tourist places in kochi near me

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• 28 Enchanting Places To Visit Near Kochi In 2024 To Cover God’s Own Country

02 Aug 2023

The state of Kerala is full of natural beauty and offers numerous places that one can visit. Kochi is one of the most beautiful cities of Kerala that is filled with the most attractive places which catch the attention of tourists from the entire world. You will find many hill stations, waterfalls, temples, dams and many more such places to visit near Kochi.

The culture of Kerala is well-presented in Kochi with their scrumptious foods and Kathakali dance performances. It can be rightly be said that Kochi breathes the essence of the culture of Kerala in its truest form. Take a look at this list of all the best places that you should not miss out on when thinking of quick getaways from Kochi!

28 Best Places To Visit Near Kochi

Kochi is one of the most fun-filled destinations in God’s Own Country. To add, this destination is surrounded by beautiful spots that one should definitely not miss out on. This list of the best places to visit near Cochin includes hill stations, backwater destinations, temples, towns and wildlife sanctuaries. So, here is a snapshot and details about some of the places around Kochi:

1. Alleppey – For A Romantic Houseboat Cruise

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Alleppey is one of the top places around Kochi situated at a distance of around 65 km from the city. It is one of the magnificent destinations of Kochi and Kerala as well which attracts a huge number of tourists as it is a mixture of both backwaters and beaches.

It is also popular with its other name which is Alappuzha because this place is situated on the bank of the Vembanad Lake which is close to the Arabian Sea. You can enjoy the houseboat cruise in Alleppey and since it is located almost in the middle of the water, it is called the Venice of the East. Alleppey is surrounded by the greenery from paddy fields and coconut trees.

Places to Stay: Ramada By Wyndham Alleppey, Tharavadu Heritage, Bamboo Lagoon, Treebo Tryst Palmyra Grand Suite, Raheem Residency Things To Do : Kayaking, Spa, Shopping, Elephant Parade Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 65 km How to reach: It is located at a distance of 65 km from Kochi so you can take a bus or you can hire a taxi or cabs to reach Alleppey. The nearest Railway Station is Alappuzha Railway Station which is very close to Alleppey. Best time to visit: October to March Major Attractions In Alleppey: Alleppey Beach, Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple, Vembanad Lake, and Kerala Backwaters

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2. Kumarakom – An Ideal Weekend Getaway

The place Kumarakom is one of the most attractive places near Kochi and is also the most visited tourist place in the state of Kerala. Kumarakom is situated 16 km away from Kottayam and 56 km away from Kochi. This place is a cluster of some small islands by the side of the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. It is also known as the Queen of Vembanad.

Kumarakom is also the most famous backwater destination of Kochi where you can enjoy the traditional houseboat ride. Kumarakom is considered an ideal weekend getaway near Kochi that attracts a large number of tourists towards itself.

Places to Stay: Hotel Green Fields, Hotel The Club, Royal Riviera Hotel And Resort, Lakshmi Hotel And Resort, Hotel Dubai Things To Do : Houseboat Ride, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Maya Spa, Kathakali Performance Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 48 km How to reach: The Kottayam bus stand is 13 km away from Kumarakom and it is 56 km away from Kochi so you can take a bus or can hire a cab or taxi to reach there. Kottayam is the nearest Railway which is around 13 km away. Best time to visit: October to March Major Attractions In Kumarakom: Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary , Bay Island Driftwood Museum, and Pathiramanal Island

3. Athirapally Falls – A Serene Place

Athirapally Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India . It is located at a distance of 73 km from Kochi and 32 km from Chalakudy. It is among the best weekend getaway in Kerala that attracts a lot of tourists because of its beauty and its alluring environment. The waterfalls from a height of 80 feet in many parallel streams add to the beauty of the Athirapally Falls and make it more attractive.

During the monsoon season, it resembles Niagara Falls as all the streams unite together to give a more attractive scenic beauty like Niagara Falls. You can also go swimming in the bottom streams of the Athirapally Falls.

Places to Stay: Hotel Munnar Inn,  Hotel Dhanyasree, Camelot Hotel, Citrus Hotel, Old Harbor Hotel Things To Do:  Photography, enjoy the scenic views Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 72 km How to reach: You can take both buses as well as a cab or taxi to cover a distance of 73 km from Kochi to reach Athirapally Falls. The nearest Railway Station that is Chalakudy is 30 km away. Best time to visit: September to January Major Attractions: Vazhachal Waterfalls and Sholayar Dam

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4. Kottayam – Surrounded By Ghats

The distance between Kochi and Kottayam is 63 km.  Kottayam is located in the middle of Kerala, and it is the alternative capital of the Kottayam district. This place is not only a well-known holiday destination that is very popular among all the people in the world but it is also known as a center of spices and many more commercial crops like rubber.

It is surrounded by the Western Ghats on its eastern side and by the Vembanad Lake from the west, dotted by some of the best hotels in Kottayam . This place is famous for its scenic beauty of the backwaters and landscapes. This is also a getaway to the famous Sabrimala temple and many more such places.

Places to Stay: Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Amritara Ameya, White Gate Residency, Hotel Cochin Legacy, Hotel Imperial Regency Things To Do : Enjoy picnic time at Nadukani, explore the serenity of Kottathavalam, witness the ancient treasures at Poonjar Palace Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 62 km How to reach: The distance of 63 km from Kochi to Kottayam can be traveled both by bus as well. As by taxi. The nearest Railway Station is the Kottayam Railway Station itself Best time to visit: September to April Major Attractions In Kottayam: Nadukani, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, and Nadukani

5. Thrissur – A Pilgrimage Center

Kochi is at a distance of 81 km from Thrissur. Thrissur is situated in the center of the state of Kerala and it is also one of the most famous tourist places near Kochi. Also, it is among the most popular site of pilgrimage in Kerala. Thrissur is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi . The name Thrissur stands for the Big town of Hindu God Shiva.

And as the name suggests the city features one of the most famous temples of Shiva known as Vadakkunnathan Temple where Lord Shiva is worshiped. The place Thrissur is also famous for its historical rise and fall in the rule of various kings and is to date famous for the Thrissur Pooram Festival which is celebrated in April and May.

Places to Stay: KTDC Tamarind Hotel, Kadappuram Beach Resort, Casino Hotel, Lulu International Convention Centre, Joys Palace Things To Do : Seek blessings at Vadakkunnathan Temple, indulge in bach activities at Snehatheeram Beach Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Distance from Kochi: 86 km How to reach: You can take both buses as well as a taxi from Kochi to reach Thrissur by covering a distance of 81 km. The nearest Railway Station is Thrissur Railway Station itself. Best time to visit: October to March Major Attractions In Thrissur: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Basilica Of Our Lady of Dolours, and Thrissur Zoo and State Museum

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6. Vazhachal Waterfalls – Greenery All Around

Vazhachal falls is among the most famous places to visit near Cochin. It is located at a distance of 75 km away from the main city of Kochi. The beauty of the Vazhachal falls is breathtaking and admiring so it is one of the major attractions for tourists in the state of Kerala. In the closer vicinity of the Applause forest range, the Vazhachal waterfall is formed by the Chalakudy River in the lower stream of the Athirapally waterfall. The water in this waterfall falls from a height of 300 feet which is very unique and beautiful, therefore, it never fails to catch the attention of people.

Places to stay: NA Things to do: Photography, watch scenic views Ideal duration: 2-3 hours Distance from Kochi:  78 km How to reach: To cover a distance of 75 km from Kochi to reach the Vazhachal waterfall you can hire a taxi or cab. You can also take a bus from the Chalakudy bus stand which is only 30 km away. The nearest Railway Station Chalakudy is 30 km away. Best time to visit: September to February Major Attractions: Sholayar Dam

7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – With Exemplary Beauty

The famous Mahadeva temple is located at a distance of 11 km from Kottayam Railway Station and it is situated at a distance of 74 km from Kochi city. The Mahadeva Temple is situated in the Ettumanoor city near Kochi. It is one of the most famous temples in South India of Lord Shiva and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit around Kochi.

The most attractive part of the most attractive feature of the temple is its unique woodcarving and murals which is not a new piece of art rather it is a 16th-century architect with exemplary beauty. The temple has an oil lamp that is lighter every day near the entrance of the Mahadeva Temple is said to have an existence that is 140 years old.

Places to stay: NA Things to do: Seek blessings at the temple Ideal duration: 1-2 hours Distance from Kochi: 57 km How to reach: You can take a bus or you can also book your private cab or taxi to cover the distance of 74 km to the Mahadeva Temple from Kochi. The nearest Railway Station is Kottayam which is 11 km away. Best time to visit: February to March Major Attractions: The temple itself

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8. Kuttanad – Spend Some Beautiful Time

The distance between Kuttanad and Kochi is 76 km and the distance between Kuttanad and Alappuzha Railway Station is almost 13 km. So if you are thinking of visiting places near Cochin to spend some beautiful time in the surrounding of nature a distance enjoy the scenic beauty of lake and backwaters then Kuttanad is one of the best choices as the place is very pretty and full of greenery because of the vast paddy cultivation.

Due to the tremendous paddy growth in the place, it is commonly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala. 7 rivers flow through Kuttanad and this adds to the natural beauty of the place. The place is also famous for its backwater houseboat tour.

Places to stay: Hotel Panchavady, The Green Palace Health Resort Things to do: Photography, houseboat tour, boating Ideal duration: 1-2 days Distance from Kochi: 76 km How to reach: You can hire a taxi or cab ride on the bus to reach Kuttanad from Kochi, covering a distance of 76 km. The nearest Railway Station is 13 km away that is Alappuzha Railway Station. Best time to visit: October to March Major Attractions: Basilica of St. Mary, Mannarasala Temple, and Karumadikuttan (Buddha Statue)

9. Peechi Dam – A Beauitful Attraction

The Peechi Dam is located at a distance of almost 98 km away from Kochi and it is 22 km away from the Thrissur Railway Station. The Peechi Dam is also one of the most popular places to visit near Kochi that has till date never failed to attract the eyes of tourists from all over the world.

The dam is spread in a large area of 3200 acres and there is a beautiful botanical garden by the side of it which has a fountain. The existence of the botanical garden adds to the beauty of the dam and its atmosphere. The dam is functioning as an irrational dam for the nearby village area of Thrissur.

Places to stay: NA Things to do: Marvel at the beauty of the dam, photography Ideal duration: 1-2 hours Distance from Kochi: 97 km How to reach: To cover a distance of 98 km from Kochi to reach the Peechi Dam you can make use of both buses as well as taxi. The nearest Railway Station is Thrissur Railway Station which is 22 km away. Best time to visit: October to March Major Attractions: The dam itself

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10. Munnar – A Year-Round Destination

Well, definitely, Munnar has to make it to the list of top tourist places near Kochi, for a number of reasons. It is one of the best hill stations in Kerala and can be visited anytime of the year. The pleasant climate makes it one of the coolest places in Kerala making it one of the top honeymoon places in South India . Situated above 1,532 m above sea level, Munnar impresses you with its range of hills, scenic views, mesmerizing lush greens and acres of tea gardens. You can enjoy a favourable climate throughout the year and hence it is a year-round destination. 

Places to Stay: Chandy’s Windy Woods, Pallivasal, The Panoramic Getaway, Forest Glade, The Fog Resort & Spa, Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel Things To Do : Enjoy tea estate tours at  Kolukkumalai, try camping and trekking at Echo Point – Camping And Trekking Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days Distance from Kochi : 124 km How to reach : Being a prominent hill station, Munnar is connected via roads pretty well. A bus from Kochi takes around 5 hours to reach, while a taxi or car takes 2 and half hours to reach Munnar. Best time to visit : September to November and January to March Major Attractions : Eravikulam National Park , Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, The Blossom International Park, and Attukad Waterfalls

11. Vagamon – A Glorious Landscape Awaits

Another hill station that makes it to the list of top places near Kochi is due to the glory of the place. Discover true mysticism, a unique set of landscape, grassy hills, and lush greenery that overwhelm your trip to Kerala. In a quaint yet unexplored region, you can enjoy multiple activities including paragliding, trekking and rock climbing. One of the best places to visit in Vagamon is the chain of three hills: Kurismala, Murugan and Thangal.

Places to Stay: Honeycomb By Astral Inn, Chillax, Falcon Crest, Holiday Vagamon, Winter Vale Green Stay Things To Do :  Trekkeing, boat riding, off roading Ideal Duration: 1 Day Distance from Kochi: 104 km How to reach: Roadways connectivity between Kochi and Vagamon is just great, and you can easily take a local bus or hire a taxi. In fact, Kochi Airport is the closest airport to Vagamon, 150 km away. Best time to visit: June to September Major Attractions: Vagamon Lake, Thangalpara, Vagamon Pine Forest, and Marmala Waterfalls

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12. Guruvayur – A Holy Site

Welcome Guruvayur, a holy town that makes it to our list of the top places near Kochi that you can visit for a fulfilling holiday. While you are there, praying at the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Guruvayur , is an absolute must. A small town that hides in itself stories of legends really glorifies the mysticism of Guruvayur. Don’t hold back and visit this sacred and pilgrim town today.

Places to Stay: Srivar Hotels, Kunnathur Mana Ayurveda Heritage And Luxurious Resort, Sterling Guruvayur, Sopanam Heritage, Krishna Inn Things to do:  Tea plantation tour, temple visit Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 93 km How to reach: Guruvayur is very well connected to Kochi by road. Buses take around 4 hours to reach, from terminals while a taxi ride is going to be a little costly yet complete in 2 and half hours. Best time to visit: October to February Major Attractions In Guruvayur: Mammiyoor Temple, Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Camp, and Devaswom Museum

13. Thommankuthu Falls – An Eco-Tourism  Center

Why won’t this mesmerizing waterfall make it to our list of the top tourist places around Kochi? It is a beautiful tourist spot that is one of the major eco-tourism centres in Kerala. With awe-inspiring views and situated between hills and green valleys, the waterfalls are one of the best-kept secrets of Kerala . What’s even better is that you get a series of 12 waterfalls over a span of 5 km to enjoy this destination. 

Places to stay: NA Things to do: Marvel at the beauty of the falls, photography Ideal duration: 1-2 hours Distance from Kochi: 75 km How to reach: It takes around 2 and half hours to drive down from Kochi to the falls. On your way, you can stop for a perfect picture with hills as your backdrop. Best time to visit: September to May Major Attractions: Kattadi Kadavu Viewpoint, Meenuliyan Para, and Kottapara Hilltop

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14. Marari Beach – For Ultimate Leisure

The biggest reason Marari beach makes it to the top of our list is due to its romantic appeal and the setting it offers. It is, by far, the most romantic and one of the top tourist places around Kochi for couples. You can enjoy leisure time and relax at this beach while the surroundings set a great tone for your romance. Considered to be one of the most romantic Kerala beaches , visiting here with your partner must be a part of your itinerary. If you are looking for places to visit in Kochi near the airport, plan a visit to Marari Beach. 

Places to Stay: Private Pool Villa Near Marari Beach, Marari Nest Beach Homestay, Flamingo Boutique Villa, Marari Phoenix Beach Homestay, Marai Art Village Things to do: Water activities, sunset viewing, photography Ideal Duration: 1 Day Distance from Kochi: 60 km How to reach: Either hire a car to drive, or a taxi to reach approximately an hour from the Kochi International Airport. Best time to visit: September to May Major Attractions: Mararikulam Shiva Temple, Arthunkal, Thiruvizha, St. Francis Church, and Alappuzha 

15. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary – A Nature-Rich Region

If you want to explore a nature-rich region with plenty of flora and lots of fauna, especially, birds, then the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is the place for you. The first ever bird sanctuary in Kerala, and one of the best places to see near Kochi, visit here for true leisure time. While you are there, catch pictures of beautiful birds like the Sri Lankan Frogmouth, Bronzed Drongo, Malabar Parakeet, Rufous Babbler and many more. Now, isn’t this a time you’d want to go ahead with while on your trip to Kochi?

Places to Stay: NA Things to do: Flora and fauna spotting, safari, photography Ideal Duration: 1 Day Distance from Kochi : 65 km How to reach: It takes approximately an hour to drive from Kochi to the bird sanctuary. Best time to visit: November to February Major Attractions: Periyar River, Bird Watching, Bhoothathankettu Dam

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16. Idukki – Plenty Of Serenity

Lying in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Idukki is your ideal and one of the best places to see near Kochi for a fulfilling vacation. Sparse villages, the river Periyar and multiple peaks are just some of the highlights of Idukki, apart from the vast expanse of tea gardens. You can enjoy a safari, bathe at the waterfalls, and visit the lakes and temples. Add this to your itinerary today if you don’t want to miss a truly heavenly place.

Places to Stay: Green Berg Resort, Misty Mountain Plantation Resort, Palette Hill View Resort, Palette Hill View Resort, Winter Vale Things To Do : Trekking, camping, paragliding Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 107 km How to reach: The nearest railway station and airport are at Kochi. Regular buses ply from there or you can take a slightly costlier option of taxis. Best time to visit: All year round Major Attractions In Idukki: Anamudi, Lakkom Falls, Echo Point, Tea Museum

17. Kollam – A Quick Getaway To Backwaters

Set on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is an urban metropolis that is very well-known for its trade history. It makes it to the list of top tourist places near Kochi due to a variety of factors including being a gateway to the Kerala backwaters, the beach hotspots for a relaxing time and the various resorts spread around. And yes, you get the authentic experience of the houseboats here.

Places to Stay: Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa, Hotel All Seasons, The Raviz Resort and Spa, Ashtamudi Villas, All Season’s D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort Things To Do : Canoeing, paddlesport activities, ATV rides & bike tour, Houseboat ride Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 138 km How to reach: A bus takes 4 hours to reach Kochi while a train takes 2 and a half hours. However, the convenient option for you is to hire a taxi or cab. Best time to visit: All year round Major Attractions In Kollam: Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thevally Palace, Tangasseri Lighthouse, Paravur Lake

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18. Palakkad   – An Offbeat Destination

One of the best, if not the best places to visit near Kochi and definitely getting a mention is Palakkad. Set along the serpentine hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala, the place is often considered as the gateway to Kerala. Another reason for its popularity is its vast housing in rural Kerala and the beautiful fields of paddy. For you, there are vast palm trees, dense forests, green landscapes, and rippled hills. Sounds like a place to be on your next vacation to Kerala, isn’t it?

Places to Stay: Four N Square Residency, Noor Jehan’s Grand Noor, Hotel Ammbadi, KPM Regency, Hotel Chanakya Things to do: Adventurous activities, photography, witness the awe-inspiring landscapes Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Kochi: 145 km How to reach: By bus, trains and taxis. There are a range of options for you to travel from Kochi to Palakkad. The choice is yours to select whichever mode suits you the best. Best time to visit: December to February Major Attractions In Palakkad: Malampuzha Dam, Palakkad Fort, Yakshi Statue, and Rock Garden

19. Pathanamthitta – For Art And Craft

Well, Pathanamthitta is a famous destination, across Kerala and India due to the vibrancy it offers. A small district in God’s Own Country, the destination is often regarded as the ‘Pilgrim Capital of Kerala’. You can be a part of the boat races, and visit the religious shrines and cultural training centres. The place also has a rich tradition of art and culture including the 10-day dance called Padayani. Some popular art forms found here include Vasthuvidya Gurukulam, and Aranmula Kannadi.

Places to stay: Shanthi Residency, Hotel Heyday, Hotel Amala Things to do: Temple visit, with traditional performances, explore hilly sites Ideal Duration: 1 Day Distance from Kochi: 118 km How to reach: There are a number of local buses connecting Kochi and Pathanamthitta. You can opt for that or a slightly costlier option of booking a cab. Both are well connected. Best time to visit: November to March Major Attractions: Malayalapuzha Devi Temple, Chuttippara, Kottappara Hills Top View Point, St. George Orthodox Church, and Pandalam Palace

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20. Varkala – For The Ultimate Cliffs

Varkala is a beach town located on the shores of Arabian Sea in Kerala. We have added it to the list of top places to visit near Kochi due to its extremely awesome appeal for a beach holiday. Despite being a beach town, the high number of temples also flock to Varkala. Once done with praying, stay at the sea-facing Varkala resorts with a backdrop of palm-covered red cliffs. Do not forget to taste scrumptious Kerala cuisine at the beach restaurants.

Places to Stay : Bamboo Village, Clafouti Beach Resort, Woodhouse Beach Resort, Deshadan Cliff & Beach Resort, Palm Tree Resort Things To Do : Beach hopping, tour the temples, visit Anchuthengu Fort, spectacle Kathakali dance Ideal Duration : 2 days Distance from Kochi : 169 km How to reach : The most efficient way of travel between Kochi and Varkala is via train which takes just 2 hours and costs less than INR 500. Best time to visit : October to March Major Attractions : Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, Kappil Beach, Varkala Beach, Odayam Beach 

21. Periyar National Park – Nature’s Home

You must definitely plan a visit to the Periyar National Park for the immense natural splendor and to explore the rich wildlife. The park is a protected area located within the mountainous western ghats of Kerala in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts. Out of all the national parks in India , Periyar has a comparatively higher number of tigers, Asian elephants, sambar deer, leopards, and rare lion-tailed macaques. It is definitely one of the finest tourist places near Kochi to spend one whole day.

Places to Stay Nearby : The Elephant Court, Lake Palace (KTDC), Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Aranya Nivas Things To Do : Jungle jeep safari, day and night trekking, Thekkady lake boat safari, bamboo rafting Ideal Duration : 2 days Distance from Kochi : 130 km How to reach : The best way from Kochi to Periyar National park is by hiring a taxi which takes about 2 and half hours of travel time and costs about INR 2,000. Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major Attractions : Periyar Lake, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Connemara Tea Factory

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22. Keezharkuthu Falls – For The Uniqueness

The gorgeous Keezharkuthu Waterfalls is a unique and one of the best waterfalls in Kerala . Would you like to see a rainbow against the water any time of the year? Yes, the natural phenomenon is visible throughout the year and while you can click some amazing shots, don’t miss taking a bath at the waterfall. One of the top tourist places near Kochi, the scintillating water falls from a height of 200 feet while the vivid surroundings rejuvenate the body.

Places to stay: NA Things To Do : Adventure activities like camping, trekking, rock climbing, capturing great shots Ideal Duration : 4-5 hours  Distance from Kochi : 96 km How to reach : The falls come on the driving route from NH966B and NH85 in the Muvattupuzha-Pothanicad Road. Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major attractions: NA

23. Gavi – The Offbeat Place You Deserve

If you are wondering about something different, something unique and one of the best offbeat places in Kerala , then Gavi is your place. Gavi is a village in the Pathanamthitta district filled with the natural splendour of lakes, wildlife, and mostly birds. It is a very amazing place for birdwatchers with plenty of rare birds flying through including woodpeckers, great pied hornbill and kingfishers. If you are looking for the most splendid places to visit near Kochi, then Gavi, hands-down wins the bet.

Places to Stay : KFDC Gavi Hotel, L&G Riverview Haven, Wildernest, Amaana Plantation Resort, Cardamom County Things To Do : B oating, trekking, bird-watching, camping Ideal Duration : 3 days Distance from Kochi : 170 km How to reach : Since there is no direct route, we recommend taking a taxi which might cost you more but will make your travel easier and faster.  Best time to visit : September to February Major Attractions : Gavi Reservoir, Neer Veezhcha Water Falls

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24. Vaikom – A Serene Place 

Vaikom is one of the most serene and quiet places to visit near Kochi located in the northwest part of Kottayam. Vaikom has a lot of backwaters, of what Kerala is famous for. Another reason for Vaikom’s famousness is the presence of temples. Bordered by Lake Vembanad, and crossed by various estuaries of the Muvattupuzha river, there are plenty of opportunities for boating. 

Places to Stay : Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, White Gate Residency, KTDC Kumarakom Gateway, Vembanad Lake Villas, Lovedale Lakeside Homestay Things To Do : Religious tour, village tours, beach visit, houseboat riding Ideal Duration : 2 days Distance from Kochi : 40 km How to reach : Since Vaikom is very close to Kochi, a simple drive via public transportation would suffice. Best time to visit : November to February  Major Attractions : Fish World, Vaikom Lake, Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park, Vaikom Beach, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

25. Thenmala – An Ecotourism Site

Do you know about the first planned destination for ecotourism in India ? Well, yes! Thenmala is your answer. One of the quite beautiful places around Kochi, Thenmala presents itself as home to many hills, forests, lakes and wildlife. The terrain is dotted with plenty of awesome landscapes for trekking, hiking, adventure sports, boating and camping. If you are planning to explore places to visit near Kochi within 200 km, Thenmala is the place to be. 

Places to Stay : Kandamath Heritage Resort, Thenmala Heritage, Kumar Palace Leisure Hotel, Palaruvi Resort, Denner’s Villa Things To Do : Boating around lakes, enjoy the musical fountains, adventure activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, etc., jungle camping Ideal Duration : 4 days Distance from Kochi : 170 km How to reach : The best and budget-friendly way to travel to Thenmala from Kochi is via bus which takes about 4 hours. There are other ways like trains and taxis (costly).  Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major Attractions : Thenmala Dam, Butterfly Park, Deer Park, Thenmala Hanging Bridge, Ambanad Hills

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26. Cheeyappara Waterfalls – A Wonderful Trek Spot

The Cheeyappara Waterfalls are the most adventurous tourist places near Kochi for trekkers as the landscape is filled with rocks and mountains. The water falls down into seven tiers which is a spectacular sight. It has been readily declared as an ecotourism destination with a rich growth of trees and forests around. If you visit the waterfall during the morning, then a rainbow against the water is clearly visible. Summers might be a great time to visit and let the water spray cool you down.

Places to stay: NA Things To Do : Trekking, nature photography, camping Ideal Duration : 3-4 hours Distance from Kochi : 84 km How to reach : Located between Adimali and Neriamangalam, NH49 on the Kochi–Madurai Highway, the falls is only a 2-hour drive from Kochi so hiring a cab or taxi would be great. Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major Attractions : NA

27. Valar Falls

Located at the intersection of Neriamangalam and Adimali, Valara is popular for a chain of waterfalls situated around 40 kilometres from Munnar inside a thick tropical forest. The water cascades down from the height of 1,000 feet and you can also learn about the Thottiyar Hydroelectric Project of the Kerala Electricity Board which is just around the corner from this place. 

Places to stay: NA Things To Do : Sightseeing, photography Ideal Duration : 3-4 hours Distance from Kochi : 84 km How to reach : This location is easily accessible when you are near Adimali on Munnar to Kochi Highway.  Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major attractions:  NA

Kochi In November: Encounter The Best Of The Queen Of Arabian Sea

28. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Situated around 73.5 km from Munnar, this safe haven is certainly a gem for vacationers coming to leisurely travel around southern India. The region has around 270 species of birds, such as the incredible Indian hornbill and Nilgiri wood pigeon along with different animal categories that you can learn about here.

Places to stay: NA Things To Do : Birdwatching, photography Ideal Duration : 1-2 hours Distance from Kochi : 63 km How to reach : Located on the Malayinkeezhu Kozhipally Bypass Jct onto Kothamangalam – Perumbankuthu Road, this place can be accessed via cab/taxi on the Inchathotty Thattekad Road.  Best time to visit : All throughout the year Major attractions: NA

There are many places that you can visit in the nearby areas of Kochi but the above-mentioned places are among the most suitable and famous places to visit near Kochi. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your holiday to Kerala to witness some of the most alluring spots that await with arms wide open!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Kochi

Which are the best places to visit near Kochi?

Some of the top-rated tourist sites near Kochi include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Athirapally Falls, Kottayam, Thrissur, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kuttanad, Munnar, Thommankuthu Falls, Periyar National Park, and Cheeyappara Waterfalls.

What are the best things to do in Kochi other than sightseeing?

Apart from sightseeing, there are numerous things you can enjoy in Kochi. Some of these include: 1. Enjoy with elephants at Elephant Center 2. Take a Ferry Ride in Kochi 3. Go on a culinary ride at the best restaurants 4. Try skiing, kayaking, banana ride, and other water activities 5. Attend Kathakali Performance and several cultural arts

What is Kottayam famous for?

Kottayam is famous for its scenic beauty, landscapes, backwater houseboat rides that make it a perfect holiday destination. Apart from this, it is also famous as a spice center and for rubber cultivation.

Are all the nearby places in Kochi have good rail and road transportation and connectivity?

Yes, all the places in the vicinity of Kochi city have a good rail as well as road network connectivity and the transportation facilities are also very well managed and safe.

What can I buy from Kochi and nearby places?

You can buy handicraft items from Kochi and its nearby places. The handloom materials are also very good along with the beverages, especially coffee.

Is it good to visit Kochi and nearby places in the summer season?

No, it is not recommended to visit Kochi and the nearby locations in the summer seasons as the places witness very hot and sunny days during summer.

Which place near Kochi is also called the Rice Bowl of Kerala?

Due to the heavy growth of the paddy, Kuttanad is popularly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala. The place is full of greenery due to paddy cultivation and coconut trees.

What kind of jewellery is famous in Kochi?

Kochi is known for its silver and Gold jewellery so it is recommended to buy the silver and gold jewellery from Kochi whenever you visit there.

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Places To Visit In Kochi

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Must Visit Places in Kochi

Mattancherry Palace

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1. Fort Kochi

4 km from city center 1 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Fort Kochi is a seaside town in the south-western part of Main Kochi, which is known for its historical fortifications and ruins of old palatial buildings from the Portuguese or Dutch colonial era. Fort Kochi is dotted with European structures, churches and other architectural buildings which take you right back to a different era back in time.

2. Mattancherry Palace

3 km from city center 2 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace. It is now a museum displaying paraphernalia belonging to the rajas of Kochi. The four separate wings of the Mattancherry Palace surround a central courtyard which has a temple as well.

3. Santa Cruz Basilica

4 km from city center 3 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is located at Fort Kochi and is one of the eight Basilicas in India. Famous for its gothic style architecture and portuguese interiors, the church is the second cathedral built by the Portuguese. Located on K.B. Jacob Road in Fort Kochi, this beautiful roman catholic church serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Kochi.

4. Hill Palace Museum

9 km from city center 4 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

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5. Kerala Kathakali Centre

4 km from city center 5 out of 56 Places To Visit 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. 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.

6. St Francis Church Kochi

5 km from city center 6 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

St. Francis Church in Kochi, which finely exhibits Portuguese architecture, is believed to be one of a kind amongst all the European churches which were constructed in India. It was constructed in the 15th century by the Portuguese traders. Vasco-da-Gama, the famous explorer, was buried in this church when he died in 1524, on his third visit to India. His remains were moved to Lisbon after fourteen years but his gravestone is still present in the church.

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7. Bolgatty Palace

2 km from city center 7 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Bolgatty Palace is located in Bolgatty Island of Kochi and is one of the oldest existing Dutch palaces that is situated outside Holland. It is an exquisite example of the Kochi style of architecture. Built-in 1744 by Dutch traders, it was later extended, and gardens were landscaped around it. Green gardens, azure skies and the virgin charms of Kerela are aplenty at the Bolgatty Palace.

8. Marine Drive, Kochi

1 km from city center 8 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Marine drive in Kochi is one of the best places to spend time in the city and provides an amazing view of the sea. It is a picturesque promenade and is built facing the backwaters. It is a popular hangout place for the local people.

9. Kashi Art Cafe

4 km from city center 9 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

10. Museum of Kerala History

8 km from city center 10 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Museum of Kerala History is located in the city of Kochi, Kerala, India. Founded in 1987, this museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that chronicle the rich history and culture of Kerala. One of the oldest art and history museums in Kerala, the Museum of Kerala History is managed by the Madhavan Nayar Foundation.

11. Lulu Mall

7 km from city center 11 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Lulu Mall is the largest mall in India regarding total retail space of 1.7 million square feet. Situated in Edapally, Kochi, the mall sprawls over an extensive area of 17 acres with 215 outlets of restaurants, multiplex, food courts, entertainment zones, bowling alley, money exchange centres, arcade games and 5D cinema.

12. Jewish Synagogue

30 km from city center 12 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

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13. Kerala Folklore Museum

5 km from city center 13 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Kerala Folklore Museum near Thevara in Cochin, portrays a variety of gallery art, sales, live dance forms which vary from ritualistic to martial arts, and souvenirs. Some of the pieces at this gallery are priceless. One can also sell his/her fine arts and antiques here which might be put up on display later. It is a family-run private museum curated by Annie George and started in 2009. It houses around 5000 artefacts.

14. Vypin Beach

12 km from city center 14 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Vypin beach is a popular beach located in Kochi, a city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is located on Vypin Island, which is bridged across to the mainland. The beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand and blue waters that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and historical significance. The beach is often referred to as Vepeen Beach as well.

15. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

34 km from city center 15 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, also known as Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, is a popular tourist destination located in the Ernakulam district, Kerala. Situated near the southern banks of the Periyar River, the sanctuary is surrounded by towering mountains and is known for its 'Elephant Kraal,' elephant rescue center, mini zoo, and elephant rides.

16. Kochi-Muziris Biennale

16 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

An international exhibition of contemporary art, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale started in 2012 as the lead occasion of the KMB Foundation with the support of the government of Kerala. A mix of Indian as well as international artists, all with very different experiences in art, come together to present their artworks in the form of films, paintings, photographs sculptures, sketches, fashion exhibits, music, dance, drama and many more.

17. Bishop's House

4 km from city center 17 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Bishop's House was a residence to the Portuguese governor built in the year 1506. It houses an Indo-Portuguese museum that has a collection of valuable artefacts from various churches under the Cochin diocese. Now it is famous for its house-facade made up of large Gothic arches with a circular path that ends at the main entrance.

18. Willingdon Island

2 km from city center 18 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Willingdon Island is one of the largest human-made islands in India which is named after Lord Willingdon, the British Viceroy of India. This beautiful island provides various links between Kochi port and other national and international ports

19. Ayurvedic Massage in Kochi

19 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

There are innumerable Ayurvedic centres that provide massages in Kochi, which do much more than merely relax you; they allow you to have a sense of wholeness and rejuvenation and give you some much-needed inner peace. We've curated a list of top places offering Ayurvedic massages in Kochi, along with details about the timings and location.

20. Chinese Fishing Nets

4 km from city center 20 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Bearing witness to the entry of Chinese into Kerala long ago, legends tell that these nets were a gift of the famous Chinese King, Kublai Khan. Fishermen even today use these elaborate conventional fishing nets, making it the only other destination other than China to have and use these fishing nets. Popularly known as Cheenavala, the Chinese Fishing Nets are the most iconic and popular attractions of Kerala peculiar to Kochi located next to Fort Kochi.

21. Indo Portuguese Museum

21 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

22. Jew Town

3 km from city center 22 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

23. Indian Naval Museum

5 km from city center 23 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Located on the INS Dronacharya premises in the Ernakulam district of Kochi, Kerala, the Indian Naval Maritime Museum is an ode to the Indian Navy’s maritime past. The museum sheds light on the country’s maritime heritage, depicts international trade links, pays tribute to major maritime figures and also focuses on the settlement of the Europeans in India.

24. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

2 km from city center 24 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Located in Kochi city-centre, this bird sanctuary is home to a shallow lake surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation that draws a variety of migratory and resident birds every year.

25. Cherai Beach

22 km from city center 25 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Cherai Beach, which is one of the best-voted beaches of the state, is situated at a distance of 30 km from Kochi city. Its strategic location on the northern end of the Vypin Island in Kochi makes it a perfect merging point of the sea and backwaters. The surrounding greenery and the seashells present in different shapes and Chinese fishing nets add to the beauty of the sea.

26. Rainbow Hanging Bridge

1 km from city center 26 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

One of the most popular attractions in Kochi, Kerala, the Rainbow Hanging Bridge in Ernakulam is connected to the Marine Drive. This arched bridge overlooks the expansive sea and is known for being an excellent place for taking a morning or evening walk since it has a pedestrian promenade.

27. Fort Kochi Beach

5 km from city center 27 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

28. Chottanikkara Temple

28 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Located in Kakkanad, Chottanikkara is the most revered of the 393 Hindu shrines spread across 3 districts in the state of Kerala. Popular for its spectacular architecture, the shrine stands out to be the ultimate testimonial for the primordial vishwakarma sthapathis (wooden sculpture) in carving out this temple.

29. Subhash Park

0 km from city center 29 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Popularly known as Subhash Park, the Subhash Chandra Bose Park is situated along Marine Drive in Kochi, Kerala. The park, which overlooks the serene backwaters of Vembanad Lake and Kochi Harbour on one side and a bunch of trees on the other, is an excellent place for people to come and relax.

30. Greenix Village

3 km from city center 30 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

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.

31. Antique Museum

3 km from city center 31 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

A branch of the Fine Art Emporium of Kochi, the Antique Museum Kochi is situated in Mattancherry’s Jew Town. It is maintained by the government and is ideal for people who are interested in antiques as the museum is home to over 1,000 valuable items that date back centuries.

32. Veeranpuzha Lake and Backwaters

12 km from city center 32 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Veeranpuzha Lake, located in the serene backwaters of Kochi, is a captivating destination renowned for its tranquility and scenic beauty. Embraced by lush greenery and coconut groves, the lake is part of the expansive Vembanad Backwaters network, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

33. M G Road Kochi

1 km from city center 33 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Mahatma Gandhi Road, popularly known as MG Road among the people is considered to be the commercial hub of Kochi. Everything you want and need can be found here. It’s a shopaholic’s paradise with many colourful shops and markets lined up in one road. The people of Kochi and some even from far away places come here for shopping as one can easily find clothes, accessories and household items.

34. Veeranpuzha Beach

12 km from city center 34 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Veeranpuzha Beach is one of the popular beaches in Kochi. With beautiful blue waters and golden sandy shores, the beach is lined with green vegetation. The proximity of fishing villages from the beach ensures the activity of fisherfolks at work all day long at the shores. You can visit Veeranpuzha to watch the fishermen at work, or to have a glimpse of the laid back rural vibe.

35. Sunset Cruise

53 km from city center 35 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Sunset Cruise on the Arabian waters is an amazing 2 hour journey beginning from Marine Drive in Kochi during the time of sunset. The cruise covers Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry, Bolgatty Island, Willingdon Island and the Cochin shipyard.

36. Princess Street Kochi

4 km from city center 36 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Princess Street is famous for its quaint old world charm and bizarreness of European homes built in the Dutch, British, French, and Portuguese style. Most of these homes allow visitors to see the interiors as well.

28 km from city center 37 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Kalady is a census town located east of the Periyar river, in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. It is the birthplace of Sri Adi Shankara, and a popular destination for pilgrims. There are two major shrines located in Kalady, dedicated to the memory of Adi Sankaracharya.

38. Parikshith Thampuran Museum

0 km from city center 38 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Architecturally a Kerala style mansion, the Parikshith Thampuran Museum is located inside the Durbar Hall. The museum features old coins, sculptures, oil paintings, Mughal paintings and Royal artifacts belonging to the 19th century.

39. Wonderla Amusement Park

14 km from city center 39 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

An amusement park filled with breathtaking charm, Wonderla has everything one can need to celebrate with vivacity. With over 50 exhilarating rides, the theme park has all the facilities to provide for an exciting experience for every visitor irrespective of their age and gender. It offers the thrill of both land-based and water-based rides.

40. Vasco da Gama Square

4 km from city center 40 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Many stalls serving various edibles such as coconuts, nuts, sea-food, ice-creams and local fares scatter the narrow esplanade along the Kochi beach which is the Vasco da Gama Square. One can even watch local fisherman fishing along the shoreline.

41. Pierce Leslie Bungalow

4 km from city center 41 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Pierce Leslie Bungalow is a colonial mansion established as offices of Pierce Leslie and Co. Established in the year 1862; the coffee merchants drew inspiration from Portuguese and Dutch architecture.

42. Pallipuram Fort

25 km from city center 42 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Pallipuram, located in Vypeen Island near Kochi, allows the visitor to behold and feel the earliest of all the European memories of India. The Pallipuram Fort, built in 1503 by the Portuguese, is considered as the oldest surviving European monument in India. Standing amidst the huge trees that romance the skies, untouched by the hubbubs of the town and enduring the snags of time, the fort is also known by the name Ayikotta or Alikotta.

43. Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple

9 km from city center 43 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Containing lithic records of historical significance, Thirikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple hosts the spectacular secular Onam feast every year in the Malayalee month of Chingam which falls typically between August and September.

44. Santhana Gopala Krishna Temple

65 km from city center 44 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Santhanagopala-Krishnaswamy Temple is an ancient temple with the inscriptions found here that dates the founding of the temple to 947 AD. Thus this beautiful temple is regarded as one of the oldest temples found in all India.

45. Ernakulam Mahadev Temple

5 km from city center 45 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

The Ernakulam Shiva temple is one of the major temples in Kerala. It is also called as Ernankulathapan temple, located in the heart of the city of Kochi. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered a rare one as the deity faces the sea towards west.

46. Andhakaranazhi Beach

25 km from city center 46 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Located at a distance of 30 kms from Kochi, Andhakaranazhi Beach is an extension of the tiny village of Andhakaranazhi. The virgin beach is still noncommercialized and unexploited from tourism and a well-kept secret of the city. Also its distance from the city makes it a perfect serene spot from the pell-mell of the city.

47. Puthenthode Beach

11 km from city center 47 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Located at a distance of 12 kms from Kochi in Chellanam, Puthenthode Beach is a relatively newly made beach. Slightly smaller in area than the other beaches with only half a km in length, it is popular for its peaceful vibe and calm environs.

48. Puthuvype Beach

8 km from city center 48 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Puthuvype is a 3 kms long beach situated in Puthuvype near the lighthouse in Kochi, Kerala. One among the least explored beaches of Kochi, the highlight of the beach is also a lighthouse. Still unexploited by tourists, the beach is crowded by the fisherfolks at work. You can visit on a weekend for a perfect break from the city in peace and solitude.

49. Kuzhupilly Beach

19 km from city center 49 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 3.5 kms from Cherai Beach in Kochi, this one is remotely located and really well hidden even from the localites. Lined with huge rocks all along the shore, the place makes for a perfect romantic spot or even if you want to spend some time away from the hustle-bustle of the city. The drive to the beach is equally beautiful with two lakes flanked on the side of the narrow road.

50. Munambam Beach

26 km from city center 50 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Also known as Muziris Beach, Munambam Beach is situated 4 kms north of Cherai Beach. Covered in Chinese fishing nets of the village fisherfolks, the beach boasts of calm sands merging into the indigo waters of the Arabian Sea. The beach also has an adjacent playground for the kids.

51. Areekkal Waterfalls

29 km from city center 51 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Areekkal Waterfalls is situated in Kochi and is one of the very few falls situated in the region. Boasting of immaculate surroundings, verdant green woods and a picturesque setting, the silvery cascading water atop rocky cliffs is a visual delight and a popular tourist spot of the city.

52. Vallarpadam

4 km from city center 52 out of 56 Places To Visit in Kochi

Quietly nestled in the middle of the Vembanad Lake in Kochi, Vallarpadam is one part of the group of islands in the state of Kerala- the one one being Willington Island. Vallarpadam is hustled near the Port of Kochi, the island only has a meagre population of around 10000 people. Considered to be one of the most picturesque and scenic places in the region, the town is mostly famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, known as the Vallarpadam Church.

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Places to Visit in Kochi

Kochi popularly referred to as the “Queen of Arabian Sea” is a beautiful city located in the state of Kerala. This port city is known for its old-world charm. It was the hub of the spice trade with foreign powers such as British, Arabs, Chinese, etc for centuries. There are several places worth visiting when you are in Kochi such as Cherai Beach, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Kerala Folklore Museum, Ernakulathappan Temple, to name a few. The tranquility and harmony of Kochi draw tourists from far and wide, especially those who come here to learn about the rich colonial history and trading prowess of this wonderful city.

Covering attraction's type of Kochi : Art Galleries & Museum, Beaches, Churches, Govt. Museum & Memorials, Lakes & Waterfalls, Palace & Landmarks, Street Market, Temple, Zoo, etc.

Top Tourist Places in Kochi

Cherai beach, kochi.

Cherai Beach is located on the northern side of Kochi. It is a tranquil beach in which people come to relax and have a fun time with friends and family. In fact, a lot of people come here to swim against the backdrop of coconut groves. The place also offers a wonderful view of the Chinese Fishing Nets. There are several shacks on this beach where you can enjoy the cuisine of your choice after a lovely swim. Dolphin spotting can also be done on this beach. Several new resorts, as well as hotels, have cropped up in this area. You can also indulge in some exciting water sports here.

Chottanikkara Temple, Kochi

This is the temple of the mother goddess Bhagavati. The goddess is known to be present inside the temple in the form of Mahalakshmi. She is believed to cure the devotees of all their problems. It is one of the most popular Hindu temples in the state. The area where this temple is, was once a very thick jungle. This temple is believed to cure mental illness and evil spirits. The patients are given lime, neem, and chilies from the temple and this is considered to ward off evil spirits. There is this Thiruvonam festival that is celebrated in this temple with a lot of fanfare. It is like a huge feast.

Ernakulathappan Temple, Kochi

This is a well-known ancient Shiva Temple situated in the downtown area of Kochi. This temple is located within the premises of Durbar Hall Ground. It is built over approximately 1acre area of land. People from far and wide come to visit this temple. Various poojas are organized here. The pooja methods that are carried out here are regularized by Villawamangalathu Swamiyar. Devotees that come to this temple to offer their prayers are known to obtain the ultimate ‘ Moksha’ in life. Shiva is believed to be present in his purest form in this temple, and this is the reason people throng this place in large numbers.

Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi

This charming fort is known for its British, Dutch and Portuguese architecture. You will see huge bamboo fishing nets at this Fort Kochi Beach. The place has a tranquil feel and this is the reason why several tourists and local people visit it. Several eateries and cafes are located in the vicinity, so you can easily sit and enjoy some nice time with friends and family. The area has a backpack feel and you will just simply fall in love with the cozy cafes that line the street. Several other attractions are located quite nearby, so you can visit them also.

Hill Palace, Kochi

This is the largest archeological museum that is located in the state of Kerala. It was constructed in 1865. It was the official residence of Maharaja of Cochin. It also served as the imperial administrative office. The palace comprises of 49 buildings. It is spread across an area of around 54 acres. It demonstrates the traditional style of architecture. There is a children’s park also located inside the palace. The entry fee for adults is INR 30 and for children is INR 10. Various things that can be seen inside the palace are murals, oil paintings, sculptures, and the different belongings of the royal family of Kochi.

Jew Town, Kochi

This is an antique market where you can buy several amazing artifacts, Keralan crafts, aromatic spices, vintage collectibles, and so many other traditional items. The place is a popular hangout for antique lovers and shopaholics. This place was actually the home of Jews till they shifted back to Israel. It is located in close proximity to the Mattancherry Fall. Anyone who happens to visit this market ends up spending 2- 3 hours here. The market is open till 9 PM. A lot of bargaining happens in the market and if your haggling skills are good you will end up buying amazing antiques at the lowest prices.

Kalady, Kochi

It is a small village that is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. It is located on the banks of river Periyar. The term Kalady means feet. The place is a popular Hindu religious town. It is the birthplace of Adi Sankara. He was the founder of the Advaita order. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya brought several miracles to life here. He preached Vedic Dharma and established four mutts. The Sringeri Mutt is a well- known ashram that is dedicated to this great philosopher and saint. There is a small temple dedicated to the life of Sankara’s mother is also located here.

Kerala Folklore Museum, Kochi

It is a museum that encompasses different antiques, handicraft items, etc. Some of the artifacts that can be seen here are deer, Buddha Head, Lord Vishnu, Sitting Shiva, Chola Queen, Marble statue, etc. The museum offers history enthusiasts basic information as regards traditional architectural elements from Kerala. The wood art installation that you see here is just fantastic. It was done across a span of 7.5 years by 62 traditional carpenters. There is a spice art cafe that is located inside the museum where you can see old kitchen utensils, crockery, and other pottery items. Traditional Kerala snacks and other homemade delicacies are served here.

Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, Kochi

For all elephant lovers, this place is a must-visit. This riverside sanctuary arranges safari tours with wild elephants. You can have a startling feeding session with the animal. Then there are different observation points where you can see the elephants carrying out different daily activities. This well- known training center of elephants is located besides the river. This is the reason several people come here for an enjoyable picnic. You can take a small walk on the several walkways that are located here. There is a Wildlife Park that is also located here. It is home to deer and other wildlife.

M.G. Road, Kochi

Mahatma Gandhi Road, popularly known as M.G Road is a well known commercial center of Kochi. The road draws several shopping lovers from all across the city and even tourists. Several branded stores line up the road. In fact, the place is a haven for shopping lovers. From clothes to handicrafts, footwear, spices, a wide variety of domestic and imported nuts, etc you name a thing and you will get it here. A lot of bargaining happens here so you should be prepared to haggle a bit when you shop here. The things are affordable and you can come here alone or in a group.

Marine Drive, Kochi

This is an amazingly picturesque waterfront in Kochi where people come for relaxing walks or just sea gazing. The area faces the backwaters and the sight of rising and setting sun just looks spectacular. No vehicles are permitted on the walkway. It is a popular place where you can hang out with friends and family. Several shopping malls and fast food joints are located along this walkway. The walkway begins from High court Junction and ends at the Rajendra Maidan. There are three modern bridges constructed here, the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge, Rainbow Bridge and the House Boat Bridge.

Mattancherry Palace, Kochi

This is a Portuguese Palace that was actually gifted by the Portuguese to the King of Cochin way back in 1545. It contains portraits that exhibits, the Rajas of Kochi. This palace has been included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is quadrangular in shape and demonstrates Nalukettu style of architecture. There are several murals in the palace and they depict the finest example of Hindu temple art. The murals are painted in warm hues using the tempera technique. Portraits of Rajas of Cochin starting from 1864 can be seen in the Coronation Hall of the palace.

Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi

This is one of the nine basilicas that are located in the state of Kerala. It showcases the finest example of architecture. The church is thronged by visitors all through the year, thus making it one of the biggest attractions for tourists that visit Kochi. The basilica has an imitation of ‘The Last Supper”, which truly looks remarkable. There are murals and frescos on the life of Christ. These decorate the blue pillars that are present at the entrance. The pulpit also demonstrates amazing craftsmanship. The architecture has Indo European and Gothic influences. There are two very huge spires in the church. The pastel-hued interiors look pleasing to the eyes.

Veeranpuzha Backwaters, Kochi

It is a beautiful lake in the city of Kochi. It is basically an extension of Vembanand Lake. In fact, one of the largest water bodies in the state. It does not have fresh water. The land that is located beside the lake has lush vegetation all around. It actually looks like a green velvet carpet. This is the reason several tourists come here. The place also serves as a haven for fishermen. The area looks extremely beautiful during monsoons. Water festivals are organized here. The untouched beauty and tranquil environment are drawing tourists to this place.

Veeranpuzha Beach, Kochi

It is one of the most sought after beaches in Kochi. Some of the water tourism festivals are also organized here. The blue waters and golden hued sandy shores attract tourists to this beach. This outstanding beach is lined up with lush green vegetation. Due to close proximity of fishing villages you can see a lot of fishermen at work here. The beach is frequently crowded as lot of people come here to see a wonderful sunrise and sunset. Take a walk or enjoy some relaxing time at the beach with your friends and family.

Kochi City FAQs:

𝒬 . What is Kochi famous for?

𝒜 . Popularly known as the Queen of Arabian Sea, the city also flaunts one of the finest natural harbours of the world and was the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries. Old Kochi(West Kochi)

𝒬 . What is the best time to visit Kochi city?

𝒜 . With the receding of the monsoon starts (July - September) the best time to visit Kochi.

𝒬 . Kochi is the city of which Indian state?

𝒜 . Kerala

𝒬 . Does Kochi city have an airport?

𝒜 . Cochin International Airport, Cochin is an international airport serving the city of Kochi, in the state of Kerala, India. Located at Nedumbassery, about 25 kilometres northeast of the city,

𝒬 . What are the names of railway stations of Kochi city?

𝒜 . Name of railway station(s) in Kochi city: Ernakulam Junction railway station, Old Railway Station, Kumbalam, Aroor Halt, Edappally railway station, Kalamassery, Tirunettur, Aluva railway station, Triupunittura, Ernakulam Town railway station

𝒬 . What are the top malls or shopping places of Kochi?

𝒜 . Malls and Shopping places in Kochi city: Lulu International Shopping Mall, Centre Square Mall, ABAD Nucleus Mall, Grand Mall, Kennees Shopping Mall, Marina Mall, Siso Mall, Bata Centre Square Mall, Kadicheeni Shopping Mall

𝒬 . What are the famous religious places in Kochi?

𝒜 . Famous Religious places in Kochi city: Chottanikkara Temple, Edappally Church Complex, Paradesi Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, Church of Saint Francis, Chottanikkara Temple, Edappally Church Complex, Shiva Temple, Poornathrayesa Temple, St. Antony's Shrine

𝒬 . What are the places for fun and activities in Kochi?

𝒜 . Fun and Activity places in Kochi city: Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Kathakali Performance, Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi Fort Beach, Kerala Folklore Museum, Abhayaranyam, Cherai Beach, Princess Street, Late-night Binging, Partying Non-stop at Pubs, Marine Drive

𝒬 . List out the inter-state bus terminal and major bus stands of Kochi city.

𝒜 . Following are the names of major bus terminals of the Kochi city: Fort Kochi Bus Terminal, KSRTC Bus Station, Mattancherry Bus Terminus, Harbour Terminal Railway Bus Stop, Kochu Palli Bus Station, Karuvelipady Bus Stop

𝒬 . Does Kochi city have any metro rail facility?

𝒜 . Yes, Kochi city has metro rail facility to commute locally. Search Kochi Metro routes .

More best attractions in Kochi

Park, restaurant, shopping mall in the city.

▣ My Food Club Turkish Mandi ▣ Sulthan Veedu Restaurant ▣ Hotel Sree Abhirami Vegetarian ▣ LuLu International Shopping Mall ▣ Polakulath's Karthika Regency ▣ Changampuzha Park ▣ Centre Square Mall

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• Places to Visit in Kochi

41 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kochi

• Kochi Overview
• Top 41 Places to Visit in Kochi
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Cochin Jewish Synagogue

#1 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is a religious place located at Jew Town in the Mattancherry area of Kochi city. It is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and among the must-visit places during your Kochi tour . Also known as Paradesi Synagogue, & Mattancherry Synagogue, the Cochin Jewish Synagogue was constructed in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi for the Malabari Jewish community who mainly migrated from the Middle East and Europe. In 1662, it was destroyed by the Portuguese and then reconstructed, two years later, by the Dutch. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town and is the only one of the seven synagogues of the Cochin Jewish community still in use. The complex has four buildings. It was built adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace temple on the land given to the Malabari Yehuden or 'Yehuden .....

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Fort Kochi Beach

#2 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Fort Kochi Beach, or Kochi Beach is a pristine beach located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Kerala. Also called as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, it is one of the finest beaches in Kerala , and among the prime places to visit as part of Kochi holiday packages . Often known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Fort Kochi Beach is a serene beach that offers a scenic view and natural beauty to its visitors. With its pristine water and tranquil ambiance, it is extremely admired by tourists and local people as well. The main attraction of this beach is the historic fort, which is the perfect example of European architecture. The presence of the Chinese fishing nets is probably the most easily identifiable one. The trees and the greenery on the walkway to the beach add to the serene atmosphere there. The beach also offers a breathtaking .....

Chinese Fishing Nets

#3 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction, Chinese Fishing Nets are a type of fishing nets that dotted the harbor's mouth at Fort Kochi. These are among the most popular Kochi tourist attractions . Locally known as Cheenavala, these nets were introduced in Fort Kochi by the Chinese explorer, Zheng He between 1350 and 1450 AD. The Chinese Fishing Nets are fixed land installations, used for fishing in a unique method. These nets are fixed on bamboo and teak poles holding them horizontally by huge mechanisms to pull them down into the sea. These nets are weighed by large stones tied to ropes. The entire structure of the Chinese fishing nets is 10 meters in height, spreads 20 meters over the water body, and is operated by a team of six fishermen. Each net has a fixed operating depth and due to this, a net cannot be repeatedly worked in tidal waters. There are different fishing nets for the operation which .....

Marine Drive

#4 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 3 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Marine Drive is one the most beautiful spots in Kochi City. The Marine Drive stretches from the Jankar Jetty in the north to the Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the locals. It is an important shopping centre in Kochi. The place offers wonderful views of sunset over the sea mouth. The gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine Drive an important tourist spot in Kochi. The 140 meter walkway passes through bridges, the Rainbow bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge. Country boats and motor boats are available at both the ends of walkway for rides in the backwaters.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

#5 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 4 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary situated behind the High Court, in the center of Kochi City. It is one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in Kerala, and among the most popular places of sightseeing in Kochi . Established in 2004, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the smallest protected area under the state forest department. Covering over an area of about 2.74 hectares, the sanctuary also houses a shallow tidal lake surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation. The lake is connected with Kochi backwaters by a canal and is home to seven species of fishes. It is the only bird sanctuary in Kerala which is located in Mangrove forests. The word Mangal means mangroves in Portuguese. The Bird Sanctuary plays a significant role in balancing the ecology of Kochi, hence it is .....

St. George Ferona Church - Edappally

#6 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 7.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St. George Ferona Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic church situated in Edappally, Kochi. It is one of the oldest churches in India, and among the top pilgrimage places to visit in Kochi . This Roman Catholic Church was built in 594 AD in the land donated by the Raja of Edappally. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later, the Edappally church became known as St. George's Church. The church has undergone many renovations since the time of its construction. The picture of the Virgin Mary surrounded by sculptures and angels was integrated with the altar during one such renovation. On the wall behind the .....

#7 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 16 km from Kottayam, 36 km from Alleppey, 56 km from Kochi, 135 km from Munnar & 164 km from Trivandrum, Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous Kerala backwaters destination for traditional houseboat rides and among the most visited Kerala tourist places . The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of an old temple Kumaran. Kumarakom is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi . Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. In order to protect the ecology of the place, the Kerala government has declared Kumarakom as a special tourism zone. Arundhati Roy, the author of the 1997 Booker Prize-winning 'The God of Small Things', was ..... Distance (From Kochi): 56 Kms Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

St. Francis Church

#8 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St.Francis Church is the first European Church built in India. It is located on Parade Road in Fort kochi , less than 1 Km from Kochi Beach. The Church was originally named as Santo Antonio, the patron Saint of Portugal. The history of this Church reflects the colonial struggle of European powers in India, from the 15th to 20th Centuries. The Portuguese Vasco da Gama was the first European to discover the sea route to India. In 1503 Alphonso Alburquerque was given permission by the Rajah of Cochin to build a fort. The original structure was built in wood, which was later rebuilt in stone. Vasco Da Gama has died in Kochi in 1524 and was originally buried in this church cemetery. After 14 years, his remains were moved to Lisbon in Portugal. The gravestone of Vasco Da Gama can still be seen here. The Church became a protected monument in April 1923.

Aluva Shiva Temple

#9 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 20 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Aluva Shiva Temple is the most famous Shiva temple in Kochi situated on the banks of Periyar River in Aluva. The temple stands distinct as the Sivalinga or the idol of Lord Siva is not enshrined on any Pagoda. It stands alone on the vast sand banks of the river Periyar. During the monsoon season, the whole region gets flooded and the idol gets submerged in water. Shivarathri is the main festival of the temple carried out every year in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (February-March). The devotees stay awake the whole night in prayer. A dip in the river after observing the rituals of Shivarathri is considered very sacred.

Kodungallur

#10 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 38 km from Kochi & 36 Kms from Thrissur, Kodungallur, also known as Cranganore is a historical town located in Thrissur district on NH17 between Kochi and Kozhikode . This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also an ideal getaway from Kochi for a short trip. Kodungallur was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera Ruler in the 7th century AD. Kodungallur is home for several important historical monuments: - Bhagawati Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala with history of above 2000 years and was mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha - Thomas the Apostle of Jesus is believed to have landed in Kodungallur with his followers in the year 52 AD. This place has become the earliest Syrian Christian centre of Malabar. Monuments built in the memory of Thomas still exist here, including St. Thomas Church. - Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque built in India in .....

Indira Gandhi Boat Race

#11 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

The Indira Gandhi Boat Race is a boat race festival celebrated in Vembanad Lake during the last week of December to promote tourism. It is one of the most famous boat race festivals celebrated in Kerala. About sixteen huge majestic snake boats participate in this boat racing festival. These huge boats race against each in this stunning festival. Tourists from all over the world visit Kochi to enjoy these celebrations. The snake boats representing different villages of the region take part in the race. Each snake boat is manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and 100 to 125 oarsmen. Feeding them during practice sessions and on the festival day is the responsibility of the villagers or the sponsors.

Dutch Palace

#12 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace located in Mattancherry locality of Kochi. Situated near Jewish Synagogue, it is one of the famous heritage sites in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Kochi holiday packages .   The Mattancherry Palace was built around 1545 CE by the Portuguese and gifted to the King of Cochin Veera Kerala Varma in the year 1555 CE. The Portuguese influence was further supplanted by the Dutch, who took over Mattancherry in 1663. The Dutch then carried out some extensions and renovations in 1663, and since then the palace was popularly known as the Dutch Palace. The palace was included in the 'tentative list' of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Considered as one of the top Kochi tourist attractions , the .....

Bolghatty Palace

#13 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 4 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Bolgatty Palace is located on Bolgatty Island near Vallarpadam Island. The Palace was built in 1744 by the Dutch trader and was later taken over by the British. Today, the palace is a popular hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. The palace is two-storied containing well-decorated bedchambers and a huge lounge, which exhibits historical portraits. The palace can be reached by boat from the mainland Ernakulam. The Island is also home for a fine golf course amidst backwaters.

Vypin Island

#14 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Vypin Island is one of the group of islands that form part of the city of Kochi, Kerala. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Kochi . Sprawled over an area of 25 km, Vypin Island is formed after heavy floods in the year 1341. Vypin forms a barrier island that lies between the Arabian Sea in the west and the Cochin backwaters formed by the various distributaries of the Periyar river, in the east. It is one of the most densely populated islands in the world that connects Kochi by a series of bridges called Goshree bridges touching other two islands Mulavukadu and Vallarpadam and then end at Marine Drive, Kochi. The island, also named Vypeen is a fast-developing suburb of the city. The beautiful Bungalow Heritage homestay is also located at Vypin which was built in the year 1930, representing a perfect blend of Kerala, Dutch .....

St.Thomas Church - Malayatoor

#15 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 45.5 kms from Kochi, St.Thomas Church located in Malayatoor (near Perambavoor) on the banks of Periyar River is one of the famous churches in Kerala. Situated on top of 609 meter high Malayatoor Hill, the church is dedicated to St. Thomas, who is believed to have prayed at this shrine. The architectural style of the Malayatoor Church is a blend of Greco-Roman style. The walls of the church have been adorned with exquisite designs, paintings and carvings which describe the various events in Lord Jesus' life. A rock on the hill is believed to have been the footprints of Saint Thomas. Malayatoor Perunal, the popular annual festival is celebrated in the months of March and April.

Bhuthathankettu

#16 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 61 km from Kochi, Bhuthathankettu, situated near Kothamangalam (10 Kms) is a wonderful picnic spot and one of the largest irrigation projects in Kerala built on Periyar River. This place is famous for its tremendous natural beauty. The dam here is one of the oldest existing European structures in Kerala. Nature walks and forest treks are popular and exciting activities at this place. Near by Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary (15 Kms) situated on the banks of Periyar River is the best place for bird watching with a population of over 500 species of exotic birds. This globally acclaimed bird sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist. Boating facilities are available in the artificial lake formed by the barrage here. There is a nice restaurant and children park near the barrage.

Gallery Of Contemporary Art

#17 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 1 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Gallery of Contemporary Art is situated in the Durbar Hall Road near Ernakulam Shiva Temple. The Rajas of Cochin used to conduct their durbars (meetings) in this impressive building located within the Durbar Hall Grounds. It was later converted to a museum and named after Rama Varma Parikshith Thampuran, the last official ruler of the Cochin Empire. The museum used to house archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals. The building has been taken over by the Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy and now houses the Gallery of Contemporary Art. All the exhibits of the museum have been moved to the Hill Palace museum. Timings: 9:30 AM to 12 PM & 3 PM to 5 PM.

Hill Palace Museum

#18 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Hill Palace Museum is an archaeological museum located in Thrippunithura. It is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, and among the prime Kochi places to visit . The Hill Palace was built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Cochin Ravi Varma using his personal wealth and was the official residence of the Cochin Royal Family. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in traditional Kerala architectural. It is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with ponds, fountains, a garden, and lawns. The palace was handed over to the Government of Kerala by the Cochin Royal Family in 1980. Later in the year 1981, it was taken over by the Archaeological Department and opened the museum in 1986. In the Archaeological Museum, there are 15 major galleries exhibiting a plethora of artifacts like paintings, weapons, jewelry, sculptures, coins, and .....

Siva Temple - Pazhoor

#19 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 28 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Siva Temple located in Pazhoor on the banks of Muvattupuzha River near Piravom (3 Kms) is an ancient temple constructed during 2nd - 3rd century AD. The temple represents wonderful features of typical Kerala architecture.

Thrikkakara Vamana Temple

#20 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Thrikkakara Temple is the only temple in India dedicated to Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Vishnu. It is also the seat of famous 10 days Onam celebrations. Thrikkakara Temple has about 18 important stone inscriptions dating back to 10th to 13th Century AD. The main temple of Vamana also has shrines for Bhagavathi, Sastha and Gopala Krishna. There is also a Siva Temple with shrines for Parvathi, Durga, Bhagavathi, Subramanian and Ganapathy. The Onam is observed by all Malayalees as the return of the King Mahabali to Kerala. Colorful Boat Races are held on this occasion on the banks of the Pampa River.

Munikkal Cave Temple

#21 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 27 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Munikkal Cave Temple situated on a hillock in Chengamanad near Aluva (11 Kms) has historical and mythological importance. It is believed that sage Jangaman had lived here around 2000 years ago. A famous Lord Murugan Temple was built on the spot where the sage is said to have meditated.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

#22 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Kothamangalam, and 62 km from Kochi, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located at Thattekkad near Kochi, Kerala. Also known as Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, it is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India , and among the major places to visit as part of Kochi tour packages . Spread across 25 Sq. km at the foothills of Western Ghats, the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was established in 1983 and is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala. Lies across the Periyar River, this sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist. His famous survey of Travancore in the 1930s led to the formation of this modern-day paradise for avian life. This is one of the popular places to visit near Kochi . The sanctuary is home to about 300 species of birds including Peninsular Bay Owl, Ceylon .....

Edamalayar Dam

#23 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 40 km from Athirapally & 76 km from Kochi, Edamalayar Dam, also known as Idamalayar Dam located near Vadattupara is a picturesque location and one of the major reservoirs of Kerala. The Dam is built across Edamalayar River which is merged into Periyar River. The forests around reservoir provide shelter for variety of wildlife. Edamalayar is a heaven for people interested in birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest around the reservoir. Boating in the reservoir will leave a memorable experience.

Ernakulam Shiva Temple

#24 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 1.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Ernakulam Shiva Temple is one of the ancient Temples in Central Kerala. It is located close to the shores of Vembanad Lake Backwaters. Lord Shiva also known as Ernakulathappan is the presiding deity of this temple. It was built during the Maharaja rule. The deity faces westward and enjoys the beauty of the sea. The annual festival usually falls during January or February and is spread over 8 days. The uthsavom starts with Kodiyettam on the first day evening. On the seventh day there is Pakalpooram, when the deity is being taken out in procession with caparisoned elephants with Panchavadyam and finally terminating at Durbar Hall Ground after the famous Pandimelam and colorful fire works. On the final day around evening the deity is taken for the Arattu (holy bath) in the nearby temple tank. After that starts the Arattu procession with the accompaniment of Panchavadyam.

#25 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 37 kms from Kochi, Kaladi is the birth place of Adi Sankaracharya, the great Indian philosopher of the 8th century AD. Situated on the banks of Periyar River, Kaladi is now a famous pilgrim centre. He propounded the philosophy of Advaita. Adi Sankaracharya was born here in 788, as the only son of Sivaguru and Aryamba, a Kerala Brahmin couple. He propounded the philosophy of Advaita and extensively traveled through out India towards the efforts to unify the Hindu religion. There are two shrines in memory of Adi Sankaracharya. One dedicated to him as Dakshina Murthi and the other to the goddess Sharada maintained by Sringeri Mutt . On the same premises there is also a Brindavan where Adi Sankaracharya's mother Aryamba was cremated. The Shi Krishna Temple close by was the family temple of Adi Sankaracharya. Crocodile Ghat is the place where the acharya took his vows of renunciation.

Museum Of Kerala History

#26 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 9.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Museum of Kerala History is situated in Edappally. The museum was built and maintained by Madhavan Nayar Foundation. A statue of Parasurama greets the visitors at the entrance of the Museum. The Museum also has a Gallery of Paintings and Sculptures with a unique collection of over 200 paintings. The gallery displays the works of some of the greatest exponents of Indian art including Raja Ravi Varma, Mammiyoor Krishhan Kutty Nair, Jamini Roy, Manu Parekh and M F Hussain. A one hour light & sound show is presented with life-size sculptures of 87 personalities who shaped the history and culture of Kerala in the last 2000 years. Light & sound show timings: 10AM, 11 AM, 12PM, 2 PM, 3 PM & 4 PM. Museum Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays & public holidays.

Kalill Bhagvathy Temple

#27 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 43 km from Kochi, Kallil Bhagavathy temple or Kallil Kshetram is a famous 9th century rock-cut cave temple situated near Perumbavoor. It is believed the temple was initially a Jain temple and the idols seen in the temple are believed to be Jainatheertha Parswanathan, Mahaveer and Padmavathi Devi. This temple is now considered as a Hindu pilgrimage with Goddess Durga as the main deity. Siva, Vishnu & Brahma are also worshipped in this temple. The temple is located on a 30 acres hill with 120 well laid stone steps to reach the temple. The temple is maintained by the Kallil Pisharody family. The annual festival of the temple is celebrated for 8 days in the months of November / December. The temple is open only till afternoon.

Chendamangalam

#28 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 28 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Chendamangalam (a small village near Paravur) is famous for Paliam Palace, residence of the Paliath Achans, Prime Ministers to the former Maharajas of Kochi. It is one of the architectural splendors of Kerala state. The Palace was built in mid 16th century and it features a rare collection of historic documents and relics. The place is dotted with three rivers, seven inlets, hillocks and vast expanses of green plains. Other places of interest around Chendamangalam include: - The Jewish synagogue built in 1614 AD - Remains of the Vypeenakotta Seminary built in the 16th century by the Portuguese - Sri Venugopala Swami Temple established in 1900 AD - An ancient Syrian Church The hillocks at Kottayil Kovilakom are unique as the site of a Hindu temple, a Christian church, a mosque and Jewish synagogue, within 1 km radius. The town is also an important center for handloom weaving and coir .....

#29 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 43 kms from Kochi, Kodanad situated on the banks of Periyar River near Perumbavoor town (3 Kms) is famous for Elephant Training Center. Kodanad is the headquarters of Malayatoor forest division. Earlier elephants were captured from the nearby Malayatoor forest and were trained in Kodanad Elephant Training Center. Now, elephants of different ages are trained at this center and supplied for festivals & celebrations for procession in different areas of kerala. Elephant rides can be taken with in the training center. The Elephant Training Center also has a small wildlife park inside which accommodates number of animals and birds. Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple

#30 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 15 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple situated near Chottanikkara is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. The presiding deity here is Raja Rajeshwari Devi, another form of Goddess Durga (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati). The image of the deity is said to be self manifested with four arms, covered with a golden amour. This deity is worshipped in 3 different forms, as Saraswati in the morning, as Bhadrakali at noon and as Durga in the evening. Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Siva, Ganapathi & Subramanya are also worshipped in this temple. People suffering from mental illnesses commonly visit the temple. The major festival 'Makam Thozhal' is celebrated for 9 days in the month of February / March. Dasara is also celebrated in grand manner at this temple attracting large crowd. Timings: 4 AM to 12 PM & 4 PM to 8 PM.

Sri Poornathrayeesa Temple - Tripunithura

#31 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 8 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Sri Poornathrayesa Temple is situated in Tripunithura, which was the formal capital of Cochin State. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped as Santhaana Gopala Murthy This historical temple was almost ruined in a major fire accident in the early 19th century and later reconstructed. It is said that Arjuna of Pandavas has established this temple. The deity is seen sitting under the shade of the divine serpent, Ananthan. The folded body of the serpent acts as the throne for the God. This temple is famous for the yearly festival Vrishchikoltsawam, which is conducted every year in the month of November / December. The other cultural festival includes the Athachamayam which is held during the harvest festival of Onam. This deity is Kula Daivam of Cochin Royal family.

Sri Mookambika Temple - Paravur

#32 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 25 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Mookambika Temple or Saraswati Temple is located in Paravur (towards Kozhikode). The temple is situated near Paravur KSRTC Bus Station. Dedicated to Saraswathi Devi, the goddess of wisdom, it is one of the fewest temples of goddess Saraswati. The temple complex has separate smaller shrines for Ganapathy, Subrahmanyan, Yakshi, Hanuman and Veerabhadran. The temple is under the administration of Travancore Devaswom Board. Navarathri festival is celebrated with great devotion. Music festival and Vidyarambham ceremony are the main features of this festival. Thousands of people participate in the Navarathri music festival. Timings: 5 AM to 11 AM & 5 PM to 8 PM.

Chittoor Sri Krishna Temple

#33 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 8.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Sri Krishna Temple is a powerful 13th century temple located in South Chittoor. The temple is surrounded by backwaters and coconut lagoons and the presiding deity is found in the standing posture with four hands carrying Sankhu, the Sudarshana chakram, the Lotus and Mace. This temple is treated by devotees as Dakshina Guruvayur. For centuries the temple was maintained by the Kartha family of Cheranelloor Swaroopam and was later taken over by Rama Varma Maharaja of Cochin Royal family. The Temple is a classic example of typical Kerala style. Timings: 4 AM to 11 AM & 4:30 PM to 8 PM.

Santa Cruz Basilica

#34 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Santa Cruz Basilica is situated in Fort Kochi. This church was built by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul 1V in 1558. Later the British demolished the structure and Bishop Dom Gomez Vereira commissioned a new building in 1887. Consecrated in 1905, Santa Cruz was proclaimed a Basilica by the Pope John Paul II in 1984. It is one of the 8 basilicas in India and one of the oldest churches in India. The Church has two lofty spires and a remarkably bright, white-washed exterior and a pastel-colored interior. The interiors of the church are mostly Gothic. The columns decorated with frescoes and murals, the seven large canvas paintings on the passion and death on the Cross, especially the painting of the Last Supper, modeled on the famous painting of Leonardo da Vinci and the beautiful stained glass windows add to the artistic grandeur of the place.

Our Lady Of Ransom Basilica - Vallarpadam

#35 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 7 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Our Lady of Ransom Basilica or St. Mary's Church is a major pilgrim center for Christians situated in Vallarpadam. The shrine is also known as Vallarpadath Amma. Vallarpadam is a little island located in the middle of the Vembanad Lake Backwaters, above Fort Kochi. The church was built in 1676 and has a famous picture of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Portuguese missionaries brought the picture from their native land and installed here. It is believed that the picture has miraculous powers. The church was declared as a special church in the year 1888 and in 1951 the Union Government declared it as a major pilgrim center. The church was given the status of a basilica in 2005. A week long Vallarapatha Amma festival is celebrated in the month of September every year. People of all religions participate in the festival.

Gundu Island

#36 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 8 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Gundu Island is the smallest of all the islands that constitute together the city of Kochi. The area of this island is only 5 acres in the middle of Vembanad Lake Backwaters and the island is mostly covered with coconut trees. Gundu Island is accessible by boat from the Vypeen Island. The serene nature and the cool breeze blowing across the waters, makes this island a favorite among. Gundu Island has a coir factory where coir is made into rope manually, and carpets are manufactured by looms operated by hand.

Cherai Beach

#37 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 31 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Cherai village. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also one of the top beaches in Kerala. The 15 km of long golden beach is very clean, shallow, and famous attraction for swimming and sunbathing. This is one of the few places where we can see the lagoon and ocean separated only by a few hundreds of metres. The newly beautified 400 meters of the main beach has a walkway and high mask lamps which make the beach enjoyable even at night. The Beach is very safe and tourists of all age groups can enjoy the Beach alike. The beautiful beach is studded with seashells of various hues and shapes. There is a park for children on the beach. Water Scooter and Speed Boats are also available. Dolphins are also spotted at this beach. The far end of the beach lined with Chinese fishing nets is a beautiful sight. A tourism festival is celebrated .....

Indo Portuguese Museum

#38 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 12 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, The Indo-Portuguese Museum situated in Fort Kochi is an important center to understand the Indo-Portuguese Christian Art heritage. The museum was established by Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi. It is divided into five main sections according to the nature of items displayed in each section, Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral. The museum currently houses a piece of the altar made in teak wood from the Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen, a chasuble from Bishop's House, Fort Kochi, Processional cross, which is a combination of silver and wood from Santa Cruz Cathedral, Fort Kochi, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance from The Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen. Among the displayed items, the Coat of Arms of the Franciscans needs special mention. Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays.

#39 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 63 km from Kochi, and 152 km from Trivandrum, Alappuzha is a magnificent destination in Kerala with a mix of Backwaters and Beach. This is also one of the popular attraction not to miss in your honeymoon tour , and also one of the best Kerala tourist places . Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea close to the banks of Vembanad Lake. It is the administrative headquarters of the Alappuzha district and the 6th largest city in Kerala. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Kerala Backwaters . A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. It connects Kumarakom and Cochin to the North and Kollam to the South. The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha ..... Distance (From Kochi): 63 Kms Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

#40 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 45 km from Thekkady, 58 km from Idukki, 76 km from Kumarakom, 64 km from Kottayam, 92 km from Munnar, 99 km from Alleppey, 103 km from Kochi, 181 km from Madurai, and 196 km from Trivandrum, Vagamon, or Wagamon is an enchanting hill station situated in Idukki district of Kerala. Located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, it is one of the offbeat hill stations in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Kerala Tour Packages . Perched at an altitude of 1100 m, Vagamon is surrounded by 3 hills namely, Thangal hill, Murugan hill, and Kurisumala at the foothills of Western Ghats. Also known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon was discovered by the British who found the place ideal for tea plantations, and they were followed by Christian missionaries who built their abode of service at Kurisumala in Vagamon. National Geographic Traveler has listed Vagamon on their directory ..... Distance (From Kochi): 103 Kms Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#41 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 27 km from Thrissur, 84 km from Athirapally, 89 km from Palakkad, 90 km from Kochi, 92 km from Kozhikode, 136 km from Coimbatore, 141 km from Alleppey, 305 km from Madurai, and 309 km from Trivandrum, Guruvayur is a temple town, and municipality in the Thrissur district of Kerala in India. It is one of the revered places of pilgrimage in India, and among the must visit places as part of Kerala tour packages . Guruvayur is regarded as one of the prominent places of pilgrimage in Kerala due to its association with the historic Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. Often referred to as the Dwaraka of the South, this sacred town holds great importance for Hindu devotees, especially those who worship Lord Krishna. Among the must-include places in Guruvayur tour packages , the Guruvayur temple stands as a magnificent symbol of ..... Distance (From Kochi): 90 Kms Trip Duration (): Not Available .....

Most Asked Questions on Kochi

August and November to March is the best time to visit Kochi . This is also the time for exploring its scenic beauty, traditional architecture and cultural diversity. Winter is the busiest season in Kochi and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Kochi usually takes at least two full days to explore the most important attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Kochi along with Alleppey which requires an additional day. Kochi can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Munnar, Thekkady, Idukki, Kottayam and Alleppey by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Kochi trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Kochi tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5300 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7350 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Kochi like Ernakulam Shiva Temple, Cochin Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Indo Portuguese Museum, Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi Beach, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Santa Cruz Basilica and Cherai Beach. Alleppey which is around 55 km from Kochi and can be visited along with Kochi.

Actually, not. But, Kochi hosted the much-celebrated Indira Gandhi Boat Race (IGBR) on 5th October 2019 after a long gap of 27 years. The resumption of the boat race was made possible after the Tourism Department decided to organize the event as part of the fifth round of the ongoing Champions Boat League (CBL) under the IGBR title. Of the 12 races of the CBL featuring nine snake boats, the Kochi leg was held on a 960-meter stretch of the backwaters along the first Goshree Bridge and Marine Drive boat jetty on 5th October.

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Places to Visit in Kochi | Cochin Tourism

Widely known as the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’, Kochi/Cochin is a paradise for travelers who come in search of wonders. Kochi is one among the top rated international travel destinations where tourists can closely experience the glimpses of pre-historic, historic and modern era. Kochi is in fact the heart of God's own country – Kerala. It is the financial capital of the city with booming IT industry and various other trading endeavors as it is one of the chief port cities in the country. This cosmopolitan city has everything that can attract tourists irrespective of the seasons such as the comforts of a metro city, amazing beauty of nature, incredible culture, and so on. Be it an adventurous trip or a laid back holiday experience, Kochi tourism would never disappoint any of its visitors.

Historical Importance of Kochi

The known history of Kochi dates back to the 14th century, when we were under the colonial rule. In fact Kochi was the first European colony occupied by the Portuguese. After the Portuguese, the city was occupied by Dutch and British respectively, and made it a Princely state. Since it was the major port city, Kochi was considered to be the main center for the spice trade during that period. Greeks, Romans, Jews, Syrians, Arabs and Chinese were the main traders of spices. According to historians, the Kingdom of Kochi came into existence during the 12th century after the Chera Kingdom.

The specialty of this place was that many traders who came to this land, Jews being the prominent ones, later got settled here for various reasons. From the Portuguese rule Kochi went into the hands of the Dutch and later British. The Anglo-Dutch treaty of 1814 forced the Dutch rule to handover Kochi to the British rule. Under the British rule, the modern city started to develop with the large modern port and the largest man-made island called the Willington Island.

During the post independence era, the Kochi Maharaja agreed to join the Indian union and then in the year 1948 the royal state of Travancore-Kochi merged into the newly formed Indian Union. On your Kochi Tour , take the time out and do explore its historical grandeur.

Geographical Importance of Kochi

Kochi is located in the southwest part of the Ernakulam district. The geographic peculiarity of Kochi is that most of the areas in the city are at sea level with 48 kilometers of coastline. Cochin is also beautified with the astounding splendor of backwaters which attracts travelers from around the world. The major parts of the city are surrounded by water bodies and thus there are so many beautiful islands in and around the city to visit.

Because of being a coastal area the weather here is usually humid similar to that of Goa. The presence of Western Ghats on one side helps in getting a good amount of monsoon as well. The usual temperature here varies between 30°C to 35°C through the daytime and 25°C to 28°C through the nights. However the city experiences the best weather from mid September to mid March.

Sightseeing in Kochi

There are a number of places to visit in Cochin to experience the historical, cultural and geographic wonders. For travelers who are in quest of nature’s beauty, places like Cherai Beach, Vypeen Island, Fort Kochi Beach, Kodanad elephant Training Centre, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, and Marine Drive are must visits. The Indo-European style of architecture reflected in the old churches and temples of Cochin is a major attraction among visitors who come for Cochin tour . Santa Cruz Basilica, Church of Saint Francis, Vallarpadam Church, Kadamottom Church, St. Antony’s Shrine, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Ernakulathappan Temple, Ettumanoor Shiva Temple, and Poornathrayesa Temple are a few of the most visited sightseeing places for its architectural wonders.

Travelers, who are enthusiastic about the colonial period and wish to closely understand the European inhabited community lifestyle, shall visit places like the Mattancherry Jews Street, Fort Kochi, Willington Island, Bolgatty Palace, Dutch Palace, Bastion Bungalow, VOC Gate, and David Hall and so on.

Apart from these splendid attractions, other places to see in Cochin include Famous art galleries, museums, amusement parks, for its visitors to have a wonderful time in the city.

Things to do in Kochi

Festivals being the major attraction for tourists, plan your Cochin tour to attend events like the Cochin Carnival during the New Year’s time, Onam Festival in the month of August or September, Shivaratri Mahotsavam at the Aluva Shiva temple and so on. Travelers can also experience the spectacular backwaters of Cochin in a grand houseboat ride through the Vembanattu Kayal.

Cochin has many shopping markets and places to satisfy its shopaholic visitors throughout the city. Tourists often buy antiques, traditional jewelries, apparel and spices when they visit Kochi. There are many art galleries, shopping malls, supermarkets, and textile showrooms where you could find all these. The Mattancherry Jews Street is one of the famous places for street shopping in Kochi where one can find anything to everything.

How to reach Kochi

Kochi being one of the main cosmopolitan cities in the country, is well connected with the rest of the country via air, rail, road and water. The Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery which handles international and domestic flights is just 28 kilometers from the city.

The city is well connected with the rest of India through road transport. There are many major national and state highways which connect the Southern and Northern India.

The Thiruvananthapuram Railway Division under the Southern Railway Zone of Indian Railways connects Kochi to other parts of the country through rail. The Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town are the two major railway stations in the city.

Kochi is one of the safest harbors in the Indian Ocean, which makes it one of the major seaports. Passenger ships to Colombo and Lakshadweep are run from Kochi under the State Water Transport Department.

Travel within the city is also hassle free for tourists as there is comfortable and cost effective public transport facility available from major sightseeing points. Road and water transport facilities are available for visitors to travel in and around the city.

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Tourist Places in Kochi

Lulu Shopping Mall, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Cherai Beach, Wonderla Amusement Park, Jew Synagogue and Jew Town, Marine Drive, Mattancherry Palace, St Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Bolgatty Palace, Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi and many more places to visit in Kochi. Kochi, also known as the biggest city in Kerala is a popular tourist destination with fine harbors and a cosmopolitan bustling city life. Exploring the places to visit in Kochi, you will get a glimpse of the rich trade culture from the colonial British era as well as learn more about the hub of  exports and imports from ancient times. Pallipuram Fort, which is surrounded by the majestic blue oceans on one side and the beautiful lush western ghats is a must visit. Kochi Marine Drive is yet another place that is just perfect for those evening strolls. You will also get to know more about the lifestyle of the residents as well as get to relish some authentic quick bites. The hill palace museum features the perfect mix of the old world charm. You will get to explore the galleries and witness some of the age old relics. Overall, Kochi Exhibits an amalgamation of different places to visit and can be explored by all kinds of tourists.

Here are the best places to visit in Kochi :

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Lulu Shopping Mall, Edappally

The Lulu Shopping Mall which is one of the largest shopping malls in India is an invite to the world of happiness. With 225 outlets, 2,500 seater food court and the presence of top 100 brands and 11 fine-dining restaurants, this is definitely a place to pamper yourself. The mall also houses a 9 screen Cineplex, amusement rides, one of the largest ice skating rink and a 12-lane bowling alley making it a destination for every age group, especially during the weekends. Housed within the campus of Hotel Marriot, it offers convenience and luxury to domestic and international tourists. Location: 34, 1000, N.H 47, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi. Timings: 9.00 am to 11.00 pm everyday. Entry Fee:  None.

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Kerala Kathakali Centre

The Kerala Kathakali centre was founded in 1990 and aims to popularize the traditional art form of Kerala, discover new talents and train the existing performers with rigorous discipline and dedication. Kathakali is a combination of literature, painting, music, dance and acting and all the five forms culminate to this charming dance form done with grace and command. This is a place to visit in Kochi if you are keen on learning the dance form directly from the experts. You may also be privy to the daily shows organised here by talented participants expert in their field of art. Location: KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings: 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm  Entry Fees: Rs. 250/- per head to watch the performance.

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Cherai Beach

This charming beach is neatly nestled in the suburbs of Cherai, which is one of the most visited beaches due to its serenity and clean environ. The low tides and slow waves make it a highly recommended beach for swimming and other forms of water sports. It has an alluring walkway along the beach dotted with greens and sufficient places for seating.  Elderly visitors are often seen indulging in yoga, meditation or light strolls during the early morning or evening hours to enjoy the splendour of mother nature. The beach has several luxury villas, resorts and beach hotels lined along the Arabian sea where river Periyar confluence to make for a picture postcard frame. Location: Ernakulam 15 km from Kochi. Timings: Sunrise to Sunset. Entry Fees: None

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Wonderla Amusement Park

This is one of the largest amusement parks in Kochi having water rides, land rides, 3D rides and several other fun rides to keep the visitors entertained. This is one of those places to visit in Kochi if you are accompanied by a kid or an adventure seeker by nature. Caterpillar village, adventures of Chikku, Dashin cars, Fire Brigade, Sky wheel, Windmill and wonder splash are a few of its major attraction. Weekends are filled with locals having a ball of a time with friends and family.   The Wonderla Pass gives access to special discount packages with added enjoyment. Location: Kumarapuram, Pallikkara, Kochi. Timings: 11.00 am to 6.00 pm on weekdays and open till 7.00 pm on weekends. Entry Fees: Rs.650/- per child and Rs. 800/- per adult on a normal season, peak season charges are higher.

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Jew Synagogue and Jew Town

The Jewish Synagogue also known as the Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest active Synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations making it one of the hotspots amongst Kochi tourist places. The Synagogue has Scrolls of the law, several gold crowns received as gifts, a brass-railed pulpit, Belgian glass chandelier, hand-knotted Oriental rug and many more precious artefacts are on display at this place for visitors to have a sneak peek at the history of Kochi. Visitors are expected to enter barefoot into the premises. A narrow street between the Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace is Jew town, a den for antique lovers. Little fractions of history crafted in metal and wood waiting to be owned by a curious tourist. Location: Synagogue, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi. Timings: 10.00 am to 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm 5.00 pm everyday. Entry Fee: None.

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Marine Drive

Marine drive is a quaint destination amongst the many Cochin tourist places the Kerala takes pride in. Exclusively built facing the backwaters, it offers a charming and a picturesque image especially during the evening hours attracting the locals and tourists alike. Along with the Rainbow bridge, which is a major draw for tourists, the Marine drive is lined with Shopping malls, fast food joints and other important landmark buildings of Kochi. Be ready to be allured by the gentle breeze while enjoying a walk down the promenade enjoying the company of your loved ones. Location: Ernakulam, Kochi. Timings : Sunrise to Sunset.

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Mattancherry Palace

This Portuguese palace, also known as the Dutch Palace is one of the prime places to visit in Kochi due to its historic relevance. This quadrangular palace built in typical Kerala Nalukettu style has a courtyard in the centre where is seated Pazhayannur Bhagavati' the goddess of the Kochi royal family. The flooring of the palace is a sight to behold, because it looks like polished black marble, but has been made the traditional Kerala way using burnt coconut shells, lime, charcoal, egg white etc giving a lasting finish. The reputation of the Palace is in the various murals painted in warm and rich colours the tempura style. Location: Mattancherry, Kochi. Timings: Sunday to Friday 9.45 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.45 pm, Saturday closed. Entry Fees: Rs. 2.00/- per adult and free entry for children below 15 years.

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St Francis Church

Apart from being a very popular holy place for Christians, St. Francis Church, Ernakulam holds high historic relevance, as this is the place where the famous explorer Vasco da Gama was buried. Built by the Portuguese in a regal style with Dutch and Portuguese influences, it is an architectural marvel. Visitors remain awestruck at the sight of the gabled timber-framed roof, the confession box, the baptism platform and the pulpit. It narrates many tales of the old world and their way of spiritual life. Location: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings: Monday to Saturday 7.00 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday – 8.30 am to 6.30 pm. Entry Fees:  None

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Santa Cruz Basilica

This is considered to be one of the 8 Basilicas in Kerala. It is also considered to be one of the most visited Kochi tourist places as it is counted as one of the heritage edifices of Kerala constructed in gothic style with architectural grandeur. Built by the Portuguese, it was elevated by The Pope as a cathedral along with the erection of a diocese in India.  The main altar of the Church has been painted by the famous Italian Painter, Fr. Antonio Moscheni S.J. Beautiful stained glass painting enhances the beauty of the painting of the Last Supper. The exterior of the church is whitewashed in white with two lofty spires adorning the façade. Location:  Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings: Monday - Saturday 7.00 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday 8.00 am to 6.30 pm. Entry Fees:  None

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Bolgatty Palace

While making a bucket list of places to visit in Kochi, Bolgatty Palace and Island resort is a must. This unique mansion with four palatial rooms was built by the Dutch in 1744 and is one of it’s kind outside Holland. The palace has been now converted to a luxury stay for travellers pampering them to ultimate comfort and grandeur. Popularly known as the Honeymooner’s paradise, Bolgatty palace has earned a name for itself due to its extravagant location across the Island surrounded by a canopy of greens and a breathtaking view of the landscape. The resort has an event centre to house weddings, meetings and other ceremonies accommodating a large number of guests. Location: NH966A, Mulavukad, Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None. Also Checkout and Book: Galileo Museum Tickets

Willingdon Island

The largest artificial island of India named after the Viceroy of India, Lord Willingdon, is a part of Kochi formed by filling in dredged soil around an already existing tiny island. The island takes pride in housing several landmark offices, especially of the Navy, Customs, Port Trust and Fisheries departments. This island links Kochi to major seaports internationally and thus is a well-known destination for commercial and financial establishments. A stay at any of the luxury resorts or hotels on the island provides an unhindered view of the Arabian Sea and its charming beauty. Location: 3 km from Ernakulam Railway station. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None.

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A small fishing hamlet later converted to the first European township in India, today features amongst tourist places in Kochi due to the vibrancy of this place. The temperature is more or less pleasant round the year except for summer making it ideal to explore the place in a motorcycle to navigate the deepest history and beauty of this place.    The Fort Kochi beach looks divine during sunset offering various hues of vermilion and scarlet let. The old houses of this place have been built by British traders, thus the Dutch cottages, split farms all reminisce of an era bygone. Fort Kochi can easily be planned for two days to delve deep into the place with numerous options for stay suiting every pocket. Location: Ernakulam, Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None. Get Great Deals On  Nasrid Palaces Tickets

Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple

This is the most visited and highly revered Hindu temple down south. The temple is believed to be 1500 years old where the goddess Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and the Keezhu Kaavu Bhadrakali Amman are worshipped as healing goddesses. A continuous practice of worshipping the deities in this temple is believed to cure life-threatening diseases. The temple premises houses a Pala tree which is pierced with thousands of nails, the reason being patrons who are cured of mental maladies drive a nail across the tree. Men are required to open their shirts before they enter the premises, while women are requested to be dressed in Indian attire to offer reverence. Location: Chottanikkara, Ernakulam ( 20 km from Ernakulam ) Timings: 4.00 am to 8.45 pm every day. Entry Fees:  None

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Best of Kerala

Indo - Portuguese Museum

This museum was established by the Late Bishop of Kochi, Dr Joseph Kureethra to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Portuguese in India. The Altar, treasure, procession, Civil Life and Cathedral are the five main sections of the museum exhibiting various artefacts and objects of that period. The contributions of this collection have arrived from various churches across Kerala. You may opt for a guided tour of the museum for a better understanding of history. Location: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm every day, Monday closed. Entry Fees: Rs.5/- for children, 10/- adult (for Indians) and Rs.25/- for foreign tourists. Also Checkout and Book: Skydiving Gold Coast

Gowreeswara Temple Cherai

Built in 1912, this popular temple in Kochi is dedicated to Lord Murugan also referred to as the South Pazhani. The idol was installed by Sree Narayana Guru and is the only temple in Asia that is a Chaturmukha Kovil, which means four side doors. The Lord Subramanyah faces east, while Lord Ganapati faces south, Lord Shiva faces west and Goddess Parvati faces north. Four daily pujas are conducted every day to the deities, Usha Pooja, Pantheeradi Pooja, Uchcha Pooja and Azatha Pooja where panchamrutam and Pushpanjali are offered. Location: Sree Gowreeswara Temple, Cherai, Vypin. Timings: 5.00 am to 11.30 am and 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm every day. Entry Fees:  None

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Best of Coorg

Malayattoor

Malayattoor holds a special relevance amongst all tourist places in Kochi as it is a meeting point for land, river and mountain. The Malayattoor Hill has the famous Malayattoor Church dedicated to St. Thomas, who as per belief had prayed at this shrine. This important holy place for Christians in Kochi draws a lot of pilgrims through the southern part of the country around the year. The Church houses a life-size statue of the Saint and the imprint of the feet of the Apostle on a rock. This site has been conferred as an international pilgrim centre for Christians worldwide. The annual feast is organised on the first Sunday of Easter every year. Location: 47 km from Kochi in Ernakulam district. Timing: Monday to Saturday, 6.00 am and 5.15 pm and Sundays - 6.00 am, 7.30 am and 9.30 am. Entry Fees : None Also Read:  Things To Do In Singapore For Couples

Andhakaranazhi Beach

This beach drawing several tourists is located in a coastal village, located 4km from Pattanakkad. The tall lighthouse in white and red grabs attention as it helps navigate the seamen at night. The Andhakaranazhi Beach happens to be a site for frequent shooting of Malayalam films, thus drawing more attention from the locals. Though seriously affected by the Tsunami in 2004, a brand new bridge and an aerial walkway have been constructed to the sea wall for a magnificent view of a dramatic sunset to cherish for a lifetime. Location: 4 km west of Pattanakkad under Cherthala Taluk. Timings: Sunrise to Sunset. Entry Fee:  None.

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Best of Munnar

Chinese Fishing Nets

Chinese fishing nets, also known as Cheena wala are seen quite frequently in Kochi. These are stationary lift nets fixed at a particular place operated from the shore using mechanical contrivances to fishing nets almost 20m across. This unique way of fishing was introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th century extending its relevance to “Ko-chi”, meaning China like. Sunsets across the backwaters, rivers or sea offer a panoramic splendour of the skyline with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the backdrop. Location: Across water bodies of Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None. For a Fun Experience Book:  Horse Riding Dubai

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Kerala is gifted with nature’s bounty and the magnificent animal which is found in large numbers in this part of the country is the elephant. As per Hindu culture, elephants are considered to be very auspicious and are worshipped in many temples all over. The Abhayarnyam mini zoo and shelter for orphaned wild animals are a part of ecotourism, an initiative raised by the Kerala Government making it a places to visit in Kochi as this is the venue where you would find several pachyderms living peacefully in harmony with nature. The mammoth animals are trained to carry heavy logs from the jungle and other tedious jobs. It also houses a deer park where you may find Sambar deers and spotted deers grazing to glory. Location: Near post Office, Kodanad, Dist. Eranakulam, Kaprikad. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 8.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday closed. Entry Fees: Free.

Best of Wayanad

Museum of Kerala History, Edappally

One of the oldest art and history museum of Kerala is in Kochi founded by philanthropist and entrepreneur Mr Madhavan Nayar. The museum is divided into three sections, the doll museum, museum of Kerala history and gallery of modern art. The statue of Parasurama has been strategically placed outside the hall to pay reverence to the saint who is believed to have brought forth the land of Kerala from the mighty ocean. The doll museum is adorned with 150 plus dolls from various ethnic groups of India showcasing the cultural diversity of the nation. The modern art gallery boasts of more than 230 paintings done by eminent artists like Raja Ravi Verma, M.F.Hussain, Ram Kinker Baij and several other painters of international acclaim. Location: Salem - Kochi Hwy, Near Hotel Seagate, Koonamthai, Edappally, Ernakulam. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday closed. Entry Fees: Rs. 50/- per adult and Rs. 20/- per child.

Hill Palace of Tripunithara

The largest archaeological museum which features in the list of tourist places in Kochi used to be the residence of the Maharaja of Cochin built in traditional Kerala style with lavish façade. The complex houses 49 buildings spread across 54 acres of land which now comprises of an archaeological museum, deer park, Medicinal plant garden, pre-historic park and a children’s park. The museum showcases ornaments, weapons, manuscripts and other belongings of the royal family with a few exhibits from the Paliam Devaswom. Location: Hill Palace Rd, Irumpanam, Thrippunithura, Ernakulam, Kochi. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and 2.00 am to 4.30 pm, Monday closed. Entry Fees : Rs 10/- per adult and Rs 5/- per child.

Best of Chikmagalur

Folklore Museum

The museum is dedicated to Folk art, Tribal art, Traditional art, Anthropology, Architecture, History, Culture, and Heritage of South India. The museum is promoted by Mrs. & Mr George Thaliath and aims to preserve, the culture, heritage and folk art education of Kerala. It is a storehouse of lost pride of the southern part of India which consists of some rare artefacts like Sri Guruvayurappan, watercolour on paper, Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswathi marriage, oil on canvas, Kindi, a type of a pitcher usually found in old houses and many other precious treasures. 62 artists worked on wood for almost 8 years burning the midnight oil to create this temple for artisans. A must places to visit in Kochi for tourists, students, researchers and also for anthropological studies. Location: Near 2059C No 26 Pandit Karuppan Road, Thevara Ferry Road, Junction, Kochi. Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday. Entry Fees: Rs. 50/- for students and Rs. 100/- for adults.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

This ecologically sensitive area at the heart of Kochi is spread amidst 2.74 hectares of land. It has a shallow tidal lake connected to Kochi through a canal. It is popular for the many migratory birds that flock this place during the migratory season and also supporting the mangrove forests of this area. It is thus considered to be the green lungs of Kerala thereby keeping the pollution of the city at bay. The rich flora and fauna of the Mangalavanam Bird sanctuary are of interest to many nature enthusiasts and environmentalist alike. A whopping 72 different species of birds have been located in this area alone adding to the biodiversity of this place. Location: High Ct Rd, Ayyappankavu, Kochi. Timings: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm everyday. Entry Fees : None.

Best of Alleppey

Veeranpuzha Lake and Backwaters

Veeranpuzha is one of the places to visit in Kochi, situated in the northern extension of Vembanad lake and is an extremely alluring lake along with a series of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Malabar coast. Popularly known as the Vembanad lake, it is surrounded by lush green paddy fields swaying to the gentle breeze offering a mystic beauty of the place. The area is also a confluence of modern life amalgamating with life at the backwaters. Angling is a famous weekend activity enjoyed by the locals and is famous for cultivating Pokkali rice, a speciality of Kerala. Location: Vembanad Lake, Kochi. Timings: All day. Entry Fees:  None.

Shiva Temple

Locate at the heart of Ernakulam, this ancient Shiva temple is also known as the Ernakulathappan Temple and is one of the major temples of Kerala for it’s devout Shiva worshippers. Considered to be one of the 7 royal temples of the Maharaja of Kochi it is located on the Durbar hall ground. The deity, Lord Shiva is present here in Gowrishankara form and faces west towards the Arabian Sea. Located in 1 acre of holy land the original lingam worshipped by Arjuna of the Mahabharat fame is still preserved within the temple premises. The grand annual festival is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Makaram along with other festivals and occasions. Location: Durbar Hall Rd, Marine Drive, Ernakulam. Timings: 3.30 am to 8.00 pm every day. Entry Fees: Free.

Best of Kochi

Athirapally Falls

At a height of 80m, this is the largest waterfall of Kerala and is often regarded as the“ Niagra of India”. The Athirapally Falls is a charming cascade of frothy waters emerging from the Anamudi mountains of the western ghats. The Athirapally gushes across the lush green forest of Vazhachal towards the Arabian sea creating an exquisite panoramic spectacle. On the way to Athirapally, one may also visit the theme parks Dreamworld and Silver storm and decide to stay over at the many resorts strategically located amidst the greenery. Location: Athirappilly, Chalakudy Taluk, Thrissur. Timings: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday. Entry Fees: Rs. 15/- per person.

Veeranpuzha Beach

Out of the several beaches in Cochin, the tourist place which is popular among visitors is the Veeranpuzha beach due to its distinct golden sand and aquamarine water. The beach is lined with foliage and vegetation which is a contrast on a hot and sandy beach. Spending a few idle hours at the beach will unleash a close view of the fishermen folk busy by the shore either fishing, managing their fresh catches or planning for the next catch.  Be ready to grab your camera to capture some picture postcard moments during the picturesque and dramatic sunset.The gorgeous sunset view with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the backdrop is the prime reason for visitors to throng this place in numbers. Location: Kochi. Timings: Sunrise to sunset. Entry Fee:  None.

Best of Thekkady

Areekkal Waterfalls

This is a little waterfall worth a visit during the monsoons as the fall is in its glory with white cascading water gushing from atop. The area is surrounded by thick foliage and dense rubber plantation offering as a decent picnic spot among the locals. Adventure seekers and bikers frequent this scenic place for their sheer love for nature and some long drive on their bike in the outskirts. It is recommended to pack food in case one plans to stay for long, as there are hardly any eateries, however, one may mind occasional toddy shops selling the local beverage with pride. Location: Piramadam-Vettimood Road, Kochi. Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday. Entry Fees: Rs 10/- per visitor.

Vypeen Island

Vypeen is one of the many tiny islands that form the city and is considered one of the most gorgeous tourist places in Kochi. Sprawling over an area of 25 kms, it is one of the most densely populated and fast-growing places in Kochi. Reaching the island itself is a mesmerizing journey involving a series of bridges called Goshree bridges that provide a stunning view against the clear blue waters. Once you reach the island, there are numerous tourist destinations to enjoy – the Portuguese Azhikotta fort, which is one of the oldest European Forts in India and the lighthouse at Ochanthuruthu in Vypeen that offers bewitching views of the sea from the top. While you are here, book your stay at the gorgeous Bungalow Heritage homestay and experience excellent hospitality and thoughtful amenities. Location:  Fort Kochi bus stand. Timings:  The first boat to the island leaves at 6 am and the last returns at 9 pm. Entry Fees:  None.

Pallipuram Fort

Built by the Portuguese in 1503 the Pallipuram fort has gracefully evolved to be a very popular tourist place in Kochi today. This preserves the roots of the ancient European culture, their antiques and is considered to be one of the oldest lasting European masterpieces in India. The monument has an hexagonal outpost made out of wood laterite and mortar. The open space inside the fort is assumed to secure passage to the basement. The fine architectural marvels of the fort never fails to astonish the tourists. This fort boasts a rich tradition and heritage.Unlike other forts, this is very well maintained by the Archeological department. Location -Near Munambam police station, palliport, pallipuram, Kochi, Kerala 683515 Timing - 9 AM to 6 PM Entry Fees: None 

People Also Ask About Cochin

Which are the popular attractions to visit in kochi.

1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary -Kumarakom Bird sanctuary is one of the famous tourist places in Kochi. Explore Kerala's best winged visitors along with the exotic varieties of plant species. In the prime time you can easily spot more than 20- 30 species of migratory birds here. Take your camera along to capture some breathtaking views 2.Hill Palace museum Kochi - This is one of the largest archeological museums in Kochi featuring ancient artifacts and exhibits. You will get a sense of the history, culture and lifestyle of the keralites while roaming through the pathways of the museum.There also exists a beautiful deer park and a sculpture park which is an architectural marvel of its own. This is one of the unique places to visit in Kochi you wont regret adding to your list. 3.Kochi Marine Drive - Kochi marine drive is one of the cleanest and beautifully maintained marine drives in India. With beautiful shores on one side and the buzzing city lights on the other this place has very well emerged as a popular tourist place in Kochi.You can pedal in the beautiful pavements enjoying the mesmerizing views of the kochi harbor. The place is filled with cafes and restaurants in case you want a quick bite

What are the best outdoor activities in Kochi?

1.Go Snorkeling in Thiruvankulam - Thiruvankulam is one of the places to visit in kochi, offering a range of exciting water sports. Experience the amazing underwater world getting close to the extraordinary marine life of kerala. A must do for all adventure lovers, Snorkeling provides the much needed adrenaline kick for someone who wants to try something out of the box. You can opt to capture videos of you in an underwater world that will serve as a memory for lifetime. 2.Go Karting- Try out Go karting races with your friends in the grand mall. Choose from the preferred laps and drive through the swift tracks.This is one of the fun outdoor activities to indulge into that will surely provide that much needed adrenaline kick 3. Go Fishing in the Chinese Fishing villages- Tourists can spend time fishing on the boats while gazing at the beautiful panoramic sights of the Chinese fishing nets in Kochi coasts.The local fishermen will guide you through fishing and also explain regarding the various local fish breeds. You can buy local fishes here or cook and enjoy your own catch while enjoying a beautiful sunset.

How to reach Kochi?

1.By Air- Cochin International Airport is situated about 20 kms from the city of kochi which receives both domestic and international flights. Kingfisher airlines, Indian Airlines and Jet airways operate here on a regular basis 2.By Train- Kochi has mainly two major railway junctions named Ernakulam Town and Ernakulam Junction. These junctions are quite busy handling all locomotives from around the country. 3.By Road - Kochi is well connected to all the cities with NH roads.The NH17 connects all the major cities with Kochi.

What is the best time to visit Kochi?

The best time to visit Kochi is in the months of October to February when the temperature is adequately cool and pleasant making it suitable to enjoy and explore the beautiful holiday destination.

Why is Kochi famous?

Located in the coastal regions of Kerala, Kochi is known for its fine natural harbors, wide blue oceans and rich artforms of the city. This is a “postcard destination” with its breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian sea and is also popularly marked as the “Queen of the Arabian sea”.This is a place known for its ancient trading history with the foreign dominations like the Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and the British. This is an all in one package for the people who love the thrill, adventure while savoring the rich culture and tradition of the place in their vacation.

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Top 20 Places to Visit in Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi, which spreads across many islands and a peninsula, is a mash-up of medieval Portuguese , European architecture , Holland , and an English rural hamlet . India’s oldest church, St Francis , unbroken fishing nets , an authorized Jewish community , etc are some of the top places to visit in Kochi . It’s a must-see for anyone looking for something fresh with a whiff of the ancestral diorama .

Table of Contents

About Kerala’s Kochi

Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, lies in Ernakulam district . It boasts one of the world’s best natural ports and is additionally Kerala’s economic and industrial hub . Kerala’s most popular tourist attraction , Kochi, sprawls across islands and promontories in a breathtaking setting between the Arabian Sea coast and the Backwaters .

Its two main sections are linked by a complicated system of ferries . These are contemporary Ernakulam in the east and the historic districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin on a peninsula in the west . Ancient seafarers from Arabia , China , Holland , the United Kingdom , and Portugal have all left their imprint on this lovely island metropolis .

Furthermore, there is a commercial hub for cashew nut, coir, fish, wood, tea, coffee, rubber, and spice merchants. This is why Kerela is known as “ the spice coast .” A Jewish community with origins dating back to 1000 AD , as well as a 16th-century synagogue , bear witness to this.

How to Reach Kochi?

Kochi, Kerala, India

By Air: Kochi has a good air network and Cochin Airport provides direct connections to all major airports in India. All Indian states, as well as major cities, have regular flights from and to Kochi.

By Train: Kochi has three important railway stations namely, Ernakulam Junction , Ernakulam Town , and Wellington Island’s Harbour Terminus.

By Road: Kochi, being an important commercial hub in South India, serves well by a network of national and state roads to all other locations in the region.

Best Time to Visit Kochi

Summer (March-June): Kochi’s summer is quite hot , sunny , and sweaty . The air temperature remains between 20-37 degrees Celsius . In my opinion, this is a good time to save your money and look forward to hotel deals . But the high temperature will not allow you to love the city as much.

Monsoon (July-September): Who doesn’t love monsoon? I mean the city gets  clean , green and charming . This is a really good time for adventure lovers . But if you are up for exploration then avoid the monsoon . As Kochi receives a good amount of rain you may have to cancel your plans anytime.

NOTE: Don’t forget to carry your umbrella, raincoat and have a plan to save your electronic devices from water.

Winter (October-February): The best time to visit Kochi is during winter . The weather of Kerala’s Kochi gets lovely and inviting . The air temperature remains between 17-33 degrees Celsius . Moreover, the winter of Kochi is best for honeymooners , beach lovers , and adventure seekers .

NOTE: Winter being the best time, opens its doors for many tourists, in short, except the crowd . And book your tickets and hotels early .

Top 20 Places to Visit in Kochi

Cochin, known as the “ Queen of the Arabian Sea “, boasts a plethora of tourist attractions. The popular places here are religious places like churches, temples and mosques, historical buildings , bluish and inviting beaches , modern and hi-tech malls , adventure parks and street markets , etc.

The best and top 20 places to visit in Kochi mentioned in this travellingortraveling blog are Fort Cochin ,  St. Francis Church ,  Malayatoor , Mattancherry Palace ,  Paradesi Synagogue and Jew Town ,  Bolghatty Palace ,  Hill Palace Museum ,  Kerala Folklore Museum ,  Indo – Portuguese Museum ,  Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple ,  Ernakulam Shiva Temple ,  Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary ,  Veeranpuzha Lake and Backwaters ,  Marine Drive ,  Andhakaranazhi Beach ,  Chinese Fishing Nets ,  Wellington Island ,  Vypin Island ,  Lulu Mall , and  Wonderla Amusement Park .

#1 Fort Cochin

Fort Cochin is a tiny town in its own right. Europeans have had a significant effect on Cochin’s cultural and traditional heritage . And the sight of this lovely location clearly demonstrates this point.

The following are some of the sights to visit at the fort:

Vasco Da Gama Square: It is a small beachfront promenade.

Pierce Leslie Bungalow : This beautiful house was the office of Pierce Leslie & Co. (coffee merchants), founded in 1862. Mansion exhibits Portuguese , Dutch , and local influences.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: The church, Santa Cruz Basilica, was erected by the Portuguese and raised to the status of a cathedral by Pope Paul in 1558. This massive cathedral features magnificent murals on the ceiling.

It is a significant landmark in Cochin. The Basilica’s interiors are worth seeing, notably the magnificent stained glass .

Princess Street: It was one of the first streets built in Fort Cochin.

Vasco House: It is thought to have been Vasco Da Gama’s home.

#2 St. Francis Church

Portuguese Franciscan Friars built India’s oldest European church , in 1503. The Protestant Dutch repaired it in 1779, the British made it an Anglican Church in 1795, and now, it is used by the Church of South India. Vasco da Gama’s remains were buried here in 1524 before being relocated to Lisbon, Portugal, although his tombstone still stands.

#3 Malayatoor

Malayattoor is unique among Cochin tourism destinations since it is a meeting point for land , river , and mountain . The Malayattoor Hill is home to the famous Malayattoor Church, which is dedicated to St. Thomas, who is said to have worshipped at this shrine. This major Christian holy spot in Kochi attracts a large number of pilgrims who travel through the southern portion of the country throughout the year.

The Church has a life-size statue of the Saint as well as the impression of the Apostle’s foot on a rock. This location has been an international pilgrimage site for Christians all over the world. Every year, the annual feast takes place on the first Sunday of Easter .

#4 Mattancherry Palace

The palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and handed to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi to atone for the robbery and destruction of a temple near Raja’s palace by a young Portuguese officer. The paintings representing events from the Ramayana , Mahabharata , and Hindu Puranic tales are distinguishing features of this palace.

#5 Paradesi Synagogue and Jew Town

The Paradesi Synagogue or Jewish Synagogue was built in 1568 and is th e commonwealth’s oldest synagogue . It was destroyed by bombardment during a Portuguese invasion in 1662 and restored by the Dutch two years later.

The Synagogue is notable for its mid-18th-century hand-printed , willow pattern floor tiles from Guangzhou (or Canton), China. A dock tower , Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs , ancient writings on copper plates , and so on.

Jew Town, a haven for antique collectors , is located on a tiny lane between the Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace. Little pieces of history created in metal and wood , ready to be acquired by curious tourists.

#6 Bolghatty Palace

Bolghatty, a scenic island near Ernakulam, is notable for the Bolghatty Palace, which was erected by the Dutch in 1744 AD. It is surrounded by thick greenery and the breathtaking visual splendor of backwaters. You may go there in an exciting way by hiring ferry services .

This palace, which was formerly the home of a British resident of Kochi, is now a KTDC ( Kerala Tourism Development Corporation ) hotel .

#7 Hill Palace Museum

Hill Palace, the principal palace of the Kochi royal family , was erected in 1865 AD, 10 km from Kochi. It has 49 structures designed in Kerala’s Traditional Architectural Style . And is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced ground with a Deer Park and horseback riding amenities.

The primary attractions include a full-fledged ethnoarchaeological museum and Kerala’s first-ever heritage museum . Oil paintings , 19th-century paintings, murals , Parisian stone and plaster sculptures , manuscripts , inscriptions , and coins from the Kochi rookery are on display in the thirteen galleries.

#8 Kerala Folklore Museum

Folk art , tribal art , traditional art , anthropology , architecture , history , culture , and heritage of South India are all represented in the museum. Mrs. and Mr. George Thaliath founded the museum, which strives to conserve Kerala’s culture, legacy, and folk art education.

It is a repository of forgotten southern Indian pride, containing some rare antiques such as Sri Guruvayurappan , watercolor on paper, Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswathi marriage , oil on canvas, Kindi , a sort of pitcher commonly seen in old households, and many more valuable gems .

For over 8 years, 62 artists toiled on wood, burning the midnight oil, to construct this shrine for craftspeople. A must-see destination for visitors, students, researchers, and anthropological investigations.

#9 Indo – Portuguese Museum

The Late Bishop of Kochi, Dr. Joseph Kureethra , founded this museum to highlight the rich cultural history of the Portuguese in India. The museum’s five primary parts are the Altar , Treasure , Procession , Civil Life , and Cathedral , which display different artifacts and things from that time period.

This collection’s contributions have come from churches throughout Kerala . For a deeper knowledge of history, you can take a guided tour of the museum.

#10 Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple

This is the most visited and respected Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere. It worships the healing deities Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and Keezhu Kaavu Bhadrakali Amman . Claims are that worshipping the deities at this 1500-year-old temple regularly may heal life-threatening ailments .

The temple grounds have a Pala tree that has been pierced with thousands of nails , the rationale being that patrons who have been healed of mental illnesses drive a nail across the tree. Before entering the temple, Men need to open their shirts . On the other hand,  ladies should dress in Indian clothing to show respect.

#11 Ernakulam Shiva Temple

This ancient Shiva temple , also known as the Ernakulathappan Temple , lies in the center of Ernakulam. And is one of Kerala’s most important temples for Shiva worshipers. It is one of the seven royal temples of the Maharaja of Kochi and is located on the Durbar hall grounds .

The original lingam worshipped by Arjuna of Mahabharat renown is still maintained within the temple premises, which is located on one acre of sacred land . The great yearly celebration, along with other festivals and occasions, is held throughout the Malayalam month of Makaram.

#12 Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

This environmentally vulnerable region in Kochi’s center spans 2.74 hectares of land. It features a tiny tidal lake that links to Kochi by a canal. It is well-known for a large number of migrating birds that come to this location throughout the migratory season, as well as for its contribution to the area’s mangrove forests .

Sanctuary keeps the city’s pollutants at bay, as a result, they call it “ Kerala’s green lungs “. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary attracts many nature enthusiasts and environmentalists because of its diverse flora and wildlife . A remarkable 72 distinct bird species have been discovered in this region alone, contributing to the richness of this location.

#13 Veeranpuzha Lake and Backwaters

Veeranpuzha Lake lies in the northern extension of Vembanad Lake . And a series of brackish lagoons and lakes that run parallel to the Malabar coast surrounds it. Around it are the beautiful green paddy fields that swing to the soft breeze, adding to the mysterious beauty of the location.

The region is also a meeting point between contemporary life and life on the backwaters . Angling (method of fishing) is a popular weekend pastime among the residents, and the area is well-known for producing Pokkali rice , a Kerala specialty .

#14 Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a charming location among the various places to visit in Kochi that Kerala is proud of. Exclusively built facing the backwaters, it provides a pleasant and attractive image , particularly during the nighttime hours , drawing both residents and visitors.

Along with the Rainbow Bridge , which is a popular tourist attraction, the Marine Drive has many shopping malls , fast food restaurants , and other prominent landmark structures in Kochi.

#15 Andhakaranazhi Beach

This popular tourist destination is located in a seaside village 4 km from Pattanakkad. The tall white and red lighthouse draws attention as it aids seafarers in their navigation at night . Andhakaranazhi Beach is a popular location for Malayalam film shoots , which draws greater attention from people.

Despite being severely damaged by the 2004 Tsunami , a fresh new bridge and an aerial walkway have been built to the sea wall for a wonderful view of a dramatic sunset .

#16 Chinese Fishing Nets

Traders brought these massive cantilevered fishing nets from Kublai Khan’s palace. A visit to Cochin would be incomplete without seeing the Chinese Fishing Nets on the seashore. These nets, which were brought by Chinese traders , use a mechanical way of catching fish.

#17 Wellington Island

The largest artificial island in India, named after India’s Viceroy, Lord Willingdon . It is a portion of Kochi constructed by filling in dredged dirt around an existing small island. The island is proud to have numerous historic offices , including those of the Navy , Customs , Port Trust , and Fisheries Department .

This island connects Kochi to major international seaports , making it a popular location for commercial and financial organizations . A stay at any of the island’s finest resorts or hotels gives an unobstructed view of the Arabian Sea and its enticing beauty.

#18 Vypin Island

Vypin Island is one of the numerous small islands that make up the city. It is one of Kochi’s most densely inhabited and fastest-growing areas , spanning a 25-kilometer radius. The drive to the island itself is enthralling, comprising a series of bridges known as Goshree bridges that give a beautiful perspective against the pure blue sea s.

Once on the island, there are several tourist attractions to visit. Like the Puthuvype Beach , Kuzhuppilly Beach , Cherai Beach , the Portuguese Azhikotta fort , one of the oldest European forts in India, and the lighthouse at Ochanthuruthu, which provides breathtaking views of the sea.

#19 Lulu Mall

The Lulu Shopping Mall , one of India’s largest shopping malls , welcomes you to the land of bliss. This is a place to treat yourself, with 225 stores , a 2,500-seater food court , top 100 brands , and 11 fine-dining restaurants .

Furthermore, the mall also has a 9-screen Cineplex, amusement rides, one of the largest ice skating rinks, and a 12-lane bowling alley, making it a popular weekend destination for people of all ages .

#20 Wonderla Amusement Park

This is one of Kochi’s major amusement parks . It includes water attractions, land rides, 3D rides, and a variety of other exciting rides. This is one of the best places to visit in Kochi whether you’re traveling with a child or a natural adventurer .

Some of its key attractions are Caterpillar village , Chikku’s adventures , Dashin vehicles , the Fire Brigade , the Sky Wheel , the Windmill , and the Wonder Splash .

I must say the best tourist attractions to visit in Kochi are uncountable . And it was difficult to point out the top 20 Places to Visit in Kochi to make your vacation perfect with the combination of all types of places. I am sure you will love Kochi and hope that you will have blast on your trip 😉

Which is correct Kochi or Cochin?

In short, both are correct! When arranging a vacation to Kerala, the terms Kochi and Cochin may be rather confusing. Don't worry if you're in the similar situation; Kochi and Cochin are the same place . Earlier the Britishers used to call it Cochin and Keralites used to call it Kochi . Kochi was officially proclaimed as the name in the 1990s .

Is Cochin a safe city?

Kochi, historically known as Cochin, is one of the safest cities and seaports in India. The city is a major commercial hub in southern India and enjoys significant economic benefits . As a result, making the kind of poverty-related crime common in other cities in the nation less of an issue there.

What is special about Kochi?

Popularly regarded as the Queen of the Arabian Sea , the city has one of the world's best natural ports and was the international spice trade's headquarters for many centuries. Old Kochi (now West Kochi) refers to a collection of islands that includes many popular tourist attractions like Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and others.

What is famous in Cochin to buy?

Kochi or Cochin is well-known for its silver and gold jewelry , silk sarees , handloom , and handmade goods . Most of these items may be found at moderate rates in Kochi's famed street markets , such as the iconic Spice Market and Marine Drive .

Which is the best time to visit Kochi?

The best time to visit Kochi is during winter (October-February). The weather of Kerala's Kochi gets lovely and inviting . The air temperature remains between 17-33 degrees Celsius . Winter of Kochi is best for honeymooners , beach lovers , and adventure seekers .

Kochi's summer (March-June) is quite hot , sunny , and sweaty . And if you are up for exploration then avoid the monsoon (July-September). As Kochi receives a good amount of rain and you may have to cancel your plan anytime.

What are the nearby getaways from Kochi?

There are many places to see around Kochi. These places are a good way of learning Kerala from a broader angle. Given below are the places around Cochin that are often visited by tourists.

• Thrissur (74 km)
• Guruvayur  (108 km)
• Munnar , Kerala (130 km)
• Kozhikode (181 km)
• Coimbatore (193 km)
• Madurai (270 km)
• Lakshadweep Islands (300 km)

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11 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Kochi

Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, is one of the most famous cities in Kerala . Situated on the Western Coast of India , the city is bordered by the Western Ghats in the East and the vast Arabian Sea in the west. The most significant activity in any itinerary of a Kochi traveller would be a ferry ride across the cosmic spans of Kochi backwaters. Edged with credible coconut palms and popular Chinese nets silhouetted against the milieu of the setting sun, the backwaters make way for a magnificent spectacle.

Kochi architecture is influenced by the Arabs, the Chinese, the British, the Dutch, and the Portuguese. History has it that the city was the first European colonial settlement in India. With the passage of time, Kochi has emerged as the trade and commercial capital of Kerala and it can be chosen as the 2nd most vital city on the western coast of India. Today, Kochi boasts a world-class international port and a well-networked railway and road system. Here are the 11 top tourist places to visit in the marvellous city, including the famous Fort Kochi, the Dutch Palace, Cherai Beach and Vasco Da Gama Square. When in Kochi, here are the 11 top tourist places you must visit.

Catch a glimpse of a spectacular sunset and indulge in a perfect sunset stroll at Fort Kochi. Bathing and swimming activities are not permitted on the beach. Fort Kochi witnesses a bright carnival during the New Year’s Eve. You can enjoy gourmet seafood, shopping (shawls, handicrafts, carpets, and striking trinkets) and Kathakali performances, the traditional and vivid dance form of Kerala .

Dutch Palace

The palace built by the Portuguese and offered to the Kochi former King Veera Kerala Varma in the year 1555, got its name after the year 1663 when the Dutch carried out rigorous refurbishing. The former Kochi kings performed their coronation rituals in the Central Hall of this double-storey structure. The palace rooms feature 17th-century paintings portraying scenes from the Puranas and the other great Indian epics like, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The Dutch Palace is open from 10 AM to 5 PM and is closed on Fridays.

Jewish Synagogue

Created in the year 1568, this is one of the most ancient synagogues in the Commonwealth. Attractions to look out for in the synagogue are - the Great Scrolls of the Old Testament, two copper plates with intricate details of rights given to the Jews during the reign of Bhaskara Ravi Varman (10th century), gold crowns studded with gems, delicate Cantonese hand-painted decorative floor tiles, as well as the the synagogue’s elegant lighting with Belgian crystal chandeliers. The synagogue is open from 10 AM to 12 Noon and 3 PM to 5 PM.

Cherai Beach

Situated 25 kms off Ernakulum in a classic village setting is this unspoilt stretch of sand, best for swimming and all your water activities. If the sea and sand does not satisfy your cravings, there are plenty of food and ice-creams places for you to savour. All your adventure is keenly supervised by the life guards who are always available at your service. Dolphins can also be easily spotted. So it is important for the photographers to be ready with their shutter bugs! Situated near Cherai beach is a traditional Kerala village with lush paddy fields and coconut orchards which serves as icing on the cake.

Chinese Fishing Nets

Located in Vasco da Gama Square, these enormous Chinese fishing nets are the relic of some of the first visitors that came to the Malabar Coast. Set up here between 1350 and 1450 AD by the traders from the court of Kublai Khan, these fishing nets are erected on teak wood and bamboo poles.

Willingdon Island

Encircled by spectacular backwaters, Willingdon Island is a treat for the visitors. The Island was named after a former British Viceroy of India called Lord Wellingdon. Today, this manmade island features best of hotels, trading centres, the Port Trust and the HQs of the southern sailing command.

Bolghatty Island

Featuring the palace by same name, the Bolghatty Palace was created in the year 1744 by the Dutch and was later captured by the British. At present it is owned by Kerala Tourism, wherein KTDC is successfully running a hotel featuring exclusive honeymoon cottages and golf courses.  It is important to make advance bookings in case you wish to spend a couple of days at the Island.

Pierce Leslie Bungalow

This delightful bungalow was the once the official workplaces of Pierce Leslie & Co.

They were the coffee merchants who founded the company in the year 1862. An archetypal of the colonial bungalow of Fort Kochi, this edifice clearly echoes Portuguese, Dutch and local influences.

Old Harbour House

This sophisticated ancient bungalow constructed in the year 1808 is now in the custody of Carrit Moran & Co., a renowned chain of tea brokers, who have now started using it as their residence. The mansion was once popular as a boat club which was frequented by both locals and international tourists. 

Loafer’s Corner / Princess Street

One of the very initial streets to be built in Fort Kochi, Princess Street with European elegance exhibits an old world charm. The finest view of this picturesque street can be seen from Loafer’s Corner, the typical gathering place and retreat of the jovial people of the area who were more interested in organizing small meetings and having fun. 

Vasco House

One of the ancient Portuguese dwellings in Fort Kochi, Vasco House is popular as the residence of Vasco da Gama. Constructed in early 16th century, Vasco House boasts the classic European glass- paned windows and stylish balcony which was the characteristic of that era.

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• Top 12 Beautiful Tourist Places In Kochi
• POPULAR DESTINATIONS
• 20 July 2022
• By Chitri Banik

Kerala is a gorgeous city, known as God’s Own Country for its overwhelming beauty and charm, and the city of Kochi lies on the South West Coast overwatching the Arabian Sea. Every trip to Kerala is incomplete without visiting the tourist places in Kochi. Surely your breath will be taken away by the beautiful tourist places in Kochi.

The more I will talk about the charm of Kochi, the less it will be. Below is a brief discussion about the top 12 tourist places in Kochi. So without any further issues let’s read about them.

Top 12 Beautiful Tourist Places In Kochi:

1. fort kochi:.

A small fishing village that later became the first European community in India is now listed among the tourist attractions of Kochi due to its vitality of this place. The temperature is more or less pleasant all year round, except in summer, so it is ideal to explore the place on a motorbike to discover the deepest history and beauty of this place.

Fort Kochi Beach looks divine at sunset, offering various shades of vermilion and scarlet. The old houses here were built by British merchants, so the Dutch country houses, and shared farms, are reminiscent of times gone by. Fort Kochi can easily be planned for two days to immerse yourself in the area with plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

Location:  Ernakulam, Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None.

2. Lulu Shopping Mall, Tourist Places In Kochi:

One of the largest malls in India, Lulu Mall is an invitation to the world of happiness. With 225 outlets, a 2,500-seat food court, and the presence of the top 100 brands and 11 haute cuisine restaurants, this is definitely a place to indulge yourself.

The mall is also home to a 9-screen cineplex, amusement rides, one of the largest ice rinks, and a 12-lane bowling alley, making it a destination for all ages, especially on weekends. Located on the Marriott Hotel campus, it offers comfort and luxury to domestic and international tourists.

Location:  34, 1000, N.H 47, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi. Timings: 9.00 am to 11.00 pm every day.

Entry Fee:  None.

3. Kerala Kathakali Centre, Tourist Places In Kochi :

Established in 1990, the Kerala Kathakali Center aims to promote the traditional art form of Kerala, discover new talent, and train existing artists with rigorous discipline and dedication. Kathakali is a combination of literature, painting, music, dance, and performance, and all five forms culminate in this enchanting dance form performed with grace and mastery.

This is a place to visit in Kochi if you are interested in learning the dance form directly from the experts. You can also follow the daily shows hosted here by talented contestants and experts in their fields.

Location:  KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings:  5.00 pm to 7.00 pm  Entry Fees:  Rs. 250/- per head to watch the performance.

4. Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple:

This is the most visited and revered Hindu temple in the south. The temple is believed to be 1500 years old where goddesses Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and Keezhu Kaavu Bhadrakali Amman are worshiped as healing goddesses. The continued practice of worshiping the deities in this temple is believed to cure life-threatening diseases.

On the temple grounds is a pala tree pierced with thousands of nails. The reason for this is that patrons who are cured of insanity drive a nail into the tree. Men are required to open their shirts before entering the premises while women are required to dress in Indian robes to show reverence.

Location:  Chottanikkara, Ernakulam ( 20 km from Ernakulam ) Timings: 4.00 am to 8.45 pm every day. Entry Fees:  None

5. Cherai Beach, Tourist Places In Kochi:

This enchanting beach is perfectly located in the Cherai suburbs, which is one of the most visited beaches due to its tranquility and clean environment. Low tide and slow waves make it a highly recommended beach for swimming and other water sports. It has an attractive seafront promenade with lots of greenery and plenty of seating.

Senior visitors can often be seen early in the morning or in the evening practicing yoga, meditating, or taking gentle walks to enjoy the splendor of Mother Nature. The beach has several luxury villas, resorts, and beachfront hotels lined up along the Arabian Sea where the Periyar River meets to form a postcard frame.

Location:  Ernakulam 15 km from Kochi. Timings:  Sunrise to Sunset. Entry Fees:  None

6. St Francis Church:

The Church of St. Francis in Ernakulam is not only a very popular holy place for Christians but also has great historical importance as the famous explorer Vasco da Gama was buried here. Built by the Portuguese in royal style with Dutch and Portuguese influences, it is an architectural marvel.

half-timbered gables, confessional, baptismal platform, and pulpit amaze the visitors. It tells many stories about the ancient world and its spiritual way of life.

Location:  Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings:  Monday to Saturday 7.00 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday – 8.30 am to 6.30 pm. Entry Fees:  None

7. Indo – Portuguese Museum, Tourist Places In Kochi:

This museum was founded by the late Bishop of Kochi, Dr. Joseph Kureethra, established to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Portuguese in India. The Altar, Treasury, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral are the five main sections of the museum that display various artifacts and objects from this period.

contributions to this collection are from various churches in Kerala. You can opt for a guided tour of the museum to better understand the history.

Location:  Bishop Kureethara Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi. Timings:  Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm every day, Monday closed. Entry Fees: Rs.5/- for children, 10/- adults (for Indians), and Rs.25/- for foreign tourists.

8. Gowreeswara Temple Cherai, Tourist Places In Kochi:

Built in 1912, this popular temple in Kochi is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as South Pazhani. The idol was installed by Sree Narayana Guru and it is the only temple in Asia that is a Chaturmukha Kovil, meaning four side gates.

Lord Subramanya faces east, while Lord Ganapati faces south, Lord Shiva faces west, and Goddess Parvati faces north. Four daily pujas are performed to the deities Usha Pooja, Pantheeradi Pooja, Uchiha Pooja, and Agatha Pooja where Panchamrutam and Pushpanjali are offered.

Location:  Sree Gowreeswara Temple, Cherai, Vypin. Timings: 5.00 am to 11.30 am and 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm every day. Entry Fees:  None

9. Malayattoor, Tourist Places In Kochi:

Malayattoor holds special meaning among all the tourist spots in Kochi as it is a meeting place between land, river, and mountain. Malayattoor Hill has the famous Malayattoor Church dedicated to St Thomas who is believed to have prayed at this shrine. This important holy place for Christians in Kochi attracts many pilgrims from the southern part of the country throughout the year.

The church houses a life-size statue of the saint and the apostle’s footprint on a rock. This site has been recognized as an international pilgrimage center for Christians from all over the world. The annual festival is organized on the first Easter Sunday of each year.

Location:  47 km from Kochi in Ernakulam district. Timing:  Monday to Saturday, 6.00 am and 5.15 pm and Sundays – 6.00 am, 7.30 am and 9.30 am. Entry Fees : None

10. Andhakaranazhi Beach, Tourist Places In Kochi:

This beach attracts a number of tourists and is located in a coastal town 4 km from Pattanakkad. The tall white and red lighthouse draws attention as it helps sailors with night navigation. Andhakaranazhi Beach is a frequent location for Malayalam movies, which attracts the attention of local people.

Although badly affected by the 2004 tsunami, a new bridge and skywalk have been built on the boardwalk to provide magnificent views of a spectacular sunset that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Location:  4 km west of Pattanakkad under Cherthala Taluk. Timings:  Sunrise to Sunset.

11. Chinese Fishing Nets, Tourist Places In Kochi:

Chinese fishing nets, also known as Cheena wala, are quite common in Kochi. These are stationary lifting nets fixed in a certain place, operated from the bank with mechanical devices for almost 20 m wide nets.

This unique style of fishing was introduced by Chinese merchants in the 14th century, expanding its relevance to “Ko-chi”, meaning “similar to China”. Sunsets over backwaters, rivers, or the sea offer a panoramic splendor of the horizon with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the background.

Location:  Across water bodies of Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None.

12. Bolgatty Palace, Tourist Places In Kochi:

When making a list of places to visit in Kochi, Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort are must-sees. Built by the Dutch in 1744, this unique mansion with four palatial rooms is unique outside of the Netherlands. The palace has now become a luxury stay for travelers pampering them with the utmost in comfort and splendor.

Popularly known as a honeymooner’s paradise, Bolgatty Palace has made a name for itself for its extravagant island-wide location, surrounded by a verdant canopy of foliage and breathtaking countryside views. The resort has an event center for weddings, reunions, and other ceremonies for large numbers of guests.

Location:  NH966A, Mulavukad, Kochi. Timings:  All day. Entry Fees:  None.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Kochi

Kochi Prefecture (pronounce as Kōchi) is located along the southwest coast of the island of Shikoku. Its capital is Kochi City, which is famous for one of Japan’s best preserved feudal castle, Kochi Castle, and Sunday Market which has been the city’s weekly tradition for over 300 years. The prefecture is largely rural area offering beautiful mountains, valleys, and beaches. Here we present 10 best places to visit in Kochi. 

Where to stay

Japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might like, 1. katsurahama beach.

Located in Kochi City, Katsurahama Beach is a scenic beach where swimming is prohibited because of strong currents. The beach is a home to a famous statue of the local samurai hero Sakamoto Ryoma . Ssakamoto was one of the key persons who helped to bring an end to Japan’s feudal age in 1868. On the hill above the beach, there is the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum. You can also find a small aquarium, a small shrine, the Tosa fighting dog museum, and souvenir shops on and near the beach. 

From JR Kochi Station, take Kochiken Kotsu bus to Katsurahama (~35 min)

2. Kochi Castle

Located in the center of Kochi City, Kochi Castle stands on a hill, overlooking surrounding area. It was first built between 1601 and 1611, however, much of the original fortress burned down in 1727 and reconstructed between 1729 and 1753 in the original style. This castle is one of the twelve castles in Japan which retain original constructions, and the only castle in Japan to retain both its original castle keep and its palace, the residence of the feudal lord. The lookout point from the castle tower’s top floor offers nice view of downtown. 

From Kochi Station, take a tram to Kochijo-mae tram stop (~15 min)

3. Sunday Market

One of the oldest outdoor market, which has been a weekly tradition for over 300 years in Kochi City, stretches along the road towards Kochi Castle for about 1.3 kilometers. Every Sunday, over 400 stalls line the street selling Kochi’s local food and products such as fresh vegetables and fruits, breads and sweets, plants, Japanese knives, arts, crafts, and more. The market opens from morning until late afternoon. 

About 15 minute walk from Kochi Station

4. Shimanto River

This is the longest river in the island of Shikoku , 196 kilometers in length. The river is remote from major cities and dams, and it is sometimes referred to as the last clear stream of Japan. The river slowly makes its way through the natural landscape, and eventually connects with the Pacific Ocean in Shimanto City. Over the river, there are about 47 footbridges which are traditionally built without railings. Because these bridges do not inhibit the flow of the river when the river is flooded, the river is less likely to burst its banks and the bridges are also less likely to be washed away. 

You can enjoy rafting and canoeing on the river, camping alongside the river or hiking along the river bank. 

From Kochi Station, take the Tosa Kuroshio Line to Nakamura Station (~30 min) 

5. Cape Ashizuri

Located at the southernmost tip of Shikoku, Cape Ashizuri offers great views of the landscape, waters, and horizon from the century-old lighthouse or the Tengu-Nose Observatory. 

At the top of a cliff overlooking the sea at Cape Ashizuri, Kongofukuji Temple can be found. This is one of the grandest temples on the 88-temple pilgrimage that runs for 1,200 kilometers around the island of Shikoku. 

Near the cape, you can take a break at Ashizuri Hot Spring which is an open-air bath with views of the ocean below. 

From Nakamura Station on the Tosa Kuroshio Railway, take a local bus and get off at Ashizuri Misaki bus stop (~1.5 hrs)

6. Cape Muroto

Cape Muroto is located in the south east of Kochi. It has been shaped by volcanic activity and juts out sharply into the Pacific Ocean, offering dynamic seascapes and landscapes. Going there to see the sunrise or sunset is recommended, you can see the magnificent view.

It is recognized as Global Geopark, and there is the Goepark Visitor Center on the east coast of the cape where you can learn about the geology and features of the area. 

From Kochi Station, take the JR Dosan Line to Gomen Station, change to Gomen-Nahari Line and get off at Nahari Station (~1.5 hrs). Take a local bus bound for Muroto Misaki, get off at Muroto Misaki bus stop. 

7. Kashiwa Island

This is a small island situated in the westernmost tip of Kochi , in Otsuki Town. The island is connected with the mainland by a bridge. The sea around Kashiwa Island is famous for its crystal clear water, and some people even say the water is clearer than in Okinawa. It is a great place for diving and snorkeling since there are more than 1,000 types of sea creatures inhabit here. 

From Sukumo Station on Tosa Kuroshio Railway, take Kochi Seinan Kotsu Bus bound for Michino-eki-Otsuki, get off at Michino-eki-Otsuki bus stop. Take another local bus bound for Kashimashima, get off at Kashimashima bus stop (~60 min).

8. Irino Coast

Less than two hours away from Kochi City, in the little town of Kuroshio, you can find this beautiful coast which stretches about 4 kilometers. Its clean white sand is carefully preserved as a prefectural natural park. Twice a day when the tides change, the surface of the water becomes like a mirror, reflecting the colors of the sky. 

There are several events held at the coast. One of them is the t-shirt art exhibition, which is held in every May, showcasing works of artist from around the world, printed on cotton t-shirts hung in long lines across the beach. 

About 10 minute walk from Tosa-Irino Station on the Tosa Kuroshio Railway. 

9. Yasui Valley

Yasui Valley spreads out over 10 kilometers amidst the mountain forests of Mount Ishizuchi. The water is known as Niyodo Blue due to its beautiful, clear blue colors of Niyodo River. For the last three consecutive years, its water was ranked as the best in Japan for its quality and transparency. The valley is the major sport for viewing autumn foliage in Kochi and the area is dotted with waterfalls. You can hike alongside the beautiful river on a trail. 

From Ino Station, take the Tosaden Kotsu Bus bound for Nagasawa, and get off at Hodono Iriguchi bus stop. Walk about 20 minutes. 

10. Monet’s Garden Marmottan in Kitagawa Village

This garden recreates the world of Claude Monet who is the French impressionist painter in the 19th century. Kitagawa Village is a faithful replica of Monet’s famous garden in Giverny, France and only garden outside his home country. 

The Monet’s garden consists of three gardens; Flower Garden, Water Garden and Garden of Bordighera. The Flower Garden presents attractive and colorful flowers which changes its ambience throughout the year. The Water Garden is influenced by Monet’s fascination for Japanese gardens and Japanese woodblock prints called “ukiyo-e”. This garden features a Japanese taiko bridge arched over a pond, Japanese wisterias, willow trees, bamboos and water lilies. The Garden of Bordighera is based on Monet’s expedition to the Mediterranean Sea, with palm and olive trees and other exotic flowers and plants. From this garden, you can enjoy beautiful sceneries of mountains, forests and ocean. 

The Monet’s Garden also features a café, bakery, gallery and shop, playground, and nature forest trail. 

From Kochi Station, take JR Dosan Line to Gomen Station. Then, take Gomen-Nahari Line to Nahari Station. Take a local bus bound for Kitagawa-mura and get off at Mone-no-niwa bus stop. 

Shimanto Riverside Hideaway – Classic Japanese accommodation yet very stylish and comfortable, the host is friendly and you can enjoy the beautiful view of the mountain and river. Oyamanoyado Michitsuji – The 100 years old building was renovated into the guest house, two meals are included on your stay with the host’s family, you can get local experience surrounded by nature. Shimanto River House Yuube-Tei – Limited to 2 pairs only per day, you can enjoy a quiet stay with the view over Shimanto River and the friendly owner will welcome you. You can enjoy BBQ, watching full of stars, SUP lessons (additional fee) with the host.

How did you think about Kochi Prefecture? In Kochi, you can enjoy traditional culture and history along with abundance of beautiful nature. 

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Happy travelling!

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help! 

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▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Kimchi Restaurant

Bison Steakhouse

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More ways to enjoy moscow, top 20 premium hotels in moscow.

Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow

The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya

StandArt Hotel Moscow

Hotel Diamond Apartments

Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow

Moscow Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel

National Hotel

Moss Boutique Hotel

Hotel Savoy Moscow

Radisson Blu Olympiyskiy Hotel

Plaza Garden Moscow WTC

Mövenpick Moscow Taganskaya

Top 20 4-star select hotels in moscow.

Pentahotel Moscow, Arbat

Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel and Business Centre, Moscow

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Moscow - Marina

Novotel Moscow City

DoubleTree by Hilton Moscow - Vnukovo Airport

Hotel Moscow Krasnoselskaya

Mercure Arbat Moscow

Novotel Moscow Kievskaya

Aparthotel Adagio Moscow Kievskaya

Radisson Blu Belorusskaya Hotel

Lesnaya by Safmar

Peking Hotel

Popular 4-star select hotels near moscow.

Pamir-Tien Shan Hotel

Greenwood Hotel

Palmira Garden Hotel & Spa

Park Inn by Radisson Odintsovo

Sofrino Park Hotel (ex Tulip Inn )

Boutique Hotel Tatiana Provence

Hotel Complex Tseleevo

Eco-Hotel Izumrudniy Les

Park-Hotel Vozdvizhenskoe

Radisson Residences, Zavidovo

Radisson Resort, Zavidovo

Grand Hotel Zvezda

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Popular Types of Attractions in Moscow

Popular attractions in moscow, popular ranked lists, popular restaurants in moscow, trending travelogues, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations, popular trip moments, popular travel types, more things to do in moscow.

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Visit Kremlin tour

The armoury, tretyakov gallery, the cathedral of christ the saviour, moscow metro.