13 Best Things to do in Kochi

There are so many things to do in Kochi that you will be spoilt for choice. A trading port established in the 14th century, Kochi is one of the most favorite destinations for tourists visiting Kerala. Influenced heavily by the Portuguese and Dutch while staying true to its Malayali roots, you will find an amalgamation of cultures in this small town. Read this article to find out about the different things to do in Kochi.

See the Chinese Fishing Nets in action

The Chinese Fishing Nets are locally known as cheenavala, and they are one of the major attractions in Kochi. The fishing nets were introduced in Kochi by the Chinese explorer Zheng He in the 14th or 15th century. More than 30 feet high, the nets are operated via a clever mechanism to catch fish, and are quite fascinating to watch. You should visit them during sunrise or sunset for the most magnificent views.

Watch the Chinese Fishing Nets

Stroll through the lanes of Kochi

Old Fort Kochi is an area with narrow lanes, colonial-style buildings, and water on three sides. The first citadel was built here by the Portuguese in the 16th century. This vibrant street is great to walk around and shop for some souvenirs to take home. There are also many museums, boutiques, shops, and cafes in the area. You can also visit the beach promenade at Fort Kochi, where you can watch the sunset.

Princess Street, or Loafer’s Corner, is another location in Kochi you can visit. Stroll around the streets with buildings on both sides built in British, Dutch, and Portuguese styles. There are many cafes, shops, bookstores, and souvenir shops along this road.

The streets of Kochi

Visit the churches and synagogue

St Francis Church is one of the oldest European churches in India built in 1503 originally. This is also the first Portuguese church in the country. The Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, was first buried here when he passed away in 1524. 14 years later, his remains were moved to Lisbon in Portugal.

The Santa Cruz Basilica is another church built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The Gothic architecture and intricate carvings make it distinct from others.

The Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi is one of the oldest synagogues in India. Originally built in 1568, it was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and then reconstructed by the Dutch in 1664.

St Francis Church

Visit the museums

The Kerala Folklore Museum and Theatre houses more than 6000 artifacts showcasing the history of God’s Own Country. You will be able to see ancient jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and even Christian relics. The top floor of the museum has a theatre where Kathakali performances are often held. You can also buy souvenirs from the antiques shop of the museum.

The Indo-Portuguese Museum is located in Fort Kochi, showcasing the history of the Portuguese in India and the Portuguese settlers in Kochi. There are also many sculptures and artifacts from the 17th century on display here.

The Ginger House is unique in the sense that it is a museum hotel. This waterfront restaurant has a showroom that showcases ancient sculptures and antiques.

Kerala Folklore Museum

Visit Fort Emmanuel

Fort Emmanuel is considered to be the oldest European fort in Asia, built in the 1500s after the Portuguese arrived in Kochi. It was a symbol of alliance between the Portuguese and the Maharaja of Kochi.

Go shopping

You can walk around the lanes of Jew Town to shop for antiques, handicrafts, spices, and jewelry. MG Road is the commercial hub of Kochi, perfect for a bit of shopping. There are many shops here selling a range of products from household goods to handicrafts and cute stuff you can shop for and take home with you.

Check out Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and gifted to the Maharaja of Cochin. After the Dutch took over Kochi, they renovated the palace, which is why it is also known as the Dutch Palace.

Mattancherry Palace

Visit the Elephant Training Centre

Kodanad in Kochi is home to an elephant training centre, where baby and adult elephants are washed and trained. At the Elephant Training Centre, you can watch the elephants bathe in the water early in the morning. It is a unique experience you should check out while in Kochi.

Go birdwatching

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the best spots for birdwatching. Home to many species of birds, you will be able to spot as many as 20 to 30 different types of birds in just a day!

The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is another spot in Kochi for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. The sanctuary has a tidal lake and houses many migratory birds as well. It is often called the “Green Lungs of Ernakulaam”.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Take a cruise on Kerala Backwaters

30 minutes away from Kochi is the town of Alappuzha, the gateway to Kerala backwaters. One of the topmost attractions in Kerala is a boat ride in the Kerala backwaters, and you should try it out. Cruise on a traditional boat, called kettuvallam across the narrow canals and watch the local life of Kerala pass you by. You can also take a traditional Kerala-style lunch on the boat.

Backwaters of Kerala

Chill at Cherai Beach

One of the most-loved beaches in Kerala is the Cherai Beach. The pristine beach is lined with lagoons and backwaters and is the perfect place to visit if you are searching for some solitude. There are also a few water sports and activities you can try out. Cherai beach is one of the cleanest beaches in India, and should be a must-visit if you are in Kochi.

Cherai Beach

Watch Kathakali at Kerala Kathakali Centre

Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala that combines acting and drama for storytelling. This distinct dance form uses heavy makeup, jewelry, and unique costumes and there is a lot of emphasis on gestures. You should definitely catch a live Kathakali performance if you are in Kochi at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

Watch a Kathakali performance

Indulge in an Ayurvedic massage

Fort Kochi has many spas where you can go to unwind and rejuvenate with the ancient Indian art of Ayurveda. Take an Ayurvedic massage that is customized according to your body type and feel your muscles relax as the massage therapists work their magic on you. The Shirodhara massage is a unique type of massage where you lie on your back and warm, herbal oil trickles over your forehead into your head. Be prepared to feel extremely relaxed after this.

Ayurvedic massage (Picture credits: Cherai Beach Resorts)

With a range of things to do in Kochi, it can be difficult to make a choice. At India Someday, we curate personalized itineraries for your trip to India. Contact us, and we will plan the perfect trip to Kochi or India for you!