The prized jewel of Ernakulam, Kochi is arguably the best city in Kerala. With numerous interesting places to visit in Kochi, it is not a surprising fact that people from across the country visit this city in large numbers. This city is also known by the name of Cochin, which was formerly its official name.
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With over 2.3 million annual visitors per year, Kochi is one of the most-visited cities in India. The beautiful city of Kochi is also fondly referred to as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. This port city overlooks the Laccadive Sea and has been for many centuries a pivotal port for traders from across the world. In this article, we mention some of the must-visit attractions in Kochi.
10 Places to Visit in Kochi
- Cherai Beach
- Church of Saint Francis
- Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
- Kerala Folklore Museum
- Indo-Portuguese Museum
- Vypin Island
- Kerala Kathakali Centre
- Marine Drive
- Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple
- Wonder La
Cherai Beach
Cherai Beach in Kochi is one of the most-visited beaches in Kerala. It won’t be an exaggeration to describe this beach as a slice of heaven. This beach is situated on the north side of the mesmerizing Vypin island. The Cherai Beach stretches over 10 KMs and is one of the best beaches in the state for swimmers.
The subtle and gentle waves create the perfect setting for swimming under the sun on a lazy day. Dolphins that make an appearance here frequently are stars among the locals and tourists alike.
From Cherai Beach, you can also view the Cherai Lagoon. The mesmerizing views of the lagoon and the sea will leave you impressed. Paragliding is possible at this beach. For those seeking some adventure, paragliding at Cherai Beach is highly recommended.
This beach is surrounded by numerous resorts that offer luxurious rooms at reasonable rates. Cherai Beach is one of the top places to visit in Kochi.
Best Time to Visit Cherai Beach: Throughout the year
Major Attraction: View of the lagoon and the sea in one frame
Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hours
Things to do: Dolphin spotting and paragliding
Church of Saint Francis
The Church of Saint Francis situated in the heart of Kochi is one of the oldest churches in India. The mortal remains of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama were originally buried at this church.
After 14 years, his remains were transported to the Jeronimo Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal. This historically and religiously significant church is arguably one of the best attractions in Kochi. In April 1923, this church was classified as a protected monument.
Church of Saint Francis attracts a large number of devotees from across Kochi during Sunday mass. The church remains open on weekdays for visitors. On the southern side of the church, visitors can see the gravestone of Vasco de Gama.
A cenotaph in remembrance of those who fell during the First World War can also be seen during your visit to the Church of Saint Francis.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM, Sunday from 12:00 PM to 05:00 PM
Major Attraction: Vasco de Gama’s gravestone and the architecture
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Things to do: Attend the Sunday mass
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is an ideal place to be for nature lovers. This popular attraction is situated behind the Kerala High Court building. This bird sanctuary is easily accessible since it is located in an area with excellent connectivity. The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary was established in 2004.
It spans a total area of 2.74 hectares (6. 77 acres) and is home to a large number of migratory birds. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Kochi.
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is also home to different types of mangroves. A visit to this green lung of Kochi is suggested for those looking to breathe in some fresh air. Birds of as many as 32 different species can be found at this bird sanctuary.
Common redshank, common greenshank, white-breasted waterhen, marsh sandpiper, and brahminy kite are some of the common species of birds found here. A wide range of species of butterflies and mammals can also be found at this sanctuary.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Major Attraction: Flora and fauna
Ideal Duration to Explore: 3 to 4 Hours
Things to do: Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
Kerala Folklore Museum
Kerala Folklore Museum situated in the heart of Kochi is one of the most popular tourist places in Kochi. This architecture, ethnography, and anthropology museum is a must-visit for those with an inclination towards learning something new.
The majority of the collection at this museum belongs to George Thaliath and his wife Annie George. They both love antiques and have been collecting them for over 25 years. More than a museum, a wide range of cultural and performing arts events also take place at the Kerala Folklore Museum.
This museum is home to over 4000 artefacts. This collection comprises a wide range of sculptures, masks, stone age artefacts, terracottas, and paintings. This museum promotes traditional art and craft. The museum building is an attraction in itself.
The building reflects three styles of architecture namely Malabar style, Kochi style, and Travancore style of architecture. Theyyam, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Oppana and Theyyam performances are hosted here on a regular basis.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Major Attraction: Relishing dishes from Spice Art Shop
Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hours
Things to do: Buy a souvenir
Indo-Portuguese Museum
Situated in the heart of Fort Kochi, a hip neighbourhood in Kochi, the Indo-Portuguese Museum was established in 1910. This museum is a brainchild of Dr Joseph Kureethra who was the Bishop of Kochi. This museum is a tribute and reflection of the Portuguese cultural influence in Kochi.
Visiting this museum is ideal for learning about Kochi during the times of Portuguese colonization. The Indo-Portuguese Museum is divided into five sections namely Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral.
The building that this museum is housed in was the Bishop’s house. The various Christian art on display here is captivating, These artworks were selected from all the churches situated in Kochi. Numerous artefacts on display at this museum have been donated by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in Lisbon.
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kochi.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 01:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday from 02:00 PM to 06:00 PM
Major Attraction: Christian artworks and amazing artefacts
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 to 2 Hour
Vypin Island
Vypin Island is a major tourist attraction that should be definitely explored during your visit to Kochi. This island is one of the best places for sightseeing in Kochi. Vypin, along with several other islands, forms the city of Kochi. Vypin is situated between the Arabian Sea and the Cochin Backwaters.
The Goshree bridges connect Vypin Island to mainland Kochi. The Vypin Fort situated on the northern end of this Island is a popular tourist attraction.
The Puthuvype Beach and the lighthouse on it are also popular landmarks that attract visitors from across the city. This island is believed to be formed in 1341 following a disastrous flood. You can take the ferry from Fort Kochi to reach Vypin Island.
This is the best mode of transport due to the cheap ticket price and the view that you can take in during the ferry trip. Vypin Island is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Kochi.
Best Time to Visit Vypin Island: Throughout the year
Major Attractions: Vypin Fort and Puthuvype Beach
Ideal Duration to Explore: 3 to 4 Hours
Kerala Kathakali Centre
Kathakali is a classical Indian dance form that is immensely popular in Kerala. Tourists from across the world flock to Kerala to watch Kathakali performances. In this dance form, a folk story or a Hindu mythological story is told by the performers using expressions, dance, music, and speech.
Kerala Kathakali Centre situated in the heart of Kochi is one of the best places to be in Kerala for watching an authentic Kathakali performance.
Kerala Kathakali Centre was founded in 1990. Since then, it has earned a name for itself as one of the best performing arts and cultural venues in the state. For those with a liking for traditional art forms, visiting the Kerala Kathakali Centre is a must.
The shows here last about 90 minutes. Kerala Kathakali Centre is one of the best performing arts places to visit in Kochi.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 to 2 Hours
Things to do: Watch Kathakali Performance
Marine Drive Kochi
Marine Drive is a quintessential Kochi attraction that is as popular as the city itself. One thinks of Marine Drive as soon as the name Kochi comes up in a conversation. The long stretch of promenade overlooking the backwaters is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
Taking an evening stroll as the cool breeze hits you is an experience that should not be missed. Watching the sunset from the Marine Drive should be on top of your to-do list while in Kochi. The Subash Bose Park situated at Marine Drive is a huge hit among kids and families.
Marine Drive is one of the top tourist destinations in Kochi. The vibe here is magical. Whether for people watching, taking in nature or taking a stroll with your headsets on, Marine Drive is the place to be. Shopaholics will love Marine Drive as there are numerous shopping centres dotted across the area.
Marine Drive is a shining beacon of Kochi Tourism.
Best Time to Visit Marine Drive: Throughout the year
Major Attractions: Subash Bose Park and Shopping Centers
Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hours
Things to do: Watch the sunset
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple
This sacred Hindu temple is among the most-visited religious sites in the state. Dedicated to Hindu goddess Bhagavathy, this temple is arguably one of the holiest pilgrimages in South India. This temple is managed by the reputed Cochin Devaswom Board.
At this temple, Rajarajeswari (Adiparasakthi) is worshipped here in three forms. Saraswathy Goddess is worshipped in the morning, Lakshmi Goddess is worshipped at noon and Durga Devi is worshipped in the evening.
Apart from the goddesses, Lord Brahma, Lord Ganpati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Subramanian are also worshipped here. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is one of the top places to visit in Ernakulam.
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is considered only second to Sabarimala in terms of religious and historical significance in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple: During the annual festival of Makam Thozhal. Between February to March.
Major Attractions: The architecture
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Things to do: Attend one of the poojas
Wonderla Kochi
This amusement park is one of the best in the country. The thrilling rides and water slides here are sure to give you a dose of adrenaline. If excitement is what you seek, visiting Wonder La while in Kochi is highly recommended.
For a reasonable ticket price, you can access the park as well as the water park area at Wonder La. There is something for every member of the family at Wonder La.
Wonder La in Kochi was the first amusement park in India to get ISO 14001 certificate for eco-friendliness and an OHSAS 18001 certificate for safety. Wonder La is founded by Kochouseph Chittilappilly and now is situated in three cities namely Kochi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Wonder La is one of the most exciting places to visit in Kochi.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Major Attractions: Exciting rides and water slides
Ideal Duration to Explore: 5 to 6 Hours
Kochi is truly a paradise for those looking to set out on a trip of their lifetime. From historical attractions to modern amusement parks, this city has it all. Your trip to Kerala will be truly incomplete without visiting Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea.
FAQ
Is Kochi worth visiting?
Yes, Kochi is worth visiting. In fact, Kochi is one of the most-visited cities in entire India. This is the testimony of how much travellers enjoy visiting Kochi.
What is the best time to visit Kochi?
The best time to visit Kochi is between October to February. The weather in Kochi will be relatively cooler during this time making it more pleasant and comfortable for you to explore.
Does Cochin have a beach?
Yes, there are multiple beaches in Cochin. Cherai Beach and Fort Kochi Beach are some of the most popular beaches in Cochin.