15 Best Places to Visit in Kochi

Kochi or Cochin, the Queen of the Arabian Sea is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Kochi is a remarkable tourist destination with places to visit, things to do and amazing experiences. There are numerous admirable tourist places to visit in Kochi that you must explore when you are in Kerala.

For centuries, Kochi has witnessed travelers from various nations come to its shores. From Jews, Arabs, Dutch, Portuguese and British, all have gifted the city their legacy. Today, Kochi has emerged as a merge of worlds. Marvel at intriguing architecture, a combination of styles. Enjoy delightful food a merge of unique flavors. The Chinese Fishing Nets are uniquely found in the town and the view at sunset is spectacular.

Here are 15 Best Places to Visit in Kochi:

1. Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is the historic part of town and the best places to visit in Kochi. There are many specimens of the bygone era which interests the history lovers.

Explore the ruins of Fort Immanuel built in 1503. It was a symbol of the strategic alliance which existed between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Monarch of Portugal. Next, visit the Dutch cemetery dating back to in 1724. The tombstones here silently remind visitors of those travelers who perished away from their homeland.

There are many colonial structures you can spot in the town. Thakur House, David Hall, Bastion Bungalow, Cochin Club, Pierce Leslie Bungalow and Bishop’s House are the vital ones. The Princess Street is a good place to shop for souvenirs. The Chinese fishing nets adorning the beach is one of the unmissable delights. The view at sunset is simply charming, visitors are left spellbound.

2. Francis Church

The St. Francis church is an iconic landmark in Kochi. Built by the Portuguese in the year 1503, this is the oldest European church in India. The Franciscan Friars, who came to Kochi asked permission of the Raja of Cochin to construct the church dedicated to St Bartholomew. The church was originally constructed by Portuguese but was later captured by Dutch and British. This church was once the burial site of the late explorer Vasco de Gama.

Well-known for its beautiful architecture, visitors should not miss out the attraction. The old world charm and the divine ambiance is well worth your time.

3. Jew Synagogue and Jew Town

The Jew town in Kochi is one of the intriguing aspects of the charm of the coastal city. Mattancherry town’s older historic region is named the Jew Town. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kochi. Centuries back, the Jews landed on the shores of Kerala. The community engaged in spice trade and settled down here. Though most have returned to their homeland Israel, they have left back their cultural imprint.

The Jew synagogue (Paradesi Synagogue) is one of the fine relics of the community. Built in 1568, it is one of the oldest active synagogues. The architecture, the interior furnishings with tales of its own and the serene ambiance make for a good visit.

4. Bolgatty Palace

Bolghatty Palace is one of the oldest existing Dutch Palaces outside Holland. It was built by Dutch in 1744 serving as the Dutch Governor’s residence and later leased to the British Government. Today it is a luxurious a heritage resort.

The Dutch mansion is set amid the Bolgatty Island, overlooking the backwaters of the Laccadive Sea surrounded by landscaped greenery. The deluxe property has a swimming pool, 9-hole golf course, Ayurvedic centre, etc. The palatial rooms offers a relaxing stay. Guests can indulge in the lavish amenities, daily Kathakali performances and the pampering Ayurvedic therapies.

5. Cherai Beach

The Cherai beach is one of the famous attractions of Kochi. Tucked in the north-end of Vypeen Island, the beach is known for the blessed sight of backwaters merging with the sea. The beach can be reached only by boat.

Cherai beach is pleasurable place to go with family and friends ideal for swimming. The tides are usually low here, offering a wonderful opportunity for swimming for beginners as well. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. Thick coconut groves and Chinese fishing nets on the waterside are added attractions. Revel in the bliss of the beach, multi-hued shells are strewn on the sands. It is a change from crowded seashores of Kerala.

[ Also Read: 12 Best Beaches in Kerala ]

6. Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace was gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi by the Portuguese in 1557. This is one of the unmissable attractions in Kochi. The Palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. It is built like the typical Kerala style mansion, the Nalukettu.

The double -storeyed palace stands by the beautiful Kochi backwaters. The palace has a beautiful collection of murals collectively covering over 300 sq ft of its walls. The murals narrate tales form great Indian epics, the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and legends about the Hindu gods especially Guruvayurappan. Also on display are royal paraphernalia like weapons, swings and furniture. Enjoy a closer view of the lifestyle of the royal family.

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7. Payyambalam Beach

Though Payyambalam beach falls in the Kannur District, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Kochi. The serene beach stretches for about three kilometers, with a thick tree cover stretching parallel to the shores. The waters of the beach are of a unique bluish-green tint. It thrives with marine life. The most famous attraction of the beach is well-known sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman’s depiction of a mother and her child.

Payyambalam Beach is ideal for peaceful getaway. Walk on the soft sands, check out the food stalls or watch the local folk programs.

8. Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a scenic promenade in Ernakulam town. It was built on the land reclaimed from backwaters. Facing the serene backwaters, the walkway starts from the High Court Junction and continues until the Rajendra Maidan.

Families, friends, couples or individuals can enjoy the boulevard. Evenings are the ideal time to visit. Walk as you breathe the fresh sea breeze, and enjoy the sight of ships harbored in the port. There is a Chinese Fishing net bridge and a Rainbow bridge on the way. Watch the sunset, shop at the stalls, enjoy some delicacies and feel at peace.

9. Hill Palace Museum

The Hill Palace Museum is the largest collection Kerala. This is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. The Cochin royal family built this palace as a safe haven to protect its women and children from enemy troops. Built in 1865, the palace complex consists of 49 buildings sprawled over 52 acres.

Styled in the traditional architecture, here 17 galleries exhibiting the legacy of Kerala. Witness oil-paintings, murals, sculptures in stone and manuscripts, inscriptions, coins and belongings of the Kochi royal family including the simhasana (throne). Also exhibited are over 200 antiques of pottery and ceramic vases from Japan and China. There are relics from the Stone Age, objects from Mohenjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilization and a gallery of contemporary art.

10. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica in Fort Kochi is an important site. It is one of the eight admirably constructed edifices of its time. Dating back to the early 16^th century, after the arrival of Portuguese missionaries, this is one of the oldest Christian relics. The cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin is one of the best places to visit in Kochi.

The most noticing feature of the Basilica is the two lofty spires that greet you from a distance. The imitation of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is truly magnificent and a feast for the eyes.

11. Wonderla Amusement Park (Veegaland)

The Wonderla Amusement Park is perfect for children and adults alike. Take a break from sightseeing and everything. This amusement park is a great place to spend the entire day. More than 50 rides and entertainment are available for all ages. There are rides for kids, water rides, dry rides, and thrill rides for adults. Splash in the water, enjoy a rain disco or simply enjoy the thrill. For the daring there are vertical falls to roller coasters, waterfalls, and water pendulums.

This is a must-visit place in Kochi if you want to spend a fun-filled leisurely day.

12. Paliam Palace, Chendamangalam

The Paliam Palace is a newly renovated heritage site in Kerala. This palace belonged to Paliath Achans, the prime ministers of the Maharajas of Cochin. The residence of the powerful dignitaries bear evidence to the richness and splendor of the bygone era.

While visiting Paliam Palace, marvel at a typical Kerala-style palace. There are numerous relics from the erstwhile days of Maharaja’s time. There is a museum in the palace where chronicles the historic records, letters of family and important events. Walk through the palace and marvel at the structure. There are tales lingering every corner, awaiting to be discovered.

13. Malayattoor

Malayattoor is a village in Kochi. The name is an amalgamation of three small words, Mala (Mountain) Arr (River) Oore (Place). This is to say, Malayattoor is a merge of mountain, river, and land. One of the best places to visit, do not forget to explore the picturesque beauty.

The famous tourist attraction is the Malayattoor Church. Situated atop the Malayattoor Hill, the church is dedicated to St. Thomas. This church is one of the most important Christian pilgrim centres in India. Pay your respects and be blessed. Visit the scare pond, the holy cross and other places sacred to the believers.

14. Kodanand Elephant Training Centre

The Kodanad Elephant Training Center is a rural riverside village located near Periyar River. It is another must visit place if you are travelling to Kochi with children. Kodanad is among the Ecotourism destination projects of the Government of India. Currently, it is an Elephant rescue center for captured Elephants from the forests in the adjoining mountains.

Here you can watch the gentle elephants bathe in the river. These beasts are groomed and are friendly. They attend temple festivals which remain quite incomplete without them. They are decked in lavish accessories and are taken to Guruvayoor Temple for the annual celebration.

15. Museum of Kerala History

The Museum of Kerala History is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. The monument pays homage to the cultural heritage of the state. Through a spectacular light and sound show in both Malayalam and English, the history and cultural evolution of Kerala is narrated.

The museum houses incredible paintings, more than 200 original works. The Art exhibition has masterpieces created by Raja Ravi Varma, M F Hussain, Jamini Roy, Manu Parekh and Mammiyoor Krishhan Kutty Nair. Marvel at the magnificent life size statues of prominent personalities housed here. There is an incredibly huge and imposing statue of Lord Parasurama as well.

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Places to Visit