Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city located on the southwest coast of India in the prosperous state of Kerala. This bustling port city is known for its diverse culture, historic colonial architecture, and stunning backwaters.
But the city’s allure doesn’t stop within its boundaries. The surrounding region offers an array of interesting places that should be on every traveller’s itinerary. From the hills of Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, the following are some of the best places to visit near Kochi.
List of the 7 Best Places to Visit Near Kochi:
1. Munnar:
Munnar, approximately 130 kilometers from Kochi, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. This haven of peace and tranquillity is renowned for its expansive tea plantations, exotic wildlife, and verdant greenery.
The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the breathtaking Attukal Waterfalls are some of the highlights. You can also visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processes of tea-making.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Attukal Waterfalls, Tea Museum, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, etc.
Things to Do: Trekking, tea plantation tours, wildlife spotting, bird watching, and exploring local markets.
How to Reach: Munnar doesn’t have an airport or a railway station. The nearest airport is in Kochi (Cochin International Airport), and the nearest railway station is Aluva, both about 130 kilometers away. Taxis or buses are available from these places to Munnar.
Where to Stay: The Panoramic Getaway, Parakkat Nature Hotels, and Resorts, etc.
2. Alleppey:
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is about 53 kilometers from Kochi. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey is famed for its serene backwaters interlaced with canals and lush green paddy fields.
It’s an incredible place to experience a houseboat cruise, offering a glimpse into the rural life of Kerala. Don’t miss the opportunity to try out the local cuisine and explore the town’s ancient temples and churches. Read More: Top 10 Destinations to See in Alleppey.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Attractions: Alleppey Beach, Marari Beach, St. Mary Forane Church, Krishnapuram Palace, etc.
Things to Do: Houseboat cruises, canoeing, local cuisine tasting, exploring ancient temples and churches.
How to Reach: Alleppey is well-connected by railways (Alleppey Railway Station) and roads. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 75 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: Lake Palace Resort, Ramada by Wyndham Alleppey, etc.
3. Thekkady:
Approximately 155 kilometers from Kochi, Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s home to the Periyar National Park, which is famous for its wildlife and scenic beauty.
You can enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, go on a jungle trek, or experience an elephant safari. The spice plantations in Thekkady are also worth a visit. Read More: 10 Famous Things To Do In Thekkady, Kerala
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Attractions: Periyar National Park, Periyar Lake, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, etc.
Things to Do: Jungle trekking, elephant safari, boating, visiting spice plantations.
How to Reach: The nearest railway station is in Kottayam, about 114 kilometers away. The closest airport is Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu, about 136 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: The Elephant Court, Spice Village, etc.
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4. Vagamon:
A serene hill station located 100 kilometers from Kochi, Vagamon is known for its enchanting meadows, beautiful gardens, and tea estates. It’s an excellent place for trekking, paragliding, and rock climbing.
The Kurisumala Ashram, a monastic community that follows Christian rites but incorporates Indian spiritual beliefs, is a unique site to visit in Vagamon.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Attractions: Vagamon Pine Forest, Thangal Para, Kurisumala Ashram, etc.
Things to Do: Trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, exploring gardens and tea estates.
How to Reach: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, about 64 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 94 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: Chillax Vagamon, Treebo Trend Adrak Summer Sand Hill Resort, etc.
5. Athirapally Waterfalls:
Situated 80 kilometers from Kochi, the Athirapally Waterfalls are often referred to as the ‘Niagara of India’. This 80-foot-high waterfall is a magnificent sight, especially during the monsoons when it is in full flow. Surrounding the waterfall is a lush green forest, providing a great spot for picnics and hikes. Read More: Athirappilly Falls Thrissur: Things To Do, Nearby Attractions, Guide & Tips
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Attractions: Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Thumboormuzhy Dam & River Garden.
Things to Do: Sightseeing, picnicking, trekking, photography.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 40 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is Chalakudi Railway Station, approximately 30 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: Rainforest Boutique Resort, Athirappilly Residency, etc.
6. Guruvayur:
Located about 80 kilometers from Kochi, Guruvayur is famous for its centuries-old Sree Krishna Temple, one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala. Apart from the temple, you can visit the Elephant Palace, which houses more than 60 elephants.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Attractions: Sree Krishna Temple, Elephant Palace, Mammiyoor Temple, etc.
Things to Do: Visit temples, explore the Elephant Palace, and try local cuisine.
How to Reach: Guruvayur has its own railway station. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 80 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: Devaragam Hotel, Sopanam Heritage, etc.
Read More:
10 Most Famous Tourist Places to See in Guruvayur
Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur: What you need to know
7. Kumarakom:
Situated on the shores of Vembanad Lake, around 48 kilometers from Kochi, Kumarakom is another fantastic location to explore the backwaters. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a favourite spot for migratory birds, is a must-visit for bird watchers. Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatment or savour delicious Keralite cuisine in this beautiful village. Read More: Most Popular Tourist Destinations To See in Kumarakom.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, etc.
Things to Do: Bird watching, boating, relaxing with Ayurvedic spa treatments, savouring local cuisine.
How to Reach: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, about 16 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 85 kilometers away.
Where to Stay: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Coconut Lagoon, etc.
Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trek in the hills, a peaceful retreat by the water, or a cultural and culinary journey, the places around Kochi have it all. Make sure to take time to explore these incredible locations on your next visit to Kochi!
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