Top Things to Do in the Kochi | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Kochi

Places To Visit In Kochi

Fort Kochi Beach

Situated along Fort Kochi in Kochi, Kerala, Fort Kochi Beach is a tranquil beach adjoining the Arabian Sea. Lined with a beautiful sidewalk, the beach also has a fort to boast of which is also a major tourist attraction of the spot. People usually visit it for routinely morning and evening walks or just to spend some quality time in solitude.

Situated 8 km off Ernakulam is the Greenix village where various art forms of Kerala are practiced and developed. Every evening witnesses a mixed performance of Kathakali- the dance drama form of Kerala, Kalaripayattu- an aesthetic martial art form, audio-visual history at the in-house museum and Indian classical music in this cultural centre. Yoga trainings are conducted every morning. The premises also house an art gallery, restaurant, a curio shop, book shop and rooms for researchers and trainees. Read More

Located at Tripunithura, The Hill Palace is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. It was built in the year 1865 and was once the Imperial Administrative offices and official residence of the Maharaja of Cochin. Just as the name suggests, the massive palace is located on a hill and has a beautiful garden. Built in 1865, the Palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style, spreading across in 54 acres. The complex has an archaeological museum, a heritage museum, a deer park, a pre-historic park and a children's park. The huge white coloured buildings are neat, clean and well maintained. The terraced lawn, ponds and fountain are perfect for outdoor photography. The enormous palace complex is famous for being a full-fledged ethnoarchaeological museum and the first ever heritage museum of the state. Upon visiting, one can see the oil paintings, murals, sculptures, swords, crowns, coins, manuscripts and various other belongings of the Kochi royal family. The palace is also famous for being the backdrop of various movies. The most popular amongst them is the Malayalam movie Manichitrathazhu which was remade in hindi as Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Read More

Situated in Fort Kochi in Kerala, the Indo-Portuguese museum has a fascinating collection of artefacts that belong to different churches. The museum highlights the fascinating Indo-Portuguese culture that is reckoned for its rich heritage. Having a captivating display of art and architecture of Kerala, the museum is a significant attraction for tourists. The museum is located amidst the gardens of the Bishop's house and elegantly echoes the heritage of one of the first Catholic community in India. The place is adorned with vestments, silver processional crosses and altarpieces of the Cochin diocese. The whole museum is divided into five main sections namely, Altar, Procession, Treasure, Civil Life, and Cathedral. The names of the sections agree with the outstanding collection they display. At the basement of this museum is situated Fort Emmanuel, providing an enchanting spectacle.The museum aims to acquaint the visitors with the pristine artistic and cultural legacy of Indo-Portuguese culture. A site of mesmerizing artifacts belonging to different genres, the Indo-Portuguese museum is a cynosure for all those who want to taste the rich flavor of our country's heritage. Read More

Jew Town is one of the oldest parts of the region. It was here that the Jews first settled in India in around 700 BC and were here till they moved to Israel;. This part is famous for its architecturally solid synagogue that continues to stand till today. It is a series of narrow alleys between Mattancherry Palace and Paradesi Synagogue. There is an antique market with shops selling curios.

Also known as Paradesi Synagogue or Mattancherry Synagogue, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue, not just in Kochi but in the Commonwealth of Nations. Located in the Jew Town area of Kochi, the synagogue was constructed in 1567 and is one of the seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan or Yehudan Mappila. The synagogue shares its walls with the Mattancherry Palace and was built by Spanish- speaking Jews; therefore, it is also known as ‘Paradesi’ meaning ‘foreigners’. Boasting of rare antiques including beautiful chandeliers, clock tower, brass railed pulpit, Chinese hand-painted tiles etc. and striking architecture, the synagogue has four buildings of its own. In 1662, the synagogue was ruined by the Portuguese but was later renovated by the Dutch after 2 years. Read More

In God's own land, the birthplace of one of the greatest Indian philosopher lies. Kalady is a famous pilgrim centre which became famous as Adi Sankaracharya’s birthplace. Located near Cochin in Kerala, Kalady is dedicated to Sankaracharya and his memory. Kalady is a place that celebrates knowledge and culture. It gives utmost importance to its history and has established itself as one of the most important destinations for pilgrims. There are two major shrines located in Kalady, dedicated to the memory of Adi Sankaracharya. Read More

Kashi Art Cafe is one of the most beautiful cafe in Kochi catering to foodies and art lovers alike. Popular for its very delicious breakfast, the place also runs a side art gallery exhibiting works of a single artist for a single month. Very famous among the foreign tourists, the place boasts of perfect non-vegetarian food and perfect vibes. Visiting here is one of the topmost things to do in Kochi.

Kerala Kathakali Centre at Fort Cochin has seen many dance performances! The amount of effort put in by the dancers is commendable. It is usually rife with locals and foreign tourists who come to enjoy the dance show. It also has morning meditation shows which one can take part in. The architecture of the Kerala Kathakali Centre is something special. The centre’s interiors follow the Malabar style of architecture and are mostly made up of beautiful wood carvings which gives the place a very traditional, yet appealing look. Apart from Kathakali, the centre is also known to for its short-term as well as long-term courses in dance styles such as Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi and Mohinattam. It also has courses in Kalaripayattu, Classical music (both Carnatic as well as Hindustani), Percussion instruments such as Drums, Tabla, Madalam, String instruments such as Violin, Veena and Sitar and the flute. Read More