Thanks to its trading past, Kochi is a cosmopolitan city bursting with a mix of Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese and Arab influences. Travellers descend on Kochi for a glimpse at a slower pace of life and some rest and relaxation. There’s still plenty to see and do here, and whether you’re seeking a dose of history, culture, art, food and wine or an adventure, Kochi offers it all.
Don’t miss these Kochi attractions
- Old Kochi – Fort Kochi and Mattancherry
- The Hindu landmarks of Ernakulum
- Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village
- Backwaters cruise
- Hindu food tour
The splendour of Kochi sites
Kochi’s multifaceted colonial roots result in a wealth of historic attractions to see and explore. Old Kochi’s Fort Kochi and Mattancherry draw the most visitors with their lively boulevards and historic sites, while Hindu landmarks abound in Ernakulum on the mainland.
Let a local guide lead the way for a full insight into Kochi’s fascinating past. Wander past monuments like the Santa Cruz Basilica, Pardesi Synagogue and Sree Poornathrayeesa, and discover the antiquities of the Hill Palace Museum and European charm of Princess Street. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture the magic of the iconic Chinese fishing nets at sunset.
Backwaters and bazaars
City walking tours are great for getting your bearings, but there’s also a wealth of things to see and do beyond Kochi’s heart. Serve your inner adventurer by getting out and about and seeing how the locals live. Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village is India’s first eco village and visitors here can fish with the locals and canoe around the mangroves.
Bike tours and cruises are great ways to discover the Kerala backwaters. Join locals for a fisherman’s lunch before boarding a cruise that snakes its way through a labyrinth of glassy channels and lush, serene hamlets. Back in town, foodies will love the organised market tours that take you through jostling bazaars to sample a variety of Indian street snacks and dishes.