Things To Do
in Koch
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant coastal city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is a major port city and a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes. Kochi is famous for its tranquil backwaters, historic Fort Kochi area, and ancient Chinese fishing nets that line the waterfront.
The city is a melting pot of different cultures and influences, making it a fascinating place to visit for both domestic and international travelers.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical Fort Kochi area, exploring its colonial architecture. Don't forget to check out the Chinese fishing nets for an authentic local experience.
Enjoy lunch at a seaside cafe before heading to the Kerala Folklore Museum to learn about the region's rich culture. Stroll through the local markets for some unique handmade souvenirs.
End the day with a sunset cruise on the backwaters of Kochi. Savor a delicious dinner at a renowned seafood restaurant.
Dive into the world of Kathakali dance at a morning performance, where you can witness this traditional art form up close. Visit the nearby Kathakali Center to understand its significance and history.
Head to the Jewish Synagogue in the historic Jew Town, exploring the fascinating history of the area. Don't miss the spice market nearby for an aromatic experience.
Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Kerala dishes. Conclude your night with a quiet walk along the Fort Kochi beach.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Kochi is a major port city, facilitating trade and commerce.
- It has a rich cultural heritage with influences from various cultures.
- The city offers various tourist attractions, including backwaters, beaches, and historical sites.
- Kochi has a growing IT industry, attracting tech professionals and companies.
- The cost of living in Kochi is generally lower compared to other metropolitan cities in India.
- Kochi faces traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- The infrastructure can be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- The monsoon season can lead to flooding and waterlogging.
- Job opportunities can be limited outside of specific industries.
- Pollution levels in some areas can be a concern.
Best Activities in Koch
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its colonial architecture, art galleries, and scenic coastline.
Enjoy a serene boat ride through the backwaters of Kochi, witnessing lush landscapes and traditional villages.
Experience kayaking in the tranquil backwaters, surrounded by coconut palms and vibrant local life.
Attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action and participate in the fishing process if you're lucky.
Take a day trip to Munnar, known for its tea plantations, stunning hills, and scenic trekking trails.
Rent a bike and ride around the city to discover local markets, street food, and hidden gems.
Relax on Cherai Beach, known for its golden sands and gentle waves, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Koch with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Koch
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque beach known for its stunning sunset views and iconic Chinese fishing nets.
Offers a historical backdrop with beautiful murals and provides great opportunities for photography.
Known for its charming streets and antique shops, perfect for capturing the essence of Kerala's vibrant culture.
One of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth, featuring intricate chandeliers and beautiful interiors.
A former Dutch villa that now serves as a hotel, providing scenic views of the backwaters.
A heritage property that hosts art events and offers a scenic view of the local architecture.
Offers panoramic views of the Cochin harbor and is ideal for capturing the beauty of the Arabian Sea.
Known for its serene beaches and quiet atmosphere, perfect for tranquil sunset photography.
Set amidst beautiful gardens, the museum showcases royal memorabilia and offers striking views.
A vibrant art exhibition site that is a feast for the eyes and perfect for capturing contemporary art.
Food in Koch
Koch Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Karimeen, a prized local fish, is marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then grilled to perfection. This dish is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. It can be savored at popular local restaurants such as Fort House Restaurant and Fusion Bay.
Must-Try!
Appam, a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk, is served with a flavorful stew featuring meat or vegetables. For an authentic experience, head to Kettuvalam Restaurant or Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe.
Puttu, a cylindrical steamed rice cake, is traditionally paired with Kadala Curry, a spicy chickpea curry. This classic dish can be found at popular eateries such as Grand Hotel and Tharavadu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Koch better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Broadway is a bustling market where you can relish a variety of street food such as delicious fried banana fritters, crispy pazhampori, and spicy egg and meat rolls. The aroma of freshly prepared snacks fills the air, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
The beachside stalls at Fort Kochi offer an array of tantalizing treats including fresh seafood, spicy fish fries, and traditional Kerala snacks like banana chips. A stroll along the beach presents a perfect opportunity to savor local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarizing yourself with a few phrases in the local dialect, such as Assamese, can go a long way in showing respect and kindness to the locals.
Wearing conservative clothing is important in Koch, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, as it reflects respect for local customs.
Being aware of and honoring local traditions, such as greeting elders with respect and observing local festivals, demonstrates appreciation for the cultural norms of the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Koch with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Koch
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kochi, India, tipping is a common practice, particularly in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip between 10% to 15% in restaurants, depending on the quality of service. While some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, customers often round up the amount or provide extra if they are satisfied. Tipping is also appreciated by taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides, although it is not mandatory.
Payment methods in Kochi include cash, credit/debit cards, and increasingly, mobile payment options like UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and digital wallets. Larger establishments typically accept card payments, while smaller shops and street vendors may prefer cash. Due to the growing use of digital payments, many locals and tourists opt for mobile transactions for convenience. It's recommended to carry some cash for places that do not accept card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kochi is during the winter months when the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Expect clear skies, pleasant weather, and multiple festivals, including the famous Kochi Carnival.
Summer in Kochi can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. While this season is less crowded, visitors can still enjoy beautiful sunsets and local culinary experiences. Air conditioning in accommodations is recommended.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Kochi, with lush greenery and rejuvenated landscapes. While touring may be challenging due to the rain, it's a great time to experience Kerala's backwaters and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere. This is also the off-season, so expect fewer tourists and better deals.
Koch at Night
Hiking in Koch
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Munnar is a beautiful hill station known for its lush green tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. It offers various trekking routes suited for all levels of hikers.
Located near Kochi, this reserve offers stunning trails through dense forests, providing opportunities to see diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
The Sahyadri range provides numerous trekking opportunities with varied difficulty levels. The scenic beauty and tranquil environment make it a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts.
Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and offers a challenging trek with spectacular views at the summit. It is a must-visit for serious hikers.
This peak is part of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its biodiversity. The trek to Agasthyakoodam is rewarding with beautiful flora and fauna.
Situated near Bangalore, Nandi Hills offers a moderately easy trek with a stunning sunrise view. It’s a great option for a quick getaway from Koch.
Aiports
How to reach Koch by plane.
The primary airport serving Kochi, internationally recognized and one of the largest in India.
Located about 6 km from the city center of Thiruvananthapuram, serving international and domestic flights.
Located near Kozhikode, serving as a major international airport in the region.
Approximately 500 km from Kochi, this airport is one of the busiest and largest in Southern India.
Located about 600 km from Kochi, it is one of the major international airports in India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant religious group in Koch, India, making up a significant majority of the population.
The second-largest religious community in Koch, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A notable minority in Koch, with various denominations represented.
Includes smaller communities of Sikhs, Buddhists, and indigenous faiths.
Various groups that are recognized in India for affirmative action and socio-economic development.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A bat-and-ball game that is extremely popular in India, including Kochi, where local teams and leagues are actively followed.
Football has a strong following in Kochi, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Badminton is widely played in Kochi, both recreationally and competitively, with many local tournaments.
Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, is popular in Kochi with local leagues contributing to its popularity.
Athletics is significant in schools and colleges in Kochi, with many students participating in various track and field events.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth of Kochi, with several courts and clubs promoting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koch.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kochi accommodates vegetarians and vegans with a range of options such as Avocado Lagoon, an eatery specializing in vegan cuisine, and the East Indies restaurant, which offers a diverse vegetarian menu featuring local ingredients.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can explore numerous restaurants in Kochi that offer gluten-free alternatives, including the popular Oceanos Restaurant and the specialty cafe, Kashi Art Cafe, which features gluten-free desserts and snacks.