12 Best Places to Visit in Kochi (Cochin)

The city Kochi (also formerly known as Cochin) is a coast or port of the Malabar Coast area. For the abundant natural beauty, it is also called the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ and the Swiss Town of South India. Hence there is no denying that nature has poured in her blessings upon this small town of Kerala. Kochi has been a unique region from ancient times as it has got everything right from beauty, beach, backwater, and spice. In addition to these, it was the port for commencing business through various mediums. The history of Kochi shows that it has been a global trade center and also a princely state of Kerala. It was known to Arabs, Greek, and Romans as a source and trading center for Indian spices.

However, in the present time, with its old glory, Kochi has also emerged as a beautiful tourist place. Situated nearly 54km (by road 205.4 km approx) away from God’s own country, Kerala, Kochi is a must-visiting destination. This place will surely soothe their souls for travelers who love to explore India and nature with hill stations, fresh air, pleasant weather, beach, backwater, etc.

Here is the list of Top 12 Tourist Destinations to Visit in Kochi:

There are countless spots in Kochi that can be significant as traveling destinations in Kochi. Even some of these places are yet unexplored by many travelers. But as people have a limited time for vacation it is best to go to the renowned places where you can enjoy the utmost. Here in this article, we will discuss some of the best destinations to choose for vacation purposes. So, whenever you decide to give Kochi a shot, you can hastily make a good choice. Such spots include;

1. Athirapally Waterfalls

If you are a traveling freak, then you must have heard of the ‘Niagra of India’, that is, Athirapally Falls. Having a height of nearly 80 meters, Athirapally waterfall is known as the most significant fall situated in Kerala.

If you want to look at this beautiful sparkling fountain, you must include Thrissur as one of your visiting places in Kochi. It is open every day with an entry fee worth 15 Rupees for each person and the visiting hour is between 8 am to 6 pm.

• Location: About 70 km from Kochi, in the Thrissur district.
• How to Reach: Athirapally is accessible by road from Kochi. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the waterfalls.
• What to Expect: Known as the “Niagara of India”, Athirapally Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Kerala, cascading from a height of 80 feet. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
• Best Time to Visit: September to January, after the monsoon when the waterfall is at its fullest.
• Activities: Trekking, nature walks, and photography.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for trekking. Carry water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the waterfall. Start early in the day to avoid the crowds.

2. Veeranpuzha Beach

A mesmerizing sunset can make your whole vacation memorable for the rest of your life. The scenic beauty of the Veeranpuzha beach can give you one such view. Not only this, the sandy beach, fisherman’s daily life story, eye-soothing surroundings, etc., all are a deadly combination to enjoy the whole day in a unique way.

Unlike Athirapally fall, this place has no entry fees, and people can spend time as long as they want. It is a must visiting place for a family vacation.

• Location: Along the Vembanad Lake, near Kochi.
• How to Reach: The beach is easily accessible by road from Kochi. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
• What to Expect: Veeranpuzha Beach offers a tranquil and less-crowded experience compared to other beaches in Kochi. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful evening, watching the sunset over the backwaters.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Activities: Beach walks, photography, and enjoying the sunset.
• Tips: Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for the best views. The beach is relatively undeveloped, so carry any essentials you might need.

3. Areekkal Waterfalls

Situated beside the Piramadam –Vettimood road, with abundantly grown rubber trees and the serene view of the falling cascade, Areekkal waterfall is an ideal destination for bike trekking. Although the height of this fountain is nothing like that of Athirapally.

Yet this little effervescent fall offers you a pleasant outing. It remains open for everyone from 9 am to 6 pm every day. The ticket price is Rs. 10/ per head. Away from the crowd of the city, this place is also the most sought-after place for picnic lovers.

• Location: About 35 km from Kochi, in the Piravom region.
• How to Reach: Accessible by road from Kochi, you can hire a taxi or drive to Areekkal Waterfalls.
• What to Expect: A lesser-known gem, Areekkal Waterfalls is a serene spot surrounded by dense vegetation. It’s a perfect place for a short hike and to enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Best Time to Visit: September to February.
• Activities: Trekking, nature photography, and picnicking.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for the short hike to the falls. The area is peaceful, so it’s a great spot for a quiet day trip.

Also read: Must-Know Information About Guruvayur Temple

4. Vypeen Island

For those who love spending their time watching peoples’ haste, observing how they work out their everyday necessities and obstacles, this Vypeen Island is definitely for them. This small island has many bridges. There are also a number of visiting spots within this island, such as the lighthouse, Bungalow Heritage Homestay, Azhikotta fort (Portuguese), etc.

All of these can be a short trip with the open blue seawater at the backdrop. While filling the eye and soul with the serene beauty of Vypeen Island, one must keep in mind the boat timings of the first and last ones, which are 6 am and 9 pm, respectively.

• Location: Off the coast of Kochi, accessible by ferry.
• How to Reach: Vypeen Island can be reached by a short ferry ride from Fort Kochi or by road from the mainland.
• What to Expect: Vypeen Island is known for its picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, and fishing villages. The island offers a blend of natural beauty and local culture.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Activities: Exploring beaches, visiting the lighthouse, and experiencing local life.
• Tips: Explore the island on foot or by renting a bicycle. The ferry ride is a unique experience, especially at sunset.

5. Museum of Kerala

The mythology regarding the creation of God’s own country, Kerala, can have a piece of proofing evidence found in the Museum of Kerala. Here at the entry point, you will see a statue of the sage Parasurama (it is believed that Kerala arose from the seawater after Parasurama threw his ax into the sea). Apart from this, the museum itself is standing under the peaceful green shadow of the great trees. One can take a tour inside the museum as well.

Here, you can see the tremendous prideful works of outstanding personalities like Raja Ravi Verma, Jamini Roy, Manu Parekh, and many more. The museum is open for all from 10 am till 5 pm all through the entire week, excluding Mondays.

• Location: Edappally, Kochi.
• How to Reach: The museum is easily accessible by road from any part of Kochi. Public transport and taxis are available.
• What to Expect: The Museum of Kerala History offers a detailed overview of the state’s rich history through a series of dioramas, paintings, and sculptures. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
• Activities: Exploring the museum exhibits and learning about Kerala’s history.
• Tips: Allocate 1-2 hours for your visit. Photography may be restricted inside the museum, so check the guidelines before your visit.

Also read: Budget to 5 Star: 20 Best Hotels to Stay in Cochin

6. Palace Museum

One can have a royal experience by visiting the museum of Hill Palace. Originally the museum was a palace of the then Maharaja of Kochi, and later it was turned into a museum with things such as the king’s crown, jewelry, coins, weapons, etc. This museum also primarily depicts the cultural history of the ancient days.

The Hill Palace museum has its own timings for public visiting, and people can visit it from 10 am to 12.30 pm and again from 2 pm up to 5 pm every day except Mondays and state or national holidays. With 2 to 3 parks and two separate museums inside the main museum area, this place can be considered one of the best tourist spots to explore with your family.

• Location: Mattancherry, Kochi.
• How to Reach: The Palace Museum is located in Mattancherry and is easily accessible by road from Fort Kochi and other parts of the city.
• What to Expect: Also known as the Dutch Palace, this museum showcases the history of the Kochi royal family, with exhibits including portraits, artifacts, and stunning murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
• Activities: Exploring the palace and its exhibits, appreciating the murals, and learning about Kochi’s royal history.
• Tips: The palace is closed on Fridays. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Photography is not allowed inside the palace.

7. Marine Drive

If you love cruises, then Marine Drive is the ideal place for you. Ernakulam’s prime attraction is this Marine Drive. Apart from getting on a cruise, one can also enjoy walking through the beach, the famous rainbow bridge, the Chinese fishing net bridge, and all.

But people mainly go to this fantastic place to have a boat ride. Many private operators offer their boats there on an hourly basis, covering nearby areas like Cochin harbor, Bolgatty, etc., around Marine Drive.

• Location: Central Kochi, along the backwaters.
• How to Reach: Marine Drive is easily accessible by road from any part of Kochi.
• What to Expect: Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade along the backwaters, offering beautiful views of the sunset and the bustling city. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening, especially during October to March.
• Activities: Walking along the promenade, boating, and enjoying local street food.
• Tips: Visit in the evening for the best experience. There are many shopping options and eateries nearby, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

8. Elephant Training Center

Your kids will love this place, and at the same time, they will have a great time learning many strange things regarding the giant yet lovely animal, elephant. The Kodanad Elephant Training Center is situated alongside the Periyar River. It is a calm small rural countryside village where rescued elephants are kept under the eco-tourism project of Govt.

Here you can have the chance to see the elephants taking a nice bath and playing with water. If granted permission, you can also touch them. So the overall impact that this tour will leave on you and your kids’ minds is going to be a long-lasting one.

• Location: Kodanad, about 45 km from Kochi.
• How to Reach: Accessible by road, you can hire a taxi or drive to Kodanad from Kochi.
• What to Expect: The Kodanad Elephant Training Center is one of the largest elephant training centers in Kerala. Visitors can watch the elephants being trained and even interact with them.
• Best Time to Visit: September to May.
• Activities: Watching the elephant training sessions, feeding the elephants, and nature walks.
• Tips: Visit early in the morning to see the elephants being bathed. Follow the guidelines provided by the staff for interacting with the elephants.

9. Cherai Beach

As it is popularly known among the tourists, the princess of the Arabian Sea, the Cherai Beach is one of the clean, calm, and best beaches of Kochi and Kerala. As it has a shallow watery strand, taking a bath or swimming here is less dangerous and enjoyable. And if you are lucky enough, you can even have the chance of witnessing the sight of dolphins that give a frequent visitor there.

• Location: About 30 km from Kochi, on Vypeen Island.
• How to Reach: Cherai Beach is accessible by road from Kochi. You can hire a taxi or take a bus.
• What to Expect: Cherai Beach is known for its clean sands and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. The beach is also famous for its backwaters and the nearby Chinese fishing nets.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach sports, and exploring the nearby backwaters.
• Tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience. There are several beachside cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

10. Malayattoor

The name Malayattoor itself carries the places one can visit here. That means the name Malayattoor is a combination of three meaningful words, which are Mala (meaning mountain), Arr (indicating river), and Oore (meaning place, i.e., land). Together, these three words form Malayattoor, where one can have a mountain, river, and plane land at the same destination.

The devotees of the Christian religion often visit this place as on the top of the famous Malayattoor hill is built the Malayattoor church in the name of St. Thomas. The designs and architectures of the church wall are something worth going for.

• Location: About 47 km from Kochi, near the Periyar River.
• How to Reach: Malayattoor is accessible by road from Kochi. You can hire a taxi or drive to the location.
• What to Expect: Malayattoor is a famous Christian pilgrimage site known for the Malayattoor Church, which is dedicated to St. Thomas. The church is situated on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Best Time to Visit: September to March.
• Activities: Pilgrimage, trekking to the church, and enjoying the scenic views.
• Tips: The trek to the church can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes. Carry water and be prepared for a climb if visiting during the pilgrimage season.

11. Indo – Portuguese Museum

Another museum that you should not miss if you love culture and heritage is the Indo –Portuguese Museum which represents Indian and Portuguese cultural and architectural history. The museum has things like a silver cross, wooden cross, treasures, furniture, monstrance, and many more for public exhibition.

With an entry fee of Rs. 10 and Rs. 25 per head for Indian citizens and foreigners, respectively, the museum is open every day except Mondays and public holidays. This Joseph Urethra (former Bishop of Kochi) museum offers free entry for every person on the first Thursday of every month.

• Location: Fort Kochi, Kerala.
• How to Reach: The museum is located in Fort Kochi and is easily accessible by road. Public transport and taxis are available.
• What to Expect: The Indo-Portuguese Museum showcases the Portuguese influence on the culture and architecture of Kochi. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, religious objects, and historical documents.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
• Activities: Exploring the museum’s exhibits and learning about the Indo-Portuguese history of Kochi.
• Tips: The museum is small, so it can be explored in about an hour. Photography may be restricted inside, so check the guidelines.

12. Paradesi Synagogue

To have a detailed knowledge of the multicultural heritage and other cultural spots, the Paradesi Synagogue, which holds the record of being the oldest one among others situated in the commonwealth countries, is a must visiting place side by side. It will help to have a good opinion about the enriching Jewish synagogue.

You can further have one out-of-the-world experience by taking a tour of the cultural differences of this place. There are people from 4 to 5 different religions, all living in peace and harmony. Therefore, take a day off from the destination traveling and spend the entire day exploring the way of living of the natives by walking in the localities.

Besides these beautiful places, one can also visit Shiva Temple, Kadalkkara Lake Forest, Kathakali Center, Fort Kochi, Willingdon Island, Princess Street, Lulu Shopping Mall, Greenix Village, Wonderla Amusement Park, etc. Indeed, the places of Kochi will draw you again and again towards this place.

• Location: Jew Town, Mattancherry, Kochi.
• How to Reach: The Paradesi Synagogue is located in Jew Town, Mattancherry, and is easily accessible by road from Fort Kochi and other parts of the city.
• What to Expect: The Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, dating back to 1568. It features beautiful hand-painted tiles, a gold pulpit, and an ancient Torah scroll.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
• Activities: Exploring the synagogue and its history, visiting the adjacent Jewish cemetery, and shopping in Jew Town.
• Tips: The synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays. Dress modestly, and be respectful of the religious customs.

Conclusion

Exploring Kochi is not a matter of a few days as there are plenty of things to do or see. But even within the limited days, Kochi can fill your soul with energy and your mind with unforgettable moments and memories. So pack your bags ASAP and head to Kochi. Also, make sure to maintain safety precautions due to the pandemic situation.