Fort Kochi is an iconic and historic area of Kochi (Cochin), in the southern state of India, Kerala. The state is known for its natural beauty in the form of its romantic backwaters, gorgeous beaches, lush forests, waterfalls, and much more. We take a look at some of the amazing things to do in Fort Kochi in this ultimate guide to Fort Kochi where we look not only at the best things to do in Fort Kochi but also at some of the offbeat things to do in Fort Kochi.
Kerala’s beauty has earned it the sobriquet of, ‘God’s own country“. Natural beauty is not the only asset that Kerala is endowed with, it has an equally rich heritage and culture which especially comes alive in the charming lanes and bylanes of Fort Kochi. Get ready to indulge your senses in Fort Kochi which offers a host of attractions and experiences.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Fort Kochi – Fort Kochi Quick Guide
The sheer range and number of things to do in Fort Kochi can stump anyone. However, the good news is that most of the places to see in Fort Kochi Kerala are in a close cluster which is easily accessible. It is possible to see the major attraction on a one day itinerary of Fort Kochi, but if one is thinking of more places to visit in Fort Kochi and a slow as well as an immersive experience of Fort Kochi attractions, then it is best to plan for a 2 day Fort Kochi itinerary.
Whatever is the length of your itinerary for Fort Kochi, one thing is sure, you will never be haunted by the question, “what to do in Fort Kochi”. Here is a detailed list of things to do in Fort Kochi. Read on to know not only about what to see in Fort Kochi, but also about Fort Kochi shopping, Fort Kochi restaurants, and other offbeat Fort Kochi experiences too.
This is an ultimate Fort Kochi guide. This Fort Kochi guide covers some of the best places to visit in Fort Kochi, top things to do in Fort Kochi, some of the best Fort Kochi hotels and some of the finest Fort Kochi restaurants.
Step Back in History At The Dutch Palace ( Mattancherry Palace)
The Mattancherry Palace which is also referred to as the Dutch Palace is one of the most important historical places in Fort Kochi. It takes you back in time and gives glimpses of the royal era of the region. It is definitely one of the top things to see in Fort Kochi.
The original palace dates back to the year 1555. This was when it is believed to have been built by the Portuguese. One belief is that the Palace was built and gifted to the then King of Kochi by the Portuguese. This was thought to be an atonement for the destruction of a temple in the vicinity. With the passage of time, the Palace was in need of repairs and about a hundred years later the Dutch renovated the palace and hence the name, Dutch Palace.
The Mattancherry Palace itself comes across as quite spartan compared to the opulent palaces of Rajasthan or the Mysore Palace, but it has a vintage charm of its own. One of the highlights not to be missed are the murals that adorn the rooms of the Mattancherry Palace. The fading murals still retain some of their original charms and depict scenes from Indian mythologies like the Ramayana and the life of Krishna.
Address: Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Take a Walk In Jew Town
One of the most colourful of Fort Kochi places to visit is Jew Town. A walk down Jew Town is like entering a different era. The streets are lined on both sides by shops selling all sorts of antiques and curios. Some shops display colourful umbrellas and dolls of different shapes and sizes, while some have dozens of antique clocks ticking away from what seems to be time immemorial. Ancient and quirky looking windows and doors with designs of a bygone era look down upon visitors as they must have done for hundreds of years.
Jew Town is a splash of colours with the colourful wares of its shops presenting a pleasing visual sight. If the fragrance of spices assails your nostrils, the bright colours of heaps of Rangoli arrest your gaze. Jew Town is definitely one of the Fort Kochi tourist places most sought after. A leisurely walk around Jew Town is one of the most satisfying things to do in Fort Kochi.
Gaze At The Intriguing Chinese fishing nets
The iconic Chinese fishing nets are a sort of visual symbol of Fort Kochi and are an integral part of Fort Kochi sightseeing. The Chinese fishing nets that can be seen at Fort Kochi and also elsewhere in the backwaters of Kochi look like strange contraptions jutting out into the waters that assume a sprite-like quality at sunrise or sunset and present a riveting sight. But what are these Chinese Fishing Nets? They are just that, fishing nets, but giant ones.
The nets can be as large as 20 meters and they are lowered into the sea by a cantilever mechanism that is operated from the shore. The Chinese nets are also referred to as Cheenavalas, in keeping with their Chinese origins. These types of nets are found only in Kochi in India. They are also found in the South China Sea. The Chinese nets can be watched from near the Vasco Da Gama Square in Fort Kochi or also from a boat. Watching the mystical looking Chinese Nets is one of the most fascinating Things To Do In Fort Kochi.
Visit The Paradesi Synagogue
A visit to the Paradesi Synagogue in Fort Kochi is one of the most interesting things to do in Fort Kochi. It is the most important of the monuments in Fort Kochi with a unique history. The Synagogue was built in the year 1867 and is active to this day, in fact, it is said to be the oldest active synagogue in the entire commonwealth. The Paradesi Synagogue houses many relics of great historical value and includes golden crowns as well as a pulpit with brass rails.
Address: Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Take a Walk On Princess Street
Princess Street in Fort Kochi is said to be the oldest street in Fort Kochi. It is believed that this was the first street constructed in Fort Kochi. What makes the street endearing is the fact that much of its heritage has been preserved. Old colonial buildings line both sides of the streets rendering it with unique vintage elegance. It is interesting to note that Princess Street is also referred to as Loafer’s Corner after a Cafe by the same name located here. Princess Street is great for a leisurely jaunt serenaded by the quirky cafes and shops that line both sides of the street.
Immerse in The Fragrances of The Spice Market
Spices are inextricably linked with the history and culture of Fort Kochi. It was the mesmerizing fragrance of spices that drew people from remote corners of the globe to Fort Kochi, which became a thriving centre of the spice trade. The Spice Market stands at one end of Jew Town and still retains its importance as a hub of the spice trade. The fragrance of cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and other exotic spices blend into an irresistible medley and draw you towards the Spice Market on a visit which is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.
Address: Jew Town Road, Kerala 682001
Relax on Fort Kochi Beach
The Fort Kochi beach is a great place to catch the sunset. It is a place to view the Chinese fishing nets bathed in a glow of pink by the rays of the setting sun. A granite walkway along the beach is a great way to stretch the legs and breath in the fresh sea breeze and listen to the symphony of the waves. One of the most relaxing things to do in Fort Kochi is spending time at the Fort Kochi beach.
Address: Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Pay Your Respects At The Dutch Cemetery
Fort Kochi has been historically a melting pot of cultures. Legacies of different cultures and people can still be seen if Fort Kochi and the history and heritage of the place comes alive paradoxically in its cemeteries too. One of these intriguing places in Fort Kochi is the Dutch Cemetery. This is one of the oldest cemeteries in India and was consecrated in the year 1724.
The Dutch Cemetery stands forlorn not far from the sea beach. Here lie the mortal remains of may a traveller spurred by curiosity who set out on a voyage of discovery. The sepulchral silence of the Dutch Cemetery tugs at the hearts of visitors and leaves them pondering over the ephemeral nature of life.
Visit The Jewish Cemetery
The Jewish Cemetery which is part of the Mattancherry Synagogue stands near the Jew Town. It is a very old cemetery, but well maintained with neatly manicured flower beds. The cemetery dates back to the 19th century. Though visitors are not allowed inside the Cemetery, one can take a look from the gate.
Address: Fort Kochi, Kochi, 682001
Visit The Police Museum
As you walk along with the Jew Town your attention is drawn by a unique Police Station housed in a heritage building. this is the International Tourism Police that has been established by the authorities for the assistance of foreign tourists. The police station handles queries regarding visas and passports, loss of passports, help in the booking of cabs, and much more.
What is of interest in this unique police station is a small museum that documents the history of the police force in Kochi. One can see old uniforms, weapons, and armoury of the police on display here. There is no entrance fee for the Police Museum. The place is one of the offbeat places to see in Fort Kochi.
Address: AB Selam Rd, Jews St, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Be Fascinated At The Indian Naval Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum is a tribute to the growth and development of India as a naval power to reckon with in the world. The maritime history of India is presented pleasingly right from the Indus valley civilization and how Kerala became a centre of India’s maritime trade with the world. The birth of the Indian Navy in Surat and its rapid growth and development is presented through compelling exhibits including 3-D paintings. A visit to the museum is indeed one of the offbeat things to do in Fort Kochi.
Address: K.J. Herschel Rd, Veli, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Visit The Indo-Portuguese Museum
The legacy that the Portuguese left behind, stays alive in many walks of life in Fort Kochi and also elsewhere in India, like Goa. From cuisine to architecture, the presence of the Portuguese culture can be seen everywhere. This indelible impression of the Portuguese is captured and presented in the Indo-Portuguese Museum.
The museum is an ode to the heritage of Indo-Portuguese art. Some of the timeless relics housed in the museum include sculptures, vestments, and metal objects of art, that date back to the 16th century. A visit to the Indo-Portuguese Museum must figure on your offbeat Fort Kochi itinerary.
Address: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Be Awed At The Kerala Folklore Theater and Museum
The three-storied beautifully designed Folklore Theatre and Museum is a place not to be missed in Fort Kochi. It is an exquisite ode to the enchanting folk arts of Kerala that include its exotic dances, sculpture, architecture and much more. The building of the museum itself showcases the architectural styles of ancient and traditional Kerala. The three flowers are built according to the Malabar, Cochin, and Travancore styles. The first floor is dedicated to the traditional dance forms of Kerala and has different costumes, masks, and other accessories used in different dance forms.
The second floor is dedicated to colourful murals and also attracts visitors with its finely chiselled wooden ceiling. The entrance of the museum has been constructed using the remains of a 16th-century temple and has a traditional locking system known as Manichitratazhu. One can spend hours lost in the incredible folk arts of Kerala. Various traditional dance shows and other stage performances are staged every day in the evenings at the theatre.
Address: Near, 2059C No 26 Pandit Karuppan Road, Thevara Ferry Road, Junction, Kochi, Kerala 682013
Enjoy a Performance At The Kerala Kathakali Centre
Visiting Kerala and not experiencing the iconic Kathakali performance is simply not done. One of the best places to witness this legendary dance in all its authentic dimensions is at the Kerala Kathakali Centre. Apart from Kathakali visitors can also see performances of other Indian classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, etc., as well as classical music performances.
Address: KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Visit The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
A magnificent edifice that stands as an enduring legacy of the Portuguese is the Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi. A visit to this Fort Kochi church is one of the top things to do in Fort Kochi. The Cathedral with its towering spires stands as a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Its snow-white facade is pleasing to the eyes and invokes feelings of spirituality as one enters the Basilica.
The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of the most enchanting and grand churches of India. The original church goes back to the mid 16th century when the first Portuguese missionaries arrived in Fort Kochi. The present structure, however, was raised in 1905. The Church became a Basilica in the year 1984.
Inside the Basilica the altar and Gothic columns make for a heavenly sight. Large canvas paintings embellish the divinely interior, most notable of these being one that represents the Last Supper. The grand Basilica is a place that appeals to the connoisseur of art and the lay visitor both.
Address: Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Visit The St. Francis Church
One of the top things to do in Fort Kochi is visiting the St. Francis Church. This is a church with much historical significance. It is believed to have been the first Portuguese church built in India. It was originally constructed in 1503 and was a wooden structure. The exterior that is seen today is a later construction. Inside the church the ceiling and flooring are old and there is an old Cross.
Another claim to fame of this historical church is the fact that Vasco Da Gama was buried here in 1525, however, his remains were taken to Lisbon, Portugal 14 years letter. Marking of the spot where Vasco Da Gama was buried can be seen inside the church. The St. Francis Church is a protected monument today. A visit to this church is one of the serene things to do in Fort Kochi.
Address: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Catch an Art Exhibition at Uru Art Harbour
An old warehouse is a hub of art, music, literature, and philosophy. One of the offbeat things to do in Fort Kochi is to catch an exhibition on at the Uru Art Harbour.
Address: Kochangadi Rd, Kochangadi, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Travel Back In Time At The Grey Book Museum And Archives
A small museum housed in a palace that dates back to the 18th century is dedicated to taking visitors back in time into the incredible chapters of Cochin’s history. It is an independent museum and showcases the private collection of an individual and includes photographs, historical prints, photographic glass plates, etc., that present the evolution of modern-day Kochi from what it was 150 years ago. The museum is an offbeat attraction of Fort Kochi and a fascinating place, especially for history buffs.
Address: 1/334, Rose St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Nehru Park For Children
A park for children not for from the Fort Kochi beach, the Nehru Park is another lung space of Fort Kochi where children can play freely. The Park is also used as a public venue for painting competitions and other events.
Address: River Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Draavidia Art Gallery
An art gallery that showcases local art through exhibitions. Visitors can check for ongoing exhibitions which give an opportunity to understand local culture and contemporary art of Kochi.
Address: Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Hang Around Vasco Da Gama Square
The Vasco Da Gama Square is a narrow promenade alongside the beach in Fort Kochi. It is a popular evening haunt of locals as well as tourists. It is a nice place to watch the Chinese fishing nets against the backdrop of the setting sun. There are numerous food stalls in the vicinity that sell seafood and refreshing tender coconuts. It is a nice place to hang around in the evenings.
Address: No: XIV/1642, River Road, Kunnumpuram Rd, Karuvelippady, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Fort Kochi Heritage Walk
One can visit the various attractions and experience all the things to do in Fort Kochi through a personally crafted Fort Kochi itinerary or also join a guided heritage walk which covers the major attractions in Fort Kochi. These heritage walks typically take around 2 hours.
Enjoy A Traditional Kerala Ayurvedic Massage
Ayurveda is an ancient science that has natural remedies for many ailments that are physical and mental. Ayurveda is a holistic science that is a panacea for many ills. Ayurvedic massages and treatments are rejuvenating for the mind, body, and soul. Kerala is the home of this ancient science that uses exotic herbs and oils in treatments that have been handed down from generation to generation.
There are many spas that offer various ayurvedic massages and treatments, most of the hotels have in-house spas that offer these services. It is best to check out with your hotel for these services.
Where To Shop In Fort Kochi
Shopping is always an integral part of travelling, especially if you are in the habit of picking up a souvenir or two from the places you visit. Fort Kochi offers many interesting shopping options and shopping in Fort Kochi is in itself a fulfilling experience and ranks high on most peoples’ list of things to do in Fort Kochi. Some of the places to shop in Fort Kochi are:
- Jew Town
- Spice Market
- Princess Street
What To Buy In Fort Kochi
- Antiques
- Spices
- Colourful Umbrellas
- Kathakali Masks
- Hand Made Soaps
- Stone Sculptures
- Brass & Copper vessels and showpieces
- Souvenirs from keychains to seashells to wrist bands and jewellery
- Local Handicrafts
Where To Eat In Fort Kochi – Fort Kochi Restaurants
The influence and fusion of different cultures over the centuries can be seen in the varied cuisine that Fort Kochi has to offer. There are charming cafes and hotels that serve a mind-boggling array of epicurean delights from different parts of the globe. Fort Kochi cafes reflect the kaleidoscopic nature of the cultures that have influenced the region. Here are some of the best Fort Kochi Restaurants. Eating in any of the heritage cafes of Fort Kochi is an experience to cherish and one of the most interesting things to do in Fort Kochi.
Mocha Art Cafe
The Mocha Art Cafe is a delightful Fort Kochi Restaurants that is housed in a 16th-century building that was originally built as accommodation for the Rabbis of the Pardesi Synagogue. The Cafe is a quirky synthesis of art and food. It serves tantalizing fare that includes a range of salads, soups, desserts, pancakes, pasta, and much more. A leisurely meal at the Mocha Art Cafe ranks high on the must-do things to do in Fort Kochi.
Jetty Restaurant Forte Kochi
The Jetty Restaurant is the restaurant of the Forte Kochi hotel, one of the best heritage Fort Kochi hotels. The hotel is located in a heritage building which was once a Jewish mansion that was built in 1860 by the Portuguese. The Jetty Restaurant offers a vintage elegance and serves dishes from around the world and includes cuisine from Europe, across India, and of course local Kerala cuisine. Sitting in the elegant ambience of the Jetty restaurant and enjoying a delectable meal is one of the most relaxing things to do in Fort Kochi.
Jetty Restaurant is one of the best Fort Kochi Restaurants.
Fusion Bay
Fort Kochi is a haven for seafood lovers and one of the best places to enjoy it is Fusion Bay. This Fort Kochi restaurant serves a wide range of seafood delicacies as well as local Kerala cuisine. If you are a seafood connoisseur than a visit to Fusion Bay is one of the top things to do in Fort Kochi.
Fort Kochi Video
How To Get To Fort Kochi
- Fort Kochi is an area in the city of Kochi located in the southern Indian state of Kerala
- Fort Kochi to airport distance is about 44 kilometres
- Ernakulam to Fort Kochi distance is about 6 kilometres
Does Fort Kochi pique your interest and are you thinking of heading in the Fort Kochi direction? You can book a flight right here through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline. You can fly to Kochi and then from there you can travel to Fort Kochi by road. You can also do road trips to many interesting destinations in Kerala like Kumarakom, Allepey, Thekkady, and Athirapally from Kochi. You can also get to Kochi from within India by self-drive car or cab or bus or alternatively take a train.
Fort Kochi Map
Where To Stay In Fort Kochi – Fort Kochi Hotels
Where to stay in Kochi? If that is what you are thinking, then one of the best places would be Fort Kochi where one can get an immersive experience of the heritage and culture of Kochi. When it comes to Fort Kochi hotels, there are many options for staying in Fort Kochi that range from luxury and heritage resorts to budget hotels. We stayed in the heritage hotel Forte Kochi and it was an amazing experience.
There are plenty of other options to stay in Kochi. The list of Fort Kochi hotels offers a choice of budget accommodation as well as luxury hotels.
One can book Fort Kochi hotels through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.
| Click to book the best hotels in Kochi or best resorts and best Fort Kochi hotels |
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Best Time To Visit Kochi / Fort Kochi
The best time to visit Fort Kochi and Kochi is during the winter months as the weather is pleasant and one can comfortably walk around and explore the wonders of Fort Kochi. The ideal winter months are between October and February. Summers can be hot and humid, but for the true traveller driven by passion and fueled by curiosity, Fort Kochi can be visited any time of the year.
Visiting places around the time when local festivals and events are held is always very satisfying as one gets an immersive experience of the local culture and traditions. Two events around which one can plan their Fort Kochi trim and itinerary are the Cochin Carnival and the Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
The Cochin Carnival is an annual event that is held during the last week of December to coincide with Christmas and the beginning of the New Year. The Cochin Carnival is a legacy from the colonial days when the Portuguese New Year used to be celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. The Cochin Carnival presents a mosaic of Indian culture from across the states and of course the local arts, dances, and music.
The high point of the carnival is a grand procession on New Year’s Day which is led by beautifully decorated elephants and has dancers from across the different states of India. Fort Kochi is the heart of the celebrations of the Cochin Carnival.
The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is an event that is organized by the Kochi Biennale Foundation. The event promotes art and culture through an exhibition and the festival which usually happens from December to April. The event includes various workshops, residencies, and other programmes. The event takes place across many venues in and around Fort Kochi.
Fort Kochi Tourism / Kerala Tourism
Fort Kochi is a lovely place the showcases the best of heritage and culture of Kochi and Kerala. It is a unique mosaic of different cultural influences that come together in an exquisite synthesis. Though there are so many things to do in Fort Kochi to keep you occupied, Kerala has so much more on offer in terms of nature, adventure, heritage, and culture. There are many interesting places that can be visited on a day trip from Kochi.
Other Places To See And Things To Do In Kochi
Walk Down Marine Drive
A walk beside the backwaters, that is what visitors can do at the Marine Drive. This is a promenade built facing the backwaters and is a walkway where contrary to its name vehicles are not allowed. Malls and Cafes abound along the Marine Drive which also provides a view to spectacular sunsets and sunrises accompanied by the cool and soothing breeze blowing across the Vembanad Lake.
Pallipuram Fort
The Pallipuram Fort is a 16th-century fort that was built by the Portuguese. It is believed to be the oldest existent European fort in India. The fort is located on Vypin Island about 42 kilometres from Fort Kochi.
Address: Vypin, Kochi, Kerala 683515
Vypin Lighthouse
The Vypin Lighthouse is located at Puthuvype in Kochi. It is a modern and state of the art Lighthouse. However the original Kochi lighthouse used to be in Fort Kochi and had been shifted to Puthuvype, and that lighthouse dated back to 1839. At the bottom of the lighthouse, there is a small information centre which has an information kiosk where one can learn about different lighthouses in India and their history. The Vypin Lighthouse is about 23 kilometres from Fort Kochi.
Address: Puthuvype Beach Light House Rd, Vypin, Kochi, Kerala 682508
Bolgatty Palace
The Bolgatty Palace is an old Dutch Palace on the Bolgatty island in Kochi. It was built by the Dutch in 1744 and is believed to be the oldest Dutch palaces outside of Holland. The Palace later served as the home of British Governors during the British Raj. Today the Bolgatty Palace is a heritage hotel and resort that is run by KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation ). Bolgatty Palace is about 18 kilometres from Fort Kochi.
Address: NH966A, Mulavukad, Kochi, Kerala 682504
Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is a great way to enjoy the evening in Kochi and be treated to spectacular views. The sunset cruises last for about two hours and one can get great views of the Chinese fishing nets, Marine Drive, and also the Bolgatty Island. The cruise is around the waters of the Cochin Harbour and most of the cruise companies have hotel pickup and drop included in the cruise.
Day Trips From Kochi
There are many great destinations that can be covered as day trips from Kochi. They make for great road trips that showcase the natural beauty of the Kerala countryside. Here is a list of a few day trips from Kochi.
- Kumarakom
- Athirapally & Vazhachal Falls
- Munnar
- Ezhattumugam
- Allepey
Things To Do In Kochi – Kochi Tourism/Kerala Tourism
Kochi is a sheer treat for the senses with amazing experiences of culture and heritage and nature. Fort Kochi is an exquisite mosaic of heritage, history, and culture.
If you are wondering how to cover all major attractions of Fort Kochi in one day then you can always opt for tour packages of Kochi and enjoy some of the most recommended Kochi tours. You can now book tours in Kochi as well as activities in Kochi right here.
| Click here to know more and book Best Attractions and Activities in Kochi. |
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FAQ Fort Kochi
Is Fort Kochi worth visiting?
Fort Kochi is definitely worth visiting and spending time in. Fort Kochi things to do are amazing and it is a must be on your list when sightseeing in Kochi.
What is Fort Kochi famous for?
A walk to the street of Fort Kochi is an unforgettable experience. It is a walk that takes one down the lane of history. Fort Kochi a cultural and heritage landmark of Kochi and includes Fort Kochi museum, heritage cafes and hotels, Churches, and much more. There are many lovely things to do in Fort Kochi.
Why is it called Fort Kochi?
If you looking for a fort in the images for Fort Kochi, you will not find one. The name Fort Kochi is based on an old fort that existed but was destroyed by the Dutch.
Is Fort Kochi safe?
Fort Kochi is absolutely safe, however, one needs to take necessary safety precautions like anywhere else.
What is the best time to visit Kochi?
The best time to visit Kochi is during the winter months between October to February.
How many days do you need in Kochi?
There is much to see and experience in Kochi. It all depends on the time you have. You can plan an itinerary for things to see Fort Kochi in one day or things to see Fort Kochi in two days, and also accommodate the other attractions of Kochi.
How can I spend my day in Kochi?
If you have just one day, then it is best to spend it at Fort Kochi which is the heart of Kochi. There are so many interesting things to do in Fort Kochi.
What is there to do in Kochi at night?
There are many things to do in Fort Kochi and Kochi in the night including a cruise, a walk on Marine Drive, hanging out at a heritage Cafe, and much more.
What can I buy in Kochi?
Handicrafts and souvenirs can be bought in Kochi. You may also want to buy some of the famous banana chips.
Where should I stay in Kochi?
There are many options for staying in Kochi depending on your preference and budget. Check out our Where To Stay section above.
Is Kochi a metro city?
Kochi has been classified as a Tier – II city.
How can I plan one day in Kochi?
We would suggest a one day Fort Kochi Itinerary.
Are Kochi and Ernakulam the same?
Kochi is part of the Ernakulam district, however sometimes Kochi is also referred to as Ernakulam.
Is there a bus from Fort Kochi to the airport?
The public transport of Kochi includes the Metro, bus services as well as ferry services. Getting around Fort Kochi and other parts of Kochi City is convenient through public transport. There is a direct bus from Fort Kochi to the Cochin International Airport.
Are there any Fort Kochi timings/opening time/entry timings/visiting hours?
Fort Kochi is an area, which consists of Cafes, Churches, Museums, and other attractions. Each of these would have their own timings.
We do hope you liked our Fort Kochi travel blog post, and it serves as a complete Fort Kochi travel guide. Do let us know if you have any questions or need any more information. Help us with your feedback to help us improve our Fort Kochi guide.
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Wow, there seem like endless things to do in Fort Kochi! Your guide makes it seem like such an interesting place to explore!
This is such a cool guide! I wish I’d explored more of India, especially Kerala!! Jew Town sounds like my favourite place already, I LOVE shopping in India! Vasco Da Gama Square sounds beautiful, definitely pinning this to return to!!
This is indeed the Ultimate Guide for Kochi, as you seem to have answered all possible queries. I did visit Kerala back in May 2019, before our Nepal Trip, however we only had a half a day in Kochi. Though we weren’t able to visit most of the places you’ve listed here, we managed to see the Chinese fishing nets, and catch a picturesque sunset from the Marine Drive, followed by a sumptuous dinner nearby.
This must be an amazing trip, Sandy. We were scheduled to visit in April but unfortunately the trip got cancelled. We had even made an itinerary and extended the trip for an extra two days. I had most of these on my list. Looking forward to visiting whenever possible, now. Forts have such a fantastic ambiance about them. I always feel these historic places want to whisper their stories to us!
There really is so much to see here, I am sure that if you only allocated 2 days for Fort Kochi there is no way to visit all of these sites and really take it in. You would have to pick only a handful from the list that you have here. I love the fishing nets and would love to see them in action. I would also love to visit the beach and take a walk through the spice market. I can see my son would love the police museum, he has such a fascination with that sort of thing. When I took him to the navy museum in Simonstown (South Africa) last year I could not get him to leave!
So many diverse things to do ! It’s impressive that this place has retained the influence of so many cultures and celebrates it. Great post!
There was a lot of great information in this article, so thank you! I’ve never heard of this place, so it was an interesting read for me. I especially liked the hotel you recommended it looked really nice with the pool.
Such a wonderful travel blog…. You took me to my own home town & refresh my all the memories about kochi… Very well written & surely going to help the people who want to travel kochi
Yes Kochi is really a great place to visit. Your post is reminding me of our visit in 2016. How could I forget that cool breeze on the beach. I purchased a variety of spices from the market. Enjoyed the Kerala thali and discovered the similarity between that and our typical Bengali cuisine.
Fort Kochi looks amazing. I would love to visit one day. The food looks so delicious. Pinning so I have this guide when I go. Thanks for sharing.
What a neat city! The architecture is amazing. I didn’t realize there was such a strong Portuguese influence in parts of India. The Chinese fishing nests also look really cool!
What a beautiful area! Stunning photos! I seriously would visit just to sit and watch those fishing nets…how mesmerizing!
Your posts are always so exhaustive comprehensive guides on tourist places. I would really love to visit Kochi fort
Sir, your blog explain each and everything, infact every place in detail. We have never visited Kochi. Hopefully we will visit soon.
Fort kochi looks so perfect place to start Kerala’s famous destinations. Definitely include in my bucket list. Great thoughts.
Your travel guides are always filled with best recommendations and lot of options for tourists. I will definitely consider these while travelling to Fort Kochi
I love your detailed guidance on any place . You have touched every single thing to explain the places of Kochi…
My masi was in Kochi and she always invited us to visit kochi but we never got a chance. This fort is so beautiful and the view is so mesmerizing. I wish I could get a chance to visit.
Every place has unique story. Thanks for detailed information about fort Kochi. Love the virtual tour.
Your travel posts are always very interesting.. i was planning a trip to Kochi. I m surely gonna refer your guide, whenever i m planning trip there
Wow, Fort Kochi sounds like such an interesting place culturewise and really so different from what my image of India is actually! Having grown up in the Netherlands (with roots from Indian and Pakistani via Suriname), I though I knew a lot about the history of Dutch colonialism but I never knew they even had such a presence in India! Very interesting read and as someone who’s fascinated with culture and history, I really enjoyed all the information here, thanks for sharing!
We went to Fort Cochi in December 2018 over Christmas and my birthday. We stayed a little out the way in a big hotel, but enjoyed going to the main area. Even though we had a few days there we still missed some of the things you have listed – there is so much to do! 🙂
As a Jew, I was really intrigued by the Jewish history of this place – the synagogues and cemetery, and the fact that there’s a neighborhood called Jew town.
Oh how I would love to visit this spice market!! Looks like an amazing place to explore with many different things to do. I’d love to see the fishermen in action too!
What a complete guide you have prepared. It’s very informative. I would be interested in the police museum as I used to work for the police and think it would be interesting to learn about the similarities and differences. I would also love the capture those fishing nets at sunrise or sunset.
Oh my, it seems there is just too much to do. How many days do you suggest for the first time visitor?
I am so excited to see a synagogue and Jewish cemetery on your list! I have studied Jewish history extensively, and my wife’s family is Jewish. Everytime we travel we visit any synagogues or Jewish sites. Thank you for the history, and now I’m going to go research more about that synagogue! Jewish history + museums + delicious food and even a beach. My idea of a good time!
Wowza, there is sooooo much to do in Fort Kochi!
I love the look of the Chinese fishing nets, and the Kerala Folklore Theater And Museum looks really interesting. It’s great that you can immerse yourself into so much culture and history there!
I haven’t been to India yet, but when I go, I certainly will visit Kochi. The colors are so vibrant, I love them so much. Also, the museums seem to be really inspiring. A wonderful and very inviting post.
I have never been to Kerala before. I postponed my trip to “God’s own country” couple of times. I just can’t wait to visit Kerala next year. Looking forward to exploring Fort kochi when in Kerala.
We were in Fort Kochi around New Years Eve and let me say, the people there are a lively bunch! We loved exploring the whole area and the people there were so friendly and good to us. I would love to go back though when it is not so hectic to explore more of the area especially the water.
Wow, this really is the ultimate guide to Fort Kochi! I would love to watch the Chinese fishing nets and visit the Spice Market. Fort Kochi certainly sounds like a great destination to visit.
So many things to do in Fort Kochi. I don’t think 2 days would be enough time to really soak it in. I love the colorful umbrella you showed in Jew Town. If it’s all that colorful, that would be a fun place to explore. I’ve been to a few spice markets in other countries, so it would be fun to visit this one and compare. Great planner for a trip to Fort Kochi.
Wow! Who would’ve thought that Fort had such a multicultural history?
They’re are so many interesting things to do that I may just have to visit India again!
For me best expereinced at Fort Kochi are food, heritage walk, ayurvedic massage, and shopping.