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24 Best Things to Do in Kochi India: Expert Guide
When I first planned my trip to Kochi, I thought a weekend would be plenty, like most folks.
But as I got into the details of places to see in Kochi, I realised two days just wouldn’t cut it. So, I spent four days exploring.
Curious if it was worth it? These 24 things to do in Kochi India prove it’s full of history starting from Hindu kings, Jews, Dutches, Portuguese and British all topped with natural beauty.
I can’t decide what’s more beautiful – the historical sites of Kochi or the stunning backwaters, lakes, and the Arabian Sea. Plus, with its rich Kerala culture, Spice Markets, Kochi’s food and traditional dance performances like Kathakali add even more charm to this amazing city.
Check out our travel blog to help plan your trip and see if you need more than a weekend! I am sure you will agree with me.
Things to know before you read ahead
If you want to cover all the things I have listed in our Kochi travel guide, you will need a minimum of four days.
If you are travelling to Kochi over a weekend, pick the best places in Kochi from the above list according to your taste and time.
You need to have a private transport to get visit these places in Kochi – You can rent autorickshaws or dive a bike in and around the islands.
Nightlife in Kochi, India is average. Apart from the night street food, most cafes close by 11 pm. Only a few five-star hotel clubs remain open until midnight.
Kochi is an affordable destination for travellers. How much you spend on a Kochi trip depends on whether you stay in a fancy heritage hotel or a budget homestay.
Look for weather forecasts if you are visiting Kochi during the monsoon. Kerala is notorious for floods and unpredictable monsoon weather.
1. Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets in Kochi
When you search for ‘Fort Kochi India’ online, the first images that pop up are those massive nets hanging from wooden structures?the famous Chinese fishing nets.
They look like dream catchers and have become an unofficial emblem of Kochi for all the right reasons.
Like me, you might wonder if these nets are just for show, like the standing fishermen in Sri Lanka. But don’t be fooled; these Chinese fishing nets are the real deal, genuinely in action all over Kochi.
Why is it called Chinese fishing nets?
They are called Chinese fishing nets because they were introduced to Fort Kochi by Chinese explorers. A Mongolian explorer taught the local Malayali community how to craft and use these colossal cantilevered nets between 1350 and 1450 AD.
Locals call these nets “Cheenavala.” Even though using teakwood is now restricted in Kerala, these unique Chinese nets are crafted with a mix of teak wood and bamboo poles. They hang in the air like Newton’s cradle, but with a twist?as the net moves up and down, a pendulum swings left and right.
Each structure stands about 10 meters tall, firmly anchored in the beach sand, with an extended arm holding a net. Counterweights, often hefty stones on ropes of varying lengths, gracefully choreograph the net’s rhythmic movements.
Adding to the allure and drama, the waters of Lake Vembanad glitter as our folks pull up the fish-filled nets. Birds flock to the nets to grab their share of the meal, making the scene even more charming.
Best time to watch Chinese nets in Fort Kochi.
Sunrise is the best time to witness the Chinese nets AKA “Cheenavala” in action. If you aren’t an early bird, swing by da Gama Square at your convenience.
Tourist-friendly fishermen congregate there, prepared to flaunt their techniques for a fee. You may even have the opportunity to engage in a tug-of-war with the ropes.
Trying these nets with local fishermen is definitely one of the unique experiences in Kochi, India.
2. Explore Mattancherry Palace
India is home to several palaces, and Mattancherry Palace in Fort Kochi is unique. It is one of the important historical sites in Kochi India.
The palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and gifted to the King of Kochi.
Although it was built by colonialists, Mattancherry Palace features typical Kerala-style architecture with a sloped roof, long eaves, clay tiled roofing and typical “Charupadi” style of wooden railing in the balconies.
Later, the Dutch renovated it in the 17th century, and hence the name “Dutch Palace” became associated with Mattancherry Palace.
When you hear “palace,’ don’t imagine the grandeur of Udaipur, the royalty of Mysore Palace, or the vastness of Hofburgs in Vienna. Instead, envision a luxurious mansion with a humble appearance from outside.
Inside, it boasts detailed wooden interiors, paintings, and artefacts related to the Kochi kings. This makes it one of the best Kochi tourist places to visit.
Best parts of Mattancherry Palace
The ceilings with exquisite woodwork and the vibrant wall murals are the best parts of Mattancherry Palace. The walls serve as a canvas, depicting tales of Ramayana and Krishna Leela, which is rare in Indian palaces. The stories come alive through natural dyes in shades of brick red, white, grey, and tea green.
Don’t miss the tiny pond outside; it’s like the palace’s personal air conditioner, sending breezy vibes through the charming bay windows. The bay windows, often adorned with lattice designs, create an ideal spot to capture a refreshing breeze while admiring the dazzling paintings and ceilings.
Things to know before you go to Mattancherry palace
- Photography is not permitted within the halls housing the wall murals.
- As of 2023, the entry fee for visitors is 5 Rs.
- Due to ongoing restoration work, access to certain sections of the palace might be restricted.
- An hour or a bit more is ample for exploring Mattancherry palace.
3. Explore Jewish History at Synagogue Lane
One of the must-do and most common activities in Kochi is exploring the city’s Jewish heritage. It’s fascinating to see one of India’s 35 synagogues standing tall at the end of a beautifully corbelled street lined with colourful buildings in Synagogue lane, all amidst the vibrant Malayali vibe.
You can find Jewish candle stands, or “Menorah,” and beautifully handcrafted Kerala white “Kasavu sarees” in the same shop!
A mere 500-meter stroll from Mattancherry Palace along Jew Town road lands you in Synagogue Lane, or as I fondly call it, Fort Kochi’s most enchanting alley.
Back in the day, this lane buzzed with Jewish families who relocated here from Israel.
Today, their former homes have morphed into cafes, boutiques, shops and one of the most expensive historic hotel of Fort Kochi, all while keeping the Jewish spirit alive.
Surely the Synagogue lane is the most important of all Cultural attractions in Kochi India given it’s historical tales and architecture.
Jewish Heritage in Cochin
It is believed that Jews arrived in India after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple. While the earliest documented proof dates to the 9th century, vibrant paintings at Mattancherry Palace depict the Kochi king gifting a copper plate to Jewish leaders and the construction of a synagogue near the palace in 1568.
The Jews who settled in Fort Kochi were referred to as “Pardesi Jews” in the local dialect, and their place of worship became known as the “Pardesi Synagogue.”
This charming synagogue houses precious Torahs in a teakwood Ark adorned with gold crowns. At its heart, a brass pulpit serves as the stage for the Rabbi’s recitations and sermons.
What truly captivates visitors is the exquisite flooring. After facing Portuguese exploitation and a Dutch restoration effort in the early 1760s, the synagogue underwent a splendid transformation.
Besides expanding its size, the Dutch introduced the iconic “Willow Pattern White and Blue Ceramic Tiles” to grace the floors.
Can you meet Jews in Cochin now?
Yes, you can, but it requires some effort. Today, only around 30 Jews reside in Fort Kochi. During my quest to explore Jewish culture, I set out to find a Jewish family. However, uncovering a Jewish family for insights into their Indian lifestyle demands thorough research.
Another way to delve into Kochi’s Jewish history is by visiting Sarah Cohen’s home. There, I met Thaha, a Muslim man informally adopted by the Cohen couple, who holds captivating stories about these local-born Jewish individuals.
Thaha, once a souvenir vendor, now preserves Sarah’s knitting and stitching legacy with the Cohens’ support. From menorahs (traditional Jewish lampstands) to yarmulkes, all meticulously crafted by her, this unassuming museum offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts exploring Fort Kochi.
4. Go to aromatic Spice Market
Colonisers flocked to Kochi in pursuit of spices, and while the spice trade has evolved, its essence lingers, especially in Mattancherry spice Markets.
In Fort Kochi’s Mattancherry neighborhood, spices have been a way of life for centuries.
Along Bazar Road, near the Mattancherry ferry jetty, you’ll find around 100 spice shops. But the ultimate spot to see, smell, and buy spices is the “Women’s Co-operative Society – All Spice Market”
All Spice Market on Bazar Road, Mattancherry
Step through a faded light blue double wooden door with an arched entryway, and you’ll enter a spacious courtyard.
On bustling days, you’ll witness hardworking Kochi folks hauling bags of meticulously sorted spices here. Yet, on a lazy afternoon, the scent envelops you. Perhaps ginger or black pepper, the “Black Gold” the colonisers coveted.
Inside, you’ll find warehouses where women meticulously sort and clean spices. If you’re fortunate, they might demonstrate how they separate the good pepper from the bad and clean dried ginger.
Ascend the undulating, century-old wooden staircase to the upper floor, where women offer a vast array of spices.
You name it; they have it. And to make it even better, they provide masala powders with recipes written on them, like Biryani masala and sambar powder.
Hailing from the Western Ghats and growing up on a spice farm, I assure you, the cinnamon, ginger, and asafoetida you find here are of exceptional quality. I highly recommend you purchase these.
5. Watch Kathakali Show
Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama from Kerala. It tells stories through intricate facial expressions – especially eyes and eyebrows, hand gestures, colorful attire, and elaborate makeup.
It all happens without a word spoken by the performers! So, a Kathakali traditional dance performance by master artists is truly one of the must-see things in Kochi.
Where can I watch Kathakali in Kochi?
You can catch Kathakali shows at various places in and around Fort Kochi. One renowned venue is the “Kerala Kathakali Centre,” located near Santa Cruz Basilica. You can call them or send a whatsapp message on +91 9895534939 to reserve the tickets.
The performance starts at 6 PM, with makeup preparations beginning at 5 PM.
It’s good to arrive a bit before 5 PM to secure the best seats and observe the artists during their makeup process. Along with your ticket, you’ll receive a printed summary of that day’s play, providing insight into the story and characters. This makes it easier for everyone to understand the upcoming performance.
Before the performance starts, the director provides an informative session on Kathakali. It includes its characters, history, and the significance of identifying expressions since performers don’t speak. The explanation highlights the use of natural materials and traditional tools for makeup application.
What is the ticket price of Kathakali Fort Kochi?
The Kathakali show costs 500 Rs per person for a 1.5-hour performance. Traditional Kathakali plays can extend for 4 to 5 hours, but here, a captivating part of the play is presented for visitors. You can conveniently purchase tickets online or request your host to make the booking for you.
6. Go Kayaking at Kadamakkudy Island
Kayaking in Kadamakkudy Island is one of the best adventure activities in Kochi, India. Paddling through the serene backwaters, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and tranquillity. It’s a perfect way to escape the crowd that focuses on Fort Kochi. Just hop on a water metro from any island in Kochi to get there.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, this activity is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of Kochi. Ashrith had done kayaking once in Lakshadweep, but it was my first time.
The local guides are friendly and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
The kayaking cost is about 750 Rs per person. Usually, they have fixed timings early in the morning for three hours and in the evening post-sunset for three hours. We went through Secret Routes Kayaking and highly recommend it.
Keep in mind that although it is just 15 km from Fort Kochi, it takes about an hour to get there by car or auto rickshaw. It’s best to go kayaking in the evening before sunset and be at Cheriya Kadamakudy Viewpoint for the sunset.
7. Visit Art Galleries in Fort Kochi
Kochi takes the spotlight on the global art stage with “The Kochi Biennale,” a biennial contemporary art exhibition.
Don’t fret if you’re an art enthusiast visiting at a different time because Fort Kochi flaunts 50+ art galleries – An art lover’s paradise, 365 days. And much of these galleries charge nothing for visitors.
So, visiting art galleries really comes on the top of the list of free things to do in Kochi, India.
David Hall Art Gallery
Of the three art galleries we visited, David Hall Art Gallery truly stood out. It is also one of the spots where Malayalam cinema RDX was filmed. Unlike other art galleries across the country, there is no entree fees
While we may not be art experts, we can certainly appreciate the captivating ambiance of David Hall. This historic building, dating back to the 1690s, was initially a hospice for Dutch soldiers before being transformed into a house by a Jewish family.
The David Hall Art Gallery welcomes visitors from 11 am to 7 pm, except on Mondays.
Namaste Art Centre
Another intriguing art center worth exploring is the “Namasthe Art Centre” located on Bazar Road. While its modest exterior may not make the best first impression, stepping inside reveals a captivating world of art created by Kerala’s women, with a significant focus on rural women from the region.
Lila on Ridsdale Road
A photography exhibition was in full swing during our visit to Lila. It’s a great spot to spend your afternoon, whether you’re engrossed in a book, art, or engaged in a lively chat. It’s a cozy hangout with an art gallery and a cafe.
8. Try Local Delicacies of Cochin
Leaving Kochi without savouring local treats? Unthinkable! Cafes are cool, but the real flavour of Kochi is in its streets and restaurants. Being India’s most important harbour city, Kochi is a seafood lover’s paradise.
Kochi cuisine includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, but locals prefer fish, poultry, and red meat. Kerala is one of the few Indian states where beef is common even among Hindus.
No Kochi or Keralite meal is complete without coconut, which is used in almost every dish thanks to its abundance in the state. Every part of the coconut is considered a delicacy, from the kernel to the cream and milk.
Two staple foods in Kerala are tapioca and rice, forming the base of many main dishes, which are usually served with various side dishes or Kootan.
My carnivorous husband Ashrith devoured some aquatic souls as Fish Biryani with Fish Roast, which he claims were juicy and divine.
I indulged in veggie delights like Kozhukkatta, and they were surprisingly delicious.
From heritage hotels’ in-house restaurants that craft local food in Fort Kochi to the diverse eateries in Ernakulam, your culinary adventure can be quite extensive. Plus, Vasco Da Gama Square, which is one of the best places to visit in Kochi at night, is the epitome of Cochin street food.
I have created a separate post on the best foods to try in Kochi and where to find them. Give it a read?don’t blame me if you feel hungry after reading it!
9. Stroll through colourful streets of Kochi
One of my favourite things to do in Kochi is going for long walks, especially early in the morning. Fewer tourists make it easier to appreciate the town’s beauty without dodging photo-snapping visitors.
Those famous antique doors, strangely, become Instagram hotspots post-lunch, and the areas get noisy. But in the morning, you can admire them in peace.
While Fort Kochi street art isn’t as prominent as Varanasi’s, it’s still pretty cool. The streets and walls belong to the early birds, and you can also meet local fishermen in action during your stroll.
Here are some of the best streets in Fort Kochi for leisurely strolls
- Synagogue Lane – The most beautiful lane in all of Fort Kochi.
- KJ Herchel Road and Lilly Street – Discover the prettiest, well-preserved heritage buildings. Surprisingly, they remain less crowded even in the evenings.
- Parade Road – Featuring an open ground on one side and magnificent heritage bungalows on the other.
- Rose Street – Adorned with graffiti and impeccably maintained old structures.
10. Explore Gujarati Street in Fort Kochi
You have heard of Jews in Fort Kochi and a Synagogue. But do you know you would spot a Jain temple of Gujaratis, food stalls selling Gujju sweets, and also a Gujarati Degree college in the heart of a Malayali neighbourhood?
Uncovering the layers of Kochi’s diversity through exploring Gujarati history is definitely one of the unusual things to do in Kochi, India.
While the exact date of the Gujaratis’ arrival in Kochi remains a historical mystery, it’s like they sauntered into town right alongside the British in the 1810s.
They are known for their trading prowess and legendary haggling skills (Trust me, they are, I have spent 2 weeks travelling in Gujarat and they are the cleverest).
No wonder some of them ended up as the middlemen for the British East India Company. Others decided to hang up their trading boots, charmed by Kochi’s vibe and spices.
Exploring Gujarati Road and enjoying treats like Dhoklas and Fafdas is a lesser-known activity in Fort Kochi.
The friendly Gujjus love sharing stories of their ancestors. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear them switch from Malayalam to Gujarati in a flash!
11. Make a day trip to Malarikkal Water Lilly Lake
If you are in Kochi during the monsoon, specifically August to September, a small village called “Malarikkal,” where pink lilies cover about 650 acres of paddy field, is one of the most amazing places to visit near Kochi in India.
Imagine a pink carpet of pink lily flowers on paddy fields with water, and you are moving on it with a boat! That is Malarikkal for you
The internet images and videos were so alluring that I thought the entire Malarikkal lake scene with lilies near Kottayam was some social media gimmick until I went there and witnessed the real magic!
It is one of the rarest sights that happens only for 2 to 3 months a year, from August to October.
These natural wonders are at their finest during the early hours, ideally between 6 am and 9:30 am, as they tend to retire gracefully under the scorching sun.
Apart from being there early in the morning, there are a few more things you should know before visiting Malarikkal Lake with its water lilies. I have penned all the details in a separate post.
12. Spend a day at Kumbalangi
Kumbalangi, a charming village near Kochi, is a haven for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
As one of the best day trips from Kochi, India, Kumbalangi gives you an insight into the traditional lifestyle of Kerala with perfect scenic backdrops of backwaters, mangrove forests, and coconut lagoons.
But for us movie lovers, a visit to Kumbalangi for half a day meant spending some time at the locations featured in the Malayalam movie “Kumbalangi Nights.”
What is Kumbalangi famous for?
Kumbalangi village is known as India’s first eco-tourism village. Along with picturesque landscapes, you can go on a village tour where you can learn about the local lifestyle.
Witness coir making, crab farming, net making, weaving coconut leaves, Chinese net fishing, and other traditional fishing methods as part of the Kumbalangi village tour.
Plus, a lunch with locals at their homes and canoeing in the backwaters through the mangrove forest brings a fine ending to your Kumbalangi day.
13. Watch Sunset at Cherai Beach
Many beaches in India are packed with tourists, but not Cherai Beach near Kochi. There are a few other beaches like Kuzhupilly and Fort Kochi beach in the city, but Cherai is the best of all the beaches in Kochi.
While it isn’t great for getting into the water like in Goa or Gokarna, Cherai Beach is serene and hasn’t been overly commercialised.
It’s about 25 km from Fort Kochi, so mainly those staying near Cherai Beach visit it. So heading to Cherai Beach is one of the best things to do in Kochi with family for a peaceful time away from the crowds.
Kids can run around, you can lay down on the sand, without getting bothered by other humans.
On the opposite side of the beach, you also get backwaters on the west side of the island. Here, you can find those typical narrow Kerala backwaters with snake boats, all without the crowds.
14. Visit Santa Cruz Basilica
With two towering spires and a bright exterior, this Portuguese construction from the 1500s not only welcomes visitors but also received recognition from the Vatican, becoming one of India’s 25+ basilicas.
Inside, the bright white interior contrasts with a soft pastel theme, reminiscent of a fairytale castle’s chambers. The grand arches and a colorful altar complement a magnificent ceiling, resembling Fresco paintings between the wooden trusses.
The ceiling resembles a storybook, featuring a captivating rendition of the well-known painting, “The Last Supper.”The graceful arched windows with stained glass further enhance the ambiance. This colorful yet elegant space made me appreciate this building even more than the famous Saint Francis Church.
15. Go antique shopping in Jew Town.
Jew Town and AB Salem Roads are the ultimate shopping destinations in Kochi, India. The streets are lined with so many antique shops that you’ll feel like you’re strolling through an antique museum.
Shops in Jew Town road feature thousands of artifacts tied to Theyyam, a Hindu ritual related to “Daivam.” However, we discourage buying items associated with this ritual due to their spiritual and religious significance.
Beyond that, you’ll find stunning lamps and various antiques neatly arranged, including stone sculptures.
Some shops even offer massive “Kadais” (cooking bowls), leaving you pondering how they’re ever transported to their destinations once purchased.
The friendly locals welcome you to explore their expansive shops and are happy to answer questions when they’re not assisting other customers.
Keep in mind that you need to haggle for a better price in Kochi – bargaining is an essential part of the shopping experience throughout India.
Plus, if you buy small items and you aren’t an Indian, keep smaller currencies handy to avoid issues with getting exact change back.
16. Head to Koonan Kurishu church
There are many historical sites in Kochi, India, including a dozen churches. But Koonan Kurishu Church is the best of all for several reasons. It isn’t your regular church with aisles and walls, but rather vaulted!
It holds significant religious importance among Orthodox Kerala Christians and isn’t really one of the main tourist attractions in Fort Kochi.
So, you hardly find tourists here, making Koonan Kurishu Church one of the quietest and most beautiful places to visit in Kochi, India.
Situated in a predominantly Muslim neighborhood, the church features a sprawling lawn where the arched walls seamlessly transition into the roof. If you’ve been to Nubia or have knowledge of Nubian vaults, you’ll instantly recognize the architectural connection.
History of Koonan Kurishu Church
The first Koonan Kurishu church of Syrian Orthodox was built in 1653. This historical site is significant for its connection to the public oath taken by the St. Thomas Christian community in Kerala.
Centuries prior to the arrival of the Portuguese in Kochi, a group of Kerala residents had embraced Syrian Orthodox Christianity.
However, in the early 1600s, the Portuguese initiated the burning of Syrian Christian texts and sought to bring them under the Pope’s authority through a council, provoking unrest among the Syrian Christians.
In response, a large gathering of distressed Syrians assembled before an ancient cross in Mattancherry.
They attached a long rope to the cross, firmly pledging their allegiance against following the directives of the Latin Archbishop or the Jesuits. This solemn pledge is known as the “Oath of the Coonan Cross” and is a pivotal moment in Indian Christian history.
In the foyer of Koonan Kurishu church , you’ll spot the “Coonan Cross,” a granite Patriarchal cross secured to nearby columns by a rope. Its history is intertwined with this very rope.
In 2017, a Nubian magic appeared on the site with rammed earth, bricks, neither cement nor steel, to renovate the old church.
17. Spend time at Saint Francis Church
Saint Francis Church is one of the most famous places in Kochi India. Because it is the oldest European church in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503.
The church’s simple, yet charming architecture takes you back in time. Vasco da Gama was originally buried here before his remains were moved to Lisbon.
During my visit, I was fascinated by the ancient gravestones and the peaceful vibe inside.
18. Go cafe hopping
Cafe culture isn’t a big deal in India; It is all about street food in India, right? But Fort Kochi defies the norm. Here, cafes come alive until 11 PM every day (well, some of them do).
Heritage buildings transformed into cafes dish out Western treats like pudding and croissants, with a surprise twist of local gems like Pazhampori.
Some even sweeten the deal with a mini-library or an art gallery.
While Fort Kochi cafes remind you of Varanasi’s cafe culture, the vibes are different.
It’s not just foreign travelers; even the young crowd from India is all in. So whether you’re into taking selfies or quietly admiring artists at work, Fort Kochi’s cafes have got it all. But if you’re watching your budget like we do, make sure to check those prices before you settle in!
I’ve made a separate post on the best cafes to try in Kochi, including why some famous ones like Kashi Art Cafe are overhyped.
19. Stay at Heritage Mansion in Kochi
Kochi has a rich history that spans centuries, with influences from Jews, Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods. So, there is no shortage of historical buildings here. Once the British left India, many of these heritage structures were converted into luxury hotels.
Every creaking floorboard, intricate architectural detail, and weathered brick carries echoes of stories from the past. Therefore, staying in heritage buildings is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.
Most of these heritage hotels are luxury spots, so you’ll need to spend a bit.
However, for budget travellers like us, there are smaller historic buildings or homes that cost less. So, to stay at a historical place in Kochi, you really don’t have to be a billionaire.
20. Visit Dutch Cemetery
If you’re in Fort Kochi, you’ve got to check out the Dutch Cemetery! It’s one of the oldest in India and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
Dutch Cemetery dates back to 1724 and is the final resting place of many Dutch and British settlers.
The old tombstones, some of which have weathered beautifully over the centuries, tell stories of those who once lived here.
Call me a sadist, but I always find cemeteries intriguing. The way these old tombstones weather beautifully over the centuries evokes a weird emotion in you. Although you can’t walk inside the cemetery, having a glimpse of 100+ graves at one shot is eerily beautiful.
Its locality adds more uniqueness to the cemetery – Dutch Cemetery is surrounded by colonial bungalows and cafes. It is weird to find the place of the dead in the middle of one of Fort Kochi’s happening streets.
21. Visit Banana Fibre Workshop in Ernakulam
Bananas being one of the main crops of God’s own country, Kerala, their fibres are used to create beautiful, eco-friendly, sustainable products in Kochi.
Similar to what you see in Anegundi near Hampi, the Vimala Welfare Centre in Ernakulam aims to empower women by making banana fibre artefacts.
Run by a Christian missionary, Vimala Welfare Centre makes all kinds of banana fibre products. From laptop bags to coasters, mobile-sized sling bags to floor mats – you can see it all live at their workshop and also buy their products.
I did call them prior to my visit and took permission, although it isn’t mandatory.
But keep in mind that this centre is an active workshop and a means of livelihood for many local Kochi women. So, it is best to call them and ask if they are open for visitors.
22. Pay a Visit to Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple, located in Tripunithura, Kochi, is one of Kerala’s most significant temples.
Built in honour of Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Santhanagopala Murthy (the saviour of infants), the temple showcases a unique depiction of Vishnu seated under the five hoods of Anantha, unlike the usual reclining pose.
Dating back to the 16th century, the temple has a rich history, including a significant reconstruction in 1921. The temple’s atmosphere, surrounded by colonial bungalows and cafes, adds to its charm.
What I personally admire about Poornathrayeesa Temple is its authentic Kerala architecture.
The multi-shrine temple features a sloped roof clad with clay tiles, low relief sculptures on the temple walls, lots of copper plating, and a beautiful lamp stand around the main deity.
Similar to Guruvayur, Poornathrayeesa also has an elephant stable. During major festivals, these elephants are decorated with golden head coverings called nettipattam and go on procession.
23. Take Walking Tours in Fort Kochi
Instead of just using Fort Kochi’s scenic streets for social media, learn their unique stories.
Before diving into Fort Kochi’s adventures, embark on a local-guided walking tour?it’s the best way to get acquainted with this beloved city.
Why are walking tours in Kochi a must-do?
The tales of the Perumpadappu SwarÅ«pam kingdom’s alliance with the Portuguese in the 1500s, the Dutch’s clash with the Portuguese, and the British pursuit of “black gold” in Kochi are like chapters of a gripping novel that you can read while exploring the streets of Fort Kochi.
From strategic alliances to epic battles, history unfolds with every step during the walking tour.
The spot where Vasco da Gama met his end, the former Jewish quarters, and the vibrant Gujarati neighborhoods all contribute to Fort Kochi’s rich tapestry.
It makes you ponder why this place remains underrated, despite its compelling history and breathtaking coastal and lakeside scenery.
It isn’t just history that the streets of Kochi tell. Right in front of the house where Vasco da Gama died, you see the house where India’s and my mother’s favourite singer, Yesudas, was born.
During this walk, you’ll discover why Kochi is called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, how its bustling harbor fuels its economy, and why combating the influx of drugs is a challenge.
Plus, you’ll unravel the mystery of why there’s no actual fort in Fort Kochi.
Which is the Best Walking tour in Fort Kochi?
The best walking tour in Fort Kochi is offered by “The Kochi Heritage Project.”
These individuals are hometown connoisseurs, fueled by passion – as an architect, I can read it between the lines and I bet they are the best.
24. Take Water Metro in Kochi
While Kochi is all about colonial and Maharaja history, it still stays relevant to today’s world with various modern additions. To see how the city is moving forward, take the Kochi Water Metro?a revolutionary addition to the city’s public transport system, connecting various islands to the mainland through eco-friendly electric boats.
This metro service aims to reduce traffic congestion and provide a comfortable commute. The new line offers routes covering key areas at a reasonable ticket price.
You can enjoy scenic views of the backwaters while traveling. The service operates frequently, ensuring timely and efficient travel across distances that would otherwise take much longer by road.
We took the Water Metro from Vypin to Wellington Island? it was super scenic! You sail on Lake Vembanad, which feels like an ocean, passing by gigantic cargo ships and beautiful lagoons. I didn’t enjoy my time much on Wellington Island, but the experience of using the Metro on water is 100% a must-do thing in Kochi.
Found some great inspiration from our Kochi blog and list of things to do? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
