Queen of The Arabian Sea: 11 Magnificent Best Places to Visit in Kochi

It’s not unknown that Kerala is popular as the ‘God’s Own Country’. Besides the iconic beaches and picturesque landscapes, the cities of Kerala are quite popular among tourists. In this case, Kochi takes a significant place on this list. If you are ready to explore the best places to visit in Kochi, we are here to help you out. 

If it’s your first time visiting Kochi, you have to be careful with everything. In this case, a proper plan can save your day. That’s why we will share some crucial information alongside the best Kochi tourist destinations. Keep reading this article to know more.

About Kochi

Perched on the southwest coastline of Kerala, Kochi is a popular destination among tourists. Because of its scenic beauty and outstanding beaches, Kochi is also popular as the ‘Queen of The Arabian Sea’.

Yes, you can get different flavors while doing the Kochi city tour. Some people love exploring this city because of its deep root in history while some people love the modernity of Kochi. Being the commercial capital of the state, this place has so many things to offer.

Best Places to Visit in Kochi

From bustling streets to century-old palaces, there are so many things available for tourists. If you have a plan for visiting this city, you need to know about the best places to visit in Kochi. In the following list, let’s find out about these top destinations:

1. Fort Kochi

The actual flavor of Kerala can be found at Fort Kochi. This breathtaking old town has a perfect blend of heritage and colonial beauty. This small town still tells many tales of the British era, despite the influence of modernity.

The entire place is graced with European architecture and Dutch artworks. That’s the key reason why Fort Kochi receives thousands of tourists every year. Besides the phenomenal marvels, Fort Kochi beach is another remarkable attraction here.

Stroll around the tranquil beach in the evening and witness the stunning sunset with your loved ones. Explore the top attractions of this town such as the Chinese Fishing net and Kerala Kathakali Center.

2. Mattancherry Palace

Built by the Portuguese, Mattancherry Palace is one of the top places to visit in Kochi. The Dutch Palace’s distinctive design is very reminiscent of Keralan traditional homes. Without a doubt, it’s a must-visit spot for the Kochi city tour.

Even though the palace is constructed by the Portuguese, the Dutch did several renovations later. Hence, Mattancherry Palace is also popular as the Dutch Palace. Stroll around the inside complex of the palace and discover numerous paintings, collections of frescos, and more.

The key attraction of Mattancherry Palace is the exquisite courtyard and the beautiful Bhagavati temple. Plus, you can visit the two temples of Shiva and Krishna inside the palace. 

Mattancherry Palace is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, the tourist spot is closed every Friday. The entry fee is only INR 2. 

3. Folklore Museum

Do you love exploring the culture of a tourist place? In this case, the Folklore Museum can be the best destination for you. Inaugurated in 2009, this spectacular museum represents the rich legacy of Kerala.

Folklore Museum displays traditional musical instruments, sculptures, Kathakali masks, and more. Explore the collection of folk-tribal ornaments in this museum. Folklore Museum is open from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM. The entry fee for this museum is INR 100.

4. Hill Palace

When we are talking about visiting the best places to visit in Kochi, we can’t miss out on Hill Palace. Constructed in 1865, Hill Palace has an outstanding outer view alongside the stunning museum.

Besides 49 buildings, this ravishing palace is graced with Thoppikkallu, Kudakkallu, Stone Age rock-cut armaments, and significant objects of Mohenjodaro and Harappa. If you are visiting this place with your kids, you can also explore the Children’s park.

Hill Palace is open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. And the Children’s Park is open until 6:00 PM. The area is closed every Monday. You need to pay INR 30 for the entry fee.

5. Santa Cruz Basilica

Santa Cruz Basilica is one of a kind as it reflects the historical glory and tradition of Kerala. Without any doubt, this Cathedral church is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. The Gothic pattern of this church is the key attraction for tourists.

Wander around the church complex and discover some magnificent paintings. The church is open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Sunday). There’s no entry fee.

6. Gowreeswara Temple Cherai

Located in the heart of Cherai village, Gowreeswara temple is one of the top places to visit in Kochi. The worshipped God is Lord Subrahmanyan. Well, Gowreeswara is the only temple that reflects Chaturmukha Kovil, a unique Dravidian architectural style. 

If you are visiting Kochi in January-February, you have a chance to witness the Cherai Gowreeswara Temple Festival which includes the elephant march. The best part is you can get a marvelous view of Vypeen island from this temple.

Gowreeswara temple is open from 3:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. There is no entry fee to visit this temple.

7. Jew Town

A Kochi city tour will be incomplete without visiting the iconic Jew Town. If you are exploring Fort Kochi, this is a must-visit destination. According to legends, this is one of the oldest parts of Kochi as the Jew community settled in India in 700 BC.

They used to live here until moving to Israel. The key attraction of this small town is the picture-perfect Paradesi Synagogue and an antique market. Wander around the narrow alleys and explore Jew culture.

8. St Francis Church

Constructed by Europeons, St Francis Church is one of the oldest churches in India. The scenic surroundings and spectacular design made it one of the top-rated Kochi tourist destinations. The unique design reflects the charisma of the old world.

St Francis Church is open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Monday to Saturday) and 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM on Sundays. You don’t need an entry fee to visit here.

9. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple

Because of the outstanding architectural beauty and divine significance, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy temple became one of the best places to visit in Kochi. The worshiped Goddesses of this temple are Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and Keezhu Kavu Bhadrakali Amman.

According to legends, these two Goddesses are considered healing Godesseses. Stroll around the picture-perfect temple complex and discover the stunning design of this 1500-year-old temple. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy temple is open from 4:00 AM to 8:45 PM every day.

10. Indo – Portuguese Museum

When we are talking about the Kochi city tour, the Indo-Portuguese museum is a must-visit place. Besides the astonishing designs and scenic surroundings, the place reflects the richness of Indian and Portuguese culture. 

Joseph Urethra, the former Bishop of the city, built this exquisite museum. Divided into 5 wings, this museum represents the art and culture of Kerala. Wander around the museum complex and unearth stunning altarpieces, antiques, and other collections.

The Indo-Portuguese museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays. You have to pay INR 10 entry fee to visit this place. Plus, the entry fee is INR 5 for kids and INR 25 for foreigners.

11. Andhakaranazhi Beach

Even though Kochi is a tourist-favorite destination, there are some places that can give your a relaxing vibe. In this case, Andhakaranazhi Beach is the perfect one. Located 30 km away from Kochi, this place gives the perfect view of neighboring village life alongside picturesque surroundings.

After having a hectic day exploring the best places to visit Kochi, stroll around the peaceful beach while watching the splendid sunset. Besides enjoying the serenity, you can do some fun activities like playing volleyball or badminton.

Best Tips to Visit Kochi

Now, you know about the top places to visit in Kochi. Well, that’s not the only thing. If you are visiting for the first time, you need to know some crucial facts. In the following list, we will share some useful tips to visit Kochi:

• Instead of booking a cab, you can enjoy the real flavor of Kochi with public transport. You can enjoy picture-perfect landscapes with a bus ride.
• Whether you are traveling during the peak season or off-season, always pack light clothes. Being a coastal town, Kochi’s weather is unchanged throughout the year.
• A Kochi city tour is incomplete without the signature dishes. In this case, you have to taste the yummy freshwater fish. 
• Besides discovering iconic landmarks and tasting food, you can do some shopping in this city. 

How to Reach Kochi

Being the commercial capital of Kerala, Kochi is accessible from major cities. Hence, you can reach this place by air, train, and road.

By Air: Cochin International Airport has located around 20 km from the city center. You can board direct flights from major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, and more. After reaching the airport, take a cab.

By Train: If you want to reach this city by train, Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is the best option. This place is well connected with nearby cities including Mumbai, Bangalore, and Mangalore. 

By Road: As we noted before, public transport is a good option if you want to explore Kochi tourist destinations. You can board a state government bus from Bangalore, Mysore, Rameshwaram, and Mangalore.

Best Time to Visit Kochi

The best time to visit Kochi is during the winter months; from October to February. The temperature comes down during these months. If you want to avoid peak season, monsoon is the right time to explore this place. Plus, you can experience the magnificent view of mother nature during monsoon time.

Conclusion

When it’s your first time in Kerala, Kochi can be the right place to start your journey. Well, we have shared all the details on the best places to visit in Kochi. Still, you can plan a trip as per your preference. If you are confused about choosing the right Kochi tourist destinations, you can even contact a guide.