immersion in Mattancherry and Fort Kochi

  • Backwater cruises into quiet canals and villages

  • Relaxation and nature at Cherai Beach or Mangalavanam Sanctuary

  • Evening Kathakali shows and spice market shopping

  • History-packed Hill Palace Museum visit

 

Shalimar Residency

Hotel Shalimar Residency, near south railway station, Ernakulam South, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala, India

No. 18 Hotel

No. 18 Hotel, KB Jacob Road, opposite Police Station, Fort Nagar, Near, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala, India

Sapphire Club Cherai Beach Villa

Sapphire Club Cherai Beach Villa, beach, Kadathu, Cherai, Kochi, Kerala, India