Welcome to Kochi, a city that tantalizes the senses and nourishes the soul. Once a bustling spice trade hub on the Silk Road, Kochi now beckons travelers with its unique blend of Old World European charm, remnants of ancient Chinese and Arabian traders, and vestiges of the British Raj.
Why Visit Kochi
Nestled on the tropical Malabar coast, friendly Kochi offers a myriad of experiences to satisfy your wanderlust. Immerse yourself in history as you stroll through the grand palaces that once housed the Rajs and Ranis. The world of Bollywood is at your feet, with Kochi being the birthplace of Kathakali, a mesmerizing form of classical Indian dance. Treat your eyes and ears to vibrant performances of colorful song and dance numbers. Make your friends green with envy by capturing the perfect photo op on the sun-kissed beaches. Drift along the tranquil backwaters on a private Kettuvallam, watching the world go by at a leisurely pace. Gain insight into local life by exploring the fascinating Kochi Backwaters.
Delight in the diverse flavors of Kochi’s vibrant food scene, where you can sample a delightful smorgasbord of Keralan, Chinese, Indian, European, and American cuisines. Transport yourself to colonial times by sipping high tea during a cricket match, immersing yourself in the nostalgia of British Raj-era England. For history enthusiasts, museums and classic landmarks abound, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Indulge in retail therapy during a shopping spree, and pamper yourself with a seaside massage, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of tropical bird calls.
When to Visit Kochi
The best time to visit Kochi is during the dry season, which spans from August to April. This period ensures pleasant weather for exploration. However, it’s important to note that monsoons occur from June to December, bringing heavy rainfall to the region.
For a truly immersive cultural experience, time your visit to coincide with the vibrant festivals of Onam, Holi, and Diwali. The locals eagerly await the revelry of the Cochin Carnival, a week-long celebration that takes place during the last week of December.
Where to Stay in Kochi
Kochi offers a plethora of accommodation options to suit every budget. The historical Fort Kochi area is particularly recommended as it serves as the heart of the city.
Numerous classic buildings have been lovingly restored and transformed into boutique hotels, offering exceptional value for money. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway, traveling on a shoestring budget, exploring with your family, or indulging in a luxurious escape, you’ll find charming and comfortable lodging options brimming with character and warm hospitality.
For a unique experience, consider staying in a homestay, which is akin to an Indian version of a Bed & Breakfast. These homestays offer a wide range of amenities, including airport transportation, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, connected bathrooms, cable TV, and free local phone calls. Breakfast is usually included, and some homestays go above and beyond by providing all meals and snacks.
Where to Eat in Kochi
No travel adventure is complete without savoring the local cuisine, and Kochi’s food scene caters to every budget and palate. The city’s multicultural heritage heavily influences its culinary landscape. Dining at Kochi’s restaurants is a gastronomic delight, where every bite feels like a party in your mouth, with an invitation extended to cuisines from around the world. From delectable Keralan dishes to Chinese, Indian, European, and American flavors, Kochi offers a tantalizing array of options.
As a coastal community, Kochi is renowned for its fresh seafood. You can even purchase fish directly from the beach and have it cooked at nearby food stalls.
Rice and curry dishes dominate the culinary scene, infused with the vibrant flavors of coconut, mustard seeds, onions, curry leaves, and sliced fried chilies. Don’t miss the opportunity to relish a traditional Keralan lunch or dinner served on a banana leaf, known as sadya. For those craving a taste of home, LuLu Mall hosts various American fast-food chains that offer affordability and convenience.
Getting Around Kochi
Ferries provide a fast and enjoyable mode of transportation within Kochi. Fares for ferry rides typically range from INR 4 to INR 6.
While there isn’t regular bus service between Fort Cochin and Mattancherry Palace, the approximately 30-minute walk or bike ride through the bustling warehouse section along Bazaar Road offers a pleasant alternative.
Autorickshaws, commonly known as tuk-tuks, are a popular choice for getting around Kochi. The average fare for an autorickshaw ride is around INR 80, but don’t hesitate to haggle. Taxis and rickshaws are available for travel to Fort Kochi when ferries and buses cease operations for the evening.
To travel from Ernakulam Town train station to Fort Cochin, expect to pay around INR 400 for a taxi. Autorickshaws during the day typically cost about INR 250.
Uber has gained popularity as an alternative to taxis in Kochi. Scooters are available for rent at approximately INR 300 per day, while motorcycles range from INR 400 to INR 600 per day.
Getting to and from Kochi
Cochin International Airport serves as a major gateway to India, with regular flights to various Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian cities operated by Air India Express, India’s budget airline, which is based in Kochi.
Kochi enjoys excellent connectivity with other Indian cities through domestic carriers. During the tourist season, direct chartered services cater to travelers from Europe and the USA.
To travel to or from the airport, consider taking a state-run bus operated by the Kerala Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), connecting Kochi to the rest of Kerala and southern India. Fast passenger and super-fast express buses run at frequent intervals to nearby towns. Air-conditioned buses operate approximately every 30 to 40 minutes to Kochi City, terminating at Fort Kochi. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs around INR 70 or less. To access KSRTC and private bus schedules and routes, download the Free Cochin Bus Finder app from Google Play.
Car rental companies operate within the airport premises, and many accommodations offer free shuttles. Although the Airport railway station is currently under construction, the nearest railway stations to the airport are Aluva and Angamally.
All taxis leaving the airport are pre-paid and operated by the Cochin Airport Taxi Society (CATS). CATS is the only authorized service to transport passengers away from the airport. Rates are government-controlled, and receipts can be obtained from the CATS counter in the arrival hall. For airport-to-city trips, non-air-conditioned cabs cost approximately INR 684, while air-conditioned cabs are around INR 828. The standard rate is INR 19 per kilometer for non-AC vehicles and INR 23 for AC vehicles, with a minimum rate of INR 400 for a minimum distance of 22 kilometers. Bargaining may lead to lower fares if hiring an auto-rickshaw outside the airport premises, except during early mornings or late nights when it can be challenging. For trips from the airport to the nearest railway stationssuch as Aluva and Angamally, fares start from around INR 50 or lower. However, it’s important to note that autos can only drop passengers off at the Cargo Terminal Area.
Is Kochi a Safe Place to Visit?
Kochi offers excellent medical care and is considered one of India’s safest cities. However, it’s always wise to exercise common sense and take necessary precautions.
Ensure your accommodation provides mosquito repellents or mosquito nets to ward off insects.
Take caution while navigating the streets, as pedestrian conditions can be challenging. Wait for lulls in traffic before crossing roads.
Smoking bans are strictly enforced, so be mindful of designated smoking areas.
Prostitution is illegal in India, as is adultery. Police regularly conduct raids on cheap hotels to apprehend individuals involved in such activities. It’s advisable to respect local laws and regulations during your visit to Kochi.
