Kochi is the fifth in our live like a local series. Check out our editions on Bangalore, Delhi, Jodhpur and Mumbai too! Find out where to stay, what to eat, where to go, what to do, what to say and a bunch of extra tips to help you drop the tourist tag.
Where to stay
Beena Homestay. Run by the eponymous Beena who serves by day as the Health Inspector of the Corporation of Cochin, so you know the quality won’t be a problem! Well-located and well-managed, you’ll be a sucked into their family life without being imposed upon.
What to eat
Hit one of the local toddy shops like Mullapanthal, and pair some local liquor with amazingly exotic dishes like crab, frog legs, rabbit, duck and fish heads cooked Kerala style. Seek out smaller establishments if you want to avoid the college crowds, especially on weekends. These shops are usually open all day but if you go too early the day’s catch won’t be in from the beach yet and if you go too late it’ll be gone. Stop at one of the thattukada (street food) joints for some spicy fried quail and soft buttery parotas.
Where to go
Move past the fishing nets to the main harbour in Kochi. Abuzz with life, this may not necessarily be where the locals go to take a break, but it is where you’ll find them. Find a tea stall or awning to shelter under as you people-watch at this throbbing centre of commerce. If you’re approached by a resident you can be rest assured that they’re not a tout.
What to do
Take the ferry to Vypeen Island. Both the journey and the destination are equally mesmerizing. Drift along the network of backwaters packed tightly between the colourful and curious passengers in their autorickshaws on the car ferry. At Vypeen make your way to Kuzhipilly Beach rather than Cherai for some alone time, especially if it’s a weekday.
What to say
Seri Seri. Say it as often as you can, in response to absolutely anything and they’ll take you for a genius. It basically means ‘okay okay’, but it’s used more as punctuation than in actual agreement. Venda (no) will keep the touts away.
Bonus tips:
- Make a pit stop on the highway when you see a tender coconut stall and make a special request for fizzy coconut water.
- Carry your heaviest conditioner and lightest cotton outfit because it will be HUMID. SO HUMID. You can never fully prepare for this level of humidity, but you can try.
See Also: Exploring the Perfect Timing for Kerala
Frequently Asked Questions
While Fort Kochi is popular with tourists, areas like Mattancherry, Ernakulam (the mainland city), and even some parts of Vypin Island offer a more authentic glimpse into local life. Exploring these areas beyond the main tourist spots will give you a better feel for the city.
Take a local ferry to explore the different islands – it’s an affordable and scenic way to see how locals commute. Visit the fish markets in Fort Kochi and Ernakulam. Explore the spice markets in Mattancherry and interact with the traders. Attend a Kathakali performance in a local theater. Wander through the backstreets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry to observe the daily routines of residents.
Utilize the local buses – they are very affordable and cover most of the city, though they can be crowded. Auto-rickshaws are readily available for shorter distances; negotiate the fare beforehand or use a ride-hailing app for autos. Ferries are essential for island hopping. Walking is great for exploring Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.
About Harsh Sonawala
Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.
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