sea trip kochi

One Day Cruise in Kochi

152 reviews

Kochi, Kerala

Booking with ₹0

Starting from ₹ 1999

- 25 % ₹ 1499

What will you experience

5 Hours of Cruise Ride

Certified Instructor

Delicious Snacks

Panoramic Sunset View

Extravagant Cruise

About the Activity

About Kochi:

• One of the most beautiful South-Indian states is Kerala and Kochi is the heart of the state, you will also get many never-seen-before sights.  
• Kochi is a place surrounded by lofty hills, green valleys, and trees like plum and coconut. The backwaters are the most exciting thing for tourists and adventure lovers. 

About One Day Cruise Ride in Kochi:

• Reach the given location at least 30 Mins before the time mentioned so that you do not miss any exciting moment with your loved ones.
• Feel safe as you will be provided life jackets and other best safety equipments along with a certified guide. Follow and maintain the guidelines given by the guide. 
• The day will be amusing with sightseeing of 19 Greenish Islands of Kochi such as Wellington Island, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi, Vypin, Vallarpadom, Gundu, Kothadu, etc. 
• The best thing about One Day Cruise is to go through all of the main seaport regions and enjoy the 19 greenish islands, the backwaters, coconut trees, rice-area perspectives, etc.
• Get down on Mattancherry Island for entering the historic monuments like Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue.
• One of the first-rate activity in Kochi is cruising, enjoy the natural surrounding and grab the beautiful panaromic view of small city light at the harbour. 
• A DJ setup with lovely recollections and local music will be there for your additional amusement and entertainment.
• Book this One Day Cruise excursion package deal to enjoy the surreal backwaters and have a soothing memorable moment with your loved ones.

How to reach Kochi One Day Cruise Boarding Point: 

• The area is 130 Metres from the Highcourt Junction, which you could without problems attain via way of means of public or non-public transport.

Package Option

Ac boat cruise with 19 greenish island.

₹ 1499 per person

• 5 Hours Cruise Ride
• Meals: (Buffet Lunch, Evening Tea & Snacks)
• Dancing, Singing, DJ
• 19 Greenish Island Sightseeing by Boat
• AC Boat Cruise
• Any Personal Expenses
• Any Transportation Expenses
• Children below 5 Yrs are Complimentary
• Min. 30 Members Required to Book

Activity Location

Planning for a bigger group? Grab Best Group Deals & Offers

Know before you book

• Make sure you're dressed comfortably.
• Please arrive 30 minutes before departure.
• Bring a printed copy of the tickets with you.
• Carry your belongings, including medications, insect repellent, etc.
• Maintain a pleasant atmosphere for everybody.
• Alcohol and heavy foods should not be consumed before the activity.

Things to Carry

• Sunscreen and Sunglasses
• Travel Insurance Documents

Rs. 1499 per Adult

• WEB STORIES New
• ENTERTAINMENT
• CAREER & CAMPUS
• INFOGRAPHICS
• T20 World Cup 2024

• Manorama Online
• Manorama News TV
• ManoramaMAX
• Radio Mango
• Subscription

Kochi by sea: Cruise the Arabian Sea for Rs 350

Watch the sun setting over the Arabian Sea, taking in the evening breeze and rocked by the gentle waves. If you thought a cruise could burn a hole in your pocket, you could not be more wrong. The bill works out to be a mere Rs 350.

Kerala State Inland Navigation Corporation's deluxe mini cruise, Sagara Rani, is a common man's dream come true. The daily cruise that leaves the Marine Drive in Kochi everyday offers an unlimited vista for two hours at an affordable cost.

In case you are planning to voyage as a group, be sure to arrive at the starting point ahead of time. Else you might have to settle for seats scattered all over.

An ethereal cruise along the Arabian Sea with Nefertiti

Sagara Rani has two decks. The upper deck can accommodate 90 passengers. The crew can arrange for some plastic chairs in case more passengers turn up. Passengers are served tea and snacks.

Choose a seat at the front of the boat so that the waves and the breeze create a fantastical world for you. The captain also sits on the upper deck.

Celebrity Edge: Season's first luxury cruise liner to reach Kochi tomorrow

Kochi gets more appealing for cruise tourists

The lower deck is equipped with a small restaurant, a conference hall and two toilets.

The crew consists of 8 to 10 members. One of them would greet the passengers at the beginning of the journey, offering tidbits about the buildings that dot Kochi's skyline. Then the ship cruises along the Bolghatty Palace and under the Goshree bridges. The Vallarpadom Transshipment Container Terminal, Raman Thuruth, Vypeen Ferry, Cochin Ship Yard and the numerous Chinese nets on the way are sights to behold.

Sagara Rani would then cruise for about 12 kilometres into the sea. On days when the weather is inhospitable, the distance may be cut short to 2 to 3 kilometres.

Sagara Rani is an Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) class cruise vessel. The two boats do not have permission to voyage beyond 15 km into the sea.

Sagara Rani offers various packages for tourists . The normal ticket rate is Rs 350 per person. The rate goes up to Rs 400 on weekends and holidays.

• Super Luxury Cruise Liner
• Kerala Destinations

Teenagers trapped near Alingal Falls safe: Rescue official explains why visiting waterfall can be risky

Mohanlal's birthday: Kerala tourism 'gifts' him Kireedam-fame Vellayani Bridge

Munnar's Escape Road: The legend of an interstate highway that disappeared

Meesapulimala beckons adventure lovers to its scintillating peaks

Munnar tourist season: Record temperature hits hill station, visitors disappointed

Thrissur Pooram: Kudamattam celebrates the festival with vibrant parasols

Explainer: What is Thrissur Pooram and how can tourists enjoy it?

Premalu, Manjummel Boys and Gaganyan to feature on Thrissur Pooram fireworks: Details

Thrissur Pooram on April 19: Details on tourist pavilions, safety arrangements, fireworks and more

48 hrs in Kochi, Kerala. Is the Queen of the Arabian Sea Worth Visiting?

Are you planning a trip to Kerala and wondering whether Kochi (Cochin) is worth visiting or not? Read my complete travel guide answering all your questions, including the best places to visit in Kochi and Fort Kochi, where to stay, eat, and when to go.

After spending a week in two different destinations – Bangalore and Coorg – I thought I had experienced two very unique holidays. Nothing could match them in my two-week-long South India Trip. Still, both Fort Kochi and Kumarakom exceeded my expectations. In this post, I’ll tell you why I fell in love with Kochi and what are the best things to do in Kochi in 2 days. 

Table of Contents

Is Fort Kochi worth visiting?

This was a question that grappled my mind when planning my trip to Kerala . I wanted to know what’s special about Kochi that makes it a must-visit destination in Kerala. I must admit Kochi, also known as Cochin, is one of the most picturesque destinations on the southwest coastline of Kerala. Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea , the city also flaunts one of the world’s finest natural harbours. And, why wouldn’t it? After all, it has been the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries. Old Kochi (presently called West Kochi) loosely refers to a group of islands which comprise Fort Kochi , Mattancherry , and Willingdon Island , among others. Fort Kochi is a small fishing village that became the first European township in India , where you can still see the vestiges of several cultures and ethnicities. 

The city is also referred to as the gateway of Kerala because whether you plan to go to Alleppey, Thekkady or Munnar , your starting point will most likely be Kochi. And, if you want to go to Lakshadweep , your journey will also begin at Kochi. Therefore it makes sense to start at least a day or two here. There are many things to do in Fort Kochi, so here is a travel guide curated by me to help you plan your time in this historic city.

Fort Kochi is a cultural vessel shaped by many historical influences dating back to 2000 years. Its streets exude that old-world charm. The  Jewish, Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch , and  Portuguese  all impacted the history and development of Cochin. At Kochi, you see a hodgepodge of cultures and traditions co-existing with ease – whether the Catholics of Kerala, Kashmiris, Jews, Konkanis, Gujaratis or Marwaris. The English claimed Cochin as  “Mini England” , The Dutch called it  “Homely Holland’Holland’  and the Portuguese referred to the port as  “Little Lisbon” .

When is the best time to visit Kochi ?

The best time to visit Kochi depends on your interests and what you are looking for in your travels. Most people prefer to visit  between October and March  as the weather is quite pleasant, ranging  from 17 to 33 degrees Celsius . I was there at the beginning of March, and it was quite pleasant to explore the town on foot. But suppose you are someone who doesn’t mind the heat and humidity. In that case, you can visit between  April to June  when the average temperature ranges from  20 to 37 degrees Celsius . The best part, it is a lean season, which means you can get better hotel deals. Lastly, plan your trip between  July and September  if you love the monsoon. The average temperature is between  24 to 27 degrees Celsius , and the city turns green. Also, a great time to get good hotel deals.

How many days are enough for Kochi?

If you are interested in exploring just the city’s historical side, then I would say two days are enough for Kochi. But if you have time and want to explore the city and around at a slow pace, then 5-7 days should be good. I had two days in hand, and I could explore quite a bit in those two days. But the credit goes to  Forte Kochi  staff, who put an excellent itinerary for me that was neither too rushed nor too relaxed to miss out on any of the best places to visit in Kochi in 2 days.

What are the best things to do in Kochi in 2 days ?

Kochi is like a treasure trove filled with a historical and cultural richness reflected in its architectural marvels from different eras. I had a fantastic guide called Vijesh from  Day in Cochin Tours who made me experience the heart and soul of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry . Here are some of the places worth checking out if you are looking for ideas on how to spend 48 Hours in Kochi.

Learn the old fishing technique at the Chinese Fishing Nets.

The Chinese Fishing Nets are the most popular tourist sights in Kochi, so if you are only making a one day trip to Kochi, this should be number one on your list of things to do in Fort Kochi. Vijesh, my travel guide, said, “Many believe the name Co-chin means like China. The Chinese explorers who landed here in the Portuguese era installed these fishing nets that have since become the symbol of the place.” It is believed the first Chinese Fishing Nets were installed in Fort Kochi in the 15th century , and they are still in use. Refurbished several times since then, but their technique is still the same that the first traders used. If you want to see that old technique of catching fish, just head to the Vasco da Gama Square , a narrow walkway that runs along the Fort Kochi beach . The best time to visit the Chinese Fishing Nets and Kochi Beach is during the sunset time when the entire area glows in the golden light. Usually, the fisherman would expect a tip of 100-200 rupees for letting you take pictures of their nets. As you step outside of the Chinese Fishing nets boats, you are greeted with stalls for food, local drinks, souvenirs etc. There are a few benches as well for sitting.

Marvel a glorious sunset at Fort Kochi Beach

One of the most prominent Fort Kochi tourist places is Fort Kochi Beach, next to the Chinese Fishing Nets. Equally popular among tourists and locals for evening walks, this beach might be small but has many unique factors that differentiate it from other beaches in Kerala or Goa. The presence of the Chinese fishing nets is definitely a highlight. The presence of giant old trees and the greenery on the promenade adds to the serenity of the beach. The seafood, the Vasco da Gama Square adjacent to the beach, a lighthouse and a granite walkway are other attractions that make this place a must-visit place in Kochi. The remains of Fort Immanuel can also be seen here. 

If you happen to travel to Kerala during the new year, don’t forget to attend the famous Cochin Carnival on New Year’s Eve . 

Turn the history pages at Fort Emmanuel ruins. 

The origin of Fort Kochi’s name lies buried under the ruins of this Portuguese fort which was also one of the first in Asia. It was the first place where Europeans set their first foot, and it became the battleground for Europeans. Fort Emmanuel was built twice by the Portuguese and then by the Dutch.

Explore the St. Francis Church .

Initially built in 1503, St. Francis Church is popularly known as the first church Europeans built in India and has enormous historical relevance. Interestingly, it has served as a Roman Catholic church, a Dutch Reformist church and an Anglican church during different eras depending on the European nation in power at each given time! St. Francis Church became a mecca for travel buffs worldwide because the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama was first buried here after his death in Kochi in 1524 .

Visit the residence of Vasco De Gama .

Behind the St. Francis Church on Rose Street is Vasco House, which is believed to have been the residence of the great Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama. Vasco House is one of the oldest Portuguese buildings in Fort Kochi, built in the early sixteenth century.  Vasco House  sports the typical European architecture – white paint, high wooden ceilings, old stone-staircase, large glass windows and balcony cum verandahs characteristic of those times. Today, Vasco House is converted into a homestay with all modern amenities and is owned by Santosh Tom. The story around the building has made it one of the top Instagramable spots in Fort Kochi.

Santa Cruz Basilica – Pray at one of the oldest Catholic Churches in India. 

Located on Bastian Street, Santa Cruz Basilica is one of the oldest Catholic Churches in India and one of the eight basilicas in Kerala. It is one of the few buildings built by the Portuguese here that the Dutch spared. Later, demolished and rebuilt by the British in the 19th century, it was proclaimed a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984. Built originally in the gothic style by the Portuguese, it is an interesting piece of architecture and artistic grandeur – one of the must-see places for every visitor to the city!

Go antique shopping in Jew Town. 

Sandwiched between Mattancherry Palace and the 14th-century Paradesi Synagogue, Jew Town is a living testimony of Kochi’s rich Jewish legacy. Once a spice market, Jew Town today is an eye-catching touristy place in Kochi for those of you always on the lookout for antiques, quirky art pieces, handicrafts, jewellery, clothes, souvenirs, and fusion food for curious tourists. It’s a great shopping place in Kochi. The small market is full of stunning art pieces with a rich history and exciting stories. 

Paradesi Synagogue – attend a mass at one of the oldest synagogues in India. 

One of the most remarkable landmarks of Kochi is the 14th-century synagogue that is open to visitors every day except Fridays, Saturdays and any Jewish holiday. The Jewish synagogue was built in 1568 , almost 1500 years after the beginning of the Jewish connection with Kerala. Like other buildings in Kochi, the synagogue was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and then reconstructed two years later by the Dutch. Vijesh told me that Paradesi is one of the oldest synagogues in India that still holds mass . Kochi once had a large Jewish population that has been dwindling for decades, and in 2015 there were only 6 Jewish members left in the city. You can read more about it in  this BBC article . 

Mattancherry Palace – Get a peek into the lavish lives of the Kings of Kochi .

Also known as Mattancherry Palace, the Dutch Palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Later, it was presented to the King of Kochi and renovated by the Dutch in the 17th century. Now converted into a museum, it houses a great collection of portraits of Maharajas, mythological murals, old Dutch maps, royal palanquins and period furniture.

Get culturally mesmerised at Kerala Kathakali Centre. 

My trip to Kerala would have been incomplete without watching a performance of Kathakali, a traditional dance form from the 17th century. And the most popular and famous place to watch Kathakali in Kochi is Kerala Kathakali Centre , situated on KB Jacob road near Fort Kochi. Built as a traditional arts centre, this place has daily performances of Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, and other classical dance and music forms. And, don’t forget to reach half an hour before the performance to see the elaborate make-up process that takes roughly three hours.

Appreciate art at the Kochi Muziris Biennale

Kochi has a great art culture, and every two years, the city celebrates the  Kochi-Muziris Biennale . It is the largest contemporary art exhibition in India and the first of its kind held in the country. Indian and international artists exhibit artworks across various mediums, including film, installation, painting, sculpture, new media, and performance art. Alongside the exhibition, one can attend talks, seminars, screenings, music, workshops and educational activities for school children and students.

Where to stay in Kochi?

Kochi is one of Kerala’s biggest and most densely populated cities; therefore, plenty of stay options. You can choose from Fort Kochi, Mattanchery, the mainland Ernakulam, the suburbs of Edapally, Kalamassery and Kakkanad to the suburb of Tripunithura. Too many options often lead to confusion. Therefore it becomes a tricky task to choose the best place to stay in Kochi . I was more inclined to explore the historical side of Kochi, so I decided to stay in Forte Kochi . Here is my experience of staying at this boutique heritage hotel.

The city of Kochi was once the hot spot of the historic spice route attracting traders and travellers from more than 30 countries across Europe, the Far East and Asia. Even today, you can see the hodgepodge of cultures and traditions co-existing with ease. You can see the architectural and cultural influences peppered throughout the city – be it the Jewish, Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, British or Chinese influences on architecture or culture. 

And the best way to experience this potpourri of cultures is by staying in the city’s heart. So, I booked myself at Forte Kochi, a 150-year-old boutique heritage hotel in the heart of Fort Kochi, from where most attractions are within walking distance. The Forte Kochi stands in the quaint environs of Fort Kochi, the most historic area of Kochi. Forte Kochi hotel is located on Princess Street , which happens to be one of the oldest streets of Fort Kochi, lined with colonial structures. Most of the places to see and things to do in Fort Kochi described above are within 5-10 minutes of walking distance from the hotel.

The History Of Forte Kochi

As I walked toward the bright yellow and white building, I knew I was in for a big surprise. The history of Forte Kochi is as fascinating as the building itself. The hotel Manager, Sajeesh Nadakath , gave us a quick crash course about the historical relevance of the building in which I was staying. I learned that the heritage building in which the hotel is located was originally  built by the Portuguese in 1860 . This historic building was once a  stately mansion  owned by an  eminent Jewish family . Although the owners had migrated to Israel a long time back, the building was taken on lease by the Paul Group of Hotels and carefully restored to its original structure. Even though the building acts like a time machine letting you enjoy the art and architecture of the bygone colonial era, it is well equipped with all contemporary luxuries and turned into a boutique hotel. No wonder Forte Kochi is one of the best 5-star hotels in Kochi. 

Colonial Era Rooms

Being a boutique property Forte Kochi has well-appointed 27 colonial-style rooms. You can book yourself in any of the three kinds of rooms – Classic rooms that accommodate two people, Imperial King rooms that accommodate four people, and the Sovereign Suite that can accommodate four people. While my room had an antique and traditional look, it also offered all modern amenities like an LED TV, Refrigerator, Coffee/Tea Maker, Air Conditioning, Mini Bar, wi-fi etc. As I entered the room, I was greeted into a room reminiscence of British elegance and luxury . The room was elegantly designed with colourful tiled floors, large arched tinted windows, colonial-era lamps, and cushioned wicker sofas. The bathroom was well-equipped with a nice bathtub, hand shower, hairdryer, and required toiletries, dressing gowns, and slippers. All the colonial-styled rooms face the central courtyard and swimming pool.

Apart from the in-room amenities, the hotel has an inviting swimming pool where one can take a dip or relax by the poolside. You can borrow a book from the in-house library or lounge by the poolside with a drink. I really loved sitting in the courtyard, where I could hear the birds singing. Kochi gets really hot and humid in summers, so returning to the sea green-blue pool was like returning to an oasis of calm after a hectic day of sightseeing. There is an in-house bar where you can order your favourite drink. 

What surprised me the most was the presence of the holy spring of the Jews right in the courtyard where a beautiful tortoise lives. You had to walk down a few flights of stairs to get to the spring that dates back to over 200 years.

Dinning at Forte Kochi

Food served at Forte Kochi is a sensory pleasure for your taste buds. I’ve to admit this was the place that gave me food comma. Everything right from simple buttermilk is made with so much precision and care that flavours have a field day in your mouth. My first meal in Kochi was at  Jetty restaurant,  and man, it was mindblowing .  The restaurant serves a varied fare to its guests – from local Malabar delicacies to Continental cuisine, from Pan Indian dishes to a tempting seafood spread. The appams I had here were the softest and most flavourful I ever had. The food is exceptional, and there’s so much variety available. Credit goes to  Chef Jejo Joseph  for being so consistent with taste. I stayed at the hotel for two days and had all my meals here because I loved it so much! Everything from prawn curry to pasta was delicious. And the desserts are to die for. 

Breakfast is a combination of buffet and à la carte. One can order from a selection of Indian or European breakfast options and beverages, juices, and shakes.

Another interesting feature that I loved about this boutique property was the High Tea. Served in the evening by the poolside at a small recreated local Kerala style tea shop known as Thattukada. Along with tea, filter coffee, and local snacks.

How much does a trip to Kochi cost from Delhi

The cost of a vacation in Kochi depends on your budget, and you can go as high or as low as you want. But if you’re going to have a holiday similar to mine, then this is what it will cost:

Accommodation in an imperial room – Rs 10030/- per night (including Bed & Breakfast) 

Guided Heritage Tour – Rs. 3540 for two people

Kathakali Show – Rs. 1180 for two people

Kalaripayattu Show 1180 for two people

Airport Pick Up & Drop by Innova Crysta – Rs.9000/-

Food – Rs. 2500 for two people

Total cost for two people (minus the flights) – 37460 (inclusive of taxes) / USD 490 

Besides Forte Kochi, the other hotels worth checking out in Kochi are Brunton Boatyard, Fragrant Nature Kochi, Ramada by Wyndham Kochi Resort, Kochi Marriott Hotel, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, and many more.

Where to eat in Kochi

While most of my meals were at Forte Kochi’s Jetty restaurant , you can try any of the following places considered the best to eat in Kochi. Here are some of the best places to eat in Kochi. Sri Muruga Café for pazhampori and beef fry, Grand Pavillion at the Grand Hotel for their karimeen (pearl spot) poll ichathu (beef fry) with Malabar parotta, Kayees Rahmathulla Café for Biryani, Ojeen for thirty different variety of traditional Malabari Mappila snacks, Armoury Café at The Brunton Boatyard Hotel for first-class railway curry, Daal Roti for North Indian fare, Ginger House , Café Crafters, Kashi Art Café , and a small outlet at Neroth John Chandy & Co (Mattachery) for coffees, shakes, juices and western snacks etc. They serve really good ginger soda and carrot cake.

How to get to Fort Kochi

There are four ways to get from New Delhi to Kochi – by plane, train, bus or car. Like most tourists, I arrived in Kochi on a flight that takes around 3 hrs 10 mins and costs between 5000 to 12000 INR. The nearest airport to Kochi is Cochin International Airport, located about a 1-hour drive from Fort Kochi. In peak hours, it can take more than 2 hours to reach the hotel or vice versa. The train is the cheapest mode to reach Kochi but takes around 43-hours and costs anywhere between one thousand rupees to five thousand rupees. The bus will take 2 days 12 hours, and would cost anywhere between 5000 rupees to 8000 rupees. If driving nonstop, it would take you approximately four hours and cost anywhere between 19000 to 30,000 rupees.

Getting in and around Fort Kochi 

If you are planning to explore only Fort Kochi, you don’t need transportation as it is quite a small area that you can easily explore on foot. To explore other parts of the city, you can get an Uber or an autorickshaw or even a ferry. Also, check Kochi’sKochi’s new metro line. Kerala’s first metro rail runs from Aluva to Petta (22 stations) and only has one line. As of now, the Kochi metro doesn’t reach Fort Kochi, but there are plans to expand it over the years. The nearest metro stations to Fort Kochi are Maharaja College Metro Station and M G Road Metro Station. Both are approximately 3 km away from Fort Kochi.

Planning to explore further afield?

If you want to explore Kerala further, I would highly recommend experiencing the backwaters from Kumarakom. They are less touristy as compared to Alleppey. 

I hope you find this post helpful and it inspires you to experience the  best things to do in Kochi in 2 days !

Have you been to Fort Kochi, or if you have any more suggestions for me to add? Let me know in the comments section below.

Like this post? Pin and save for later

You may also like

Unique Things to Do in Vrindavan in 3 Days: My Holi Experience

From Local Roads to International Highways: The Importance of an International Driver’s Permit

Monsoon Magic in Himachal: Exploring Dalhousie and Khajjiar in 4 Days

19 comments.

It is so beautiful there! I love all the photos you shared and the wealth of information on how to make our visit the best it can be.

The photos make it look so inviting. Thanks for the tip on the best time to visit. Inclement weather can make a trip not so pleasant, especially if you’ll be outside quite a bit.

Really amazing vlog.

WOW!! What an incredible place to visit! Your photos capture the beauty so nicely. Thank you for sharing your trip with us.

Another hidden gem, it sounds like! I know about the popular destinations in India like many people do, but I have never heard of Fort Kochi.

It looks like such a lovely place. I’m a big fan of going anywhere by the water, so this looks so perfect to me!

This is a really amazing place with all the colours and right next to the water! Looks like a perfect getaway place to escape the city life.

This is why I love reading travel blogs. I have never heard of Kochi, but now I want to go there. Looks like such a beautiful place!

Hhhhmmmm…Kochi is so worth the visit and stay, I have to say! Just look at Fort Kochi, for example, huh?!

Beautiful sunsets and historic churches! Kochi has earned its place on my travel bucket list. Hope to be able to visit soon!

stunning captures and such a detailed informative post for planning a trip to Kochi. Kerala is on our list of must-visit states and hopefully soon

What a beautiful place! I would love to see a glorious sunset at Fort Kochi Beach.

What an interesting place to visit. That is neat that they still use the old style of fishing nets. These places are fascinating and have a lot of interesting history. I would love to see them in person.

This is interesting, I like the idea to check out the cultural part of this place. Also, the food looks nice as well.

Happy here to visit your blog. I love the amazing photos of places, foods, and culture you shared here.

I went there 2021, Kerala is beautiful, you can also visit: Backwater

I really loved the place Will plan soon to visit Kerala. Thanks for sharing and exploring Kochi. will love to spend a few days there

Your best travel blogger I have found in India. I followed a few other bloggers before but never delivered what they promised. You provide the best travel tips for us I am a frequent traveller but don’t know which places are the best food and best-staying facility and what are the places to visit around that place. I got all that information after looking through your blog. That is fantastic I have seen

Great article, thank you very much for sharing this awesome post with us.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

More Stories

10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT LADAKH IN WINTERS

A photo essay on why you should visit Ladakh in Winters The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having…

Privacy Overview

• The Best Things To See...

The Best Things to See and Do in Kochi, Kerala's Colourful City

Famously known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Kochi is a quaint port city on the south-west coast of India, standing at the crossroads between old-world and cosmopolitanism. Testament to the inherent charm of Kochi is its perennial significance in India’s history, luring the Portuguese to colonize it as early as 1503. Subsequently, Kochi enjoyed prominence during Dutch and British colonialism, the remnants of which, remain to this day. That said, the tourism industry boasts a bunch of exciting things to see and do in the colorful city of Kerala, rest assured to make your day.

1. willingdon island.

Apart from being the largest artificial island in India, Willingdon Island is an aesthetic setting in itself. The island harbors a host of administrative buildings, some of them tracing back to British colonialism in India. Not to mention, the construction of the island is attributed to one Lord Willingdon, erstwhile Governor of Madras Presidency. Kochi’s hospitality industry has set up some fine hotels on Willingdon Island, luring hordes of tourists all year round.

Willingdon Island, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala, India

Establishments on Willingdon Island

2. Kerala Kathakali Centre

3. St. Francis Church

4. Mattancherry Palace

Chinese Fishing Net

The primary attraction of Kochi is the extensive use of Chinese fishing nets by the local fishermen, which are otherwise indigenous to China. Legend has it that these fishing nets were a gift from a Chinese emperor to the then ruler of Kochi, but caught on with the fishermen through centuries. Fishing nets lined up beside the seaside promenades are a sight which is appealing and distinctive to Kochi.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

5. Paradesi Synagogue

6. indo-portuguese museum.

Sunset Cruise

Marine Drive is a idyllic stretch overlooking the backwaters that beautifully encompass the city of Kochi. To top it all, sunset cruise rides are on offer. When the sun begins to descend, you can go on a cruise ride on the scintillating waters that beautifully reflect its golden hues. As the twilight draws to a close, cruise back to the bank having experienced the best Kochi had to offer.

Kerala has an array of admirable features, but it stands out in the field of Ayurveda — an ancient medical science indigenous to India. Even Kochi, for instance, features a good few Ayurvedic spa and healing centers to get acquainted with the world of alternate medicine. Ayurveda is garnering widespread notice on a global level and Kerala is undisputedly at the forefront of the burgeoning industry.

7. The Malabar Cuisine

The eccentric cuisine of Kerala is dominated by the seafood for obvious reasons. Additionally, savories such as appam and thoran too are liked by tourists and locals alike. A Malabar restaurant, Paragon, in LuLu Mall of Kochi comes recommended by many epicureans. Also, Kochi doesn’t disappoint when it comes down to continental restaurants, catering to the diverse preferences of the tourists.

Paragon, Lulu Mall, Edappally, Kochi, India , +91 0484 401 1000

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Kochi's Best Contemporary Art Galleries and Museums

See & Do

The best things to do and see in kochi, india, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1478745
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

8 Most Famous Beaches in Kochi You Must Visit

The city of Kochi is one of the highlights of a trip to Kerala , often known as “God’s Own Country”. The city, also known as Cochin , can be found southwest of the Indian peninsula, close to the Lakshadweep Sea . When thinking about Kerala’s major cities, Kochi immediately comes to mind as a commercial, industrial, and financial hub. Kochi is a wonderful mix of ancient and contemporary, guaranteeing its visitors a varied and exciting vacation. It’s the best spot in Kerala to soak in the state’s natural splendor.

The beaches of Cochin are a must-see for every tourist in the city. Some of the country’s most beautiful beaches are located in this city. These beaches in Kochi are popular places to go for swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of exciting water sports. We’ve compiled a list of the best beaches in Kochi so that you can plan your next vacation there.

Table of Contents

Listed below are some of the most beautiful beaches in Kochi, Kerala:

1. kuzhupilly beach.

Kuzhuppilly Beach is a tranquil, little-known treasure close to the city. One of the greatest beaches in Kochi to spend your vacation at due to its golden and silver sand, clear blue seas, and breathtaking scenery. Kuzhuppilly Beach is distinguished by the kilometers of paddy fields surrounding it, while the rocky shoreline provides visual drama. It is a far-flung destination where you may come to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life since it is situated in the most beautiful, peaceful environment of nature.

Kuzhuppilly is a little village close to Kochi, and its weird beach makes it a great place to spend a night or two relaxing with your loved ones. The nicest beach in Ernakulam is close to some of the greatest resorts in the area.

How to Get There: From the high court intersection, go over the Goshree bridge to Vypeen, and then follow the Cherai-Munambam road to Kuzhupilly. From Ernakulam, a trip to the shore takes around 40 minutes.

2. Fort Kochi Beach

Fort Kochi, the city’s most well-known beach, is a picturesque stretch of sand along the Arabian Sea. Tourists are drawn to the area because of the colonial-style bungalows that line the coast, the ruins of Fort Emmanuel, the rows of Chinese fishing nets, and Vasco da Gama Square. A wide variety of water activities are available, from relaxing strolls to fishing, seeing dolphins, and touring the waterways on a boat.

Kochi Carnival, which began on the Fort Kochi beach during colonial times, is also well-liked by locals and tourists alike. The Dutch Palace – Mattancherry, the Francis Church, the Jewish Synagogue – Mattancherry, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, the Indo-Portuguese and the Maritime Navy Museums, and many Handicrafts Shops are all within a short distance of each other.

How to Get There:  You may get here by road or by boat. For the Fort Kochi Jetty, board a boat from Ernakulam Boat Jetty; the trip takes around 15 minutes. It would take around 30 minutes to drive to Fort Kochi from Ernakulam South Railway Station.

3. Cherai Beach

Among Kochi’s many beautiful beaches, Cherai Beach ranks high. If you’re in Kochi, you must check out the beautiful beach. You may see dolphins almost every day from this beach, and it’s not far from Kochi, the city center.

Tides here are typically mild, providing pleasant beach-going and swimming conditions. A stunning sunset may be witnessed from the Cherai beach, as it can from any other beach in the area. It’s also a great place to catch up with friends and loved ones.

How to Get There: After turning off the high court intersection and crossing the Goshree bridge, you’ll find yourself at Vypeen; from there, it’s only a 50-minute journey to Cherai via the Cherai-Munambam road.

• 9 Nights 10 Days Kerala Trip
• Kerala Package 8 Days
• 6 Days Kerala Trip Itinerary
• 11 Days Goa Kerala Package
• 4 Dyas Munnar Alleppey Tour
• Kerala Tour for 7 Days
• Check More Itineraries for Kerala

4. Marari Beach

Marari Beach in Kochi, located in the Alappuzha district, is often considered the cleanest beach. Relax from city life in this beautiful and serene setting. The beach takes its name from the nearby fishing village of Mararikulam on the coast of the Arabian Sea. Marari Beach, one of Koch’s top attractions , is well-known for its casual atmosphere.

The beautiful golden sand and the towering coconut palm palms heighten the beach’s picturesque quality. Since there are seldom any people on the beach, the sound of the water lapping against the sand is amplified. Parasailing, sea surfing, and water skiing are just a few exciting watersports you may partake in at this beautiful Kochi beach.

How to Get There: To get to Marari Beach from Alleppey or Cochin by car, get on National Highway 47. From either city, tourists may take one of the many available local auto rickshaws to get to their desired beach in Kerala. The closest train station to Marari Beach is Alleppey , often known as Alappuzha.

5. Puthuvype Beach

Puthuvype Beach is one of the less-visited beaches in the Kochi region, known only to locals and adventure-seeking visitors. Puthuvype Beach, next to Kochi’s lighthouse, is stunning because of its golden sand, blue ocean, and historic lighthouse.

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, go no further than this tranquil beach in Kochi. To get the best view of the area, climb to the top of the lighthouse and rest on the coast. Most visitors arrive between 3:00 and 5:00 PM when the highest lighthouse is accessible.

How to Get There: Its defining geographical features are Vembanad Lake to the east, the Arabian Sea to the west and south, and Njarakkal to the north. Vypin Island, barely four kilometers from Fort Kochi, is home to a priceless gem. An affordable taxi service is available.

6. Alappuzha Beach

Alappuzha, sometimes known as the Venice of the East, is 53 kilometers from Kochi. Those traveling between the rivers that feed into the Arabian Sea and the sea itself will recognize this spot as a significant marker. This stunning beach in Cochin is well-known for its historic pier that juts into the water. Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey Beach , is ideal for short trips and extended holidays with your loved ones.

Several lakes, rivers, and lagoons wind their way through the beachfront area. Most visitors want to unwind in an environment reminiscent of a scene from a nature documentary. The beach is great for boating, cycling, and other water-related activities. The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held on Alappuzha Beach in August, is another major attraction in the area.

How to Get There: Kochi International Airport is the closest major airport (Kochi International Airport). Hiring a vehicle or a cab to take you 90 kilometers from the airport to Alappuzha is a viable option.

7. Andhakaranazhi Beach

Kochi is the ideal place in India to visit because of its beautiful beaches and other coastal towns. Andhakaranazhi is one of the top Kochi Beaches to add to your schedule if you’re seeking a private and tranquil retreat in this city in Kerala.

Andhakaranazhi beach is a popular destination for both city residents and visitors. The surrounding paddy fields, cute eateries, and peaceful atmosphere enhanced the beach’s already stunning appearance. The beach is less marketed than some other attractions, but its stunning natural beauty makes it seem like heaven. Andhakaranazhi is well worth visiting because of its pristine seas, fishing settlements, cultural atmosphere, and recreational opportunities.

How to Get There: Located 30 kilometers outside Kochi, Andhakaranazhi Beach is an extension of the nearby hamlet of the same name. To get here, you’ll need to rent a vehicle.

8. Drive Marine

Marine Drive is Kochi’s most famous beach because its gorgeous promenade looks out over the city’s backwaters. The locals frequent there, so you know you’ll feel at home there. The Jankar Jetty is in the north, while the Ernakulam Boat Jetty is in the south, separated by the 140-meter-long Marine Drive.

Popular activities include taking one of the famed boat cruises to nearby attractions like the Mattancherry Jewish Synagogue. The sidewalk is lined with several restaurants and commercial centers. Famous bridges along Marine Drive include the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge, the Houseboat Bridge, and the Rainbow Bridge (near the GCDA retail complex).

You should also check out the beaches at Muziris Beach (also known as Munambam Beach), Mahatma Gandhi Beach, Willingdon Island, and Puthenthode Beach while in the Kochi area. Recharging your batteries on a beach trip is like nothing else. If you want a memorable holiday, however, you must make sure you choose the ideal tour package for Kochi.

Find out more about Kerala:

• Kerala 5 Famous Backwater Destinations
• Top 8 Destinations to See in Kozhikode
• Luxury Resorts Near Periyar National Park
• A guide on Kerala tour planning
• Top 10 Places to See in Kannur
• Nelliyampathy Top Rated Tourist Attractions
• North India vs South India: Which to Explore?
• Best Places to Visit Ponmudi Hill Kerala
• What Is The Difference Between Houseboats In Kashmir And Kerala?
• Best Time to Visit Munnar: Summer, Winter, or Monsoon?
• 7 Most Famous Boat Races in Kerala

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

Related posts.

Top Amazing Reasons to Visit Alleppey Kerala

Historical Places In Kerala: Amazing Stories of Historic Significance

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 10 Marvellous Beaches In Kochi For A Fun-Filled Vacation In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea was a major port town of the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period. It became the first Portuguese Colony of India after it was invaded. Even today it is one of the major cities in India and is also the financial, commercial and industrial capital of the state of Kerala. Today, beaches in Kochi are a major tourist attraction which attracts people from all around the globe. Another attraction of this town is Fort Kochi which is a historic settlement of medieval times, consisting of old styled bungalows along with many stalls.

10 Best Beaches In Kochi

The beaches in Kochi India unlike all others beaches, are an escape from this stressful and hectic life of today. The beaches give such a relaxed feeling that we can sit on a beach for hours just looking at the waves touching our feet and enjoy the cool breeze. Beaches in Kochi give a warm pleasant feeling and so do the people of Kochi who warmly welcome tourists from all around the world. Check out the top 11 beaches you have to visit on your next trip to Kochi!

Quick Links For A Glimpse

• Cherai Beach In Kochi
• Puthuvype Beach In Kochi
• Kuzhupilly Beach In Kochi
• Fort Kochi Beach In Kochi
• Njarackal Arattuvazhi Beach In Kochi
• Munambam Beach In Kochi
• Mahatma Gandhi Beach In Kochi
• Puthenthode Beach In Kochi
• Veeranpuzha Beach In Kochi
• Andhakaranazhi Beach In Kochi

1. Cherai Beach

Image Source One of the best beaches in Kochi India , if you visit Kochi but not this beach the trip is not worth it. This beach is in close vicinity to the main town of Kochi and is popular because of frequent dolphin sightings. The tides here are calm and cool to make swimming and relaxing on the beachside easy. Like all other beaches, the Cherai beach also displays a beautiful sunset which can be witnessed. It also forms an ideal location to have some quality time with your loved ones. This place is also surrounded by some of the best hill-stations in Kochi .

Location: Vypin, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Dolphin sightings Things To Do:  Swimming, sightseeing, walks along the shore, sea-food tasting from the shacks

Must Read: Monsoon In Kochi: A Handy Guide For The Travelers To Enjoy The First Spills Of Rain!

2. Puthuvype Beach

Image Source One of the least crowded beaches in Kochi, even after being in close vicinity to the town of Kochi. It is perfect to witness a sunset here which would make your evenings beautiful. The government of Kochi is promoting Puthuvype beach as an alternative to the Cherai beach. This beach also has one of India’s tallest lighthouses which acts as an attraction for many people. This place is now also emerging as a major industrial hub of Kerala. A Mega Oceanarium is being planned in Puthuvype which will be the 1st in India and the largest Oceanarium in Asia. 

Location: Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  A walk to the lighthouse Things To Do:  Sightseeing

Suggested Read: UAE Tourism Holds An Exclusive Abu Dhabi Week In Kochi And Kolkata For Indian Travelers!

3. Kuzhupilly Beach

Image Source This beach is famous for holding the kite festival in Kerala. It has huge coconut and mangrove trees alongside the way which helps in keeping pleasant weather. The trees and the soft sand make an ideal location for anyone to relax. The water here is calm which does not obstruct swimmers from diving in. Backwaters are located near the beach which adds to the charm of this place. It is definitely one of the best beaches in Kochi . 

Location: Beach Road, Cherai, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Kite festival Things To Do:  Sightseeing

Suggested Read: Shopping In Kochi: 10 Best Places To Shop In Kochi

4. Fort Kochi Beach

Image Source Fort Kochi Beach is one of the best beaches in Kochi and attracts a lot of tourists because of its history. Situated along the medieval port town of Fort Kochi this beach not only helps to relax and ease our mind but also has other attractions like the Chinese fishing nets and the colonial-style houses in the town of Fort Kochi, Vasco da Gama square, the remains of the fort Emmanuel and a lot of small stalls that prepare a variety of dishes with freshly caught fish . However, a section of the beach is not accessible to the people since it is under the Indian Navy. Fort Kochi beach timings are during the daytime.

Location: Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Historic forts Things To Do:  Historic tour, Sightseeing

Suggested Read: 7 Magical Temples In Kochi That Are All About Peace, And Positive Vibes!

5. Njarackal Arattuvazhi Beach

Image Source Another famous beach of the interesting town of Kochi, Njarackal Arattuvazhi beach is also called the Silent beach. The beach is given such a name because it is less crowded as compared to other beaches in Kochi. Many people who visit this beach have also sighted dolphins which acts as an attraction to this beach. It is an ideal beach to witness a sunset. The warm air here gives a completely different experience of the place. Since it is less crowded, it forms an ideal beach to spend some good quality time with yourself and your loved ones.

Location: Njarackal Arattuvazhi Beach Road, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Dolphin spotting Things To Do:  Sightseeing, Street-food tasting

Suggested Read: 32 Things To Do In Kochi On A Holiday In This Kerala Port City

6. Munambam Beach

Image Source Yet another best beach in Kochi, Kerala, this beach is famous for its active and huge fishing harbor. It forms one of the major fishing networks of the country with almost all the residents living here indulging in fishing activity or other sea-related activities It is also the mouth of the famous river Periyar. One of the major attractions of this beach is the mouth of the river Periyar. This place is crowded with fishermen from not only the district but also other people who catch a small amount of fish and sell them for daily living. There are several beaches near Kochi but the cultural vibe of Munambam surely is a true gem. 

Location: Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Kite flying Things To Do:  Sightseeing

Suggested Read: Top 12 Restaurants In Kochi To Delight The Foodie

7. Mahatma Gandhi Beach

Image Source Named after the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, it is one of the best beaches in Kochi . This beach does not have a long stretched coastline. It is not advised to swim in this beach as the water is deep and is apparent for big vessels and cruise ships. The coast is lined with many food shacks that are filled with freshly caught fish and other sea animals that are eaten in the district. This beach is also surrounded by some of the best restaurants in Kochi . 

Location: Kollam, Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Sunset aesthetics of the Arabian Sea Things To Do:  Coastline walks, Tour of the playground, and Sea-food tasting

Suggested Read: 45 Fascinating Tourist Places To Visit In Cochin For A Fun-Filled Vacay

8. Puthenthode Beach

Image Source This is one of the famous beaches near Kochi, Kerala popular for its cleanliness and calmness. Being small in size and newly introduced, it is a secluded place. So, if you are looking for peace, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, then this is the place. For reaching this beach, you can get down at the Puthenthode bus stop. 

Location: Puthenthode Government School Rd, Kannamaly, Kochi, Kerala 682008 Famous For:  Offbeat walking routes Things To Do:  Sightseeing

Suggested Read: 7 Exotic Villas In Kochi That Are What Dream Stays

9. Veeranpuzha Beach

Image Source This is one of the best beaches in Kochi, Kerala. The beach has golden sandy shores covered by lush greenery that will leave you awestruck and make it a unique place to visit. You can soak in the beauty, jaw-dropping sunset and the rural side of the city. Since Veeranpuzha Beach is located close to the fishing villages, you can watch the fishermen working here all day long. 

Location: Kochi, Kerala 682027 Famous For: Observing the traditional fishing methods Things To Do:  Swimming, Boating, Sightseeing

Suggested Read: 10 Ideal Road Trips From Kochi To Drive Through Amazing Landscapes Of Nature!

10. Andhakaranazhi Beach

Image Source One of the best beaches in Kochi, India the Andhakaranazhi Beach offers the perfect backdrop for your pictures. With a very chilled out and relaxed vibe and plenty of eateries around the place you will absolutely fall in love and would never want to come back. You can also take a stroll or beach walk or maybe indulge in some volleyball and have the most amazing time here with your close ones. 

Location: Kochi, Kerala Famous For:  Being a non-commercialized virgin beach  Things To Do: Sightseeing, Boating, Cultural food tour

Further Read: 12 Romantic Places In Kochi Perfect For Date Evenings And Staycations

Kochi is not just any port city of India but it has a long and deep history. Starting from the medieval times when the city was a major hub of exchange of spices between India and Arabia to its occupation by the Portuguese and making this place the first Portuguese colony of the Indian subcontinent. Today this city acts as a major tourist attraction of the state of Kerala. Beaches in Kochi are forming the major hotspots of tourists along with its historic town of Fort Kochi which still consists of the old Portuguese bungalows along with the freshly prepared seafood by the locals.Plan an amazing trip to Kerala to escape from all your tensions in the beautiful beaches.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions For Beaches In Kochi

Is it safe to visit these beaches amidst the ongoing pandemic.

Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit these places as the place has a relatively low number of cases. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment.

How far is backwaters from Cochin?

Backwaters are 25 km away from Cochin and it takes 30 minutes to reach. You can either choose to plan a trip to the destination by yourself or take assistance from a tour group to assist you with the same.

How do I get to Alleppey from backwaters?

You can reach it by air and by road. The nearest airport is Cochin international airport. If you want to go by road, you can take a bus, Allepey is connected to all the major cities in Kerala.

What time of the year is best to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March when the weather conditions are pleasant and the beaches in Kerala are at their best.

How many airports are there in Kerala?

There are four airports in Kerala. The three international airports in Kerala are located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode.

People Also Read

Best Beaches In Pondicherry Best Beaches In Goa Best Beaches In Mangalore

Recent Posts

Things To Do In Gaziantep To Have A Memorable Experience

Recreational Activities That You Can Try At Taprobane Island

Top 7 Things To Do At Sao Beach For An Exhilarating Experience

Experience The City Landscapes Through Zipline In Bangkok Like Never Before

Spend Your Day Leisurely At Independence Square Sri Lanka

Subhash Bose Park A Spectacular Tourist Spot In Kochi

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Kerala » Kochi »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

THE 5 BEST Kochi (Cochin) Beaches

Beaches in kochi (cochin).

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Cherai Beach

2. Puthuvype Beach

3. Fort Kochi Beach

4. Kuzhupilly Beach

5. Njarackal Arattuvazhi Beach

6. Munambam Beach

7. Puthenthodu Beach

8. Mahatma Gandhi Beach

What travellers are saying

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Get a FREE Customised Holiday Plan for Kerala 😊

Additional menu

Iris holidays

Kerala Tourism Blog

Top 10 One Day Trips From Kochi

There are several amazing one day trips from Kochi that you can take to immerse in Kerala’s culture, history, nature’s bounty, and endless adventures! Nearby cities like Alleppey, Vagamon, Athirapally, and Thrissur, as well as the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, make for some super exciting getaways from Kochi that are a short distance away from this coastal metropolitan and can be covered in a day!

Often called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is popular for its rich history, amazing food, grand architecture, and beautiful coastline dotted with picturesque Chinese fishing nets tossed into the sea! Although the town itself is abuzz with tourist activities, there are many popular scenic spots on the outskirts of Kochi isolated from the hustle and bustle of city life that make great destinations for a day trip from Kochi.

Crafted by the hands of the Gods, Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Browse through these fun-packed one day trip places in Kerala and around for a smashing one day trip filled with beauty and bliss.

10 Best 10 One Day Trips From Kochi

Kerala is a popular stop-over destination for leisure and business travelers. Here is a list of popular Cochin sightseeing locations for a Cochin day tour that can be reached in an hour or two by car or by using the well-connected public transport here.

ALSO SEE – Top 12 Places to Visit in Kerala (Updated with Latest Photos)

1. Fort Kochi

Distance from Kochi: 6 km Travel time: 18 mins

Fort Kochi, which is near the cruise harbor of Ernakulam Wharf or Mattancherry Wharf, is at the end of Kochi and has a unique amalgamation of British, Dutch, Arab, and Chinese cultures. A day in Kochi is never complete without a trip to Fort Kochi. The most popular tourist symbol of Kerala and Kochi, several Chinese fishing nets being tossed into the sea can also be seen around Fort Kochi.

The Chinese fishing nets are the most famous sight here and the reason why travelers consider Fort Kochi as one of the best places for one day trips from Kochi . This should be on top of your list of things to do in Kochi and around it.

Must-visit places in Fort Kochi include Princess Street, Dutch Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St Francis Church, and multiple shops selling tourist curios and best souvenirs from Kerala that you can carry back to your hometown.

Enjoy a surreal sunset on your one day trip to Kerala at the historic Fort Kochi.

ALSO SEE – Shades of Kochi: Cultural & Heritage Day Tour

2. Alleppey

Distance from Kochi: 54.5 km Travel time: 1 hour 28 mins

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is a paradise for water lovers and is famous for houseboat cruises. It is the most popular destination for Kochi one day tour. Alleppey is known as the Venice of the East, and the Kochi to Alleppey distance is just 54.5 km.

A day tour or houseboat cruise in Alleppey lets one experience its tranquil palm-fringed canals and lagoons. The town is famous for boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products, seafood, and the coir industry. Kettuvallam, or houseboat tourism, is the most popular tourist activity here.

There are several well-maintained beaches in Alappuzha safe for swimming and unwinding.

Take a houseboat to explore this beautiful paradise on your one day trip to Kerala.

ALSO SEE – Day Cruise in Kerala Backwaters (with Kochi pickup & drop)

3. Athirapally

Distance from Kochi: 66 km Travel time: 2 hours

Athirapally, which is 66 km from Kochi, is a land of rivers, forests, and cascading waterfalls. It is a great place to spend the day drenched in water or to go for a trek into the forest. Explore the Athirapally Waterfall which is the Niagara of India and popular as one of the best one day trips from Kochi.

The waterfalls that are a part of the Chalakudy River are 80 feet high and located in the center of the forest. It’s also the largest waterfall in Kerala.

A great picnic spot, it is also a favorite among moviemakers. Only 5 km away from this waterfall is the Vazhachal Waterfalls, which is also a bewitching sight.

Swimming is permitted in the region, though with precautions in place. Police lifeguards from the local tribal community take care of the security here.

Enjoy a complete bundle of bewitching sights popular for forest trekking on your one day trip from Kerala. Jungle safari is organized daily through the forests of the Sholayar ranges offering tourists a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of the Athirapally-Vazhachal ecosystem. Several endangered species reside in these forests.

The safari moves across the rainforests in the region and passes through the Thumboormuzhy Dam and Butterfly Garden. The Butterfly Garden is the natural habitat of various species of butterflies and is a great location to observe the colorful winged creatures right from their pupa stage.

ALSO SEE – Cinemascape Kerala – Movie Locations Tour Package

Distance from Kochi: 102.7 km Travel time: 3 hours

A sleepy hill station untouched by civilization, Vagamon is filled with meadows, idyllic villages, clear streams, tea plantations, and thick pine forests. Enjoy a bunch of tourist places in Vagamon which is considered as one of the most exceptional places for a one day trip from Kochi. Around 103 km from Kochi, Vagamon is also a hub of adventure sports with arrangements for trekking, paragliding, mountaineering, and rock climbing.

The ride up the hills through curling hairpin bends offers an awesome view of the picturesque green hills and deep valleys. Adding to this charm, the roads to Vagamon are lined with pine trees. Vagamon has made it to National Geographic Traveler’s 50 Most Attractive Places To Visit In India and is a great summer retreat.

From forests to sacred places, there is a lot to explore in Vagamon which tops every list of the most fabulous one day trips from Kochi. Flora lovers will find much joy in the variety of orchids that grow in the wild here. Apart from being an enchanting hill station with plantations, the region is an abode of calm and spiritual delight.

Christian devotees can be seen trekking up the Kurushumala, some with heavy crosses propped on their shoulders. A huge dairy farm is run by the monks here.

An annual international paragliding festival is organized here, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

ALSO SEE – Vagamon Tourism Destinations

5. Ezhattumugham Nature Village

Distance from Kochi: 58 km Travel time: 2 hours

If you want to enjoy gurgling waterfalls, chirping birds, and fluttering butterflies amidst lush greenery, then Ezhattumugham is the place to be! It’s a great destination for a one day trip in Kerala! Ezhattumugham is a pristine nature village on the outskirts of Kochi, with the glistering Chalakudy River flowing through it. The village is in the midst of thick forests and tall trees swaying in Kerala’s gentle tropical breeze.

Ezhattumugham translates to ‘seven faces of a river’ and is called so because the river here splits into seven streams. There are big boulders in the river here and many tourists choose to lazily relax on them. They dip their feet in the cold, flowing river in the backdrop of resplendent landscapes and chattering parrots bouncing around the huge trees.

Ezhattumugham Nature Village, or Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam, can be clubbed with a trip to Athirapally.

The nature village, though lacking in the glamor against the Athirapally Waterfalls, is much less crowded and kept in its original form.

6. Kumarakom

Distance from Kochi: 48 km Travel time: 1 hour 27 mins

Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most enchanting backwater destination and also one of the best places for one day trips from Kochi. Kumarakom is essentially a village that is formed out of a cluster of islands on Vembanad Lake.

A hotspot for houseboat tourism, the highlight of Kumarakom is the bird sanctuary here which is spread across 14 acres. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary plays host to many migratory birds from the Himalayas and even from as far as Siberia. It’s the perfect place to watch avian life. Birds such as Siberian storks, egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cormorants, and the Brahminy kites can be spotted here.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is 55 km from Kochi an hour and a half travel by road), stays open from 6 AM to 6 PM. The crystal backwaters of Kumarakom offer an array of leisure water activities such as boating, canoeing, bamboo rafting, and fishing.

Kumarakom is the best spot to capture stunning photographs of Kerala’s famed backwaters and traditional village life.

ALSO SEE – Alleppey or Kumarakom – Which Is The Best Option For A Kerala Houseboat

7. Thommankuthu

Distance from Kochi: 71 km Travel time: 2 hours 15 mins

The perfect spot for tree huggers, Thommankuthu is famous for its seven-step waterfall descending from a massive height. Hidden in Idduki’s lush forest, Thommankuthu waterfalls consist of a series of 12 cascading falls making it the best destination for one day trips from Kerala for all those who have an unconditional love for nature, peace, and tranquility. Thommankuthu is a popular picnic spot that attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The destination has several caves and is apt for trekking and mountaineering activities. To get around the entire forest area, you will have to trek around 12 km in the woods, which is as close to nature as one can get.

A 2-hour drive from Kochi, Thommankuthu is nature’s treasure trove that will make you will feel like you are in heaven!

8. Kumbalangi

Distance from Kochi: 7 km Travel time: 17 mins

Kumbalangi model tourism village, which is India’s first designated ecotourism village, is on the outskirts of Kochi. Ever since the Government of India declared this as a model fishing village, Kumbalangi topped the chart of one day trip places in Kerala.

Although this fishing hamlet is just 15 km from the city, it is tucked away from the maddening crowd of tourists and the noise of city life. Around 100 Chinese fishing nets dot the backwaters here and dense mangroves separate the land from the water providing a breeding ground for prawns, crabs, oysters, and several other fish.

Bait fishing and boating are popular activities among tourists here.

ALSO SEE – 11 Tourist Places to visit in Kochi

9. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary & Bhoothathankettu Dam

Distance from Kochi: 64 km Travel time: 2 hours

Thattekad Sanctuary, also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is located 64 km from Kochi. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is a much-acclaimed bird sanctuary that tops the list of incomparable one day trips in Kerala. A regular haunt of Ornithologists, 500 bird species including many forest and water birds thrive here. Tourists can go bamboo rafting on the lake and explore the surrounding areas.

Around 10 km from this sanctuary is the Bhoothathankettu Dam amid virgin forests. Bhoothathankettu, in Malayalam, means ‘ghost’ fort’, and the myth is that the dam was built by Bhoothams (spirits/ghosts) overnight by using rocks. Trekking through the forest to get to the dam is not only exciting because of the forest’s resplendent greenery and pristine form but also because of its mysterious, spooky factor!

Apart from its scenic beauty, you can explore the many ancient temples and churches located in this area.

ALSO SEE – 10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

10. Thrissur

Distance from Kochi: 84 km Travel time: 2 hours 15 mins

Although neither a picnic spot nor a nature paradise, Thrissur is a great place to treat yourself to the rich culture and heritage of Kerala. Thrissur is known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala and is popular the world over for the lively Thrissur Pooram festival. Thrissur Pooram is the most colorful and spectacular festival among all the festivals in Kerala .

Thrissur has several world-famous temples and churches worth visiting. Thrissur Zoo is home to many exotic animals and birds. If you want to indulge in history, you can visit the many museums here as well as the Kodungallur Kovilakam, a palace that belonged to the royal family of the medieval ages.

Thrissur Pooram is a vivid cultural and religious festival celebrated with a grand display of caparisoned elephants, sparkling parasols, and traditional percussion music

ALSO SEE – Thrissur Pooram festival – Best temple, history & timings

ALSO SEE – GET A FREE ONE DAY TRIP PLAN IN KERALA

We have not included popular tourist destinations like Munnar, Thekkady, and Marari Beach, in this list of top 10 one day trips around Kochi as it will require considerable time and effort to visit these places and experience their uniqueness.

We have shortlisted only those one day trip places near Kochi where you can easily reach from Kochi in the day and then return to the city by the evening for your stay. Do note that for some of these places, you may have to start early in the morning from Kochi.

Traveling to Kochi is going to be all the more exciting now that you are aware of these thrilling one day trips from Kochi. They’re perfect for people who have a short stay in Kochi but wish to make the most of it! If you are looking to book any of them, all you need to do is get in touch with our team to craft a comfortable trip plan tailored to suit your needs.

About George Joseph

Hello, I'm George Joseph and a travel advisor at Iris Holidays. I'm here to help you travel in Kerala through useful tips and helpful articles. Don't forget to get a FREE Customised Holiday Itinerary from me if you are planning to visit Kerala.

In case you have any questions, you can ask it in our Ask a Question and I would be happy to help you.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 26 best beaches in and around Kochi (Cochin)

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

1 Cherai Beach

2 Fort Kochi Beach

3 Munambam Beach

4 kuzhuppilly beach, 5 veeranpuzha, 6 puthuvype beach, 7 njarackal arattuvazhi beach, 8 andhakaranazhi beach, 9 puthenthodu beach, 10 mattancherry palace, 11 santa cruz cathedral basilica, 12 willingdon island, 13 mangalavanam bird sanctuary, 14 marine drive kochi, 15 beach road beach, 16 chinese fishing nets, 17 vypīn island, 18 puthuvype beach, 19 mahatma gandhi beach, 20 vypin beach, 21 puthenthode beach, 22 kuzhupilly beach house, 23 kuzhupilly beach, 24 best bakery & sweets., 25 fort kochi, 26 kuzhuppilly beach, popular road trips from kochi (cochin), what's the weather like in kochi (cochin).

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Kochi (Cochin) for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in January
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in February
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in March
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in April
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in May
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in June
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in July
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in August
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in September
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in October
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in November
• Weather in Kochi (Cochin) in December

All road trips from Kochi (Cochin)

• Kochi (Cochin) to Munnar drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Bengaluru drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Mumbai drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to New Delhi drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Thekkady drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kodaikanal drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Hyderabad drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Jaipur drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kalpetta drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Coimbatore drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Madurai drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kanyakumari drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Pondicherry drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Agra drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Pune drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Madikeri drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Udaipur drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Rameswaram drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Panjim drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kathmandu drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Mahabalipuram drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Kozhikode drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Hampi drive
• Kochi (Cochin) to Mangalore drive

Explore nearby places

• Kochi (Cochin)
• Tripunithura
• Andhakaranazhy
• North Paravur
• Cherai Beach
• Chendamangalam
• Kodungallur
• Kuruppampady
• Muvattupuzha
• Mararikulam
• Malayattoor
• Kuravilangad
• Kothamangalam
• Athirappilly

All related maps of Kochi (Cochin)

• Map of Kochi (Cochin)
• Map of Maradu
• Map of Tripunithura
• Map of Andhakaranazhy
• Map of Aluva
• Map of Arayankavu
• Map of North Paravur
• Map of Cherai Beach
• Map of Chendamangalam
• Map of Athani
• Map of Vaikom
• Map of Cherthala
• Map of Kottapuram
• Map of Azhikode
• Map of Piramadam
• Map of Kodungallur
• Map of Kalady
• Map of Angamaly
• Map of Kuruppampady
• Map of Muvattupuzha
• Map of Mararikulam
• Map of Malayattoor
• Map of Kuravilangad
• Map of Kodanad
• Map of Chalakudy
• Map of Kattoor
• Map of Kumarakom
• Map of Kothamangalam
• Map of Athirappilly
• Map of Kottayam
• Map of Kainakary

Kochi (Cochin) throughout the year

• Kochi (Cochin) in January
• Kochi (Cochin) in February
• Kochi (Cochin) in March
• Kochi (Cochin) in April
• Kochi (Cochin) in May
• Kochi (Cochin) in June
• Kochi (Cochin) in July
• Kochi (Cochin) in August
• Kochi (Cochin) in September
• Kochi (Cochin) in October
• Kochi (Cochin) in November
• Kochi (Cochin) in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Kochi (Cochin)?

Get inspired for your trip to Kochi (Cochin) with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Kochi (Cochin) Itinerary
• 2-Day Kochi (Cochin) Itinerary
• 3-Day Kochi (Cochin) Itinerary
• 4-Day Kochi (Cochin) Itinerary
• 5-Day Kochi (Cochin) Itinerary

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Kottayam
• Top things to do and attractions in Kumarakom

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Kumarakom

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

THE 10 BEST Kochi (Cochin) Oceanfront Hotels

Kochi (Cochin) Beach Resorts

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Sea Lagoon Health Resort

2. Cherai Beach Resorts

3. 36 Palms Boutique Retreat

4. Amritara The Poovath Beachfront Heritage, Fort Kochi

5. Mare Blu Resort

6. Sealine Beach Resort

7. 36 Palms

8. Cherai Onetree Retreat

9. Cherai Beach Palace

10. Sea Star Beach Homes

11. kadaloram beach resort, 12. kadalkkara lake resort, veena by the beach, marari beach - cgh earth, xandari pearl beach resort, abad turtle beach, seclude marari sands, kerala, el oceano beach villas, palm beach villa, baywatch beach resort, lemon dew beach house, alleppey beach resorts, alleppey beach bay resort, blue waters cherai, marari fishermen village beach resort, cherai beach residency, maliekal heritance cherai beach cochin, beach paradise ayurveda beach resort, kadappuram beach resort, panioty's villa, beach resorts information.

🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to February

⏰ Open Hours: 24 hours

🎒 Things To Do: Visit St. Francis Church, Explore Chinese Fishing Nets, Visit Kochi Beach, Explore the Kochi Fort

💰 Budget: No entry fees, budget depends on personal expenses

👥 Traveller Types: Families, Solo Travelers, History Buffs, Photo Fanatics

📍 Known For: Historical landmarks, Colonial Architecture, Beautiful Beaches, Unique Chinese fishing nets

🚅 Distances: 13 km from Ernakulam Junction Railway Station, 44 km from Cochin International Airport, 20 km from Cochin City Centre

🍽️ Local Cuisine: Try local delicacies like Appam, Kerala Sadya, Seafood

🏛️ Historic Sites: St. Francis Church, Dutch Cemetery, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

🖼️ Museums: Kerala Folklore Museum, Indo-Portuguese Museum

🛍️ Shopping: Buy spices, handicrafts, traditional Kerala sarees from local markets

🎑 Scenic Beauty: Picturesque views of Arabian Sea, lush greenery, sunset at Kochi Beach

📸 Photography Spots: Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi Beach, Colonial Buildings

💡 Tips: Respect local customs and traditions, Avoid littering, Be aware of touts

👟 Walking Tours: Explore the colonial history and culture through walking tours in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi: A Complete Travel Guide To The Queen of The Arabian Sea

Fort Kochi is a charming and historic destination that offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse heritage of Kerala.

Located on the western coast of India, Fort Kochi is often known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ for its scenic beauty and strategic importance.

Fort Kochi has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries, as it was influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, Jewish, and Arab traders who visited or settled here.

Today, Fort Kochi is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique attractions, activities, cuisine, festivals, and art.

If you are looking for a memorable and enriching vacation in Kerala, Fort Kochi is a perfect choice. Whether you are interested in history, culture, architecture, nature, or food, Fort Kochi has something for everyone.

In this guide, we will show you the best things to do, places to see, how to get there, where to stay, and more in Fort Kochi.

So, get ready to explore this fascinating city with us and discover why it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.

You may also like to read: Mission Fort Kochi- A thorough guide through it's streets and history.

Best Time To Visit Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a year-round destination that can be enjoyed in any season. However, if you want to experience the best weather and avoid the crowds, the ideal months to visit Fort Kochi are October to March .

During this time, the climate is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C.

You can also witness some of the major festivals of Kerala, such as Onam, Navratri, Christmas, and Cochin Carnival . These festivals showcase the rich culture and traditions of Fort Kochi and Kerala, and offer a lot of fun and entertainment for visitors.

You can also indulge in various activities such as boat cruise, beach walk, fishing, sun bath, sand castles building, dolphin sighting, and swimming at the Fort Kochi Beach.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can also visit Fort Kochi during the monsoon season (June to September) , when the prices are lower and the scenery is greener. However, be prepared for heavy rains and high humidity during this time.

Things to Do in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a place where you can experience the best of Kerala’s culture and heritage. There are plenty of things to do in Fort Kochi that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout your stay. Here are some of the top activities that you should not miss in Fort Kochi:

Watch the Chinese Fishing Nets at Sunset:

One of the most iconic sights of Fort Kochi is the Chinese Fishing Nets that line the shore. These are large wooden structures that operate on a cantilever system and are lowered into the water to catch fish.

They are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still used by local fishermen today.

The best time to see them in action is at sunset, when the sky turns into a riot of colors and the nets create a stunning silhouette against the horizon.

You can also buy fresh fish from the fishermen and have it cooked at nearby stalls.

Experience the Kathakali Dance Drama at Kerala Kathakali Centre:

If you want to witness the traditional dance drama of Kerala, head to the Kerala Kathakali Centre where you can watch a live performance of Kathakali.

Kathakali is a classical art form that combines elaborate costumes, makeup, gestures, music, and storytelling to depict stories from Hindu epics.

The performers undergo rigorous training and preparation to master this complex and expressive art form.

At the Kerala Kathakali Centre, you can also see other cultural shows such as martial arts, classical music, and puppetry.

Explore the Colonial Architecture and Heritage of Fort Kochi:

Fort Kochi is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and heritage that reflects its past as a trading port and a settlement of various European powers.

You can admire the Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences on the buildings, churches, cemeteries, palaces, museums, and streets of Fort Kochi.

Some of the notable landmarks that you should visit are Santa Cruz Basilica, St Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, Dutch Cemetery , Indo-Portuguese Museum , and David Hall Gallery . You can also take a guided walking tour or a tuk-tuk tour to learn more about the history and culture of Fort Kochi.

Shop for Antiques and Souvenirs at Jew Town:

If you love shopping for antiques and souvenirs, you will enjoy exploring Jew Town, a historic area that was once home to a thriving Jewish community. Today, Jew Town is a bustling market that sells a variety of items such as spices, handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, furniture, lamps, paintings, books, and more. You can find some rare and unique pieces here that will make great gifts or mementos of your trip. You can also visit the Paradesi Synagogue , the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth nations, which is located in Jew Town.

Taste the Authentic Kerala Cuisine at Local Restaurants:

No trip to Fort Kochi is complete without tasting the authentic Kerala cuisine that is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes. You can find a range of restaurants and eateries that serve delicious Kerala food such as appam (rice pancake), puttu (steamed rice cake), idiyappam (rice noodles), dosa (rice crepe), sambar (lentil stew), avial (mixed vegetable curry), fish molee (fish curry), karimeen pollichathu (fried fish), beef fry (spicy beef dish), parotta (layered bread), and more. You can also try the local snacks such as banana chips, pazham pori (banana fritters), and achappam (rice flour cookies). Don’t forget to end your meal with a cup of hot Kerala tea or coffee.

Enjoy the Beach Activities and Festivals at Fort Kochi Beach:

If you are looking for some fun and relaxation, head to the Fort Kochi Beach where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. You can indulge in various activities such as boat cruise, beach walk, fishing, sun bath, sand castles building, dolphin sighting, and swimming. You can also witness the annual Kochi Carnival that takes place every year on the white sands of the Fort Kochi Beach . The carnival is a colorful and lively celebration that features parades, dances, music, games, competitions, and fireworks. It is a great way to experience the festive spirit of Fort Kochi.

Visit the Maritime Museum and Learn about the Indian Navy:

If you are interested in learning about the history and achievements of the Indian Navy, you should visit the Maritime Museum in Fort Kochi . The museum displays various exhibits such as antique pistols, navy warships, aircraft carriers, medals, uniforms, and photographs that showcase the naval heritage of India. You can also see a special section dedicated to post-independence naval victories, which include Junagadh Operation, Goa Liberation, Indo-Pak Conflicts of 1965 and 1971, Operation Cactus, Operation Pawan, and Kargil War.

Admire the Art and Culture at Kashi Art Gallery and David Hall Gallery:

If you are an art lover, you will be delighted by the art and culture scene in Fort Kochi. You can visit the Kashi Art Gallery and David Hall Gallery, two of the most prominent contemporary art galleries in Fort Kochi that exhibit local and international artists. You can see a variety of artworks such as paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and videos that reflect the creative and diverse expressions of Fort Kochi. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee or a bite to eat at the cafes attached to the galleries.

Relax and Rejuvenate at an Ayurvedic Spa or Yoga Centre:

If you want to pamper yourself and rejuvenate your body and mind, you can visit an Ayurvedic Spa or a Yoga Centre in Fort Kochi . Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that uses natural herbs and oils to treat various ailments and promote wellness. You can choose from a range of treatments such as massages, facials, scrubs, wraps, steam baths, and more that will make you feel refreshed and revitalized. Yoga is a practice that combines physical poses, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve your health and happiness. You can join a yoga class or a workshop that will teach you the basics or advanced techniques of yoga.

Places to See in and around Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to many other attractions in and around Kochi. You can easily take a day trip or a short excursion to some of these places that will enrich your experience of Kerala. Here are some of the places that you should see in and around Fort Kochi:

Chinese Fishing Nets: One of the most iconic sights of Fort Kochi is the Chinese Fishing Nets that line the shore. These are large wooden structures that operate on a cantilever system and are lowered into the water to catch fish. They are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still used by local fishermen today. The best time to see them in action is at sunset, when the sky turns into a riot of colors and the nets create a stunning silhouette against the horizon. You can also buy fresh fish from the fishermen and have it cooked at nearby stalls.

St Francis Church: The oldest European church in India and the burial site of Vasco da Gama

Santa Cruz Basilica: A Gothic-Style Church with Artistic Grandeur

Mattancherry Palace: A Museum that Showcases the History and Art of Kerala’s Royal Families

Paradesi Synagogue: The Oldest Active Synagogue in the Commonwealth Nations

Dutch Cemetery: The Final Resting Place of Many European Colonists

Indo-Portuguese Museum: A Museum that Preserves the Portuguese Influence on Fort Kochi’s Art and Architecture

Vypeen Island: An Island that Offers Scenic Views, Beaches, Lighthouses, and Fishing Villages

Cherai Beach: A Serene Beach that Offers a Scenic View and Natural Beauty

How to Get to Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is easily accessible from various locations by different modes of transportation. You can choose the one that suits your budget, time, and convenience. Here are some of the ways to get to Fort Kochi:

By Air: The nearest airport to Fort Kochi is Cochin International Airport , which is about 36 kilometers away. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a metro from the airport to Fort Kochi. The taxi fare is around Rs. 800-1000 , the bus fare is around Rs. 100-150, and the metro fare is around Rs. 50-70 . The travel time is about an hour by taxi or metro and about two hours by bus.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Fort Kochi is Ernakulam Junction , which is about 12 kilometers away. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a ferry from the railway station to Fort Kochi. The taxi fare is around Rs. 300-400 , the bus fare is around Rs. 20-30 , and the ferry fare is around Rs. 5-10 . The travel time is about half an hour by taxi or ferry and about an hour by bus.

By Bus: There are regular buses that connect Fort Kochi with other cities in Kerala and neighboring states. You can find buses from KSRTC Bus Stand or Vyttila Mobility Hub in Ernakulam to Fort Kochi. The bus fare is around Rs. 20-30 and the travel time is about an hour.

By Ferry: One of the most scenic and enjoyable ways to get to Fort Kochi is by ferry. You can take a ferry from Ernakulam Jetty or Vypin Jetty to Fort Kochi Jetty. The ferry fare is around Rs. 5-10 and the travel time is about 15-20 minutes. You can also enjoy the view of the backwaters, the islands, and the Chinese Fishing Nets along the way.

Where to Stay in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi offers a range of accommodation options for every budget, preference, and style. You can find hotels, resorts, homestays, hostels, guesthouses, and heritage properties that cater to your needs and expectations. Here are some of the suggestions for where to stay in Fort Kochi:

Hotel Forte Kochi:

If you are looking for a luxury and heritage hotel in Fort Kochi, you can book a room at Hotel Forte Kochi . This hotel is located in a restored Portuguese mansion that dates back to the 16th century. It offers spacious and elegant rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, a restaurant, a spa, and a garden. It is also close to many attractions such as Santa Cruz Basilica, St Francis Church, and Chinese Fishing Nets.

Brunton Boatyard:

Another option for a luxury and heritage hotel in Fort Kochi is Brunton Boatyard . This hotel is located in a former shipyard that was built by the British in the 19th century. It offers cozy and comfortable rooms with colonial decor, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a library. It also offers a stunning view of the harbor and the sea.

Costa Gama Homestay:

If you are looking for a budget and homely accommodation in Fort Kochi, you can book a room at Costa Gama Homestay . This homestay is run by a friendly and helpful family that will make you feel at home. It offers clean and cozy rooms with basic amenities, a common kitchen, a terrace, and a garden. It is also close to many attractions such as Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, and Jew Town.

Zostel Kochi:

If you are looking for a backpacker and social accommodation in Fort Kochi, you can book a bed at Zostel Kochi . This hostel is located in a colorful and quirky building that has a graffiti wall, a mural staircase, and a rooftop cafe. It offers dorms and private rooms with funky decor, free wifi, lockers, and laundry facilities. It also organizes activities such as walking tours, pub crawls, movie nights, and games.

You may also like to read: Fort Kochi, Kerala: Quaint & Beautiful

Fort Kochi is a destination that will captivate you with its charm and diversity. It is a place where you can experience the best of Kerala’s culture and heritage in one city. Whether you want to explore the colonial architecture, watch the traditional dance drama, shop for antiques, taste the spicy cuisine, or enjoy the beach activities, Fort Kochi has it all.

We hope you enjoyed this guide to Fort Kochi and found it useful for planning your trip. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear from you.

Thank you for reading and happy travels!

Fort Kochi Reviews

Places To Visit In Cochin

Travel Blogs for Fort Kochi

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 10 Places to Visit in Kochi in One Day Trip

Tourist Places in Kochi for One Day Trip

Here is the list of the best places to visit in kochi on one day trip:, quick navigation.

Fort Kochi, an old town in the southwestern section of Kochi, offers colonial charm and tradition. Despite all of the expansion and transformation, the region retains traces of the British era and preserves Dutch art. The entire region is laced with European buildings, which serve as some of Kochi's top tourist attractions. Two of its significant features are the Fort Kochi beach and the Chinese Fishing net, which you can include in your list of tourist places in Kochi for a one-day trip. At this fascinating tourist spot in Kochi, take a stroll and spend the evening capturing the spectacular sunset. Location:  Ernakulam, Kerala, India

Must Check:  Munnar Sightseeing Packages From Kochi                        Thekkady Tour Packages

Thrikkakara Temple

Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple, which houses historical lithic documents, celebrates the spectacular secular Onam feast every year in the Malayalee month of Chingam, which occurs between August and September. Because of its location in the village of Thirikkara, this temple is also known as Thrikkakara temple. Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple is a beautiful place to spend a peaceful evening. This temple is best explored early morning or around dusk. Simple and lovely sculptings adorn the inside wall of the sanctum. The temple is a popular hangout for the area's residents. Location: Edappally - Pukkattupady Road, Vidya Nagar Colony, Thrikkakara, Edappally, Kochi, Kerala 682021 Also Checkout and Book:  Rembrandt House Museum Tickets                                               Cochin Tour Packages

Marine Drive

A tranquil evening on Kerala's gorgeous shore, Marine Drive is one of Kochi's most popular tourist sites that you should not miss. This spot, which overlooks the surprising beauty of the backwaters, is frequently populated with individuals who enjoy spending time in nature. Sunsets on Marine Drive in Kochi, for example, are quite magical. As evening falls, you'll notice a slew of food vendors and businesses selling reasonably priced handicrafts. While meandering along the lanes of Marine Drive, you can purchase souvenirs. There are benches where you may sit and rest while watching the water's rushing waves during your exploration tour covering some of the best tourist Places in Kochi for a one-day trip. Location: Kochi, Kerala 682021

Must Check:  Kerala Honeymoon Packages                       Wayanad Tour Package From Calicut

Chinese Fishing Nets

Princess Street

St. Francis CSI Church

The magnificent architecture of St Francis Church is a sight to behold. St Francis Church, India's oldest church, exemplifies the best of Portuguese architecture, making it a fascinating Asian destination. The pinnacle, the channel roof, the baptism floor, the confessional stage, and the book rests are only a few of the aspects that define how neatly the church is created, preserving the tradition and grandeur. It was built by the Portuguese Franciscan Friars in 1503 and given the name Santo Antonio. The church was officially included into the Church of South India in 1949, and it is now known for its traditionality and charm. It is the nicest item to see during your exploration tour of the best tourist Places in Kochi for a one day trip. Location: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 Click Here to Book Now:  Capitoline Museum Tickets                                             Wayanad Tour Packages For Family

Paradesi Synagogue

Paradesi Synagogue is the city's oldest synagogue which was established around 1568. At the present times, it is one of Cochin's most popular tourist attractions, as well as India's only synagogue where the Jewish community worships. It was originally constructed as a typical temple of worship for Jews or the Sephardic Jewish population that had been exiled from Spain and Portugal. The sculpted teak wood ark, exotic rug that is handwoven, Torah Scrolls, historic copper plates, and expensive gold and silver crowns are among the antiquities and handicrafts preserved in this synagogue in India. The Torah Scrolls, which include the first five books of the Old Testament, are the synagogue's main attraction. Location: Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002 Also Checkout and Book:  Dhow Cruise Dubai                                               Wayanad Tour Packages

Bolgatty Palace

Bolgatty Palace, on Kochi's Bolgatty Island, is one of the oldest Dutch palaces outside of Holland. It is a magnificent example of Kochi architecture. It was built in 1744 by Dutch businessmen and later surrounded by gardens. At the Bolgatty Palace, green gardens, bright skies, and Kerala's unspoiled beauties abound. Due to its beautiful surroundings and rich history, the structure has also served as the Governor's palace for the leader of Dutch Malabar and as the British house. It has since re-established itself as a high-end hotel and is a favourite couple's getaway. As its name suggests, the Bolgatty Palace is beautiful in every sense of the term. Location: NH966A, Mulavukad, Kochi, Kerala 682504 Also Checkout:  Alleppey Packages From Bangalore                             Alleppey Tour Packages From Chennai

Gallery Of Contemporary Art

Expect to be astounded by the works of great Indian painters in this one-of-a-kind collection of paintings and drawings from the Madhavan Nayar Foundation's permanent collection. The Gallery of Contemporary Indian Art was created with the goal of creating an art resource for students and the general public. It will provide you with an astonishing picture of the evolution of Modern Art in India. A small collection of Miniature Artwork is also housed in an adjacent compact area. Location: Ernakulam, Kerala Do Checkout:  Museums In Barcelona                           Alleppey Tour Packages

Greenix Museum

Best of Kerala

People Also Ask About Kochi

What are the best weekend getaways near kochi, how can i cover kochi in one day, which is the most beautiful place in kochi, what food is famous in kochi, what are the best kerala honeymoon tour packages that we can book with thrillophilia.

• Kerala Honeymoon Tour
• Kerala Honeymoon Packages From Pune
• Munnar Honeymoon Package For 2 Nights
• Munnar Alleppey Honeymoon Packages From Bangalore
• Wayanad Honeymoon Packages
• Munnar Tour Packages For Couple

What are the best Kerala tour packages that we can book with Thrillophilia?

• Kerala Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Kerala Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Kerala Tour Packages From Chennai
• Kerala Tour Packages From Delhi
• Kerala Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Kerala Tour Packages From Pune
• Kerala Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Kerala Tour Packages From Nagpur
• Kerala Tour Packages From Surat
• Kerala Tour Packages From Kochi
• Kerala Tour Packages From Vadodara

Kochi Top Attractions

Marine Drive Kochi, a bustling promenade located in the heart of the city, is a picturesque waterfront destination that captivates visitors with its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. Stretching along the serene Vembanad Lake, the drive is adorned with swaying palm trees, inviting locals and tourists to indulge in leisurely walks and relax by the water's edge.The highlight of Marine Drive Kochi is undoubtedly the enchanting sunset views that paint the sky with vibrant hues, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The cool sea breeze adds to the ambiance, making it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.The drive is not just a scenic spot but also a hub of activity. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops dot the area, offering a range of delectable cuisine and shopping delights. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides and witness the bustling activity of the nearby Kochi Harbor.Whether it's a tranquil evening by the lake, a romantic stroll with a loved one, or a fun-filled time with family and friends, Marine Drive Kochi promises an unforgettable experience, making it a cherished part of Kerala's coastal charm.

Plan your visit to a famous Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi which was built in 1568. This is a rectangular shaped building having a brick roof and iron gates. There is a Dutch-style clock tower with four clocks of different number styles. Those styles include Roman, Malayalam, Arabic, and Hebrew in the clocks. The space has a mix of different styles of structure like Dutch, Portuguese, and Kerala. In this holy place, you can see 1600-year-old copper plates and silver and gold-decorated scrolls. There are some classic objects like a rug, paintings, crystal chandeliers, and attractive lamps. All these objects in space are telling the rich past of Kerala. Also, you can see the colorful Chinese tiles on the floor and each tile is different from each other. For the Jewish group, this is not just a building but a hub that grows a sense of love among people. 

More Kochi Attractions

Kochi travel guides.

Kochi Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Kochi

More things to do in kochi, more on kochi tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Tourist Places Within 200 Kms

93 Places to Visit near Kochi (Cochin) within 200 kms (2024)

• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

Situated at an altitude ranging from 5000 to 8000 feet on the Kannan Devan Hills, the fascinating hill station of Munnar is one of the best tourist places in Kerala and among the must include places in honeymoon tour packages . It is about 120 km from Kochi, and 284 km from Trivandrum. Often referred to as the Swiss of South India, Munnar is one of the famous weekend getaways from Kochi , Coimbatore & Madurai. Mattupetty Dam, Echo point, Kundala Lake, Devikulam, Pothamedu Viewpoint, Nyayamkad falls, Thoovanam falls, Eravikulam National Park and Attukal Waterfalls are among the must include places in Munnar packages . Munnar is a trekker's paradise too, which offers both soft and mountain trekking. Munnar is home to some of the world's best tea estates. The tea plants covering Munnar hills make the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet. Munnar is also known for Neelakurinji flowers, which blooms once in 12 years. It is also known for being the spice center of Kerala. Over twelve varieties of spices including ginger, garlic, cardamom, vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, tea, clove, and nutmeg are cultivated in Munnar and its neighboring villages.

Distance from Kochi: 130 Kms

2. Alleppey

Popularly known as the 'Venice of the East, Alappuzha or Alleppey is one of the best places to visit near Kochi , and among the must-include places in Kerala tour packages . It is about 63 km from Kochi, and 152 km from Trivandrum. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Backwaters in Kerala . A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha make it a delightful destination. Alappuzha Beach, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Arthunkal Church, Mannarasala Temple, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Mullakkal Temple, Champakulam, Kuttanad, and Krishnapuram Palace are some of the famous tourist places in Alleppey . Alappuzha is also known for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake on the second Saturday of August every year. This is the most popular of the boat races in India, and among the must-experience things to do as part of Alleppey tour .

Distance from Kochi: 63 Kms

3. Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala , especially for wildlife enthusiasts. Situated about 82 km from Munnar, 143 km from Kochi, and 211 km from Trivandrum, it is one of the must include places in Kerala tour packages . Established in the year 1950, the sanctuary is spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is a thick evergreen forest. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. Among the top tourist places in Kerala , Thekkady is famous for Asian Elephants, Tigers, Gaurs, Sambars, Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Wild Boars, Spotted Deer, Nilgiri Tahr, etc. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can watch wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat from the lake. The main attraction of the sanctuary is a group of wild elephants that come to play in the lake. Thekkady offers elephant rides, jeep safari, boating in the lake, tiger trails, and forest treks. Murikkady, Chellar Kovil, Anakkara, Mangala Devi Temple, Suruli Falls, and Pullumedu are the popular places to visit as part of Thekkady packages .

Distance from Kochi: 156 Kms

4. Kumarakom

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 places to visit near Trivandrum for Kerala backwaters, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . It is about 56 km from Kochi, 36 km from Alleppey, and 164 km from Trivandrum. Kumarakom is a special tourism zone in Kerala due to the special ecology of the place. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumaramangalam Temple, Vaikom, Pathiramanal Island, Aranmula, and Erumeli are the popular tourist places in Kumarakom . The major sightseeing option at Kumarakom is a boat cruise in the backwaters of Vembanad and is an amazing experience for every traveler to Kumarakom. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuar is a noted bird sanctuary where one can see many species of migratory birds as part of Kumarakom packages . It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is also famous for Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, and swimming. Kumarakom is the venue for Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race held in September during Onam festival.

Distance from Kochi: 56 Kms

5. Kottayam

Kottayam is a city located in central Kerala and is also the administrative capital of Kottayam district. It is one of the well known Kerala tourist places . About 63 km from Kochi and 155 km from Trivandrum, it is among the most prominent places to visit near Kochi . Bounded by the Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake on the west, Kottayam is well known as a beautiful Kerala backwaters destination with stunning landscape and beauty. The city is an important trading center of spices and commercial crops, especially rubber. Kottayam holiday packages are a mix of scenic landscapes, backwaters, bird sanctuaries, temples, and churches. The Poonjar Palace, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Pallippurathu Kavu, Thiruverpu Temple, Mary Church (Cheriyapally), and Thazhathangady Juma Masjid are the popular tourist places in Kottayam . It is also a gateway to the famous Sabarimala Temple . Kumarakom, the most famous backwater destination of Kerala is situated very close to Kottayam (13 km).

Distance from Kochi: 67 Kms

6. Athirapally Waterfalls

Athirapally Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in India and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . It is situated about 73 km from Kochi, 100 km from Munnar, and 269 km from Trivandrum. Formed over Chalakudy River, Athirapally is one of the scenic waterfalls in Kerala that drops down from a height of 80 feet through several parallel streams offering a great scenic beauty. In the monsoon season, the water gets strength and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls. The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai, and Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary are the nearby places to visit during your Athirapally trip . It also offers adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, etc. It is one of the best waterfalls near Kochi . The forest that surrounds Athirapally Falls is also the natural habitat of different species like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, Indian grey hornbill, Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, and bison. The falls can be visited as part of Kochi tour packages .

Distance from Kochi: 70 Kms

7. Thrissur

Thrissur, also known as Trichur, is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Kerala, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . Situated about 81 km from Kochi, and 279 km from Trivandrum, this is one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi & Coimbatore. Thrissur is also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala because of its cultural, spiritual, and religious leanings throughout history. Vadakkumnathan temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu temple, and Guruvayur Temple, Our Lady of Lourdes Syro-Malabar Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral, Thrissur Zoo, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, and Kerala Kalamandalam are the most popular tourist places in Thrissur . Thrissur hosts the world-famous Thrissur Pooram , the most colorful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. UNESCO has awarded Thrissur Pooram as the most spectacular festival event on the planet. It is one of the best experience things to do in Kerala as part of Thrissur packages . Thrissur is also the hometown of the great Hindu Saint, Adi Shankara.

Distance from Kochi: 81 Kms

Vagamon, also spelt as Wagamon is an enchanting hill station situated in the Idukki district of Kerala. Located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, it is one of the offbeat hill stations near Kochi , and among the most famous Kerala tourist places . It is situated about 92 km from Munnar, and 103 km from Kochi. Perched at an altitude of 1100 m, Vagamon is surrounded by 3 hills namely, Thangal hill, Muruganmala, and Kurisumala. Also known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon was listed in the '50 most attractive places to visit in India' directory by the National Geographic Traveler. Pine Forests, Thangalpara, Kurisumala, Murugan Hill, Vagamon Meadows, Marmala Waterfalls, Suicide Point, Karikdu Viewpoint, and Illikkal Kallu are some of the top Vagamon tourist places . Trekking, paragliding, mountaineering, and rock climbing are the favorite activitiesthat one must try as part of Vagamon packages . The hill station has developed into a prime paragliding hub and is the venue of international paragliding contests that are conducted here every year.

Distance from Kochi: 102 Kms

Kollam (also known as Quilon) is an old seaport city that lies between the Ashtamudi Lake and Lakshadweep Sea in Kerala. About 69 km from Trivandrum, and 135 km from Kochi, it is the southern gateway to the backwaters of Kerala , and among the top places to visit in Kerala . Kollam attracts travelers all-round the year with its wide variety of sightseeing options. Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thangasseri Beach, Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake, Sasthamkotta Lake, Neendakara Port, and Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard are the prominent Kollam tourist places . Rameshwara Temple, Achencoil and Mayyanad, Amritapuri Ashram, Aryankavu, Chavara, Kottarakkara, Oachira, and Karunagappally are the prominent cultural as well as religious centers of the region that one must-visit as part of Kollam packages . The eight-hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the best way to explore the Kerala backwaters. It is also very famous for cashew processing and coir manufacturing. Kallada Boat race is one of the famous events of Kollam. Kollam can be visited along with Alleppey tour packages .

Distance from Kochi: 144 Kms

10. Varkala

Varkala is a calm and quiet coastal town situated on the Arabian Sea coast in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. About 25 km from Kollam, and 44 km from Trivandrum, it is one of the top places to visit in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Kollam tour packages . Varkala is the suburban city of Trivandrum. Varkala is a lesser-known yet absolutely paradisiacal destination that houses relatively untouched and clean beaches, historical forts, religious sites, natural springs, backwaters, and more. This quaint town in the southern part of Kerala is known for the unique sedimentary rocks belonging to the Cenozoic age, popularly known as the Warkalli formation adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach, Sri Janardhana Swami Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Aquarium, Kappil Beach, Kappil Lake, Chilakoor Beach, Odayam Beach, Varkala Cliff, Edava Beach, Anjengo Fort & Lighthouse, Ponnumthuruthu Island, etc are some of the must-include places in Varkala packages . This coastal town is sometimes referred to as the Southern Varanasi due to the presence of the 2,000year-old Janardana Swami Temple. Besides, Varkala is also popular for Ayurveda Spas, shacks, and Yoga centers. Varkala is one of the top places to visit near Trivandrum .

Distance from Kochi: 160 Kms

11. Sabarimala

Sabarimala is one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in Kerala . Situated about 70 km from Pathanamthitta, this temple is one of the oldest temples in India, with a history of more than 5000 years old. Regarded as one of the popular places to visit in Kerala , Sabarimala temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, and is believed that Lord Parasurama installed the idol of Ayyappa here. The pilgrimage season begins in the month of November and ends in January (the temple remains closed during the rest of the year except for the first five days of each Malayalam month). The devotees following Ayyappa Vratam (Ayyappa Maala - a 41 days Vratam with strict restrictions) carry Irumudi Kettu containing traditional offerings to the Lord. Mandalapooja (Nov17th) and Makaravilakku (Jan 14th) are the important events of the temple. Makara Jyothi (a celestial star) appeared on Jan 14th is the most crowded occasion of this temple that one must witness as part of Sabarimala packages . Sabarimala temple has no restrictions on caste and religion. The temple is open to males of all age groups, but women between 10-50 years of age are NOT allowed into the temple. Pamba, Erumeli, and Malikappurathu Amma Temple are some other Sabarimala places to visit .

Distance from Kochi: 146 Kms

12. Kozhikode

At a distance of 179 km from Kochi, 124 km from Palakkad, 176 km from Coimbatore, 113 km from Thrissur, 158 km from Ooty, 241 km from Mangalore, 352 from Bangalore, 376 km from Trivandrum and 213 km from Mysore, Kozhikode (also known as Calicut) is a city in the state of Kerala. It is the 3rd largest city in Kerala and the headquarters of Kozhikode District. The name Kozhikode is said to be derived from Koyil (palace) Kotta (fort). This is known by various names, for the Arabs it was Kalikat, for the Chinese it was Kalifo. Tipu Sultan, during the conquest of Malabar, unsuccessfully attempted to change the name of the city to Firozabad. Malayalis have always preferred to call it Kozhikode. With the Arabian Sea on the west and Wayanad Hills on the east, Kozhikode is a popular places to visit in Kerala . According to history, Kozhikode was under the Chera rulers until 1122 AD. The city of Calicut came into existence in the 13th century when the Ernad King Udaiyavar conquered the area around Ponniankar and built a fort at a place called Velapuram, now known as Calicut. The Europeans called him Zamorin. Interestingly, the name Calicut is derived from 'calico,' the fine variety of hand-woven cotton cloth said to have originated from this place. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men in 1498. A monument ...

Distance from Kochi: 179 Kms

Idukki is is one of the stunning places to visit near Kochi , and among the most prominent Kerala tourist places . It is situated about 47 km from Munnar, 105 km from Kochi, 239 km from Trivandrum, and 171 km from Madurai. Idukki is the second-largest district in Kerala state (Painavu as headquarters). The name Idukki is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word Idukku which means a narrow gorge. Periyar which is one of the largest rivers of Kerala, flowing through the Idukki gorge formed between the two high massive rocks called Kuravan and Kurathi, which is the site of the gigantic Idukki Arch Dam, among the must-visit places as part of Idukki packages . Idukki can be visited along with Munnar tour packages . Idukki has a mix of diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation centers and mountain treks. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Dam, Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Ramakalamedu, Kalvari Mount / Calvary Mount, Malankara Dam, and Ilaveezha Poonchira are some of the prominent tourist places in Idukki .

Distance from Kochi: 100 Kms

14. Valparai

Originally known as Poonachimalai, Valparai is one of the least explored hill stations in India . About 65 km from Pollachi, 105 km from Coimbatore, it is among the top tourist place to visit in Tamilnadu . Situated at an altitude of 3500 feet, Valparai is a little piece of heaven tucked away in the cradle of the Anamalai mountain range of the Western Ghats. Sholayar Dam, Aliyar Dam, Nallamudi Viewpoint, Loam's View Point, Balaji Temple, Monkey Falls, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Chinnakallar Waterfalls, Birla Falls, Koolangal River, Grass Hills, Nirar Dam, etc. are some of the popular places to visit in Valparai as part of Valparai tour packages . Valparai is famed for its numerous coffee and tea plantations that are surrounded by thick forest.

Distance from Kochi: 149 Kms

15. Coimbatore

Coimbatore or Kovai is the second-largest city, and also one of the top Tamilnadu tourist places . It is situated about 491 km from Chennai, 383 km from Bangalore, & 85 km from Ooty. Situated on the banks of the Noyyal River, Coimbatore is known as Manchester of southern India due to the large number of textile industries located in the city. Patteeswarar Temple, Marudhamalai Temple, Siruvani Falls, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Meenvallam waterfalls are popular the must include places in Coimbatore Tour Packages . It is close to several important tourist destinations like Ooty, Coonoor, Kodaikanal, Palani, Munnar, Athirapally, etc. It is the starting point for Ooty tour packages .

Distance from Kochi: 185 Kms

16. Palakkad

Palakkad, also known as Palghat, is a town and headquarters of Palakkad district in Kerala. About 52 km from Coimbatore, 122 km from Kozhikode, 140 km from Kochi, and 336 km from Trivandrum, it is one of the prominent places to visit near Coimbatore , and among the top Kerala tourist places . Palakkad is a land of valleys, hillocks, rivers, forests, mountain streams, dams, and wildlife sanctuaries that one must experience as part of Palakkad tour packages . Palakkad is considered the gateway to Kerala from the north. It can also be visited along with Kochi tour packages . Palakkad Fort, Jainmedu, Kalpathy, Malampuzha Dam and Gardens, Pothundi Dam, Meenkulathi Bhagavathi Temple, Pallassena, and Dhoni Waterfalls are the famous tourist places in Palakkad . The district is gifted with the beauty of virgin and verdant Nelliampathy hills, Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Attappady hills and Mangalam, Kanjirapuzha, Siruvani, and Parambikulam Dams.

Distance from Kochi: 141 Kms

17. Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is a beautiful town and the administrative capital of the Pathanamthitta district in Kerala. Also known as the pilgrim capital of Kerala, Pathanamthitta is the main transport hub to the famous pilgrim center - Sabarimala and among the must-include places in Kerala tour packages . It is situated about 109 km from Trivandrum, & 119 km from Kochi. Pathanamthitta is situated in the central Travancore region of Kerala, close to the Western Ghats. Pathanamthitta town is located on the banks of Achankovil and three major rivers of Kerala - Achankovil, Pamba & Manimala flow through the district. It is one of the famous places to visit near Trivandrum . The town is endowed with a scenic landscape comprising of low undulating hills, extensive stretches of lush forests, rivers, and charming countryside that one must experience as part of Pathanamthitta tour packages . Sabarimala is the famous pilgrim center situated in Pathanamthitta. Aranmula, the Kerala Institute of Folklore and Folk Arts at Mannadi, Konni elephant training camp, Pandalam, Perumthenaruvi Waterfall, and Maramon are other prominent Pathanamthitta places to visit .

Distance from Kochi: 127 Kms

18. Pollachi

Pollachi is a scenic town and a taluk headquarters in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu in India. About 48 km from Coimbatore, and 116 km from Munnar, it is one of the the stunning offbeat places to visit as part of Madurai tour packages . Located on the tip of the Annamalai hills and the plains of Coimbatore, the charming town of Pollachi is known for its lavish greenery and blissful sceneries. The ancient Arulmigu Subramania Thirukoil, Topslip, Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Aliyar Dam, and Masani Amman Temple are the must include places in Pollachi tour packages . Pollachi is a largely visited tourist hub along with Coimbatore as part of Tamilnadu tour packages .

Distance from Kochi: 183 Kms

19. Guruvayur

Guruvayur is one of the revered places of pilgrimage in Kerala, and among the prominent places to visit near Kochi . It is about 27 km from Thrissur, 90 km from Kochi, and 309 km from Trivandrum. Guruvayur is one of the prominent Pilgrimage in India as it is home to the sacred Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. It is the fourth largest temple in India, and often referred to as the Dwaraka of the South. Mammiyoor Mahadeva Temple, Parthasarathy Temple, Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple, Chamundeswari Temple, Chowalloor Shiva Temple, and Ariyannur Harikanyaka Temple, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, Chettuva Backwaters, Chavakkad Beach, and St. Thomas Forane Church - Palayoor are other places to visit as part of Guruvayur packages . Beyond its spiritual allure, Guruvayur's lush greenery, coconut groves, and tranquil backwaters provide a picturesque setting for exploring Kerala's cultural treasures and indulging in authentic cuisine and Ayurvedic therapies. It can be visited along with Thrissur tour packages .

20. Vazhachal Waterfalls

At a distance of 7 km from Athirapally & 75 km from Kochi, Vazhachal Waterfall is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall situated very close to Athirapally - Valparai road. It is one of the popular tourist places in Athirapally . Near the entrance of the Sholayar forest range, the waterfall is formed on Chalakkudy River at the lower stream of Athirapally Waterfalls . The surroundings of the waterfalls offer rich natural views. Unlike Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal flows through an inclined slope of more than 300 feet to descend into a huge pool. It is very difficult and dangerous to step into the flow or to reach the bottom of the flow. This waterfall became famous for not just its view but the endemic species found in the surrounding dense forests. Researchers have found four endangered species of the Hornbill here, the only place they thrive in the entire Western Ghats. Ornithologists attach great significance to this location and bird watchers can come across many rare and vibrant species in these parts as part of Athirapally packages . Several private vehicles ply between Athirapally & Vazhachal falls. Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Kochi: 77 Kms

21. Mattupetty Dam

At a distance of 10 km from Munnar Bus Station, Mattupetty Dam is a storage Concrete Gravity dam situated on Top Station Road in Munnar. It is one of the best Munnar places to visit to experience the beauty of Munnar along with boating. Constructed in 1953, Mattupetty Dam was constructed under the Pallivasal Hydro-electric project for water conservation and power generation. Now the dam is a vital source of electricity generation in Munnar and also a haven for many wild animals and birds due to its constant water availability. The most attractive part of Mattupetty Dam is its still water which reflects the tea garden around. Visitors can engage themselves with water sport activities like speed boating organized by the District Tourism Promotion Council of Idukki (Munnar) and enjoy the pretty natural surroundings of this beautiful dam as part of Munnar holiday packages . Adventure lovers also have options here like trekking in the Shola forest. The lake and dam surrounded by wooded hills and tea plantations make a great view. Boating in Mattupetty Lake is a memorable experience. Often, elephants from surrounded forests take bath in the waters of the lake, and watching them (while boating) is a pleasant experience. This place is also famous for Eucalyptus Oil, which is sold near the dam. Mattupetty is also famous for its highly specialized ...

22. Malampuzha Dam & Gardens

At a distance of 9 Kms from Palakkad Railway Station, Malampuzha Dam is a large irrigation dam built on Malampuzha River, a tributary of Bharathapuzha River at the base of the hills of the Western Ghats. The reservoir provides drinking water to Palakkad town. There is a beautiful well laid garden near the Dam. There are lush green lawns, innumerable flower beds, glittering pools, fountains and avenues. There is a fresh water aquarium, Snake Park and a Children's park with a toy train. The Garden house has a unit of Water sports also. The imposing concrete sculpture of YAKSHI, the passenger ropeway, first of its kind in South India, offers adventurous and delightful air journey of 20 minutes across the garden are added attractions of the park. A telescopic tower, the first rock garden and the first amusement park of Kerala Fantasy Park are also located at Malampuzha. The reservoir has boating and fishing facilities. Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM. Ropeway Timings: 10 AM - 1 PM & 2:30-8 PM.

Distance from Kochi: 142 Kms

23. Rajamalai / Eravikulam National Park

At a distance of 16 km from Munnar, Eravikulam National Park is a protected wildlife reserve located in Munnar. Situated on Munnar - Udumalpet Road, it is one of the popular national parks in Kerala , and among the must visit places during Munnar tour . The Eravikulam National Park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. Earlier, the area was managed as a game preserve by the Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company. The government of Kerala resumed control in 1971 and declared the Eravikulam-Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary in 1975 and became a National Park in 1978. The national park is spread across an area of 97sq. km and is a protected area. The park is extended into Tamil Nadu and is known as Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. This region is famous as the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Nearly half the world's population of this rare species is found in the area. Other faunal species found in the park are elephant Gaur, Giant Squirrel, Leopard, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Tiger, and Sambar. It is one of the beautiful places to see Neelkurnji flowers in South India as part of your wildlife tour in India. The park is divided into 3 regions - the core area, the buffer area, and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area, which is in the Rajamalai region. Tourists can take safari and trekking ...

Distance from Kochi: 145 Kms

24. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

At a distance of 5 km from Kumarakom Bus Station, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a protected reserve situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, this is one of the best places of wildlife in Kerala , and among the must-visit places during your Kumarakom trip . Spread across 14 acres, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an amazing paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is one of the best sanctuaries near Kochi , the bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. In addition, visitors can get thrilled by the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers. Regarded as one of the must-visit places of sightseeing in Kumarakom , the sanctuary is accessible by road & boat from Kumarakom village. It has well-laid paths for moving around within the sanctuary (1-2 hours by foot). The best way to watch the birds is to take a 2-hour boat trip around the sanctuary through country boats available ...

Distance from Kochi: 52 Kms

25. Mahadeva Temple - Ettumanoor

At a distance of 11 Kms from Kottayam Railway Station, Mahadeva Temple located in Ettumanoor is one of the most celebrated Siva temples in Kerala. This is one of the popular tourist & pilgrimage sites to visit near Kottayam & Kochi. This temple is known for its exceptional murals and woodcarvings made in 16th century. The themes of these murals are stills from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata and the and Puranas.The oil lamp at the entrance of the temple is believed to have been lighted for more than 450 years and it is fed with oil by the devotees everyday. There are 14 decorative gopuras in the temple built in 16th century. Another attraction of the temple is Ezhara Punnana (golden elephants) donated to the temple by Maharaja of Travancore. The golden elephants are kept on display during the temple annual festival celebrated in the month of February / March. Only Hindus are allowed into this temple. Ezharaponnaana Ezhunallathu is the main festival celebrated for 10 days in the month of Feb- Mar. Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM & 5 PM to 8 PM.

Distance from Kochi: 58 Kms

26. Beypore Beach

At a distance of 10 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Beypore Beach is located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River. Now an important port and fishing harbor, this place was also an important trade and maritime centre during the days of the early Arab and Chinese travelers and the Europeans. The Beypore Beach is a commercial center for ship building and has existed here for more than 1000 years. This boatyard is famous for making a distinctive ship vessel known as 'Uru'. One of the major attractions at Beypore is its magnificent 2 km long stone bridge called as Pulimoodu, built entirely of stones, making a pathway into the sea. Nearby attractions in Beypore are fishing harbor and Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary (7 kms). Baypore is little close Madras Trunk Road.

Distance from Kochi: 162 Kms

27. Kuttanad

Kuttanad is a region in Alappuzha district that is known as 'Rice Bowl of Kerala ' for the vast paddy fields. With seven rivers flowing through it (Pampa, Manimala, Achencoil, Meenachil, Moovattupuzha, Chalackudy & Periyar), Kuttanad is breathtakingly beautiful. Kuttanad is also popular as an ideal place for Kerala backwaters trip in a houseboat. It is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi & Alappuzha . Kuttanad is one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below the sea level. The most popular route taken to explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha - Changanassery route. This road takes you through the heart of Kuttanad region demonstrating the daily life of people in the region. The possible activities for the tourists in this region are to visit villages and enjoy the daily life of villagers, walk along the rivers/streams and enjoy the nature or take a boat trip between villages. Nedumudy (11 Kms from Alappuzha - near SH11), Kavalam (20 Kms from Alappuzha) & Champakkulam (13 Kms from Alappuzha - on SH11) are best places to experience the uniqueness of Kuttanad

Distance from Kochi: 75 Kms

28. Malayalapuzha Devi Temple

At a distance of 7 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Malayalappuzha Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali (another form of Goddess Parvati) is located in Malayalappuzha town near Pathanamthitta. This temple is believed to be more than 3000 years old, constructed in Kerala style of architecture. The idol of Goddess Bhadrakali is about 5.5 feet tall. More than 100,000 devotees visit this temple every week, with Tuesday and Friday being the most popular days for darshan. The temple is under the administration of Travancore Devaswom Board. The temple has beautiful wall paintings and attractive sculpture work. It is the only temple in Kerala where the 'Satha Kodi Archana' is performed which is attended by large number of devotees. Malayalappuzha is connected by bus service with Pathanamthitta.

Distance from Kochi: 129 Kms

29. Silent Valley National Park

At a distance of 53 km from Palakkad, & 102 km from Coimbatore, Silent Valley National Park is a national park located in the northeast corner of Palakkad district in Kerala. It is one of the famous national parks in Kerala , and among the top Palakkad tourist places . Silent Valley National Park is a beautiful representation of the last remaining rain-forest of Kerala. Historically it is a paradigm of people's movement to protect the forest. In 1914, Silent Valley forests were declared as Reserved Forest. It was declared as National Park in 1984 and formally inaugurated in the year 1985. Till 1921, Silent Valley was part of the South Malabar Forest Division with headquarters at Nilambur. In 1921, it came under the control of the Palakkad Forest Division and managed so until 1988.   Silent Valley was called 'Sairandhrivanam' as it was the place where Sairandhiri (the secret identity donned by Panchali, from the epic Mahabharata) hid along with her five husbands, the Pandavas, during their exile. The Kunthippuzha River which feeds the entire forest was named after Kunthi, the mother of the Pandavas. Initially, the park has only 89.52 sq. km area that forms the core zone of the National Park while in 2007, an area of 148 sq. km was added to this as a buffer zone. It is one of the smallest national parks in India and among the must-include ...

Distance from Kochi: 195 Kms

30. Thommankuthu Waterfalls

At a distance of 20 km from Thodupuzha, 25 km from Idukki, and 48 km from Munnar, Thommankuthu is a mesmerizing waterfall located in Thodupuzha taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is one of the stunning waterfalls near Kochi , ad among the must-visit places as part of Idukki tour packages . Situated in the southern part of Western Ghats, Thomankoothu a series of 12 falls or kuthus (locally known) spread over an area of 5 km and fall from a height of 40 m. The 12 falls that vary in height and pass through the lush evergreen forests, present a remarkable sight. It is the best place to spend a day watching nature and drown in the waters of the falls. The rich flora and fauna around the waterfall hypnotize the visitors. It is an alluring destination for trekking as it takes you through caves and sleepy hamlets of the tribals. There are also boating and fishing options available in the area and this gives one a great view of the valley. The visitors can enjoy a bath at the falls in summer, but not during the monsoon as the level of water increases. Thommankuthu is one of the major centers of eco-tourism in Kerala, and among the prominent tourist spots in Idukki . This place is connected by bus from Munnar and Thodupuzha. There are no accommodation facilities available near ...

31. Kappad Beach

At a distance of 20 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Kappad beach is one of the most charming Kerala beaches and also one of the best Kerala tourist places . Vasco da Gama landed on Indian soil on 27th May 1498 at Kappad beach along with 170 men. There is a monument on the beach that commemorates the landmark event of Vasco da Gama's arrival. This marked the beginning of a new era in the relationship between the Indians and the Portuguese which lasted for 4 to 5 centuries. The beach is ideal for relaxing and playing around with sand. Devi Temple, which is believed to be 800 years old, is situated on top of a rock near the beach. Karappula River at Elathur close to the beach is a good place for boating. Sunset is a great site to watch here, in the combination of Sea and River. This place is very close to NH17 towards Mangalore. It is connected by frequent buses from Kozhikode.

32. Sri Vallabha Temple - Thiruvalla

At a distance of 29 Kms from Kottayam, 35 Kms from Alappuzha & 33 kms from Pathanamthitta, Sri Vallabha Temple is located near Thiruvalla town (4 Kms) in Pathanamthitta district. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one among the 108 Diva Kshetrams in India. This temple is built in typical Kerala style of temple architecture with fine carvings and murals. The inner sanctum of the temple houses a 6 feet tall idol of Maha Vishnu. The flag staff of the temple is made out of granite and it is about 50 feet tall. A 3 feet idol of Garuda (the eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu) is installed on top of the flagstaff. This temple is famous for the traditional Kathakali performances almost every night and it is perhaps the only temple in Kerala where Kathakali is regularly performed as a ritual offering to a deity, after the evening Pooja The annual festival of the temple is celebrated in Feb / Mar and the Utharaseeveli festival is celebrated for one day on Mar / Apr.

Distance from Kochi: 97 Kms

33. Top Station

At a distance of 32 Kms from Munnar, Top Station is a breathtakingly beautiful place on Kerala - Tamilnadu boarder. From here, one can get 360 degrees view of the Western Ghats. This is one of the best Munnar tourist places and among the prime place to visit on a Munnar tour . At an altitude of 2200 meters, this place is also known for the Neelakurunji Plant, which flowers only once every 12 years (next flowering year is 2018). The view point is at a distance of 2 kms from the road point and has to be trekked down. The trek path is very steep with deep valleys one side. One should be very careful while trekking to the view point, which offers lifetime memories. Top Station is the highest approachable road in South India. The viewpoint at Top Station offers breathtakingly beautiful views of Kannan Devan Hills. The valleys all around, the misty mountains and distant waterfalls all make this place a must visit spot in Munnar. Top Station is also a wonderful trekking destination in Munnar. There are multiple trekking routes in Top Station. The most popular route starts from Kurangani, a small village in Theni district of Tamilnadu . The total distance of Kurangani to Top Station is about 9 km and it usually takes around 6 hours to complete the trek. Camping is also allowed on the trail if overnight stay is preferred. This can also ...

34. Ramakalamedu

At a distance of 40 Kms from Idukki , 38 Kms from Kumily, 57 Kms from Munnar, 15 Kms from Nadumkandam & 18 Kms from Kambam (on NH220 towards Palani), Ramakkalmedu is a lovely tourist place with rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air. The hilltop also offers a panoramic view of the picturesque villages of Kambam and surrounding places on the slope of the Western Ghats. Kerala Tourism Department has provided additional facilities for tourists with resting points & statues of Kuravan & Kurathi (local tribes) at Ramakkalmedu. Ramakkalmedu is also a great trekking destination. The view point on top of the hill is the highest point in this area, which can be reached by 3-4 Kms trek from the Ramakkalmedu Junction. This place is connected by bus service from Munnar , Kottayam and Ernakulam.

35. Kappil Beach

At a distance of 18 Kms from Kollam and 6 Kms from Varkala, Kappil Beach is a famous weekend gateway from Tivandrum. Sprawls across 25 acres of land, the thin line of sand beach separates Edava-Nadayara Lake from the Arabian Sea. Swimming, water sports and Sun-bathing are famous activities at this spot. Boating is available in the backwaters of the lake at Priyadarshini Boat Club and Lake Sagar Boat Club near Beach. Dolphins are an added attraction on the Kappil Beach. Kappil Beach is connected by bus service from Kollam, Varkala & Trivandrum.

36. Mangalam Dam

At a distance of 41 Kms from Palakkad, Mangalam Dam is constructed on the river Cherukunnapuzha, a tributary of the river Mangalam. It is a popular picnic site from Palakkad. The construction of the scenic dam was completed in the year 1956. The entire area is quite fascinating with beautiful parks and lawns. Located on the Alathur - Vadakkanchery Highway, the reservoir is bounded with forest area which is home for wildlife like deer, elephants and a variety of birds.

Distance from Kochi: 114 Kms

37. Thenmala Dam

At a distance of 68 km from Kollam, 39 km from Tenkasi & 73 km from Trivandrum, Thenmala Dam also known as Kallada Dam or Parappara Dam located in Thenmala village is built across Kalla River. It is situated very close to Kollam - Tenkasi road. The dam is located amidst picturesque location with beautiful surroundings at the foothills of the Western Ghats. The surroundings of Thenmala Dam are developed under eco-tourism development activities. It is also selected by World Tourism Organisation as one of the best eco-friendly projects in the world. Thenmala means honey hill. Due to the peculiar floristic composition of the forest, the honey collected from Thenmala forest is famous for its medicinal values. This place has facilities like winding pathways, sway bridge, amphitheatre and a musical fountain. You can also visit the traditional tree houses of the tribal of this area. There are also boating facilities in the reservoir. There is a rope bridge along with many trekking, mountaineering and biking opportunities.

Distance from Kochi: 180 Kms

38. Kundala Lake

At a distance of 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a picturesque lake situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar. It is one of the scenic places to visit in Munnar . The lake is formed by Kundala artificial dam, which is a small dam in cured shape. The lake offer boating facility. The unique experience of boating in Kashmiri boats in this lake is a special attraction. These boats are also known as Shikara Boats. Kundala Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing in Munnar. The tea estates spread across Kundala are a real feast to the eyes. There is also a golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd in Kundala village. Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM Boating Fee (30 minutes): Shikara Boat - Rs 200 for 2 persons, Row Boats - Rs 150 for 4 persons, Pedal Boat - Rs 100 for 2 persons

Distance from Kochi: 140 Kms

39. Meenkara Dam

At a distance of 39 Kms from Palakkad, Meenkara Dam is a lovely picnic spot amidst great scenic beauty. This dam is built across the Gayathri River which flows into the Bharathapuzha River. This is a fascinating place with full of paddy & coconut fields and full of greenery. Meenkara Dam can be access through Puthunagaram, Pallassana & Kollengode.

Distance from Kochi: 139 Kms

40. Peechi Dam

At a distance of 22 km from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque dam situated at Peechi village near Thrissur. It is one of the scenic tourist places in Thrissur . Built across the Manali River, the Peechi Dam was built in 1959. Ikkanda Warrier (1890-1977), the first Prime Minister of the then independent state of Kochi, India, was the architect of Peechi Dam. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in the Thrissur district and caters to the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. The dam has a catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres. There is a nice botanical garden with cascading fountains near the dam which is an added attraction to the visitors. One can go boating in the reservoir during Thrissur tour . Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 84 Kms

41. Palaruvi Waterfalls

At a distance of 29 km from Tenkasi, 81 km from Kollam, & 86 km from Trivandrum, Palaruvi Waterfall is a wonderful waterfall located at Aryankavu. Situated on Kollam - Tenkasi road, it is one of the popular waterfalls in Kerala , and among the must-visit places during Kollam trip . Palaruvi Waterfalls, which literally translates to 'Stream of Milk', cascades down through rocks from a height of about 300 feet. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Trivandrum . The waterfall is surrounded by lush green valleys and natural herbal groves, which makes this waterfall, rich in medicinal properties. Regarded as one of the most famous Kollam sightseeing places , the Palaruvi Waterfall is known to have ayurvedic properties. Locals believe that taking a bath in the holy water benefits one's body to a great extent. The waterfall form a small pool at the bottom which is an ideal place for swimming. There are separate locations for kids and ladies to bathe here. A favorite picnic spot for the tourists, the journey to Palaruvi amidst the greenery of Western Ghats is a breathtaking experience. Located off the Kollam-Shenkottai road, the waterfall is about 4 km deep within the beautiful forest lands from the NH 208 and is located around ...

Distance from Kochi: 188 Kms

42. Siruvani Dam

At a distance of 47 km from Coimbatore and 51 km from Palakkad, Siruvani Dam is a man-made reservoir located in the Palakkad district of Kerala. It is one of the beautiful places to vsit as part of Palakkad tour . Siruvani Dam was constructed across the Siruvani River in the year 1927 to supply drinking water to the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. The location is in the state of Kerala, the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. The location of the dam is in the state of Kerala and the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. An agreement was executed between the state Governments for drinking water supply to Coimbatore town and neighboring areas from the Siruvani Dam. The dam is 49.53 feet high and 878.5 meters above sea level with a water capacity of 650 million cubic feet. The water of Siruvani Reservoir is famous for its sweetness. Surrounded by Muthikulam Hill, the scenic beauty of Siruvani is simply enchanting. Pattiyar Bungalow, one of the most beautiful Inspection Bungalows of the Kerala Forest Department is situated on the banks of this reservoir. Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 187 Kms

43. Paravur

At a distance of 16 km from Kollam, Paravur is a beautiful place with a combination of Sea, Lakes, Rivers, Backwaters, and vast green fields. This is one of the fabulous places in Kerala and among the must-include places in Kollam tour packages . Paravur town has a small lake that merges with the backwaters of Kerala. The mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. This lake is popular and significant as it connects as a part of the Trivandrum-Shornaur Canal System to the Edava and Ashtamudi Kayal. Another real fascination in the region of Paravur lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. This watercraft club uncovers immense boating choices in the realm where the Arabian Sea, river, and the Kappil backwater merge. With a thin stretch of narrow land dividing the sea and Pravur lake, the beach at Paravur is ideal to sit and gaze at the natural beauty.

Distance from Kochi: 163 Kms

44. Devikulam

At a distance of 18 km from Munnar Bus Station & 45 km from Idukki, Devikulam is a cute hill station near Munnar. At an altitude of 1800 m, it is one of the lesser-known hill stations in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Munnar sightseeing packages . The name Devikulam is a combination of two words Devi from the goddess Devi and kulam meaning pond. According to legend, the goddess Sita Devi bathed in Devikulam Lake now named Sita Devi Lake. The lake draws tourists not only because of its sacredness but also for the curative powers of its mineral waters. The lake is also idle for trout fishing. The scenic beauty, adventure sports, beliefs, and religion come together to make Sita Devi Lake a major tourist attraction in Devikulam. The lush green open spaces and the high cliffs of Devikulam provide scope for hiking and mountaineering. There are several tea plantations in and around Devikulam that add to the charm of the hill resort. The gum trees in red and blue are the other major highlights of the natural vegetation at Devikulam, considered one of the must-visit tourist places in Munnar . For those of the tourists to Devikulam interested in visiting the tea estates, tea plantations or the factories conducted tours are available. ...

Distance from Kochi: 125 Kms

45. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 23 km from Thrissur, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located near Peechi village. It is one of the prominent places of wildlife in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Thrissur sightseeing tour . Spread across 125 sq. km, the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1958. It is situated in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani Dams. It is part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. There are more than 50 species of orchids and medicinal plants in this sanctuary. There are 60 types of birds, 25 types of mammals, and 10 types of snakes in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides shelter for Leopards, Tigers, Sambhar Deer, Elks, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Dogs, Fox, Langurs, etc. Peechi village is the entry point to the sanctuary. The Forest Department arranges trekking into the sanctuary and is recommended only for experienced trekkers. October to March is the best time to visit. Bookings can be made at Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Timings: 8 M - 5 PM

Distance from Kochi: 83 Kms

46. Valara Waterfalls

At a distance of 39 Kms from Munnar, the magnificent Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49), near Cheeyappara Waterfalls. Valara features a chain of waterfalls falling from a height of about 1000 feet and provide a magnificent view. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush, dense forests that are home to a variety of animals and birds. It is one of the top waterfalls near Munnar. Though the falls are visible from highway, it demands good amount of trekking to reach the bottom of the falls. The surrounding places of the Valara Falls are good for trekking. The falls offer spectacular views in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

Distance from Kochi: 82 Kms

47. Chimmony Dam

At a distance of 36 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony Dam (also known as Chimmini Dam) is a picturesque dam constructed across Chimmony Puzha. Located in Echippara village (2 Kms), near Varandarappilly town, the dam is surrounded by the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. Close to Peechi Dam and Mangalam Dam, the Chimmony Dam provided water supply for drinking and forming to the nearly by villages. Situated on Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats, Chimmony Dam is a place with immense natural beauty. Boating is also available in the reservoir. It can be reached via Varandarappilly & Palappilly from Thrissur. It has limited public transportation. Best way to reach the dam is to hire private vehicle from Varandarappilly.

Distance from Kochi: 80 Kms

48. Meenvallam Waterfalls

At a distance of 30 km from Palakkad & 77 km from Coimbatore, Meenvallam Waterfalls is a magnificent waterfall situated near Karimba town in the Palakkad district of the Kerala. It is one of the popular waterfalls in Kerala , and among the top Palakkad tourist places . Meenvallam Waterfall is a magnificent 5 step waterfall hidden amidst the lush forests of Western Ghats. The height of the waterfall ranges from 100 - 125 feet at each level. Only two of the five steps of the falls are accessible. The waterfall passes through Kalladikode Hills and disperses into different falls near River Thuppanad. Meenvallam waterfall is the final one out of the 10 waterfalls between Palakkad and Mannarkkad. Also known as Meenvallom, this waterfall is a great attraction especially during the winter, and is definitely a sight not to be missed during Palakkad trip . A small hydel project, with an installed capacity of 3 MW has been constructed by the Palakkad District Panchayat at Meenvallam. The waterfalls and the surrounding area are protected and maintained by Thudikkode Vana Samrakshana Samithi of Olavakkode Range in Palakkad Forest Division. The forests surrounding the waterfalls are an extension of the Silent Valley National Park. Swimming/bathing is possible at these falls. This place is about 8 km ...

Distance from Kochi: 158 Kms

49. Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 34 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony WLS is located in Echippara village, near Varandarappilly town. The sanctuary is spread around Chimmony Dam. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Kochi and among the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India . Established in 1958, the sanctuary is spread over 100 Sq. Kms on the Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats. It is bordered with Peechi-Vazhahi Wildlife Sanctuary. The entry point into the sanctuary is at Echipara checkpost (guides can be hired at checkpost). Forest department organizes trekking programs - short (3 Hrs - Rs. 250), half-day (Rs. 400) & full-day (Rs. 800). Bamboo rafting is also offered from Inspection Bungalow (2 Hrs - 100 per person). Elephants, Sambar are most common fauna. There are 200 species of birds and 100 species of butterflies in the sanctuary. Sanctuary timings are 6 AM to 6 PM. Overnight stay is allowed with prior permission. Basic accommodation is available at Inspection Bungalow. For all bookings, contact Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Best season to visit is Sep-Mar.

Distance from Kochi: 78 Kms

50. Nyayamakad Waterfalls

At a distance of 10 km from Munnar, Nyayamakad Waterfalls is a picturesque waterfall on Munnar - Udamalpet road close to the entrance of Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the highest cascading waterfalls in Kerala , and among the must-visit places of sightseeing in Munnar . The water here drops from a height of more than 1500 meters cascading through rocks over several steps. The water is collected into a big pool at the bottom which is great place to spend some time during Munnar trip . This waterfall Is close to the Rajamalai entrance and can be visited along with Rajamalai / Eravikulam Park. It needs about 10 minutes walk from the main road. Trekking is a popular activity here. One can enjoy the marvelous views of surrounding valleys of Western Ghats including Anamudi and other peaks. Trekking to some of the upper levels of the falls is possible through rock climbing though it's little risky in Monsoons. Best time to visit Nyayamakad Waterfalls is post monsoon season between October and December. Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM Entry: Free

51. Anjengo / Anchuthengu Fort

At a distance of about 12 km from Varkala & 32 km from Trivandrum, Anjengo Fort, also called Anchuthengu Fort is an ancient fort situated at Anchuthengu village in Kerala. It is one of the famous places of heritage in Kerala , and among the must-visit places for history buffs as part of Trivandrum tour packages . Located on the outskirts of Varkala, Anjengo Fort was built in the 17th century by the British East India Company when it chose Anjengo to make its first trade settlement in Kerala. The word 'Anjuthengu' means five coconut palms and legend has it that a small area of five coconut trees was given to the British on rent by the Queen of Attingal and that is how the fort got its name. The fort served as the first signaling station for ships arriving from Britain.   The construction of the fort was commenced in the year 1696, and was completed in 1699. While construction was ongoing the Dutch lobbied the Rani against the fort's construction, as it would impact adversely on their trade on the Malabar coast. She ordered Brabourne to stop building but he ignored her orders. The Rani then tried to starve out the British by cutting off supplies; but as they could be supplied from the sea, the land blockade proved ineffectual. She then sent an armed force against Brabourne but he defeated it and peace was arranged. The fort played an important role in the Anglo-Mysore ...

Distance from Kochi: 189 Kms

52. Krishnapuram Palace

At a distance of 49 km from Alappuzha, the Krishnapuram Palace is a palace and museum located in Kayamkulam near Alappuzha in Kerala. It is one of the prominent places of heritage in Kerala, and among the must -include places in Alleppey tour packages . Situated on NH47 between Alappuzha and Kollam, the Krishnapuram Palace was built in the 18th century by Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma (1729-1758 AD) of Travancore kingdom. The Palace is a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture, with gabled roofs, narrow corridors, and dormer windows. Among the most famous heritage sites near Kochi , the palace is situated on the top of a small hill and is surrounded by a terraced garden with fountains, ponds, and lawns. Other attractions here include the beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound that is home to a variety of flora, and a newly built Buddha Mandapam, which houses a recently recovered statue of Lord Buddha. Currently, the palace houses an archaeological museum maintained by the Kerala State Department of Archaeology. The museum houses exhibits that belonged to the Palace and its former occupant, the Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma. Stone and wood sculptures, copies of Mural paintings, coins, megalithic remains, stone inscriptions, etc. are preserved and protected in this museum. The most fascinating exhibit ...

Distance from Kochi: 110 Kms

53. Mararikulam Beach / Marari Beach

At a distance of 16 km from Alappuzha, Mararikulam Beach is a secluded little-known beach situated at Mararikulam village near Alappuzha. It is one of the most scenic beaches near Kochi , and among the top places of sightseeing in Alleppey . This white sand beach is filled with several coconut trees providing a unique appearance to the beach. It is an ideal place for someone who wants to explore the backwaters of Kerala and relax amidst a peaceful environment. An evening stroll is one of the best hangouts here during your Alleppey trip . This beach is safe for swimming. Tourists can indulge themselves with Ayurvedic treats which are offered by Ayurvedic Massage Centre. The beach is about 3 km from NH47 junction (called Mararikulam-Kalithattu Junction) before Kanjikkunzhi. The NH47 Junction is connected by frequent buses travelling between Alappuzha and Kochi. There are several homestay options just on the shores of the beach. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

54. Kodungallur / Cranganore

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 mid 6th century AD, by Malik Ibn Dinar, the follower of Prophet Muhammad - A fort built by the Portuguese in 1523, which was later captured by Tipu Sultan of Mysore

Distance from Kochi: 32 Kms

55. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls

At a distance of 26 km from Pathanamthitta, Perunthenaruvi Waterfall is a wonderful waterfall situated at Vechoochira village in Kerala. It is one of the famous Pathanamthitta sightseeing places , and among the major waterfalls near Trivandrum . Situated in the forest region of Sabarimala, Perunthenaruvi allures tourists with its breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and the dazzling stream that flows to merge with the sacred Pamba River. The locality is the home field of beehives which have bestowed the place with the title Perunthenaruvi meaning 'The Honey Stream'. There are two waterfalls at Perunthenaruvi - the 300 feet Panamkudantha and the 200 feet Padivathil - both of these originate from the dense woods of Sabarimala. The stream gushes further beyond through the rocky bed to unite with the holy Pamba. This is a wonderful place to spend few hours swimming and playing in the water and enjoying the spectacular views. The main route to this waterfall starts from Ranni - Athikkayam - Kudamurutty - Perunthenaruvi. It is connected by bus service with Pathanamthitta. It is close to the main road and demands 20 minutes of trekking to reach the place. Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM Entry: Rs. 30 for Adult & Rs. 15 for Children

Distance from Kochi: 138 Kms

56. Aranmula

At a distance of 15 Km from Pathanamthitta, 53 Km from Alappuzha & 57 Km from Kumarakom, Aranmula is a Aranmula Snake Boat Race, also known as Aranmula Vallamkali is a popular boat race held in the never ending Kerala Backwaters . This is an annual boat race held in Aranmula district of Kerala during the Onam festival in the month of August-September. It is also known as Uthrittathi Boat Race. Aranmula Vallamkali owes its origin to the Sri Parthasarathy Temple situated on the banks of the Pamba River. The Vallamkali, associated with the annual festival of Sri Parthasarathy, is usually held on the last two days of the festival. The event that attracts tourists from all over the world is conducted not to win any trophy or prize but to celebrate the anniversary of the Sri Krishna idol installation, the main deity at the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. It is conducted in the Pamba River in front of the temple to commemorate the crossing of the river by Lord Krishna. The snake boats assemble near the Parthasarathy Temple before the race begins. Festivities take over the whole town as well as the waters. The boat race is famous worldwide and has become an icon of Kerala, attracting thousands of tourists every year during the festival of Onam. This annual boat race during Onam attracts tourists from all over India and the world. The snake boats are called 'Palliyodams' ...

Distance from Kochi: 116 Kms

57. Kakki Reservoir

At a distance of 70 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Kakki Reservoir is a scenic dam built across Pamba River. The reservoir is surrounded by valleys and forest of great natural beauty. The forest surrounded by the reservoir has rich wildlife population, like Tigers, Elephants, Deers etc. January to May is the best time to visit this place. There is very limited public transportation available to reach this place. It's advisable to hire private vehicle from Pathanamthitta.

58. Thrikkakkudi Rock-Cut Temple - Kaviyoor

At a distance of 6 km from Thiruvalla, & 29 km from Pathanamthitta, Trikkukkudi Rock-Cut Temple is an ancient temple carved on a massive rock located at Kaviyoor near Thiruvalla in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is one of the popular heritage sites near Trivandrum , and among the best places to visit near Pathanamthitta . Dedicated to Lord Siva, Trikkukkudi Rock-Cut Temple is an 8th-century Rock-Cut temple built in Pallava style of architecture and a place of great archeological importance. This temple is one of the three rock-cut temples in Kerala. It is preserved as a monument by the Archaeological Department. This temple is situated on the banks of the River Manimala. The architecture & sculptures of the temple are unique and famous. Enshrined in a square cave is the main deity of the Lord Siva represented in the form of Sivalinga which is about three feet high and carved out of rock. The shrine also has idols of Ganapathi, Maharshi, and Dwarapalakas. Another noted shrine in Kaviyoor is the Hanuman Temple which stands on a small hillock and is built in the gable style architecture peculiar to Kerala. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 104 Kms

59. Orakkampara Waterfalls

At a distance of 29 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Orakkampara Waterfalls is a cute waterfall located near Kottangal (about 2 Kms) in Mallappally Taluk. This is an unexplored waterfall located in thick forest. This little waterfall is a nice place to spend few hours. This waterfall is little close to the road from Kottangal towards SH8 (Kozhencherry - Erattupetta). It demands little trekking from the road. Kottangal is connected by few buses from Mallappally (which is 32 Kms from Pathanamthitta via Kozhencheery and Eraviperoor). However, hiring a private vehicle from Pathanamthitta or Ranni (20 Kms) is a good option.

60. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

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 Frogmouth, Malabar Gray Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, Rose-Billed Roller, etc. It also boasts of over 28 mammal species and over 9 species of reptiles. The place offers one of the best boating options in River Periyar. A brief ride on the river might take you close to cormorants, kingfishers, and many other birds, which feed off fish and other small creatures in the water. There is a deer park inside the sanctuary. Adjacent to the deer park, the Taxidermic Museum showcases the natives ...

Distance from Kochi: 62 Kms

61. Edamalayar Dam

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.

Distance from Kochi: 69 Kms

62. Maramon Convention - Kozhenchery

At a distance of 14 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Maramon Convention is held on the banks of River Pamba in Kozhenchery town (near Kozhenchery Bridge). With participation of more than 200,000 devotees, this is the biggest Christian gathering in Asia. The Maramon Convention is being conducted annually since 1896, in the month of February. This event is organized by the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association, the missionary wing of the Mar Thoma Church. The scholars of Christianity from India and abroad participate in this event. Maramon is also famous as the birthplace of Palakkunneth Abraham Malpan, a 19th century leader of the Syrian Church of Malabar. Kozhenchery is connected by frequent buses with Pathanamthitta.

Distance from Kochi: 113 Kms

At a distance of 13 km from Pathanamthitta and 16 km from Sabarimala , Ranni is a beautiful hill station in Pathanamthitta district and a fast growing tourist destination. It is the largest rubber producing region in Kerala. Ranni is derived from similar word in Malayalam which means Queen or Rani. Ranni alias the queen of hill lands is one of the most serene villages blessed with beautiful nature, rivers, hills, forests, good climate and atmosphere. The Pampa River flows through the middle of Ranni town and adds to its natural beauty. Ranni is also famous for St. Thomas Orthodox Church, also known as Thottamon Church. Established in 1905, this church belongs to the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Dedicated to St. Thomas, this church is known for its architectural beauty which was renovated in 2007. The annual festival of this church is celebrated for 5 days from December 17th to 21st. Perumthenaruvi is a beautiful natural waterfall is located 17 km from Ranni. Perumthenaruvi is a 100ft high Waterfall. The Charalkunnu Waterfall is another waterfall located near to Perumthenaruvi. One can experience a panoramic view of the low lying areas including river Pamba from here. Ranni is also blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is connected with Pathanamthitta by frequent bus service.

Distance from Kochi: 124 Kms

64. St .Mary's Orthodox Church - Niranam

At a distance of 39 Kms from Pathanamthitta & 10 kms from Thiruvalla, St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church located in Niranam (popularly known as Niranam Valiyapally) is a parish under the Niranam Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Founded by St. Thomas in 54 AD, this is one of the most ancient churches in the world. It also contains the mortal remains of St. Thomas. The present structure was constructed in 1912, and later strengthened in the year 2000. Huge granite Cross, relics of St. Thomas, remains of the old church and the golden cross are the special attractions of the church. The feast of Assumption of St. Mary celebrated on Aug 15th and the Feast of Nativity of St. Mary celebrated on September 8th are important festival of the church. The Feast of St. Thomas on Dec 21st, the Feast of St. Behanan on Dec 27th and the Feasts of Marthoma II and Marthoma V on May10th are also celebrated in a grand manner here. This place is connected by bus from Thiruvalla.

65. Cherai Beach

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 in the month of December.

Distance from Kochi: 27 Kms

66. St Mary's Forane Church - Kuravilangad

At a distance of 20 Kms from Kottayam, St.Mary's Forane Church (also known as Martha Mariam Church) is located in Kuravilangad, on the way to Muvattupuzha. Constructed in the year of 105 AD, this Church belongs to the diocese of Palai. It is believed that Mother Mary appeared to a few children in this area and asked them to build a church at the place from where a miraculous spring emerged, which exists even today. The church was built and a statue of the Virgin Mary carved from granite is installed here. A 48 feet single block granite cross is located in front of the church, which was erected around 1597. Three majestic bells of Kuravilangad were brought from Germany in 1911. The main festival of the church called 'Moonnu Nompu', celebrated for 3 days in the month of xx. Thousands of devotees from all parts of Kerala participate in the festival.

Distance from Kochi: 53 Kms

67. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary - Thenmala

At a distance of 78 km from Kollam, Shendurny Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Kollam district of Kerala. Located at the edge of Thenmala Dam's catchment area in the Western Ghats, it is one of the lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala , and among the major places to visit as part of Kollam holiday packages .   Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary comes under the control of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. It was established in the year 1984 and comprises 172 sq. km. The name is a corruption of the Chengurinji, a tree endemic to the region (Gluta travancorica). The sanctuary is a valley of green splendour acclaimed for its rich biodiversity lying on either side of the Shendurney river. The sanctuary is spread across 26 sq. km artificial lake formed by Thenmala Dam. According to recent archaeological findings, this place has witnessed one of the oldest river valley civilizations in India, even older than the Indus valley. Remains of Stone Age culture dating back 5210-4420 BC have been excavated from a large cave near the river. The cave also contains ancient paintings. Among the top Kollam places to visit , the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure house of plant diversity. About 1257 species of flowering plants belonging to more than 150 families are reported from this ...

Distance from Kochi: 200 Kms

68. Valanjaganam Waterfalls

At a distance of 61 km from Kottayam, Valanjaganam Waterfall, locally known as Ninnumullipara, is a scenic waterfall located at Kuttikkanam in Kerala. It is one of the stunning waterfalls in Kerala , and among the most popular Kottayam tourist places . Valanjaganam Waterfall lies on the Kottayam-Kumily state highway, about 4 km from Kuttikkanam towards Thekkady/Periyar. Also known as Kesari Waterfalls, this waterfall is probably one of the most easily accessible ones in Kerala, which is why many tourists often flock to it each year. It is an ideal spot to stop and take a quick stretch and relax during tiring journeys during your Kottayam trip . A flight of steps takes you down to where the waterfall ends. There are a few shops near the waterfall, people were stopping by for a hot cup of tea and snacks. Be a little careful while driving here because people seem to zooming on along the curve and suddenly breaking when they see the waterfall. Regular buses are available between Kottayam and Thekkady/Periyar. September to January is the best time to visit the falls. The falls are located just adjacent to the highway and no trekking is required to reach the falls. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 128 Kms

69. Poonjar Palace

At a distance of 2 km from Erattupetta, and 41 km from Kottayam, Poonjar Palace is a 600 years old Palace situated at Poonjar village near Kottayam. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Kerala , and among the most famous tourist places in Kottayam . The Poonjar Palace in Meenachil taluk was built by Poonjar Rajas and is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. The palace is entirely made out of wood, reflecting the traditional Kerala architecture. The palace is adorned with a fascinating collection of various types of furniture and antiques which includes grand chandeliers, jewelry boxes, statues, grain measurer, weapons, and palm leaf engravings. Tourists will also see a beautiful sculpture of Nataraja, a palanquin, and a thoni for Ayurvedic massages crafted out of a single piece of wood as part of Kottayam sightseeing packages . The replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple nearby the Palace is another attraction. The walls of this temple have sculptures with warfare stories from the Puranas. However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on the stonewalls of the Sastha Temple nearby. But it is closed for visitors.

Distance from Kochi: 91 Kms

70. Anamudi Peak

At a distance of 20 km from Munnar, Anamudi Peak is a mountain peak situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala near Munnar. It is the highest point in India outside the Himalaya-Karakoram, and among the popular places of trekking in Kerala . Located at an altitude of 8842 feet, Anamudi Peak is the highest point in South India, and among the must-visit Munnar tourist places . Located inside the Eravikulam National Park, it is a famous trekking destination in Kerala which offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Anamudi, together with the Eravikulam Park, is home to one of the largest surviving populations of Asian elephants, Gaurs, and Nilgiri Tahrs. Anamudi is also famous for Kurunji flowers that blossom once in 12 years. The 2-3 days trekking programming starts at the foothill of Eravikulam with night halts at tribal hamlets inside the forest. Taking prior permission from Wildlife authorities is mandatory before starting the trek to Anamudi Peak during your Munnar tour . It is advisable to take guided tours from travel agents in Munnar, who will provide food, guide, accommodation, permissions, pick up / drop, and all other facilities. In order to just view the Anamudi Peak from a distance, visitors can take the guided minibus tour of Eravikulam National Park which will take to the viewpoint that offers ...

71. Chinnakanal Waterfalls / Power House Falls

At a distance of 16 km from Munnar, Power House Waterfalls, also called Chinnakanal Waterfalls is located near Chinnakanal village after Devikulam in Kerala. It is one of the best waterfalls near Kochi , and among the must-visit Munnar tourist attractions . Falling through a steep rock from a height of about 2,000 m, this cascading waterfall is a wonderful place to spend few hours. The stream is said to be originated from the scenic & sacred Devikulam Hills. It is possible to reach the bottom of the falls by trekking down the hills. Swimming in the pool at bottom of the falls is a memorable experience during your Munnar vacation . The Power House waterfall is en route to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. The best time to visit the falls is during the post-monsoon season. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 135 Kms

72. Cheeyappara Waterfalls

At a distance of 38 Kms from Munnar, the famous Cheeyappara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49). Cascading down in 7 steps, Cheeyappara Waterfalls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Kerala. This is also a great place for trekking. It is noted for 2 acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering. The waterfalls are just adjacent to the highway. The falls offer spectacular views with full glory during summer and it's not possible to reach the bottom of the falls or enjoy in the waters of the falls in monsoon. This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

73. Anayirankal Dam

At a distance of 24 Kms from Munnar, Anayirankal Dam is a lovely place located on NH49 (towards Palani, after Devikulam). The surroundings of the falls are full of tea plantations & forests and appear like a green carpet. It is one of the earliest Dams built in India using concrete. Elephants are also spotted in the vicinity of reservoir. This place is connected by frequent buses from Munnar . All buses towards Palani stop here.

74. Kuthumkal Waterfalls

At a distance of 24 Kms from Munnar and 36 Kms from Idukki, Kuthumkal Waterfalls is charming waterfall located in Kuthumkal near Rajakkad (4 Kms) in Idukki District. This cascading waterfall is a good picnic spot to enjoy the nature and play with the waters of the falls. The falls are very close to the main road and accessible by easy trek. It is possible to get into the waters at bottom of these falls. Rajakkad is connected by bus with Munnar & Adimali (24 Kms). The falls are 4 Kms from Rajakkad and can be reached by Auto/Bus.Kuthumkal water falls is located 21 kms from Munnar. The picturesque Ponmudi Dam (7 Kms from Kuthumkal Falls and 17 Kms from Adimali) built across Panniar River is another popular attraction near the Waterfalls. It is connected by bus with Adimali-Rajakkad service.

Distance from Kochi: 120 Kms

75. Dhoni Hills

At a distance of 12 km from Palakkad & 60 km from Coimbatore, Dhoni Hills is a famous picnic spot near Palakkad. It is one of the best places of sightseeing in Palakkad . Adjacent to the Malampuzha Reservoir, Dhoni Hills is a wonderful destination for trekking. Dhoni is named after a boat-shaped rock on one of its hills, where thoni/dhoni means boat in Malayalam. It is famous for Dhoni Waterfalls and the Western Ghat forests. Visitors have to walk 4 km from the bottom of the hill to reach the waterfall. Dhoni provides trekkers the opportunity to explore its hilly terrains. The trek from the base area to Malampuzha and Meenavallam and Dhoni waterfalls is very interesting. It is one of the famous trekking places near Coimbatore . One can encounter some rare species of flora and fauna on the trek here. Dhoni is also famous for its farmhouse, harboring hundreds of cattle of Swiss variety. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Rs. 100 for Person

Distance from Kochi: 137 Kms

76. Kanjirapuzha Dam

At a distance of 34 Kms from Palakkad, Kanjirapuzha Dam is a fascinating dam surrounded by hills with rich natural beauty. The reservoir is surrounded by an evergreen forest named Vettilachola. Three islands at all sides of the reservoir gain a special attraction. These islands are abundant with marine life including commercial varieties grown by the fisheries department. There is a wonderful garden at bottom of the dam with several facilities. Boating facilities is also available in the reservoir.

Distance from Kochi: 174 Kms

77. Nattika Beach

At a distance of 24 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Nattika Beach is the place to experience the exotic beauty of the nature. Nattika is a wide and virgin beach blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand. This picturesque place offers beach holidays and package tours. The resorts in the beaches provide all modern facilities. Prime attractions include ride on country boats, elephant rides, deep-sea fishing & beach games.

78. Vatanappally Beach

At a distance of 17 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Vatanappally Beach is among the beautiful Kerala beaches. It is situated on the coastal belt of Thrissur District. It is an enchanting strip of golden sand laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms. Today, this calm and pleasant beach is a dreamy destination for many tourists. This beach is close to NH17 between kochi and Kozhikode and connected by many bus services from Thrissur.

Distance from Kochi: 64 Kms

79. Painavu

At a distance of around 5 km from Idukki Bus Station, 53 km from Munnar, 107 km from Kochi & 130 km from Alappuzha, Painavu is a cute hill resort and also the headquarters of Idukki district. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Munnar & Kochi. Painavu is an important commercial center and a popular tourist hot spot in Idukki. At an altitude of 3,900 feet, Painavu is situated inside the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also home to several State Government institutions such as Civil Station, and Government Engineering College, Idukki . The place is popular for its pleasing ambience and picturesque location. This is a stopover for visitors, who travel to Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni Dam and Kulamavu. Boats are available from here for cruises between Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. In winter and rainy seasons elephants can be spotted moving on the roads. Surrounded by pristine forests and green hills, Painavu is also a good trekking destination. Trekking in Painavu is said to be an outstanding experience and visitors can see many routes through the forests, plantations and to other small towns. Painavu can be accessed easily by road as it is a 5 km from Idukki Bus station. Also, Painavu can be reached via water from Cheruthoni to Kulamavu junction. The closest railway stations are at Ernakulum (114 km) and Kottaym (98 km). The nearest international airport is at Cochin ...

Distance from Kochi: 99 Kms

80. Malankara Dam

At a distance of 43 Kms from Idukki, 65 Kms from Kumarakom, 58 kms from Kottayam and 80 Kms from Munnar, Malankara Dam & Lake (in Idukki district) is a lovely place located at a distance of 7 Kms from Thodupuzha on Thodupuzha-Erattupetta route. Malankara Lake, spread over 11 Kms is an artificial lake formed as part of Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation Project. The Dam is constructed across Thodupuzha River for irrigation purpose. This place is a very good picnic spot with boating facilities in the lake. It is located on SH8 and easily accessible from Thodupuzha by Bus, Auto & Cab. Thodupuzha is accessible by Bus from all parts of Kerala. Thommankuthu Waterfalls is about 27 Kms from this place which is connected by Bus from Thodupuzha.

Distance from Kochi: 68 Kms

81. Keezharkuthu Falls / Rainbow Waterfalls

At a distance of 30 Kms from Idukki , 63 Kms from Munnar and 20 Kms from Thodupuzha, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls (also known as Rainbow Waterfalls) is a popular tourist sport near Idukki. It is a cascading waterfalls falling through several steps from a height of over 1500 meters. It is also an ideal place for rock climbing & mountaineering. This place is good to visit throughout the year. The falls are located in deep forest and can be reached by trekking through the forests for over 2 Kms. Nearest town to the falls is Udambannoor, which is connected by Bus with Idukku, Munnar and Thodupuzha. From Udambannoor, the falls are about 6 Kms and there is approach road for about 4 Kms which can be reached by Jeep / Auto. The remaining 2 Kms is trek path.

Distance from Kochi: 89 Kms

82. Mankayam

At a distance of 40 km from Ponmudi and 43 km from Trivandrum, Manakayam is an eco-tourism spot situated near Palode in Nedumangadu taluk of Trivandrum district, Kerala. It is one of the popular eco-tourism places near Trivandrum and among the top places to visit in Ponmudi . Mankayam eco-tourism center is situated at Peringamala Section in Palode Forest Range under Thiruvananthapuram Forest Division. The Mankayam River, a tributary of the Chittar River, flows through this scenic tourist spot. Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and usually protected areas, intended as a low-impact and often small-scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism. Mankayam acts as the focal point for a huge array of picnic spots in the area. Situated at an altitude of around 500 m, Manakayam is known for its picturesque milky cascades. The undulating terrain with rocky patches shelters the Kalakkayam Waterfall, one of the biggest falls in this area. There is a small pond at the bottom of the falls which is cool and taking a refreshing bath in the pond is a great experience. The entire area from Mankayam to Kalakkayam covers a long stretch of forest vegetation on the banks of the Mankayam River. Also, there are two smaller falls in the Kurisadi area. Fed by the Mankayam River, these waterfalls are the most popular weekend getaways for the residents of Thiruvananthapuram. Manakayam ...

Distance from Kochi: 198 Kms

83. Silver Cascade

At a distance of 8 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Silver Cascade is a mesmerizing waterfall situated in the town of Kodaikanal. This is one of the most popular waterfalls near Bangalore and among the prime place to visit on a Kodaikanal trip . Cascading down from a height of about 55 meters (180 ft, the Silver Cascade waterfall is formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal Lake. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Kodai . The name 'Silver cascade' is given to this fall, owing to the colour of the water which appears silver when flowing down the 55-meter high cliff. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing waterfall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport such as auto or rickshaw, in Kodaikanal. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 196 Kms

84. Siruvani Waterfalls

At a distance of 36 km from Coimbatore, and 50 km from Palakkad, Siruvani Waterfall is a scenic waterfall situated in the Siruvani Hills of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the popular waterfalls in Tamilnadu , and among the must-visit places during your Coimbatore trip . Also called Kovai Kutralam Falls, the Siruvani Fall is formed by the Siruvani river. The reservoir at Siruvani was built for Tamil Nadu by the Kerala Government with funds collected by the Tamil Nadu government to meet the drinking water requirements of Coimbatore city. The water of the Dam is famous for its sweetness and it is typically known to be the second sweetest lake water in the world. It is one of the major tourist places in Coimbatore . The visitors are not allowed to see the falls after 5 pm as it is located in the center part of a dense forest. With an outstanding panoramic view, the Siruvani dam is extremely beautiful and breathe taking. Tourists cannot make their visit to this falls anytime because only a few numbers of buses are available to visit the place. Sadivayal Checkpost, where an entry fee Rs. 50 is charged, is at the gateway to the waterfalls. Private vehicles are not allowed beyond this point. However, vehicles arranged by the forest department can be used for the conveyance to the point where ...

Distance from Kochi: 181 Kms

85. Bear Shola Falls

At a distance of 3 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station & 512 Kms from Chennai, Bear Shola Falls is a tall waterfall in a Reserve forest. It is said that bears used to drink water at top of the falls, and the falls are called so. This is one of the top places for sightseeing in Kodaikanal and one of the best waterfalls in kodaikanal . The approach road to the falls is bumpy and hilly. The falls offer best views just after monsoon during the months of September & October. You don't find any water in summer season. The pathway from the main road follows through dense forest amidst serene location. Apart from the majestic waterfall, the walk through the forest itself is a wonderful experience. Height of the falls is about 40 feet and the water drops into a small pool. Swimming here is safe if the water flow is not fierce. This place demands a 10 minute walk from the road point. The waterfall attracts large number of visitors during monsoon season. There is a shop at the entrance of the path to the fall that sells tea, water and snacks. Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM

86. Vaideki Waterfalls

At a distance of 35 Kms from Coimbatore Railway Station & 533 Kms from Chennai, Vaideki Falls are located near Narisipuram town. The falls is very beautiful and has a naturally formed slope. It is located inside the forest and one must obtain permission before entering the forest. Visitors are only allowed by being escorted by a forest guard into the forest. This area of forest has lot of animal movements; especially elephants. There are lot of incidents of elephants attacking humans, so it is always advisable to obtain permission and get some guards accompanying while entering the forest. About 5 Kms trek through forest is required to reach the falls from nearest road point. One can get private vehicles to reach forest trek point from Narisipuram town.

Distance from Kochi: 193 Kms

87. Suruli Waterfalls

At a distance of 123 kms from Madurai, 22 Kms from Thekkady (via Gudalur & Karuna Muthevan Patti), 10 Kms from Kambam (via Suruli Patti) & 548 Kms from Chennai, Suruli Falls are situated amidst rich flora fauna and serve as a perfect picnic spot. The falls originate from the Megamalai hills and descend from a height of 150 feet. They are surrounded by the astounding beauty of the dense forest. The best feature of Suruli Falls is that they are round-the-year Falls, best time is June to October. The falls serve as the venue of Summer Festival, organized every year by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department. The Kailasanathar Temple Cave is also an added attraction of the place. There are also other 18 caves in and around the Suruli Falls. The Kailasanatha temple and Suruli Velappar temple are also nearby the falls. The falls are reachable by road from Kambam and Gudalur towns. About 1-2 Kms trek through dense forest is required to reach the falls from nearest road.

88. Monkey Falls

At a distance of 5 km from Aliyar Dam, 27 km from Pollachi, and 38 km from Valparai Bus Station, Monkey Falls is a natural waterfall situated in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. Situated on the Pollachi-Valparai road in the Anamalai Hills range, it is one of the magnificent waterfalls near Coimbatore , and among the best places to visit as part of Pollachi packages . Situated near Aliyar Dam, Monkey Falls is cascading down from a height of about 60 feet into a pool. Enveloped between evergreen forests and rocky cliffs, this enchanting waterfall brings together the entire scenery. It is one of the best places to visit in Pollachi . Take a dip in the falls is refreshing though it is a bit dangerous during monsoons when the water flow is high. As the name suggests, the place has several monkeys. So, has to be careful while taking care of their belongings. One needs to take prior permission from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department a fortnight before the date of the trek. The headquarters are at Pollachi and the procedure to obtain a permit is not very cumbersome. There are guided tours available too for visitors who are eager to learn about the diverse flora and fauna that surround these falls. The best time to visit the falls is between October & March. This place attracts ...

Distance from Kochi: 186 Kms

89. Topslip

At a distance of 35 km from Pollachi and 76 km from Coimbatore, 5 km from Parambikulam , Topslip is a protected tiger reserve located in the Annamalai mountain range of the Western Ghats in Tamilnadu. It is one of the must include places in Pollachi Tour Packages. Situated at an altitude of 240 m, Topslip is the tourist zone and main birding area of the Annamalai Tiger Reserve, which is separated from the Nilgiri Hills by Palghat Gap in the north. It stands majestically with Green Spread Mountains and forest all around. The place got its name during the British era, as lots of its timber slipped down to the plains below. Topslip is blessed with a gentle altitude, a salubrious climate, and a variety of flora and fauna. Its picturesque location and fabulous scenery have made it a popular location for several movie sequences. It is also famous for the elephant camp. It is the best gateway for a wonderful wildlife experience of the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. The unique teak forests, Bamboo forests, rich exotic species of plants, and wild animals are the major attractions of Topslip. It is also a wonderful destination for bird watching as it is home to 250 species of birds. MT Stuart block is another attraction which is located 3 km from Topslip. It has an ancient forest bungalow along with the grave of Hugo Wood, a British officer with an environmental conscience who emphasized that ...

90. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 5 km from Topslip , 40 km from Pollachi, 80 km from Palakkad, and 82 km from Coimbatore, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected tiger reserve located in Palakkad district of Kerala. Situated on Tamil Nadu - Kerala Border, it is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala , and among the top places to visit near Pollachi . Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, formerly known as Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, is a 391 Sq. km protected area in Chittur taluk of Palakkad district of Kerala. The wildlife sanctuary, which had an area of 285 sq. km was established in 1973. It is in the Sungam range of hills between the Anaimalai Hills and Nelliampathy Hills. The sanctuary was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2010. Including the buffer zone, the tiger reserve has a span of 643.66 Sq. km. The Western Ghats, Anamalai sub-cluster, including all of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site. It is one of the top places of wildlife near Coimbatore , and among the must include places in Pollachi tour . Parambikulam is one of the biodiversity hot spots in ...

Distance from Kochi: 191 Kms

91. Annamalai Tiger Reserve

At a distance of 38 km from Pollachi and 76 km from Coimbatore, Annamalai Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Annamalai mountain range of the Western Ghats in Tamilnadu. It is one of the popular tiger reserves in India and among the must include places in Pollachi Tour Packages. Annamalai Tiger Reserve was originally called Anamalai Wild Life Sanctuary notified in the year 1974 and established in the year 1976. Later, it was renamed as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park in honor of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's visit in 1961. Located at an altitude of 1400 m, the sanctuary has declared as Annamalai Tiger Reserve in 2007 with an extent of 958.59 sq. km that encompassed the erstwhile IGWLS&NP or Aanaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary. According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the Reserve presently includes a core area of 958.59 sq. km and a buffer area of 521.28 sq.km forming a total area of 1479.87 sq. km. The reserve is bordered with Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve covers a total of four revenue taluks include the headquarters in Pollachi, the Valparai, Udumalpet, and Kodaikanal. The Anamalai wildlife sanctuary has various kinds of wild animals like panthers, elephants, deer, gaur, civets, tigers, sloth bears, wild bears, wild dogs, porcupines, flying squirrels, jackals, and pangolins. The park is home to birds like the red treepie, whiskered bulbul, ...

92. Thirumoorthy Hills & Waterfall

At a distance of 38 km from Pollachi, Thirumoorthy Hills is one of the charming outdoors near Pollachi. A part of the Anamalai range of the Western Ghats, it is one of the famous places to visit in near Pollachi. At the foot of the hills is the Thirumoorthy Temple, also known as Sri Amanalingeswarar Temple. A perennial stream flows by the side of the temple. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu trinity, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. Legend says that Athri Maharishi and his wife Anasuya Devi resided in these hills, and the Gods of the Hindu trinity had come down to test their devotion. The Gods asked Anasuya Devi to make their offerings in nudity. She agreed and changed the Gods as babies with her devotion, fed them & put them to sleep in a cradle. Athri came back afterward and hearing the story from Anasuya praised the three gods sleeping in the cradle. Later, the Trinities come back to their original form and give a boon to Anasuya. According to her wish, three children were born to her - Shiva is born as Sage Durvasa, Vishnu as Dattatreya, and Brahma as Chandra (Moon). Hence, this region is named as Thirumoorthy Hills. Thirumoorthy Dam has been constructed adjoining the Thirumurthy Hill near Amanalingeswarar Temple. The panorama of the Anamalai Hills surrounding the shimmering blue waters of the reservoir is a sight to behold. This area is a popular spot for shooting films thanks to the beauty of the region. It is the perfect place for tourists who love ...

93. Sholayar Dam

At a distance of 23 km from Valparai, and 55 km from Athirapally, Sholayar Dam is a masonry- gravity dam situated on Valparai-Athirapally road. It is one of the top tourist places to visit near Athirapally Waterfall, and among the must include places in Valparai tour packages . The Solaiyar Dam is part of the Solaiyar Hydroelectric Project (HEP) which comprises the main Soliayar Dam, the Solaiyar Flanking, and the Solaiyar Saddle Dam. Solaiyar Dam was officially opened in 1965. The Solaiyar Flanking was built in 1964 and the Solaiyar Saddle Dam in 1965. The dam is an important reservoir under the Parambikulam-Aliyar Project. The height of the main dam is 66 m, its width is 430 m, and its length 430.60 m. The reservoir's overflowing waters are let into the Parambikulam Reservoir through the saddle dam. The surroundings of the dam are full of great natural beauty. It is not worth visiting other than in monsoons as the lake is dry after December. Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 126 Kms

Please wait... the destinations are being loaded

Top 5 Kerala Packages

Most popular tours, most popular tourist places in kerala.

Similar Getaways

Popular Kochi Getaways

• Top Places to Visit near Kochi
• Best Hill Stations around Kochi
• Best Waterfalls near Kochi
• Adventure / Trekking near Kochi
• Popular Beaches around Kochi
• Top Heritage Sites near Kochi
• Wildlife Sanctuaries near Kochi
• Pilgrimage Sites around Kochi

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Le Méridien Kochi Reviews

Le méridien kochi.

Le Méridien Kochi Guest Reviews

Trending Searches

Recommended for you.

Lakshadweep Trip 101: Your guide to 5 days of sun, sand and fun

A s soon as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pictures from his Lakshadweep visit surfaced on social media, Google search for this destination skyrocketed. Lakshadweep is a tropical archipelago consisting of 36 islands (one has been lost to sea erosion) in the Laccadive Sea, off the Malabar coast in India.

While the picturesque islands of Lakshadweep are being pitched as a pocket-friendly alternative to the Maldives , the tension between India and the Maldives has also taken centre stage.

So, while the world (especially India) is zeroing in on Lakshadweep as their next getaway, how exactly do you get to Lakshadweep?

How to reach 

This popular beach destination can be reached via water and air. As per the official website of the Union Territory, Lakshadweep can be reached by ship and flights, operated from Kochi (Cochin), Kerala. 

By air: Air tickets from places like Delhi or Mumbai to Kochi may cost around Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000 per person (one way). 

• Only the Agatti island in Lakshadweep has an airstrip. The flight from Kochi to Agatti takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes.
• As of now, only Alliance Air operates between Kochi and Agatti.
• The air ticket may cost between Rs 5,500 to Rs 6,000 per person (one way).
• You can also take a flight from Bengaluru to Lakshadweep via Kochi . The tickets may cost between Rs 7,000 to Rs 25,000 for one person (one way).

By bus and ferry: Apart from this, you can also take a bus to Ernakulam in Kochi from Bengaluru, then reach the Willingdon island jetty via taxi and take the ferry to Kavaratti, which is the capital of Lakshadweep.

By ship:  As per the government website of Lakshadweep Tourism, seven passenger ships – MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoon, MV Corals, MV Amindivi and MV Minicoy, operate between Kochi and Lakshadweep islands.

• The journey may take around 14 to 18 hours, depending on the island chosen.
• The ship tickets can be booked online through the official website.
• You can also book the Lakshadweep Samudram package for the trip. 
• If you prefer luxury, you can also take the Cordelia Cruises ship. 
• A five-night package from Mumbai to Lakshadweep via Kochi may cost between Rs 93,541 and Rs 1,13,461 (per person), depending on the room category. 

Where to stay

You can book your stay through the official website of Lakshadweep tourism . The islands of Bangaram, Kadmat, Kavaratti and Thinnakkara all have accommodation options on the government website. 

You will get several room types to choose from. However, the booking is subject to availability.

One can also connect with the property directly to make a booking.

Here are the room options and their per-night cost.  

• Bangaram Island Resort : For an air-conditioned cottage, you'll have to spend Rs 18,000 per night on single or double occupancy (all inclusive). 

You can also get a wooden hut here by spending Rs 24,000 (per night, all inclusive) on single and double occupancy. 

• Kadmat Island Resort : For a non-AC room, you'll have to spend Rs 5,000 for double occupancy and Rs 3,000 for single occupancy per night. The range goes up to Rs 11,000 for double occupancy and Rs 8,000 for single occupancy if you choose the super deluxe AC room. 
• Kavaratti Island Resort : The only option available here is an air-conditioned suite. It is priced at Rs 11,000 per night on single and double occupancy. 
• Thinnakkara Island Resort : You will get to stay in a non-AC tent here. It will cost you Rs 10,000 for double occupancy, and Rs 8,000 for single occupancy per night. 

How much does it cost?

Is visiting Lakshadweep expensive? It depends on your budget.

You will have to spend around Rs 60,000 to Rs 1,50,000 (including airfare) per head for a five-day trip. 

You can also check travel packages available on different online portals for visiting this destination. These packages may cost between Rs 25,000 to Rs 1,00,000.

MakeMyTrip, for example, has the following land packages for Cochin and Agatti.

What to do in Lakshadweep

• Snorkelling at Agatti island
• Scuba diving at Kalpeni island
• Explore the architectural wonders at Kalpeni island
• Canoeing at Minicoy island
• Fishing at Kadmat island

You must note that snorkelling trips may start at Rs 1,000, scuba diving at Rs 3,500, and fishing tours at Rs 1,000. 

Island tours, on the other hand, may cost around Rs 1,000- Rs 1,500 per person.

Best time to visit

As per Lakshadweep tourism's website, the best time to visit this destination is from October to mid-May.

While the resorts in Lakshadweep are open throughout the year, commuting via ship gets difficult during monsoon (mid-May to September).

Now, here's a 5-day Lakshadweep itinerary.

Day 1  

• Arrive in Kochi.
• You can head directly to Lakshadweep by taking a flight to Agatti, and stay at a pre-booked hotel in Bangaram.
• Reach Bangaram via boat from Agatti. Two-way inter-island transfers may range from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000 per person.
• Take the first day slow, and settle in at your hotel.
• Try water activities like boating, kayaking, fishing, snorkelling and more in Bangaram.
• Spend the night in Bangaram.
• Head to Kavaratti and stay at a pre-booked hotel there.
• A boat is the best medium for inter-island transfer.
• Try water activities in Kavaratti. 
• Head to Kadmat island, a popular nesting spot for marine turtles. 
• Stay at a pre-booked hotel in Kadmat.
• Enjoy the island and try water activities. 
• Head back to Agatti from Kadmat.
• Fly back to Kochi and then to your destination. 

Now, the most important thing to keep in mind when visiting Lakshadweep:

• You will require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit Lakshadweep. You can apply for the same through the e-permit portal of the Lakshadweep Administration. 
• The permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue and the fee is Rs 300 per person.
• Non-Indians must obtain a mandatory Rs 300 entry permit.
• A Green Tax of Rs 300 per person is charged upon arrival at Agatti airport.
• ATM and credit card facilities are limited in Lakshadweep, so make sure you carry enough cash. Set aside some for tipping.
• Lakshadweep is ecologically fragile; so, responsible travel is of the utmost importance.  

(Note: The prices mentioned in the article are in accordance with the date of publishing and might change at the time of booking. Readers are advised to check beforehand.)