Things To Do
in Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is a major port city with a rich history of trade and cultural exchange. Kochi is renowned for its picturesque backwaters, historic fortresses, and charming colonial architecture.
The city's diverse culinary scene, bustling markets, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for 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: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Enjoy a stroll through the quaint streets of Fort Kochi, taking in the colonial architecture.
Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Try some authentic Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant.
Catch a Kathakali dance performance that showcases the rich heritage of Kerala. Wind down with a sunset view at Fort Kochi Beach.
Take a ferry to Vypin Island and relax on the serene beaches. Visit the historic Vypin Lighthouse for panoramic views.
Explore the local fishing villages and enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors. Spend some time at the tranquil Kuzhuppilly Beach.
Witness the beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea. Head back to Fort Kochi and enjoy some street food at the bustling markets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful backwaters and scenic landscapes.
- Diverse cuisine with seafood specialties.
- Growing tourism infrastructure and opportunities.
- Strategically located as a shipping and trade hub.
- High humidity and tropical climate may be uncomfortable.
- Traffic congestion can be a daily issue.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Occasional flooding during monsoon season.
- Economic development can lead to rising costs of living.
Best Activities in Kochi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Ideal for a leisurely walk, watching the Chinese fishing nets, and enjoying the sunset.
Explore the backwaters on a houseboat or take a canoe ride to experience the serene and picturesque waterways.
Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like parasailing and surfing.
Offers opportunities for boating, birdwatching, and witnessing the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the waterfalls and surrounding lush greenery, ideal for photography and nature walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kochi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kochi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea and is a great spot for sunset photography.
Iconic to Kochi, these nets provide a picturesque setting, especially during sunrise or when in operation.
Known for its serene beaches and scenic backwaters, providing ample photo opportunities.
Rich in history and architecture, offering great photo opportunities of its intricate designs and mural paintings.
Food in Kochi
Kochi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and tangy fish curry made with fresh catch from the Arabian Sea, blended with aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, and fenugreek. Best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Appam is a popular South Indian pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, often served with Ishtu, a mild and creamy stew with vegetables or meat.
Tender chicken marinated in a blend of Kerala spices and then deep-fried to perfection. This dish is a favorite in local eateries and street food stalls.
A traditional breakfast dish featuring steamed cylinders of ground rice and coconut, complemented by a savory and spicy curry made from black chickpeas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kochi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market area in the heart of Kochi, known for its lively street food scene. Here, you can indulge in an array of local delicacies like Kappa and Meen Curry (Tapioca with Fish Curry), Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters), and Kozhi Porichathu (Fried Chicken).
This iconic beach spot offers a range of street vendors serving up popular snacks such as fresh seafood, spicy fish fries, and traditional Kerala snacks like Banana Chips and Achappam (Rose Cookies). It's a great place to savor authentic Kochi street food while enjoying the stunning waterfront views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kochi, it's customary to greet people with a 'namaste' or a slight bow. Handshakes are also common, but it's best to wait and see if the other person initiates it first.
Respect for elders is a significant part of the cultural norms in Kochi. It's important to address elders with respect and deference, using appropriate titles and language.
When visiting religious sites or participating in formal events, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. This may include covering your shoulders and legs, as well as removing footwear when entering certain establishments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kochi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kochi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Kochi, India, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is generally acceptable if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Cash is widely used for smaller transactions in Kochi, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in more touristy areas. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kochi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather and popular festivals like Cochin Carnival and Christmas celebrations.
Hot and humid weather, but it's a good time to explore the beaches and backwaters
Heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and great for Ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenation
Kochi at Night
Hiking in Kochi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous pilgrimage and trekking destination, Sabarimala offers beautiful trekking pathways through the Western Ghats with scenic views and rich biodiversity.
Known for its tea plantations, Munnar offers various trekking trails through hills, waterfalls, and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts.
Located near Munnar, Pothamedu provides picturesque hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the rolling hills and sprawling tea gardens.
The highest peak in South India, Anamudi offers challenging treks with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape and rich flora and fauna.
This sanctuary features numerous trekking paths through dense forests, ideal for those looking to enjoy nature and wildlife while hiking.
Located on the Kerala-Karnataka border, Brahmagiri offers scenic trekking opportunities with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
A lesser-known hiking spot near Kochi, Nallarakkal provides peaceful trails surrounded by nature and is perfect for a quiet day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kochi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kochi by plane.
The main international airport serving Kochi, India, Cochin International Airport is known for being the world's first fully solar-powered airport.
Located approximately 215 km from Kochi, this airport serves the state capital and offers international flights to various destinations.
Situated about 200 km from Kochi, this airport serves northern Kerala and provides connections to international cities, particularly in the Middle East.
Located around 530 km from Kochi, this major international airport serves the tech city of Bengaluru and offers extensive international flight options.
Approximately 670 km from Kochi, Chennai International Airport is one of the largest international airports in India, offering numerous connections worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Kochi, consisting of people who speak Malayalam and mostly reside in the state of Kerala.
A significant demographic group from the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, many of whom have settled in Kochi.
Individuals from various states in Northern India, including UP, Bihar, and Punjab, contributing to the diversity in Kochi.
A major religious group in Kochi, predominantly from Latin Catholic, Syrian Christian, and other denominations.
A notable religious group primarily belonging to the Malabar Muslim community and other sects.
Various other ethnic and cultural groups, including indigenous tribes and expatriates from different regions of the world.
The Soul of Kochi
Discover the essence of Kochi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Kochi, with numerous fans and local teams. The Kerala cricket team represents the state in national tournaments.
Football has a significant following in Kochi, home to the Kerala Blasters, a team in the Indian Super League which has a passionate fan base.
Badminton is widely played in Kochi, with many local clubs and academies providing training for aspiring players.
Kabaddi enjoys popularity in Kochi, with local tournaments and leagues attracting many participants and spectators.
Athletics is promoted in schools and colleges, with various competitions held throughout the year, encouraging local talent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kochi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kochi offers an abundance of vegetarian delights, with many eateries serving up flavorful dishes such as Avial (mixed vegetable curry), Thoran (stir-fried vegetables with coconut), and Sadya (a traditional vegetarian feast) that are rich in taste and aroma.
Vegan visitors will find plenty of options in Kochi, from classic dishes like Parippu Curry (lentil curry) to trendy plant-based creations. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes in the city are responsive to vegan preferences and can customize dishes accordingly.
For those with gluten intolerance, Kochi's culinary scene incorporates various gluten-free alternatives. Tapioca-based dishes like Kappa and Meen Curry, as well as coconut milk-infused delicacies such as Ada Pradhaman (a traditional dessert), are among the gluten-free offerings widely available in the city.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kochi with these cultural adventures.
