tourist guide kochi

Kochi (���m, Kōchi) is the capital of Kochi Prefecture on the southern coast of Shikoku . The city is small and friendly, with a casual atmosphere and a dose of southern flair.

Kochi boasts several attractions of interest to travelers. A well preserved, original hilltop castle from the feudal period marks Kochi's downtown . Nearby on another mountain, Godaisan , pilgrims visit Chikurinji Temple , one of the 88 temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The city is also the proud home of Sakamoto Ryoma, who played a role in realizing the Meiji Restoration . The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum is located at the beautiful Katsurahama Beach , just south of the city center .

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Spreading across islands between the Arabian Sea and the backwaters, Kochi (long known as Cochin) is Kerala’ s prime tourist destination. Its main sections – modern Ernakulam and the peninsular districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin to the west – are linked by bridges and a complex system of ferries. Although some visitors opt to stay in the more convenient Ernakulam, the overwhelming majority base themselves in Fort Cochin, where the city’s complex history is reflected in an assortment of architectural styles. Spice markets, Chinese fishing nets, a synagogue, a Portuguese palace and India ’s first European church are all close by.

The best travel tips for visiting Kochi

Best things to do in kochi, best areas to stay in kochi, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit kochi, how many days do you need in kochi, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

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Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

Old Kochi, the thumb-shaped peninsula whose northern tip presides over the entrance to the city’s harbour, formed the focus of European trading activities from the sixteenth century onwards.

With high-rise development restricted to Ernakulam across the water, its twin districts of Fort Cochin, in the west, and Mattancherry, on the headland’s eastern side, have preserved an extraordinary wealth of early colonial architecture, spanning the Portuguese, Dutch and British eras – a crop unparalleled in India.

As you approach by ferry, the waterfront, with its sloping red-tiled roofs and ranks of peeling, pastel coloured godowns (warehouses), offers a view that can have changed little in centuries. Closer up, however, Old Kochi’s historic patina has started to show some ugly cracks.

The spice trade that fuelled the town’s original rise is still very much in evidence. But over the past twenty years an extraordinary rise in visitor numbers has had a major impact.

Thousands of tourists pour through daily in winter, and with no planning or preservation authority to take control, the resulting rash of new building threatens to destroy the very atmosphere people come here to experience.

RoughGuides tip: Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Bishop house at Fort Kochin in India © Shutterstock

From the old quarter at Fort Cochin to the old district of red-tiled riverfront wharves at Mattancherry, here are the best things to do in Kochi.

#1 Explore the evocative, European-era Fort Cochin

Fort Cochin, the grid of old streets at the northwest tip of the peninsula, is where the Portuguese erected their first walled citadel, Fort Immanuel, which the Dutch East India Company later consolidated with a circle of well-fortified ramparts.

Only a few fragments of the former battlements remain (the outline of the old walls is traced by the district’s giant rain trees, some of which are more than two centuries old), but dozens of other evocative European-era monuments survive.

A good way to get to grips with Fort Cochin’s many-layered history is to pick up the free walking-tour maps produced by Kerala Tourism. They lead you around some of the district’s more significant landmarks, including the early eighteenth-century Dutch Cemetery, Vasco da Gama’s supposed house and several traders’ residences.

#2 See the famous Chinese fishing nets

Probably the single most familiar photographic image of Kerala, the huge, elegant Chinese fishing nets lining the northern shore of Fort Cochin add grace to the waterfront view.

Traders from the court of Kublai Khan are said to have introduced them to the Malabar region. Known in Malayalam as cheena vala, they can also be seen throughout the backwaters further south.

The nets, which are suspended from poles and operated by levers and weights, require at least four men to control them. If you linger, the fishermen will beckon you over to help (for a small tip).

Rough Guides Tip: make sure to read all about the best beaches in Kerala

#3 Visit the Church of St Francis, the first church built by Europeans in India

South of the Chinese fishing nets on Church Road (the continuation of River Road) is the large, typically English Parade Ground. Overlooking it, the Church of St Francis was the first built by Europeans in India.

Its exact age is not known, though the stone structure is thought to date back to the early sixteenth century. The facade, meanwhile, became the model for most Christian churches in India.

Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524, but his body was later removed to Portugal. Under the Dutch, the church was renovated and became Protestant in 1663, then Anglican with the advent of the British in 1795.

Inside, the earliest of various tombstone inscriptions placed on the walls dates from 1562.

#4 Go antique shopping in Mattancherry

Mattancherry, the old district of red-tiled riverfront wharves and houses occupying the northeastern tip of the headland, was once the colonial capital’s main market area – the epicentre of the Malabar’s spice trade, and home to its wealthiest Jewish and Jain merchants.

Like Fort Cochin, its once grand buildings have lapsed into advanced states of disrepair, with most of their original owners working overseas.

When Mattancherry’s Jews emigrated en masse to Israel in the 1940s, their furniture and other un-portable heirlooms ended up in the antique shops for which the area is now renowned – though these days genuine pieces are few and far between.

#5 See inside the captivating Mattancherry Palace

The sight at the top of most itineraries is Mattancherry Palace, on the roadside a short walk from the Mattancherry Jetty, 1km or so southeast of Fort Cochin.

Known locally as the Dutch Palace, the two-storey building was actually erected by the Portuguese, as a gift to the raja of Cochin, Vira Keralavarma (1537–61) – though the Dutch did add to the complex.

While its squat exterior is not particularly striking, the interior is captivating, with some of the finest examples of Kerala’s underrated school of mural painting, along with Dutch maps of old Cochin, coronation robes belonging to past maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.

#6 Go inside the Paradesi Synagogue

The neighbourhood immediately behind and to the south of Mattancherry Palace is known as Jew Town, home of a vestigial Jewish community whose place of worship is the Paradesi (White Jew) Synagogue.

Founded in 1568 and rebuilt in 1664, the building is best known for its interior, an incongruous hotchpotch paved with hand-painted eighteenth-century blue-and-white tiles from Canton.

An elaborately carved Ark houses four scrolls of the Torah, on which sit gold crowns presented by the maharajas of Travancore and Cochin, testifying to good relations with the Jewish community.

The synagogue’s oldest artefact is a fourth-century copperplate inscription from the raja of Cochin.

#7 Catch a Kathakali show in Kochi

Kochi is the only city in Kerala where you are guaranteed the chance to see live kathakali, the state’s unique form of ritualised theatre.

Whether in its authentic setting, in temple festivals held in winter, or at the shorter tourist-oriented shows that take place year round, these mesmerising dance dramas – depicting the struggles of gods and demons – are an unmissable feature of Kochi’s cultural life.

Among the most magical experiences a visitor to Kerala can have is to witness one of the innumerable ancient drama rituals that play such an important role in the cultural life of the region.

Kathakali is the best known; other less publicised forms, which clearly influenced its development, include the classical Sanskrit kudiyattam. Many Keralan forms share broad characteristics.

A prime aim of each performer is to transform the mundane into the world of gods and demons; his preparation is highly ritualised, involving otherworldly costume and mask-like make-up.

Kadhakali performance in motion blur © anilkumart/Shutterstock

#8 Kerala Folklore Museum

Ernakulam’s one outstanding visitor attraction is the Kerala Folklore Museum , on the distant southeast fringes of the city. The collection of antiques is housed in a multi-storey laterite building. The building is encrusted with traditional wood- and tile-work.

The collection includes dance-drama masks and costumes, ritual paraphernalia, musical instruments, pieces of temple architecture, 3000-year-old burial urns, cooking utensils, portraits, and ancestral photographs. All of these categories were amassed by George Thaliyath, the founder and an avid antiques collector.

Its crowning glory is an exquisitely decorated theatre on the top floor, decorated with swirling Keralan temple murals and dark wooden pillars. It’s only open for exclusive, prearranged kathakali performances.

#9 Take a backwater trip around Kochi

Coir-production, rope-making, toddy-tapping, fishing and crab-farming are the main sources of income in the backwater villages south of Kochi. Easily reachable via the national highway, they’re scattered over an expanse of huge lagoons and canals, flowing west behind a near-continuous beach.

You can dip into the region for a day on one of the popular trips run out of Fort Cochin by KTDC , or with a community-based tourism initiative based at Kumbalanghi village – an award-winning project where proceeds are shared among the locals.

The trip is most easily done by auto-rickshaw; if travelling by bus, head for Perumamapadappu, aka “Perumbadapu” on Google maps, and catch an auto from there for the remaining couple of kilometres.

Backwater around Kochin © Shutterstock

#10 Check out Thripunitra

Some 12km southeast of Ernakulam and a short bus or auto-rickshaw ride from the bus stand just south of Jos Junction on MG Road, the small suburban town of Thripunitra is worth a visit for its dilapidated colonial-style Hill Palace, now an eclectic museum, as well as its fabulous temple festival, held in October or November.

#11 Chill out at Cherai Beach

The closest beach to Kochi worth the effort of getting to is Cherai, 25km north on Vypeen Island. A 3km strip of golden sand and thumping surf, it’s sandwiched on a narrow strip of land between the sea and a very pretty backwater area of glassy lagoons.

Chunky granite sea defences prevent the waves from engulfing the ribbon of fishing villages that subsist along this strip. Nowhere, however, is the sand more than a few metres wide at high tide, and the undertow can get quite strong.

Even so, Cherai is gaining in popularity each year, and a row of small resorts and guesthouses has sprung up to accommodate the trickle of mainly foreign travellers who find their way up here from Fort Cochin.

Cherai beach, Kochi © Shutterstock

The vast majority of travellers will stay at Fort Cochin, however, Ernakulam is a well-connected alternative should you need to arrive late at night.

Fort Cochin

Most foreign visitors opt to stay in Fort Cochin , with its uncongested backstreets and charming colonial-era architecture. There are, however, drawbacks: room rates are grossly inflated (especially over Christmas and New Year), with few options at the budget end of the scale.

Ernakulam may suffer a dearth of historic ambience, but it’s far more convenient for travel connections and offers lots of choices and better value in all categories. Wherever you choose to stay, book well in advance .

Browse the best hotels in Kochi.

Foreign tourists tend to congregate at the pavement joints along Tower Rd near the Chinese fishing nets, drinking warm beer disguised in teapots. Your rupees will stretch further in Ernakulam, where you’ll find some of the best traditional food in all south India.

Fort Kochi is a popular area with a vibrant food scene. You'll find a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both local Kerala cuisine and international dishes. The area is known for its seafood specialties and charming streets lined with dining establishments.

Located in the heart of Kochi, MG Road is a bustling commercial area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. It offers a diverse range of culinary options, including Indian, Chinese, Continental, and fast food.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a waterfront promenade that offers a range of restaurants and cafes. With its scenic views of the backwaters, it's a popular spot to unwind and enjoy a meal or a drink.

Broadway is a bustling market area in Kochi known for its street food stalls and local eateries. From traditional dosas and idlis to local sweets, it's a great place to sample authentic Kerala snacks.

Sunset over chinese fishing nets boat in Cochin, Kochi, India © johnnychaos/Shutterstock

From catching a ferry to cycling around the city, it is easy to navigate Kochi. Here’s how to do it.

Kochi’s dilapidated ferries provide a cheap and relaxing way to reach the various parts of the city. The most popular route for visitors is the one connecting Ernakulam’s Main Boat Jetty and Fort Cochin/Mattancherry’s Customs Jetty.

KSRTC is in the process of upgrading its ageing fleet with new, state-of-the-art, low-floored Volvo buses, coloured bright green or orange. The new vehicles – used on prime routes such as the run between Fort Cochin and the airport – are cleaner and more comfortable. But there remain plenty of the old rust buckets in circulation and they’re invariably crammed to bursting point. Frequent services run throughout the day between Ernakulam and Fort Cochin, though the ferry is a lot more enjoyable.

Bicycles can be rented from many hotels and guesthouses in Fort Cochin.

The best time to visit Kochi is during the winter months of December to February. This period offers the most comfortable weather conditions with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F).

Visiting in December? Make sure to read our article about visiting Kerala in December

The winter season in Kochi is characterized by pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and relatively dry weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

During this time, you can enjoy visiting popular landmarks such as Fort Kochi, the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church. The weather is conducive to exploring the vibrant streets, experiencing the local culture, and indulging in the diverse culinary scene that Kochi has to offer.

It's important to note that Kochi experiences a tropical climate throughout the year, with high humidity and occasional rainfall. The monsoon season, which occurs from June to September, brings heavy rains to the region. While the monsoon can create a lush and green atmosphere, it may limit outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities due to the rainfall.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

St. Francis Church in Cochin © Shutterstock

Aim to spend at least two to three days in Kochi. Allocate the first day to exploring the historic district of Fort Kochi, wander through the atmospheric lanes and admiring the gorgeous coastline.

Additionally, explore the Mattancherry neighborhood, where you can visit the intriguing Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts depicting the history of the region.

On the second day, you can delve further into Kochi's history and culture. Take a ferry ride to visit the Bolgatty Palace, a former Dutch mansion now converted into a heritage hotel, offering glimpses of the colonial era.

Explore the area around the Jewish Synagogue, which comes to life with spice markets and antique shops. In the evening, indulge in some fresh seafood.

If you have an additional day, consider exploring the nearby backwaters of Kochi. Take a day trip to the scenic village of Alleppey (Alappuzha) and embark on a mesmerizing houseboat cruise through the backwaters.

This experience allows you to witness the tranquil beauty of Kerala's interconnected canals, paddy fields, and coconut groves.

Kochi’s international airport, one of India’s most modern and efficient – is at Nedumbassery, near Alwaye (aka Alua), 29 km north of Ernakulam.

Modern, comfortable a/c airbuses also cover the route more or less hourly, running to Fort Cochin.

There are two main railway stations: Ernakulam Junction, near the centre; and Ernakulam Town, 2 km further north. The Cochin Harbour Terminus, on Willingdon Island, serves the island’s luxury hotels.

Ernakulam Town lies on Kerala’s main broad-gauge line and sees frequent services to and from Thiruvananthapuram via Kottayam , Kollam and Varkala. In the opposite direction, trains connect Ernakulam and Thrissur, and Chennai across the Ghats in Tamil Nadu .

The KSRTC Central bus stand, beside the railway line east of MG Rd and north of Ernakulam Junction, is for state-run long-distance services.

There are also two stands for pricier private services: The Fort Cochin bus terminus serves tourist buses, local services to Ernakulam and the airport bus.

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Kochi (Cochin)

Set on a magnificent estuary, serene Kochi has been drawing traders, explorers and travelers to its shores for over 600 years. Nowhere else in India could you find such an intriguing mix: giant Chinese fishing nets, a 450-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese and Dutch colonial-era houses, and the crumbling remains of the colonial British Raj. The result is an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal and Holland and an English village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. It’s a delightful place to explore, laze in arty cafes and relax at some of India’s finest homestays and heritage hotels. It's also an important centre for Keralan arts (traditional and contemporary) and a standout place to see Kathakali and kalarippayat.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Pardesi Synagogue

Originally built in 1568, Mattancherry's synagogue was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, and rebuilt two years later when the Dutch took…

Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace was a generous gift presented to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma (1537–65), as a gesture of goodwill by the Portuguese in 1555…

Chinese Fishing Nets

The unofficial emblems of Kerala’s backwaters, and perhaps the most photographed, are the half-dozen giant cantilevered Chinese fishing nets on Fort…

Kerala Folklore Museum

Created in Kerala style from ancient temples and beautiful old houses collected by its owner, an antique dealer, the family-run folklore museum houses a…

Hill Palace Museum

Around 13km east of Ernakulam, this impressive 49-building palace complex was formerly the residence of the Kochi royal family. It now houses the…

Indo-Portuguese Museum

The heritage of one of India’s earliest Catholic communities – including vestments, silver processional crosses, altarpieces from the Kochi diocese and…

St Francis Church

Constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars, this is believed to be India’s oldest European-built church. The faded-yellow edifice that stands…

Opposite the parade ground, this beautiful restored bungalow is all that remains of three 17th-century Dutch-era houses built using materials from…

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KOCHI TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO COCHIN

• Kochi Overview
• Top 41 Places to Visit in Kochi
• 17 Best Kochi Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Kochi
• Best Time to Visit Kochi

How to Reach Kochi

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About Kochi

Country: india | state: kerala, #7 of 24 places to visit in kerala | #73 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2-3 days, base station: kochi, nearest city to kochi: kochi, best time to visit kochi: october to march, peak season: november to february, kochi weather: maximum: 35°c minimum: 20°c.

At a distance of 190 km from Coimbatore, 204 km from Trivandrum, 426 km from Mangalore, and 516 km from Bangalore, Kochi, also known as Cochin is a port city in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Also referred to as 'The Queen of the Arabian Sea', Kochi is the financial capital of Kerala, and among the prime tourist Kerala tourist places . The city derives its name from the Malayalam word Kochazhi meaning small lagoon. Kochi is one of the finest natural harbors in the world. The city has 3 parts - Fort Kochi, Willington Island, and Ernakulam. Vasco da Gama, whose arrival in Kerala about 500 years ago opened up a new era of trade between India and Europe. Kochi & Ernakulam are twin cities that are separated by Kayal backwaters. Kochi is the starting point for many tours in Kerala including the famous Alleppey tour packages . Till the early 16th century, Kochi was a small fishing village that became the first European township in India. The town was shaped by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and later the British. Kochi was an important spice trading center on the Arabian Sea coast since the 14th century. Occupied by the Portuguese in 1503 and it remained the capital of Portuguese India until 1530, when they opted for Goa as their capital. In 1635, the British settled in Kochi; however, the Dutch forced them out in 1663. Under Dutch rule, Kochi developed as an important trade center. Kochi came under the administration of the British and developed into a major Indian harbor in 1814. Kochi tour packages is admired for its scenic beauty, traditional architecture, churches and beaches. This city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth as well as numerous old churches and temples. Attracting tourists from all around the world, Fort Kochi, Bolghatty Palace, Marine Drive, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, St. George Ferona Church - Edappally, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, and Fort Kochi Beach are some of the top places to visit in Kochi . Kochi is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. The city has an international airport located in Nedumbassery about 38 km from Kochi. Kochi has great connectivity from major cities in India and countries like Dubai, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, USA & Europe. Kochi has two major railway stations; Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town. It is well linked with major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Madurai, Delhi, etc. Kochi is well connected by bus from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Trivandrum, and Tirupathi. The city has four major bus stations. Kaloor Bus station - used by private long-distance buses and local buses, KSRTC Central Bus Station - used by Kerala RTC inter-state/inter-city buses, KSRTC Jetty Station - Used by KSRTC city and short distance services and Fort Kochi Bus Terminus - used by both private and KSRTC City services. The best time to visit Kochi is from October-March. It usually takes at least two full days to explore the important places in Kochi.

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Nearest Airport: Kochi - Cochin International Airport (27 Kms)

Direct flights to kochi, nearest train station: ernakulam jn (south) railway station (0 kms) ernakulam town railway station (3.5 kms) cochin harbour terminus (8.5 kms), direct trains to kochi, nearest bus station: ksrtc central bus station (1.5 kms), direct buses to kochi, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to kochi, top 10 places to visit in kochi, cochin jewish synagogue.

#1 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is a religious place located at Jew Town in the Mattancherry area of Kochi city. It is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and among the must-visit places during your Kochi tour . Also known as Paradesi Synagogue, & Mattancherry Synagogue, the Cochin Jewish Synagogue was constructed in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi for the Malabari Jewish community who mainly migrated from the Middle East and Europe. In 1662, it was destroyed by the Portuguese and then reconstructed, two years later, by the Dutch. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town and is the only one of the seven synagogues of the Cochin Jewish community still in use. The complex has four buildings. It was built adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace temple on the land given to the Malabari Yehuden or 'Yehuden .....

Fort Kochi Beach

#2 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Fort Kochi Beach, or Kochi Beach is a pristine beach located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Kerala. Also called as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, it is one of the finest beaches in Kerala , and among the prime places to visit as part of Kochi holiday packages . Often known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Fort Kochi Beach is a serene beach that offers a scenic view and natural beauty to its visitors. With its pristine water and tranquil ambiance, it is extremely admired by tourists and local people as well. The main attraction of this beach is the historic fort, which is the perfect example of European architecture. The presence of the Chinese fishing nets is probably the most easily identifiable one. The trees and the greenery on the walkway to the beach add to the serene atmosphere there. The beach also offers a breathtaking .....

Chinese Fishing Nets

#3 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction, Chinese Fishing Nets are a type of fishing nets that dotted the harbor's mouth at Fort Kochi. These are among the most popular Kochi tourist attractions . Locally known as Cheenavala, these nets were introduced in Fort Kochi by the Chinese explorer, Zheng He between 1350 and 1450 AD. The Chinese Fishing Nets are fixed land installations, used for fishing in a unique method. These nets are fixed on bamboo and teak poles holding them horizontally by huge mechanisms to pull them down into the sea. These nets are weighed by large stones tied to ropes. The entire structure of the Chinese fishing nets is 10 meters in height, spreads 20 meters over the water body, and is operated by a team of six fishermen. Each net has a fixed operating depth and due to this, a net cannot be repeatedly worked in tidal waters. There are different fishing nets for the operation which .....

Marine Drive

#4 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 3 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Marine Drive is one the most beautiful spots in Kochi City. The Marine Drive stretches from the Jankar Jetty in the north to the Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the locals. It is an important shopping centre in Kochi. The place offers wonderful views of sunset over the sea mouth. The gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine Drive an important tourist spot in Kochi. The 140 meter walkway passes through bridges, the Rainbow bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge. Country boats and motor boats are available at both the ends of walkway for rides in the backwaters.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

#5 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 4 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary situated behind the High Court, in the center of Kochi City. It is one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in Kerala, and among the most popular places of sightseeing in Kochi . Established in 2004, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the smallest protected area under the state forest department. Covering over an area of about 2.74 hectares, the sanctuary also houses a shallow tidal lake surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation. The lake is connected with Kochi backwaters by a canal and is home to seven species of fishes. It is the only bird sanctuary in Kerala which is located in Mangrove forests. The word Mangal means mangroves in Portuguese. The Bird Sanctuary plays a significant role in balancing the ecology of Kochi, hence it is .....

St. George Ferona Church - Edappally

#6 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 7.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St. George Ferona Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic church situated in Edappally, Kochi. It is one of the oldest churches in India, and among the top pilgrimage places to visit in Kochi . This Roman Catholic Church was built in 594 AD in the land donated by the Raja of Edappally. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later, the Edappally church became known as St. George's Church. The church has undergone many renovations since the time of its construction. The picture of the Virgin Mary surrounded by sculptures and angels was integrated with the altar during one such renovation. On the wall behind the .....

#7 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 16 km from Kottayam, 36 km from Alleppey, 56 km from Kochi, 135 km from Munnar & 164 km from Trivandrum, 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 Kerala backwaters destination for traditional houseboat rides and among the most visited Kerala tourist places . The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of an old temple Kumaran. Kumarakom is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi . Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. In order to protect the ecology of the place, the Kerala government has declared Kumarakom as a special tourism zone. Arundhati Roy, the author of the 1997 Booker Prize-winning 'The God of Small Things', was ..... Distance (From Kochi): 56 Kms Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

St. Francis Church

#8 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St.Francis Church is the first European Church built in India. It is located on Parade Road in Fort kochi , less than 1 Km from Kochi Beach. The Church was originally named as Santo Antonio, the patron Saint of Portugal. The history of this Church reflects the colonial struggle of European powers in India, from the 15th to 20th Centuries. The Portuguese Vasco da Gama was the first European to discover the sea route to India. In 1503 Alphonso Alburquerque was given permission by the Rajah of Cochin to build a fort. The original structure was built in wood, which was later rebuilt in stone. Vasco Da Gama has died in Kochi in 1524 and was originally buried in this church cemetery. After 14 years, his remains were moved to Lisbon in Portugal. The gravestone of Vasco Da Gama can still be seen here. The Church became a protected monument in April 1923.

Aluva Shiva Temple

#9 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 20 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Aluva Shiva Temple is the most famous Shiva temple in Kochi situated on the banks of Periyar River in Aluva. The temple stands distinct as the Sivalinga or the idol of Lord Siva is not enshrined on any Pagoda. It stands alone on the vast sand banks of the river Periyar. During the monsoon season, the whole region gets flooded and the idol gets submerged in water. Shivarathri is the main festival of the temple carried out every year in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (February-March). The devotees stay awake the whole night in prayer. A dip in the river after observing the rituals of Shivarathri is considered very sacred.

Kodungallur

#10 of 41 Places to Visit in Kochi

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 .....

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States › Kerala › Kochi

Kochi Travel Guide

Kochi is by far an exquisite halting destination to unwind amidst its posh environment. Touring in Kochi will leave you awestruck from the backwaters to beaches to hill stations; this south state radiant’s with jade green glow and staggering palm trees. This scenic destination of Kochi is best described as bountiful and beautiful because of its rich flora and fauna and you can also visit other beautiful places of the state as well.

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Kochi has an overabundance of scenic beauty and dramatic landscapes and it is extremely charismatic. Welcomed by breathtaking backwaters, Kochi is a prime tourist destination in Kerala and hence it is better known as Kerala's most metropolitan city. Kochi is an enchanting city that has an electrifying influence of the Arabs, British, Chinese and Portuguese intriguing mix culture and architecture.

It is evident that who so ever will visit Kochi you will encounter popular tourism attraction of the beckoning past of heritage and culture. Kochi is surrounded by palm groves, green field, inland lakes, and backwaters that have enchanted visitors from across the globe for centuries.

Take a glimpse of the privately owned museums, architecture, European-built churches, and small historical towns in Kochi. If you are in Kochi take a step into Kerala Folklore Theatre and catch the glimpses of treasure troves that Kochi exudes through its numerous art and dance forms.

Visiting Kochi without seeing beautiful Kathakali is a sin; this beautiful dance form in which dancers are decked up in colourful costumes tells an enchanting story of the land with nothing but their expressions and postures. Nevertheless, you can spend a lazy day on the beaches of Kochi or you can even indulge in some adventure activities out there. If you are looking for an ideal destination in India to relax where one can unwind and tranquilize then the beaches of Kochi is the place to be and perhaps the main reason to visit Kochi as well. In fact, you can also add to explore the wealth of traditional Kerala culture on your points of tourist interests.

Gulp great food, be a part of authentic shopping and sail on the backwater. The true experience is going to Kochi, amazing delight, soothing massages, picnic on the beach and treasure troves of the temple, one can encounter all this only in Kochi. A great travel destination Kochi is indeed, but you can indulge in other top tourist attractions in Kochi like Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Ernakulam Shiva Temple, Indo-Portuguese Museum, Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple to name a few.

Top Things to Do & Places to See in Kochi

Kochi is a divine sanction and this place has best sightings to keep you occupied. From pristine Fort Kochi Beach, Marine Drive, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica to Mattancherry Palace. The best places to travel and popular things to do in Kochi will certainly make your trip one of the best travel destinations in India.

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35 Must-Visit Places To Visit In Kochi: Explore The Best of Cochin

From ancient forts and scenic beaches to bustling spice markets and serene backwaters, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Dive into the top 35 must-visit places in Kochi and discover why this coastal gem should be at the top of your travel list. Savour the authentic tastes of the traditional cuisine of Cochin, where every dish is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a beautiful city on the southwest coast of India. It’s known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in historical forts in Cochin, scenic beaches in Kochi, or Ecotourism Destinations in Kochi, this place has something for everyone. Here are the top 35 places to visit in Kochi that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi, with its iconic fort, is a testament to the colonial legacy that once shaped the region. Visitors can explore the well-preserved remnants of ancient battles and strategic military architecture in these forts. Each fort in Cochin narrates stories of conquests, trade, and cultural exchanges that have shaped the city’s identity over the centuries. From Fort Kochi to Bolgatty Palace, these historical forts in Cochin offer a fascinating journey through time for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.

Many of these historical forts in Cochin have undergone extensive restoration efforts to preserve their cultural importance for future generations. Each fort tells a story of resilience and adaptation, having withstood the tests of time and various rulers throughout history. Visiting these forts offers a captivating journey through Cochin’s evolution from a trading hub to a modern-day cosmopolitan city. These historical Forts in Cochin hold a testament to the old foundation and grander. 

• Location: West of Kochi’s mainland. 
• Scenic Attractions: Colonial buildings, charming streets, and waterfront views. 
• Things to Do: Walk along Fort Kochi Beach, visit St. Francis Church, and explore the quaint shops and cafes.
•   Interesting Fact: Fort Kochi was the first European township in India, set up by the Portuguese in the 1500s.

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2. Mattancherry Palace

• Location: Mattancherry, near Fort Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Gorgeous murals and royal artefacts.
•   Things to Do: Tour the palace rooms, marvel at the architecture, and shop in nearby Jew Town.
•   Interesting Fact: Though called the Dutch Palace, it was built by the Portuguese.

3. Jewish Synagogue

• Location: Jew Town, Mattancherry. 
• Scenic Attractions: Stunning interiors with Belgian glass chandeliers and Chinese tiles. 
• Things to Do: See historical relics and antique Torah scrolls.
• Interesting Fact: This synagogue, built in 1568, is the oldest active in the Commonwealth.

4. Marine Drive

• Location: Along the backwaters of Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Beautiful sunset views and the Rainbow Bridge of these Scenic Beaches in Kochi
• Things to Do: Enjoy a relaxing walk, take a boat ride, and try local street food.
•   Interesting Fact: Marine Drive is a favourite hangout spot for both locals and tourists.

5. Chinese Fishing Nets

• Location: Fort Kochi Beach. 
• Scenic Attractions: Unique, picturesque fishing nets. 
• Things to Do: Watch fishermen at work and take amazing photos. 
• Interesting Fact: These fishing nets were introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century.

6. Willingdon Island

• Location: Between Ernakulam and Fort Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Beautiful views of the port and backwaters. 
• Things to Do: Explore the island, visit the maritime museum, and enjoy the tranquil environment. 
• Interesting Fact: This is the largest man-made island in India.

7. Cherai Beach

• Location: 25 km from Kochi city. 
• Scenic Attractions: Golden sand and calm waters. 
• Things to Do: Swim, sunbathe, and try some local seafood. 
• Interesting Fact: Cherai Beach is known for its frequent dolphin sightings.

8. Santa Cruz Basilica

• Location: Fort Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Stunning stained glass windows and beautiful interiors. 
• Things to Do: Attend a mass, admire the architecture and take in the peaceful atmosphere. 
• Interesting Fact: This basilica is one of the eight basilicas in India.

9. Bolgatty Palace

• Location: Bolgatty Island. 
• Scenic Attractions: Elegant gardens and stunning waterfront views. 
• Things to Do: Stay at the heritage hotel, explore the palace grounds, and enjoy a luxurious getaway. 
• Interesting Fact: Bolgatty Palace is one of the oldest Dutch palaces outside Holland.

Also Read: Escape To The Clouds: 20 Hill Stations In Kerala For 2024

10. Hill Palace Museum

• Location: Thripunithura, near Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Expansive gardens and royal artefacts. 
• Things to Do: Tour the museum, see the royal jewellery, and enjoy the lush gardens. 
• Interesting Fact: This was the official residence of the Cochin royal family.

11. Paradesi Synagogue

• Scenic Attractions: Beautiful chandeliers and rare antiques. 
• Things to Do: Explore the synagogue and learn about its history. 
• Interesting Fact: It’s the oldest active synagogue in India, built in 1568.

12. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

• Location: Near Marine Drive. 
• Scenic Attractions: Lush mangroves and diverse bird species. 
• Things to Do: Bird watching, nature walks, and photography. 
• Interesting Fact: This sanctuary is often called the “Green Lung of Kochi.”

13. Athirappilly Waterfalls

• Location: 70 km from Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Majestic waterfalls and lush greenery. 
• Things to Do: Enjoy a nature walk, picnic, and take stunning photos. 
• Interesting Fact: Athirappilly is often referred to as the “Niagara of India.”

14. Ernakulam Market

• Location: Ernakulam. 
• Scenic Attractions: Busy Spice Markets in Kochi and vibrant street life is mainly holding attractions and a lot of exotic spices can be found here.  
• Things to Do: Shop for spices, and local crafts, and enjoy street food. 
• Interesting Fact: The market is famous for its rich aromas of fresh spices.

15. Kumarakom Backwaters

• Location: Near Kochi. 
• Scenic Attractions: Serene waterways and lush landscapes. 
• Things to Do: Take a houseboat cruise, enjoy bird watching, and relax in the tranquil environment. 
• Interesting Fact: Kumarakom is one of the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala.

16. Princess Street

• Location : Fort Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Colonial-era buildings and a charming street ambience.
• Things to Do : Stroll along the street, shop for souvenirs, and relax in cafes.
• Interesting Fact : This street is a popular spot for tourists looking to soak in the old-world charm of Kochi.

17. Indo-Portuguese Museum

• Location : Bishop’s House, Fort Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Historical artefacts and cultural exhibits.
• Things to Do : Explore the museum’s collection and learn about the Indo-Portuguese history.
• Interesting Fact : The museum was established by Dr. Joseph Kureethra, the late Bishop of Kochi.

18. Veeranpuzha Lake

• Location : Suburbs of Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Serene lake views and lush surroundings.
• Things to Do : Enjoy a quiet stroll, bird watching, and take beautiful photos.
• Interesting Fact : The lake is part of the Vembanad backwaters, the longest lake in India.

19. Puthenthode Beach

• Location : 10 km from Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Pristine beach and serene atmosphere.
• Things to Do : Relax by the sea, swim, and enjoy the scenic beauty.
• Interesting Fact : This beach is relatively untouched by commercial tourism, making it a peaceful retreat.

20. Vypeen Island

• Location : Off the coast of Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Cherai Beach, Pallipuram Fort, and the lighthouse.
• Things to Do : Explore the island, visit historical sites, and enjoy beach activities.
• Interesting Fact : The island is accessible by a short ferry ride from Fort Kochi.

21. Kerala Folklore Museum

• Location : Thevara, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Traditional artifacts and cultural performances.
• Things to Do : Explore the museum, attend cultural shows, and learn about Kerala’s folklore.
• Interesting Fact : The museum features over 4,000 artefacts representing Kerala’s cultural diversity.

Also Read: The Only Varkala Travel Guide You Need To Plan Your Next Trip

22. Thrikkakara Temple

• Location : Thrikkakara, near Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Traditional temple architecture and serene surroundings.
• Things to Do : Participate in temple rituals, explore the architecture, and experience the Onam festival.
• Interesting Fact : The temple is believed to be the only one dedicated to Lord Vamana.

23. Chottanikkara Temple

• Location : Chottanikkara, near Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Beautiful temple architecture and lush greenery.
• Things to Do : Offer prayers, participate in rituals, and explore the temple grounds.
• Interesting Fact : The temple is famous for its healing ceremonies, believed to cure mental illnesses.

24. Vallarpadam Church

• Location : Vallarpadam Island.
• Scenic Attractions : Stunning church architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Things to Do : Attend mass, explore the church, and enjoy the serene environment.
• Interesting Fact : The church is one of the major pilgrim centres in Kerala, attracting thousands of devotees annually.

25. Thripunithura Hill Palace

• Location : Thripunithura, near Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Expansive gardens and royal artefacts.
• Things to Do : Tour the museum, see the royal jewellery, and enjoy the lush gardens.
• Interesting Fact : The palace complex includes 49 buildings spread over 54 acres.

Also Read: Alleppey Travel Guide: All You Need To Know For A Perfect Trip

26. Paniyeli Poru

• Location : Near Perumbavoor, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : River rapids and verdant landscapes.
• Things to Do : Enjoy a picnic, go trekking, and take in the natural beauty.
• Interesting Fact : Paniyeli Poru is a popular spot for nature photography and bird watching.

27. Munambam Beach

• Location : Near Cherai, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Quiet beach and fishing activities.
• Things to Do : Relax by the sea, go fishing, and enjoy boat rides.
• Interesting Fact : Munambam Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and tranquil environment.

28. Kerala Kathakali Centre

• Scenic Attractions : Traditional dance and martial arts performances.
• Things to Do : Attend a Kathakali performance, watch Kalaripayattu demonstrations, and learn about Kerala’s cultural heritage.
• Interesting Fact : The centre is one of the oldest theatres in Kerala dedicated to classical arts.

29. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

• Location : Kothamangalam, near Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Diverse bird species and lush forest.
• Things to Do : Bird watching, nature walks, and photography.
• Interesting Fact : The sanctuary is named after Dr. Salim Ali, a renowned ornithologist.

Also Read: Best Kovalam Travel Guide: Complete Info For Tourists!

30. Bhoothathankettu

• Location : Near Kothamangalam, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Dam site and forested area.
• Things to Do : Boat rides, trekking, and picnicking.
• Interesting Fact : According to legend, the dam was built by spirits (Bhoothams) overnight.

31. Puthuvype Beach

• Location : Near Vypeen Island, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Uncrowded beach and lighthouse.
• Things to Do : Relax by the sea, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy the scenic views.
• Interesting Fact : The beach is less commercialized, offering a tranquil experience.
• Scenic Attractions : Temples and the serene Periyar River.
• Things to Do : Visit Adi Shankaracharya’s birthplace, explore temples, and enjoy the tranquil environment.
• Interesting Fact : Kalady is a major spiritual destination for followers of Adi Shankaracharya.

33. Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village

• Location : Kumbalangi, near Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Traditional village life and backwaters.
• Things to Do : Experience village life, enjoy backwater tours, and participate in fishing and farming activities.
• Interesting Fact : Kumbalangi was declared the first eco-tourism village in India.

Also Read: Munnar Travel Guide: Explore The Top Attractions And Activities

34. Museum of Kerala History

• Location : Edappally, Kochi.
• Scenic Attractions : Historical exhibits and dioramas.
• Things to Do : Explore the museum’s collection, learn about Kerala’s history, and enjoy the audio-visual presentations.
• Interesting Fact : The museum offers an engaging journey through Kerala’s past with its detailed exhibits.

35. Edappally Church

• Scenic Attractions : Majestic church building and serene environment.
• Things to Do : Attend mass, explore the church grounds, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Interesting Fact : The church dates back to 593 AD, making it one of the

Whether you love history, nature, or food, Kochi has something for everyone  Here’s a Kerala travel tip . Don’t miss these top 35 places to visit in Kochi on your next trip! Kochi is a city that captivates your heart and soul, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty with the Places to visit in Cochin. You can also check the weather in Kerala to decide and get a better idea in idealising the best time to be here. 

Whether you’re exploring ancient forts, relaxing on serene beaches, or cruising through tranquil backwaters, Kochi provides an array of experiences that cater to every traveller. An interesting fact: Kochi is home to the oldest European church in India, St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried. 

Make sure to add these top 35 Places to visit in Cochin to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the vibrant essence of this coastal paradise. Your journey through Kochi will undoubtedly be filled with unforgettable memories and inspiring discoveries.

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"Queen of Arabian Sea"

Kochi tourism.

Lying on the Malabar coast in the southwest of India, Kochi or Cochin is a port city with a trading history that dates back to at least 600 years. Known popularly as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, the city is also Kerala's financial, commercial, and industrial capital. Exuding an old-world charm with diverse linguistics, such as the Jews, Konkinis, Gujaratis, and ethnic communities like the anglo-indians, Kochi has an indiscriminate mix of backwaters, beaches, islands, coasts, and plain terrains.

With a history of trading in the southwest, Kochi still holds on to its dutch and Portuguese buildings, such as the Old Harbour House, Mattancherry Palace , Bolgatty Palace , Jewish Synagogue , etc., some of which have gone through renovations over the years. The cosmopolitan town has upmarket stores, art galleries, heritage homes, and some of the finest museums, such as the Hill Palace and Kerala Folklore Museum. In a true vintage-meets-future fashion, restaurants and shopping hubs crowd Ernakulam , Jew Town , and Fort Kochi , along with palaces, beaches, temples, and heritage sites. Besides sightseeing, Kochi is a sought-after tourist destination for its Ayurvedic Massages and a must-visit place to witness performances such as the Kalarippayattu, an aesthetic martial art form, and Kathakali , the dance drama form of Kerala. Kochi organizes a biennial international contemporary art exhibition called the Kochi Muziris Biennale for all art enthusiasts. Cochin is also home to a group of lagoons and islands interconnected by ferries. In fact, Willingdon Island in Kochi is one of the largest human-made islands in India. Officially home to the southern command of the Indian Navy, Kochi has an active naval base and an air squadron of the Indian Navy.

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Discovering Kochi: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Welcome to Kochi, a vibrant city located on the southwest coast of India. Known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating cultural heritage, Kochi is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of South India. Join us on an unforgettable journey as we explore the highlights of this enchanting city.

Getting There

There are several convenient ways to reach Kochi. The city is served by Cochin International Airport, which offers both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach the city center. Kochi is also well-connected by rail, with regular trains running to major cities in India. If you prefer traveling by road, there are bus services available from various nearby cities.

Where to Stay

Kochi offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious five-star hotels to cozy guesthouses and homestays, you will find plenty of choices. The Fort Kochi area is a popular choice for visitors, with its charming colonial architecture and proximity to major attractions. Other areas like Ernakulam and Marine Drive also offer a wide array of accommodations.

Things to Do

1. Explore Fort Kochi: Step back in time as you wander through the narrow streets of Fort Kochi, filled with beautiful colonial buildings and picturesque waterfront views. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the beach promenade to witness breathtaking sunsets.

2. Visit the Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, this historic building showcases exquisite murals and artifacts from the past. Marvel at the intricate woodwork and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Kochi.

3. Discover Jew Town: Wander through the vibrant streets of Jew Town, home to the historic Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. Explore the colorful spice markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

4. Take a Backwater Cruise: Experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala's backwaters with a relaxing cruise. Drift along the peaceful canals, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional houseboats, and soak in the serenity of nature.

5. Visit the Hill Palace Museum: Located in nearby Tripunithura, the Hill Palace Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, artwork, and royal collections. Explore the sprawling grounds and learn about the region's royal history.

6. Taste the Local Cuisine: Kochi is a food lover's paradise. Sample traditional Kerala delicacies like appam, puttu, and fish curry at local restaurants and street food stalls. Don't forget to try the famous Malabar biryani.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kochi is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and can be quite humid. However, if you don't mind the rain, you can enjoy Kochi's lush greenery in all its glory.

Getting Around

Getting around Kochi is easy with a well-developed public transportation system. Buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available for short journeys within the city. Renting a bicycle or a motorbike can be a fun way to explore the city at your own pace. If you're feeling adventurous, hop on a traditional ferry to cross the backwaters.

Safety Tips

Kochi is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's always a good idea to take some precautions. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night and keep your belongings secure. Make sure to carry a copy of your identification documents and keep your valuables in a hotel safe. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

Kochi is a city that captivates the senses with its blend of history, nature, and culture. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and warm hospitality, this South Indian gem is a destination you won't want to miss. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Kochi.

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Kochi travel guide

Kochi tourism | kochi guide, you're going to love kochi.

With its iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, European colonial architecture, South Indian-flavored cuisine, and diverse population, Kochi is one of the most multicultural cities in India. Because of its historic position as a port city for trading merchants, Kochi has many interesting traditions and festivals on offer.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kochi

1. religious diversity.

In Kochi, all worship is welcome and you'll find everything from sacred Catholic churches to well-designed Hindu temples and even a Jewish synagogue filled with Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers.

2. Colonial Architecture

Fort Kochi and the Mattancherry Palace are just two displays of traditional design. Along with these marvels, check out the Hill Palace Museum, which, along with its architecture, is the largest archaeological museum in Kochi.

3. Incredible Food

Eat your way through the entire world in just this one city: here, you'll find Portuguese-inspired cuisine, as well as Arabic, Chinese, and Dutch food.

4. Beautiful Beaches

Cherai Beach and Fort Kochi beach are two of the most serene and beautiful spots for travelers to stretch out in the sun.

5. Colorful Festivals All Year

The south of India enjoys many festivals all year long like Diwali, Holi, and many regional celebrations featuring lots of outdoor theater performances and dancers.

What to do in Kochi

1. chinese fishing nets: a captivating way to capture fish.

Situated by the coast near Fort Cochin, these impressive fishing nets are an essential part of the local economy. You won't find Chinese fishermen tending these 10-meter-tall nets, which hang in the water via a cantilever system, capturing the abundant fish by Kochi's shoreline. Although they are decidedly low-tech, these nets are still productive, supplying plenty of enterprising street sellers and restaurants near the Fort -- so you can combine a history lesson with some superbly fresh seafood when you visit.

2. Kerala Folklore Museum: A Trip to the Heart of Keralan Culture

Located on the Therava peninsular, this remarkable museum is housed in a "temple of art" that was created by a local couple to show off southern Indian art, craftwork and music. With bronze and stone sculptures (some more than 2,000 years old), this is a folklore theater which stages traditional shows, musical instruments, sumptuous jewelry and colorful dance costumes from across Kerala. The building itself is also a highlight, showcasing Keralan wood carving and providing a great stage for its collection.

3. Mattancherry Palace: Relive the Ramayana in Splendid Surroundings

Built by the Portuguese colonial rulers in the 16th century as a gesture of friendship to their client, the King of Cochin, this palace is both an elegant testimony to the European nation's brief supremacy over Kerala, and a wonderful art gallery. Built around a quadrangular courtyard, it houses a gallery of portraits of Kochi's rulers since the mid 19th century as well as an incredible mural featuring most of the Ramayana: one of Hinduism's great historical epics.

4. St. Francis Church: The Oldest Christian Church in India

Christianity has been a force in Kochi for well over 1,000 years, and St Francis Church is India's oldest Christian place of worship. Built in 1503 (again by the globe-trotting Portuguese), it immediately gained a celebrity association by being the first resting place of the great explorer Vasco da Gama. Da Gama was returned to Lisbon in the 17th century, but the church remains and is unmissable. Sit and soak up the tranquility of the chancel, see the 18th century Dutch baptism book and imagine yourself back in one of the most prosperous trading ports of the Age of Exploration.

5. Paradesi Synagogue: A Synagogue Like No Other

Right next door to the Mattancherry Palace you'll find the Paradesi Synagogue, which has been open since 1567 (except for a brief period after the Portuguese knocked it down, before the Dutch allowed it to be rebuilt) and contains plenty of ancient Jewish artefacts. Once upon a time, there were as many as seven synagogues operating in Kochi -- a sign of how many Jews made the Keralan coast their home. Paradesi continues to serve the faithful and delight tourists, with its elegant interior that shows British, Keralan and Chinese influences.

Activities & attractions in Kochi

Where to Eat in Kochi

To grab a yummy bite, head to Indraprastha Gujarati Food Court for thalis that cost only ₹50.

When to visit Kochi

Kochi's tropical climate can see heavy monsoons throughout May to September and temperatures in the summer, from February to May, soaring to 95 degrees, which can feel hotter with the humidity. The winter months are cooler and pleasant.

How to Get to Kochi

Cochin International Airport (COK) is 18 miles from the city center. Use the orange KSRTC bus service for ₹70 or a taxi, which costs ₹510 for a standard taxi and ₹650 for an air-conditioned taxi.

Trains get in to the Ernakulam Town Station and come from all over the country, including Kolkata, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. Book in advance or risk paying ₹150 extra.

Depending on where you're coming from, there are three major highways you can connect to. Use the NH 17 if you're coming from the north, the NH 47 or NH 29 if you're coming from the south.

The state-run KSRTC services Kochi with three services: Super Fast, Express, and Garuda Hi-Tech. Fares vary but a trip from Mumbai to Kochi, for example, costs ₹3,300.

Airports near Kochi

Airlines serving kochi, where to stay in kochi.

The beautiful Killians Boutique Hotel is the place if you want to stay in style. For a mid-range option, check in to the Ballard Bungalow, a heritage colonial building. If you're on a budget, consider Aroma Home Stay.

Popular Neighborhoods in Kochi

Aluva - this is the second-largest district in Kochi, home to many beautiful local temples and the annual Sivarathri festival, celebrated on the banks of the Periyar River.

Ernakulam - if you're coming in the last week of December, you'll catch the famous Cochin Carnival in this neighborhood. You can also check out the beautiful Cherai Beach and Kerala Museum.

Willingdon Island - a true marvel, this "island" is completely man-made; here, you'll find the impressive Kochi Port and Southern Naval Command of the country's navy.

Where to stay in popular areas of Kochi

Most booked hotels in kochi, how to get around kochi, public transportation.

Fares for standard city buses are ₹7.50 for the first mile and ₹1 for each mile after that.

Taxis are easy to find. The fare is a flat rate of ₹50 for the first two miles, and then ₹15 per additional mile. Expect a 10 percent surcharge for air conditioning. Fares at night are 15-20 percent higher.

If you're renting a car to get around Kochi, you can find a rental for ₹1,600 for 50 miles and ₹20.5 for each mile beyond the cap.

The Cost of Living in Kochi

Shopping streets.

Check out Broadway Market, where you can find clothing, electronics, food, and furniture. If you love malls, Lulu Mall is the largest in South India.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk is ₹38 and a dozen eggs costs ₹59.

• Destinations

A Detailed Kochi Travel Guide to Plan a Memorable Vacation

Kochi (Cochin), India’s industrial and commercial capital, serves as the entry point for many tourists visiting Kerala. Kochi tourism allows visitors to explore this culturally and historically rich port city ranked as one of India’s top five tourist destinations by the World Travel and Tourism Council. Kochi tourism will undoubtedly provide you with one of the best travel experiences of your life, with its dazzling beaches, radiant backwaters, exquisite cuisines, and exciting festivals.

Table of Contents

You will never forget your time in this city that embodies what it means to be in ‘God’s Own Country.’ This Kochi travel guide will provide you with all of the information you need to know before visiting the city, including all Kochi India points of interest, to make your trip memorable.

Kochi Culture

Because of the presence of people from all over the country, Kochi’s culture is vibrant. It is a synthesis of traditional and Western cultures. The city is dominated by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, and various festivals are held here. The city sells a variety of handicrafts and antique items that reflect its culture and traditions.

Top 5 Reasons to Travel to Kochi

Religious diversity.

All forms of worship are welcome in Kochi, which has everything from sacred Catholic churches to well-designed Hindu temples and even a Jewish synagogue decorated with Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers.

Colonial Style Architecture

Fort Kochi and the Mattancherry Palace are two examples of traditional architecture. Along with these wonders, visit the Hill Palace Museum, which, in addition to its architecture, is Kochi’s largest archaeological museum.

Fantastic Food

In this city, you can eat your way around the world: there’s Portuguese-inspired cuisine, as well as Arabic, Chinese, and Dutch cuisine.

Lovely beaches

Cherai Beach and Fort Kochi Beach are two of the most tranquil and beautiful Kochi tourist places for visitors to relax in the sun.

All Year Colorful Festivals

All year long, the south of India celebrates festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and regional celebrations that include many outdoor theatre performances and dancers.

Things to do in Kochi

Cochin Tourism offers some beautiful tourist destinations for an incredibly unique sightseeing experience. Here is a list of some Kochi tourist places.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: An intriguing way to catch fish
• Kerala Folklore Museum: A journey into Keralan culture
• Mattancherry Palace: Relive the Ramayana in a beautiful setting
• Francis Church: India’s oldest Christian church.
• Paradesi Synagogue: A unique synagogue

These are some of the things to do in Kochi, so include them in your Kochi travel guide to enjoy your vacation. There are also a number of temples that attract tourists on a regular basis. Ernakulatthappan Temple, Poornathrayeesa Temple, Vamanamoorthy Temple, Ettumanoor Shiva Temple, and Kaduthuruthy Shiva Temple are among the most visited temples in Kochi.

Kochi’s Regional Cuisine

Kochi or Cochin offers a wide range of culinary delights to tantalize your taste buds. Kappa, Kallummakaya, sadya, avial, Kerala fish curry, Kerala biryani, Palada Paysam, and Kerala chicken curry are some of the best foods to try in Kochi.

Top 4 tips of visit Kochi

• The locals are extremely friendly. They frequently provide the best experience at the most reasonable price.
• The seafood in Fort Kochi is exceptional and unique. When visiting Fort Kochi, you must try the infamously delicious pearlfish fry.
• There are several nearby homestays and hotels that offer excellent service at a low cost.
• You can easily take a taxi or walk while exploring this location. It is preferable to have a guide because you do not want to miss anything in each location. Fort Kochi is awe-inspiring in every way.

When is the best time to visit Kochi?

With a typical tropical climate, the city’s temperatures do not vary greatly throughout the year. It does, however, have a distinct wet monsoon season. Because of the heavy rains from May to July, most tourists try to avoid visiting during this time. The months of September to early February are ideal for a visit because the weather is mild. Summers can then be brutal, with temperatures reaching 40o Celsius.

These are a few important things to keep in mind as you explore this incredible place. Make the most of your Kerala vacation with this comprehensive Kochi travel guide. Are you planning a trip to Kochi from the United States? Indian Eagle provides low-cost USA to Kochi flights , allowing you to save money.

So, what are you waiting for? Book reasonable international flight tickets with Indian Eagle today and prepare to discover the multicultural city’s galleries, museums, and places of worship.

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Culture
• 2.3 Climate
• 2.4 When to visit
• 2.5 Tourist information
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.5 By boat
• 4.1 Orientation
• 4.3 By metro
• 4.4 By train
• 4.5 By auto-rickshaw
• 4.6 By taxi
• 4.7 By private car
• 4.8 By ferry
• 4.9 By water metro
• 4.10 On foot
• 4.11 By bicycle
• 6.1 Festivals
• 6.3 Boating
• 6.4 Performing arts
• 7.1 Markets
• 7.2 Antiques/art works
• 7.3 Shopping malls
• 7.4 Apparel and fabric
• 7.5 Jewellery
• 7.6 Cosmetics
• 7.7 Electronics
• 7.8 Supermarkets
• 7.9 Banks, ATMs and changing money
• 8.1 Cuisine
• 8.2.1.1 Other
• 8.2.2.1 Indian
• 8.2.2.2 Other
• 8.2.3.1 Indian
• 8.2.3.2 Other
• 9.2 Nightlife DJ parties & pubs
• 9.3 Coffee shops
• 9.4 Ice cream parlours
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 10.4 Homestays
• 11.1 Art forms
• 11.2 Kalaripayattu
• 11.3 Yoga and meditation
• 12.1 Emergency support & assistance
• 13.1 Hospitals
• 13.2 Ambulances
• 13.3 24-hour pharmacies
• 14.1 Telecom
• 14.2 Internet
• 14.4 Newspapers
• 15.1 Electricity
• 15.2 Holidays
• 15.3 Public libraries
• 15.4 Hairdressers

Kochi ( Malayalam : കൊച്ചി), formerly Cochin , is a cosmopolitan city in Kerala with a bustling commercial port. Kochi is the financial and commercial capital of Kerala and, with a population of more than 2.1 million (2011), the biggest conurbation in the state.

After rapid growth during the two last decades, Kochi is now one of the most densely populated urban areas in India. The city is an amalgamation of two towns, each with its unique identity.

A city born in storm, nurtured in rivalry and established as battling ground for European empires. This phrase is a good description of Kochi, which was formed as an ancient port city after the Great Floods of the Periyar River in 1341. With the partitioning of the Chera Kerala Empire in the 14th century, this region came under the control of a new dynasty, rivalled by other local feudal lords. With the advent of colonisation, Kochi became the first major battle ground of almost all colonial European powers.

Kochi merchants began trading in spices such as black pepper and cardamom with the Arabs, Dutch, Phoenicians, Portuguese and Chinese more than 600 years ago. This helped Kochi to prosper and to become the gateway to old India. It was from Kochi (then Cochin) that the colonisation of India started. Portugal was first to establish its base in Kochi, followed by the Dutch and British. The Anglo-Dutch treaty of 1814 compelled the Dutch to hand over Cochin to the British in exchange for Bangka Island in Indonesia. The British managed to establish their influence over Cochin, limiting their direct administration to a small enclave of Fort Cochin and British Ernakulam with their capital at Bolgatty Island. The rest of the Cochin Kingdom was administered by the Cochin Maharajas from their capital at Thripunithura. However, the real administration was done by Diwans (prime ministers), leaving the Maharajas to patronise culture, arts and focus heavily on the areas of public health and education.

The foundations of modern Cochin started when Sir Robert Bristow, a senior Royal Navy Engineer, felt the need for a modern large port after the opening of the Suez Canal. This resulted in the creation of the largest man-made island of the country, Willingdon Island, to house the new Cochin Port.

In the 1930s, the Cochin Maharaja joined the public outcry to form a common state of Malayalam-speaking people by merging with the Kingdom of Travancore and British Malabar. Maharaja Kerala Varma Raja was at the forefront of this agitation, and passed the Aykiakerala Resolution in the Cochin Parliament. In 1947, the Kingdom of Cochin and Travancore merged to form the Royal State of Travancore-Cochin. The Cochin Maharaja was amongst the first to advocate the state joining the newly formed Indian Union. Finally, in 1948, the state of Travancore-Cochin merged with India.

Since the formation of Kerala in 1957, Kochi has been the commercial capital of Kerala as well as the seat of the Kerala High Court. Since 2000, Kochi has revitalised its economy, with a focus on tourism, information technology and its port.

Kochi has a cosmopolitan culture, highly influenced by historical trading partners, Portuguese, Dutch, Arab, Chinese, and Japanese. Kochi is the seat of the Latin church of Kerala and has many Catholic churches and followers.

Kochi was traditionally a potpourri of various Indian and international communities. Syrian Christians started the first wave of immigration, followed by Jews between the 7th and 10th centuries. Arab merchants also made a strong settlement in Kochi. In the 15th century, Gujaratis settled in Kochi, especially on Mattancherry, where they played a strong role in spice trading and other areas.

Later, at the beginning of the colonial era, the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British all made their settlements in Kochi. The Portuguese had a strong influence in Fort Cochin.

In the early 1970s, Punjabis settled here, focusing their strong presence on the local automobile industry. Tamilians, Telugus and Kannadigas have all formed small settlements since the days of royalty. Kochi has a sizeable expatriate population mainly from the Middle East.

Being a city that has a tradition of various cultures being given equal respect, a high level of tolerance exists. Social modesty prevails, especially in villages and rural areas.

Kochi has a typical tropical climate. Daytime temperatures range between 30°C and 35°C and around 24°C at night. Kochi is one of the first places to experience the heavy monsoon showers, which start around mid-May. It thus experiences heavy rainfall between mid-May and the first week in September. Daytime temperatures during the monsoon fall to between 25°C and 30°C. From September to early February, the weather is fine, marked with cool winds and light showers. Summer starts in February. Although temperatures never reach 40°C, the high humidity can make summers uncomfortable. This continues until early May. Frequent showers cool down the harshness of summer.

When to visit

The peak visitor season is often from August to February with December being the busiest month when there are many festivals and special attractions along with the famous Cochin Carnival and Christmas celebrations. Onam season (mid Aug-mid Sep) is also a busy tourist season with a traditional line up of various festivities. Monsoon is being promoted heavily by the tourism department as a rejuvenation season which also slowly becoming a popular season to visit to experience the heavy rainfalls. However it is advisable to avoid March and April considering the harsh summer, and the Indian domestic tourist season.

Tourist information

Free information and city maps are available at state run Kerala Tourism Development Corp ( KTDC ) offices at:

• Airport Tourist Counter ( in Arrival hall of both terminals ), ☏ +91 484 2611308 , +91 484 2611309 .  
• Central Toll-Free Number , ☏ +1 800 4254747 .  
• City Tourist Information Centre ( Old Collectorate in Park Ave ), ☏ +91 484 2381743 .  
• Railway Tourist Office ( Ernakulam South Railway Station ), ☏ +91 484 2378723 .  
• Tourist Reception office ( Marine Drive from where KTDC city tours starts/ends ), ☏ +91 484 2353534 .  
• India Tourism , Willingdon Island , ☏ +91 484 2668352 .  
• District Tourist Promotion Council ( DTPC ), ☏ +91 484 2367334 , +91 484 2383988 . Providing information to tourists about other parts of Kochi District  

As the financial capital of Kerala, Kochi is well-connected by air, road, rail and ferry from others parts of India, and to some other international destinations.

The airport has a hotel with rooms for hourly or per-night stays for ₹750-2,000. The international terminal has reasonably priced international cuisine restaurants and a terrace garden lounge bar. There are cafes and snack kiosks in the waiting area. The Concourse has free Wi-Fi, a business centre, free public telephones for local calls and large televisions. Premium lounges are available for first and business class passengers. Visa on arrival is available for some nationalities. The Airport has a Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), for visa extensions, fee waivers and other visa-related issues.

The airport has a good 18-hole golf course nearby. Golfers can register at the Airport Golf counter and pay green fees to use the facility. There is a small recreational centre, a pool and a lounge/bar at the golf club.

There are five major airport hotels opposite the airport terminal that offer rooms on an hourly basis. There are also many budget hotels and restaurants near the terminal.

The domestic terminal has a good shopping arcade selling mainly Kerala-specific items. Food is expensive but there are cheaper options after security.

Transport options to the city centre include:

• Orange bus: KSRTC Orange Bus (locally called "Low Floor Buses") operates air-conditioned Volvo buses every 30-40 min to Kochi City via Aluva, Kalamassery, Vytilla, and terminating at Fort Cochin. Fares are ₹70 for the 1-hour-and-40-minute journey. To the airport, the Orange Bus leaves from the Fort Kochi bus area near the Chinese fishing nets at the following times: 7:25AM, 8AM, 9:45AM, 11:35AM, noon, 1:55PM, 3:30PM, 4PM and 6:05PM.
• By taxi: All taxis operated from Cochin Airport belong to the Cochin Airport Taxi Society (CATS) which is a pre-paid taxi service. While other taxis can drop-off passengers at the airport, only CATS taxis are allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. CATS charges government fixed rates and their process is simple. Take a receipt from the CATS counter in the arrivals hall and walk to the prepaid taxi stand to find your taxi. For airport/city transfers, the standard charge is ₹510 for non air-conditioned taxis or ₹650 for an air-con taxi, with an additional premium of 15-25% at night (7PM-6AM). It costs ₹250 for a trip to Aluva. CATS also operates limo services as well as customised packages available for full/half day trips.
• By rental car: Many car rental companies operate counters in the arrival area of both terminals. Many hotels and travel agents provide free pick-up/drop-off services in their cars.
• By train: The nearest railway stations are Aluva or Angamaly (15 km) where almost all major express and passengers trains to all over Kerala stop.
• By auto: Autos are not allowed to ply inside the airport, to protect the interests of CATS taxis. However, it's pretty easy to get an auto outside the airport premises, ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Auto ride from the airport to the nearest railway station at Angamaly or Aluva costs less than ₹50. Be prepared to bargain. Getting autos early in the morning and late at night is pretty difficult.
• By helicopter: Pawan Hans, in the departure gate of the domestic terminal, operates a wide range of helicopter services to almost all parts of city as well as state, which requires a prior booking. K-Air also operates air-taxi and private jets. Cochin Airport has its own helicopter services with support of Bharat Airways. Scheduled and chartered helicopter services to pilgrimage centres like Sabarimala , Guruvayoor and major cities like Thiruvananthapuram , Kozhikode are available.

Kochi is well connected by train from all parts of India. Most Kerala-bound trains have a major stop here. There are two major rail terminals inside the city limits.

Some of the major trains that pass through these stations are:

Kochi has many suburban railway stations where long-distance trains stop, such as Aluva, Thripunithura and Angamaly. Book in advance, as trains are usually crowded. Reservations are available from 3 months in advance of the travel date. Depending upon the season and day bookings may close up to several days prior to departure with all remaining travellers going onto a waiting list. You can also try using Tatkal' which is an emergency booking system costing ₹150 above the normal rate. The Tatkal service is open for the day before the departure of the train, excluding the day of journey from the train originating station.

One of the best ways to get to Kochi is to take a Konkan Railway train from Mumbai . The train ride is renowned for the breathtaking scenery and the natural beauty of the terrain.

Outside Ernakulam Junction, there is a pre-paid taxi stand where you can stand in line for a receipt and take an auto-rickshaw to other parts of Kochi. The service fee is ₹1. This is recommended for getting a fair fare and no haggling or scams with the drivers. A pre-paid auto rickshaw to Fort Kochi cost ₹179 as of 2014.

Kochi is accessible from all southern parts of the country as well as other parts of the state, through the extensive state run Kerala Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus services and services of neighbouring state transport corporations.

KSRTC operates 3 types of services; Super Fast (No Frills), Express (Standard non-A/C) and Garuda Hi-tech (Volvo premium). Karnataka State buses run daily services from Bangalore , Mysore and Mangalore with three types of services; the Rajahamsa (executive service and reclining seats), the Airavat (A/C service, with reclining semi-sleeper seats), and Ambaari (A/C sleeper service). Tamil Nadu SETC operates superfast and executive services to many destinations like Madurai , Ooty , Coimbatore , Tirunelveli , Salem and Tiruchirappalli . Most inter-state buses start and end their journey from KSRTC Central & Inter-state Bus Station (CBS), in the heart of the city at Rajaji Rd. To reduce congestion at CBS, some local KSRTC buses start/end their services at KSRTC Boat Jetty Stand in Park Avenue.

Apart from government services, numerous private bus companies operate scheduled services to almost all major cities in South India as well as Mumbai, Goa, etc. All these buses are executive or premium services offering air-conditioned travel with good facilities and higher prices to match. Several online bus booking sites exist like RedBus , KPN Travels , Customer Needz [dead link] , TicketGoose.com , Via.com and MyTicketBuddy.com [dead link] .

Kochi is well connected by road from all parts of the state as well as other major cities. Three major national highways connect Kochi with other parts of country.

• NH 66 (old no: NH 17), the 7th longest highway in India, connects Kochi with Mumbai via most of major towns in Malabar , Mangalore , Goa .
• The heavily congested NH 544 (old name: NH 47) connects Thiruvananthapuram with Kochi and continues on to Coimbatore and Salem in Tamil Nadu via Palakkad and Thrissur.
• NH 49 connects Kochi with Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu which passes through Madurai via Munnar .

Kochi is well connected to other parts of state through various state highways.

Kochi can be reached by sea in yachts or the occasional cruise ship from Goa , Mumbai , Lakshadweep , Colombo and Male . Almost all leading international cruises on global voyages operate to Kochi from the US and Europe at Wellingdon Island Cruise Berth. Yachts can be anchored at Kochi International Marina or Yacht Club Marina. There is a direct ferry service between Kochi and Lakshadweep .

At peak hours, traffic moves at a snail's pace in Kochi, and air pollution is bad, despite being way better than smoggy Delhi . Limit your plans to three or four places in a day unless you have good knowledge of the geography or a trustworthy transport option.

Orientation

The main city arterial road is Mahatma Gandhi Road. Traveling inside the city at peak times (8-10AM, 1:30-2:30PM, 5:30-7PM) takes a lot of time, with frequent road blocks and traffic congestion. North and South over-bridges are two bottlenecks. Knowledge of side roads and crossroads is very useful to avoid traffic blocks.

Kochi has a typical Indian-style address system which is a bit confusing, as there is no sector or house numbering system. Most buildings have their own name which are commonly used along with the road name for the address, e.g. "Alappatt House, Diwans Road, Near Lakshmi Hospital, Kochi".

Some up-market areas have their own house-numbering system. Panampilly Nagar and Giri Nagar are divided into various zones and each house has its own zone number followed by a house number. Many residential areas have formed their own associations and established their own addressing system. In most of the residential colonies or areas, a map sign is found at the entrance. Fort Kochi has a more western-style numbering system, yet still locals use the nearby landmarks for addressing, rather than house numbers.

For communicating with taxi drivers, you must know the nearby landmarks.

Kochi has an excellent public bus network with four types of buses operated by marker|type=govt-run KSRTC and private operators. The most common option are privately operated Blue buses (also referred to as 'Line buses') which provide a cheap no-frills journey. Using these is not that difficult as many destination boards have English lettering and most bus conductors can provide assistance in basic English. Peak hours on weekdays can lead to overcrowded buses, particularly Route 1. marker|type=government-operated KSRTC offers no-frills city services Thiru-Kochi which also ply in same Red-Bus routes. Thiru-kochi buses can be distinguished from other buses with its blue-white livery. Most of Red and Thirukochi buses run primarily on the Big 4 Routes . These cover virtually all parts of the city. There are other feeder routes, which interconnect places between these Big 4 Routes. Vytilla-Vytilla circular services cover most of the city core. The minimum fare for all city buses is ₹8. The average waiting time is 1-10 min.

Apart from regular city services, KSRTC under JnNURM's funding operates 2 class of bus services which can be distinguished from other city buses with its distinctive livery and JnNURM logo.

For premium travel, low-floor air-conditioned Volvo services called Orange buses connect many important destinations. Rates are ₹10 for first 5 km, ₹2 for every km thereafter. Average waiting time is 10-30 min. These buses can stop anywhere on the route as per passenger's request. Route notices are available in English at each stop.

Green buses provide non air-conditioned low-floor service which links all suburbs to city centre. This is ideal for budget tourists as it connects to many faraway tourist attractions while maintaining excellent standards. The rates are ₹5 for first 5 km, 75p for every km thereafter. Only 3 lines are served, which will be increased soon. Like Orange Bus, these buses stop anywhere on the route as per passenger's request. Timetable for Orange/Green are available at the KSRTC site [dead link] .

All city bus services start at 6AM and end by 10PM. A certain number of seats are allocated for women in the forward portion of each bus, and men must vacate them when a woman wishes to sit there.

Different bus shelters/stops are used for bus plying different routes. The important bus stations in and around the city include:

• 10.108347 76.350815 4 Rajiv Gandhi Bus Station — A large bus station in Aluva , nearest to the airport and interchange for long-distance services.
• 9.939136 76.244883 5 Beach Road Bus Stand — The major terminus which is nearest to most tourist attractions.
• 10.018507 76.343868 6 Civil Station Bus Stand — A commercial and IT sector zone.
• 9.994109 76.291762 7 Kaloor Bus Stand — A major city bus station and interchange for long distance private buses.
• 9.978174 76.276981 8 Menaka Bus Stand — At the heart of Ernakulam shopping with Broadway market nearby.
• 9.968209 76.288066 9 South Girls High School Bus Stand — Nearest to South Railway station (ERS).
• 9.947639 76.292524 10 Thevara KURTC Bus Stand — Only for Low Floor Buses.
• 9.935337 76.262289 11 Thoppumpaddy bus stand — Major junction for Mattancherry

The Kochi Metro is the metro system serving the city. As of 2021, it consists of a single line of 22 stations, with more lines under construction. It runs in a U-shape between Aluva to SN Junction. Fares are based on distance and range from ₹10 to ₹60.

Some suburban areas are well-connected via regular passenger and long-distance express trains. The most used route is Ernakulam-Aluva. Almost all regular passenger, express and intercity trains have a stop at Aluva. Regular passenger trains have 1-minute stops at Edapally, Kumbalangi, Angamally and Aroor stations. Many long-distance trains operate between Thripunithura and Ernakulam Town station.

It is a good idea to take rail during busy peak-hours when buses are overcrowded. Equally good idea to take rail to Aluva from city centre which is the nearest point to the airport (12 km) from where a taxi or Orange Route A bus can taken to avoid city traffic congestion.

By auto-rickshaw

This is a cheap method of transport between attractions. You can find an auto stand at almost every bus stop and important places near junctions and residential areas. Make sure you agree on a fare with the driver before the journey. The government fixed rates starts at ₹30 for the first 1.25 km and ₹7 per km thereafter with a premium of 15% at night (7PM-6AM). Pre-paid auto stands are available only in railway stations. The apps Ola, Rapido and Uber are operating in Kochi, offering rides with auto rickshaws.

Taxis are convenient, comfortable, and safer than auto rickshaws. If you are alone or going to an unknown destination, this is a marker|type=good option, though the rates are double that of an auto. Unlike many countries, taxis are not usually marked with signs on the top and do not have meters inside the taxi.

Next to ride-hailing apps like Ola, Rapido and Uber, which are available for Kochi, there are two type of taxi services, regular and call taxis. Regular taxis are normally available at designated taxi stands at places such as railway stations, the airport, boat jetties, major bus stations and in front of important hotels.

There is no need to negotiate prices, as most of them follow fixed rates. Regular taxis have tariff cards displayed on the dashboard. Call taxis have charges fixed by their respective companies (although they are normally uniform). The standard tariffs are ₹50 for first 3 km, and ₹8 per km thereafter. Add 10% for a taxi with A/C, and 15-20% at night.

Many taxi companies offer full or half day services. Most of them are fixed on ad-hoc basis, based on the negotiating skills of the passenger. Typical rates are ₹1,100/1,500 for standard/AC taxis for a full day and ₹500/750 for a half day. These rates are not available after 7PM.

By private car

Driving in Kochi is not recommended as traffic is bad and drivers do not obey the road rules. There are long stretches of roads passing through heavily populated areas that have no median strips, and most of them are congested 2 lane roads. A few major roads like MG Rd, NH Bypass Rd and Marine Drive are two-lane dual carriageways with marker|type=good medians. The speed limit in the city is 30 km/h. Driving is on the left, and all foreign drivers need a valid International Driving Licence attested by the Road Transport Office (RTO). Driving outside the city limits is better with marker|type=good scenery and far less traffic. Most of the bridges and few roads carry toll charges collected at manned toll plazas or checkpoints. Almost all tolls are charged separately for one/two way; 2 wheelers- ₹3/5, 4 wheelers- ₹5/10 and bus/minivans - ₹15/25. Most tolls are valid for unlimited travel for 24 hours, though a few bridges allow only one-time travel.

Foreign guests will find renting cars for self-driving a difficult task, as many rental companies will not rent to foreigners. Normally a bank guarantee letter or security cheque/traveller's cheque to the value of the car or a passport are taken as security for renting the car. No security deposit is needed if the car is chauffeur-driven.

Most hotels with three stars or more provide private cars for their guests at rates slightly higher than elsewhere.

Kochi has an excellent system of cheap (₹6 from Park Jetty in Ernakulam to Fort Kochi) inter-island ferries. The Ro-Ro (roll on-roll off) ferry service called Junkar between Fort Kochi and Vypeen is very popular, too. There are regular boat services operated by KSINC and other private operators, every 20-30 minutes, from Ernakulam to Mattancherry, Fort Kochi, Vypeen and Willingdon Island which are cheaper and in many cases faster, than buses. All services operate from 4:40AM-6:30PM with an exception to Park Jetty-Fort Kochi service until 9:30PM and Fort Kochi-Vypin Junkar service from 4AM-10:30PM.

The major boat jetties are

• 9.984461 76.272588 13 Ernakulam Main Jetty
• 9.972627 76.278407 14 Park Jetty
• 9.970039 76.262209 15 Customs Embarkation Jetty
• 9.969012 76.25193 16 Fort Kochi Jetty

Do take a look at the map provided, as some ferries do not stop at all stops along the way. A few tourist-oriented private ferries service non-scheduled routes during tourist seasons connecting mainly to Kumbalangi Tourist village from Ernakulam Main Jetty as well as from Aroor.

Main boat times:

• Fort Kochi to Ernakulam . 4:40-21:30 . 30 services per day ₹6 . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• Fort Kochi to Willingdon Island . ₹6 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Mattancherry to Ernakulam via Fort Kochi . 6:00-21:10 . Duration 20 min ₹10 . ( updated Mar 2021 )
• Vypeen to Ernakulam via Willingdon Island . 7:00-21:30 . Every 30 min ₹9 . ( updated Mar 2021 )
• Ernakulam Main Jetty to Varapuzha . 6 per day, 1 hr duration, 7:40AM-6:45PM
• Ernakulam (High Court Jerry) to Bolghatty . 10-minute ride.
• Fort Cochin - Vypeen . 6:30AM-9PM. Duration 10 min, every 10 min.

By water metro

In addition to ferries, water metros are also an option in Kochi, the first of its kind in India. Water metros are like ferries but the compartments are like a typical metro train, with air-conditioning. As of 2023, there are only two routes:

• Vypin–High Court
• Kakkanad–Vyttila

A ride in a water metro can also be a way to see beautiful views of Kochi while travelling through the backwaters.

Kochi is traditionally not a pedestrian-friendly city considering the humid tropical climate, poor pedestrian walkways and reckless traffic. So it might be better to avoid too much walking in the busy city-centre area. Fort Kochi is one of the better places to walk, with elaborate colonial-style stone pavements.

Fort Kochi is a perfect place for cycling with dedicated tracks and walkways. However, there are no separate bike paths on roads on the mainland. Take extra care while biking in Kochi roads as road users can be reckless. Bike hire shops are easy to find in touristy areas.

• Vasco Information Centre , Fort Kochi , ☏ +91 484 2216215 . A popular option, which rents cycles for ₹7 on hourly basis.  

• Chendamangalam Matta Chanda (2 days prior to Vishu Festival) near Chendamangalam Fort, is the only official barter market in the world, as reminiscent of olden market style. The recorded history of this market is nearly 300 years old, where traditional & heritage items are sold in exchange of modern items of equal value. Matta Chanda is today a tourism attraction and a traditional ritual rather than serious shopping, hence only traditional Kerala specialties can be brought in exchange of modern and regular items like branded soaps, perfumes, clothes, hair accessories, electronic components, batteries, medicines, as agreed mutually buyer and seller.
• Cochin Carnival (Dec 20-Jan 2) is the biggest carnival festival in the city. Started in 1582 as part of Portuguese New Year's celebrations. A wonderful array of colourful rallies, fancy dress parades, regular competitions, bike races, beach games, sports, theme festivals, concerts and dances, fireworks and most important, the night beach parties, make it one of the largest celebrations in India. The New Year's Eve party is the highlight of this festival, when a large parade carrying a huge statute of Papanai (a Santa Claus-like image) is taken to the beach, where it is set on fire on the stroke of midnight. This is followed by a grand party. The carnival ends with the Grand Parade on the afternoon of January 1st.
• Fireworks Festival of Maradu Kottaram Devi Temple (mid March - mid April) hosts India's second largest fireworks as part of their temple festival finale. Takes place in the festival grounds of Maradu with mega fireworks display lasting for 1½ hours for last two days.
• Onam Festival (ten day festival mid-August to mid-September) is the state festival of Kerala originating in Kochi. It is based on the legend of welcoming the mythical King Mahabali whose capital was believed to be at the current site of Thrikakkara Temple. The ten day festivities start off with a parade on Atham day called Athachamayam. It is held in Thripunithura starting from the Atham Grounds and has many tableaux, dance parades, cultural art forms ending at Thrikakkara Temple.
• Shiva Temple Festival (first week of January) takes place at the Shiva Temple and Durbar Hall Ground, famous for its ten elephant parade and host of cultural activities. The last day of the festival, Pakalpooram, is famous for its traditional Kerala percussion ensemble, a huge display of fireworks and a 21-gun salute by the Indian Navy and Kerala Police.
• Thripunithura Vrischikolsavam (mid November - mid December) at Thripunithura Poornathrayeesa Temple is a grand temple festival in Kerala, one of the biggest after Thrissur Pooram. This was once the royal festival of the Kochi Kingdom. The cultural attractions draw huge crowds with regular performances of Kathakali.

Kochi has some good sporting facilities. Football is the official game here and is regularly played by locals in open areas. Cricket is extremely popular and regularly played by youngsters.

• Beach Sports . Fort Kochi beach and Cherai beaches are very popular among locals for playing beach volleyball. Try a tough game of beach-football which is very popular here. Water-ski and biking is also popular in Fort Kochi beaches.
• Cricket pitches , Palace Oval Grounds in Tripunithara is the most popular large open cricket pitch where the Kochi Royals used to play their favourite past-time. Apart from this, there are new large pitches in Parade grounds of Fort Kochi and in Kadavanthara (near GCDA Nagar).
• Football pitches . There is a large football pitch at Parade Grounds in Fort Cochin, where locals play regularly in evening and you will likely be welcome to join in. Likewise at Maharaja's Football and Cricket pitches near College Ground in MG Road, Ambedkar City Stadium near KSRTC Bus station in Rajaji Rd and at the Marine Drive ground.
• Maharaja's Stadium Grounds , at KPCC Jn in MG Road has large athletic grounds, a state-of-art synthetic track popular among athletic enthusiasts.
• Water Sports is popular in Kochi, particularly in Fort Kochi beach and Cherai beach where water skis/jets and water scooters are available. Cochin Marina in Bolgatty Island, Yacht club in Thevara and Ramada Resort in Panagad operate a wide range of water sports games. Para-gilding is not allowed due to proximity of several strategic military installations.
• Boating on the Kochi backwaters ( at Marine Drive ). Get the real feel of the Vembanad Lake through boating. There are many cruises offered by many private players as well as the Kerala State Inland Shipping Corp. Sunset cruises are popular. Many guesthouses offer the trip and in the centre you can arrange it by yourself as well. Speedboats also ply on the backwaters. Some premium hotels in Willingdon Island and Fort Kochi offer motorised watersports for its guests. Daily backwater tours can be organised directly through the state tourism office at Ernakulam Park Jetty. They cost ₹650 per person and must be booked at least the day before. The tour includes a stop at local small industry and food sites. ( updated Jun 2017 )

Performing arts

There are many performing arts complexes across the city, offering a good experience of various art-forms and culture. Kochi has the largest number of regular evening Kathakali theaters, offering the best insight into this traditional dance-drama art-form of Kerala. Apart from Kathakali, many other events are regularly performed in Kochi.

Day-shopping is more popular than night-shopping. All shopping outlets close by 8PM. During festive seasons, late night shopping (11PM-3:30AM) are organised to reduce day-time shopping congestion.

The Onam Festival (mid-Aug to Sep) is one of the best shopping seasons, when you get heavy discounts ranging between 10-50% for almost all items as well as regular consumer fairs. Christmas is the next best season. The Kerala Government has started the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (15 Dec–30 Jan), to promote Kerala as a shopping destination. Kochi is the main focal centre of this festival and you get heavy discounts at participating stores and regular lucky draws.

The narrow strip sandwiched between Marine Drive and MG Road houses the celebrated Broadway Market , one of the Kochi's oldest shopping corners where you can buy anything from safety pins to motor scooters. Also try Mattanchery Old Spice Market , one of the oldest spice markets in the country.

Antiques/art works

Jew town in Fort Kochi has numerous antique and craft stores. Most of the antique shops sell colonial era and heritage pieces, as well as Jewish items from the traditional Jewish homes of the area. You can also find many kinds of Indian sculptures, decor, interior artifacts and souvenirs. Bargains are available but be warned that many 'antiques' were probably made in the owners backyard. Shop with care and bargain hard. Never trust touts, who get hefty commissions from unscrupulous antique dealers.

Try state-run emporiums that offer high quality certified antiques and artworks. However, they offer no bargain or discount. Check at Kerala's state emporium showrooms, Kairali & Surabhi and Karnataka's Kaveri, all on MG Road.

Shopping malls

Large western-style shopping malls opened up in the last decade. Six are functional. Apart from malls, there are numerous shopping complexes in Kochi (large complex having many shops close to each other, selling mostly only one type of product).

Apparel and fabric

Kochi has many famous designer boutiques, mostly in Convent Junction between MG Road and Marine Drive. Panampally Nagar also houses premium exclusive designer boutiques. MG Road, the arterial road, is lined with many premium brand stores, leading apparel shops and boutiques. Cloth bazaar in Broadway Market is one of the largest apparel market selling unbranded fabrics and apparels at lower rates.

Kochi is famous for gold, silver, diamond and platinum jewellery. Most jewellers are concentrated at Jewel Junction ( Woodland Junction ), MG Road near Hotel Woodlands. Normal gold purity in India is 22 carat. 24-carat gold ornaments ( thankam ) are not so popular but are available. Lightweight collections in 18-carat gold have become popular among youngsters and teenagers.

For cosmetics and women's accessories, Convent Junction is the haven for the fairer sex. Many international cosmetics and personal care brands can be bought at prices lower than in western countries.

• Alphonsa Cosmetics Collections , ☏ +91 484 2366676 . Convent Junction. A good collection of all international and national cosmetics brands.  
• The Body Shop , Lulu Mall .  
• Goodwill Collections , ☏ +91 484 2380142 . TKM Park, Convent Junction. One of the largest cosmetic store with collections of jewellery and bags.  
• Le Mars , Civil Lanes, Palarivattom , ☏ +91 484 2339142 , +91 484 2339152 , +91 484 2339162 . A popular multi-brand women's store.  

Electronics

You can buy electronic gadgets at comparatively lower rates than most other regions in India. For the latest technology, Kochi hosts many large consumer electronics fairs and every new technology gadget gets into stores very fast. The Electronics Street (opposite Medical Trust Hospital in Pallimukku) and Kadavanthara are the prefect place to buy most of electronics gadegets. Penta Menaka and GCDA Mall are famous for mobile phones. Atlantis Junction and Ravipuram are well known for various computer/laptop hardware shopping.

• Canon Image Square , Lulu mall .  
• Currents , Centre Square . Apple's premium reseller  
• Imagine , Lulu Mall . The first Apple premium reseller in Kerala  
• Lulu Connect , Lulu Mall . A perfect place for gaming consoles, tablets, smartphones and other appliances.  
• QRS , Edapally, near Ravipuram . A store for electronic appliances.  
• Reliance Digital , M G Road . A showroom for all sorts of electronic gadgets.  
• Samsung , Ravipuram, Lulu Mall .  
• Sony Center , Ravipuram .  
• Sony Vaio , Lulu mall .  

Supermarkets

Food shopping is mainly done at supermarkets and bakeries. Bakeries normally sell bread and branded food products, while most supermarkets sell household provisions and packaged food items.

• KR Bakes , Anns Bakery , Bake My Days , Breadworld and Best Bakery are the most popular local bakery chains, with many locations.
• Lulu Hypermarket , Lulu Mall . The largest hypermarket in Kochi, it has all sorts of groceries and household objects. Over 20 billing counters.  
• Reliance has many branches in Kochi, in 2 formats, Fresh (offers a wide range of fresh vegetables and fruits with limited other grocery items), Super (large supermarket, offering groceries and vegetables/fruits). Reliance is a pure vegetarian supermarket chain but outside the supermarket, they operate a small store called DeLite that offers non-vegetarian items, including fresh meat.
• Mitra , Food Bazaar , Big Bazaar Express , Nine-Ten , WellMart and Triveni are other popular supermarkets.
• Supplyco (Govt run), operates an extensive chain of small stores branded Maveli and regular supermarkets branded as Supplyco throughout the city. They also have a medical pharmacy attached to the supermarkets, offering English medicines at a 30% discount.

Banks, ATMs and changing money

Almost all national banks operate in Kochi and most have branches in MG Road, as do a few international banks such as HSBC, Citibank, Standard Chartered and Oman Bank. ATMs are uniformly spread across the city and most major shopping places have an adjacent ATM.

Most of the nationalised banks are authorised to carry out Forex activities. Western Union and Moneygram have many franchises in the city.

• American Express Foreign Exchange Services Pvt Ltd , 39/1728, Tharakan House, MG Rd. , ☏ +91 484 2375839 .  
• Muthoot Exchange Co (P) Ltd , ☏ +91 484 2395345 . G.F.13, Muthoot Chambers, Kurian Towers, Opp. Saritha Theatre, Banerji Rd.  
• Pheroze Framroze & Co (P) Ltd , ☏ +91 484 2367943 . Behind Woodland Hotel, Layam Rd.  
• Thomas Cook (India) Ltd , ☏ +91 484 2369729 . Palai Towers, 1st Floor, Right Wing, M G Rd.  
• UAE Exchange , ☏ +91 484 2360037 . Opp Maharaja's College Ground, M G Rd.  
• Wall Street Finance Ltd , ☏ +91 485 2372149 . G 42, Pioneer Tower, Marine Drive.  

For the past 600 years, Kochi has catered to many visitors from around the world including Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, French, English, Dutch, Russians and Japanese. This has made the city a melting pot of various cultures, and this diversity is evident in the cuisine.

Being a coastal city, plenty of fresh seafood is the local speciality. With the backwaters, freshwater fish is also popular here. Prawns, squids and shrimps are easily available and cooked in many styles. The most famous of Kochi's specialty dishes is Meen Molagitta Curry (smoked freshwater fish with chilly and coconut milk). The English popularised smoked fish with steamed bread and mashed potatoes. One of Kochi's traditional vegetarian specialties is Kurukku Kalan (a thick yogurt curry with toasted banana and hot rice). Packed Kurukku Kalan as well as Palada (a sweet dessert with rice flakes and milk) are sold in many supermarkets and food stalls, especially during festive times.

At Fort Kochi beach you can buy fresh fish and have it cooked at the nearby food stalls. Fishmongers will sell you a kilo of tiger prawns for around ₹300 and a kilo of squid for around ₹250. Food stalls will charge you ₹40-50 per person to cook your fish (grilled, curry, whatever) and provide you with a serve of chips and salad. Conditions are reasonably hygienic.

Fried fish , Fish molly (a coconut milk sauce based curry almost like stew), Alleppey fish curry (traditional curry with tomato sauce and fish tamarind) and Fish Peera (chunks of fish toasted with grated coconuts with fish tamarind sauce), Varatharacha Kozhi curry (semi-fried chicken toasted with coconut and chilly) are the favorites, usually taken with rice or steamed tapioca (cassava). Also worth trying are the traditional rice based breakfast snacks, puttu and kadala, appam and stew.

Eateries and restaurants

Kochi has a variety of cheap restaurants all over the city. A full meal should cost less than ₹50.

Thattukadas are streetside food hawkers, where you can get hot, fresh-cooked delicious food, costing a maximum of ₹50 for a good filling meal. Most offer set meal combinations served from portable cooking trolleys with a few benches or chairs nearby. The most famous delicacies are stuffed or plain thattu dosas (thick dosas almost like pizza bread), hot Kerala porottas (flat bread of milled wheat), Kerala roast beef with chapatti and kanji (rice porridge). The main concern is the lack of hygiene and constant reuse of oil for frying.

Kochi has some home-grown fast food chains: KR Hot Chicken, 61 Pai Dosas, Luciya's Food Court, Potpurri, The Oven, Krispy Chicken, Arabian Treat, Papa Milano's and Breadworld Broasted Chicken have a presence in most parts of town. Foreign franchises such as KFC, Chicking, Noodle Kings, McDonalds, Burger KIng, US Pizzas, Marrybrown, Pizza Hut and Domino's also have a presence here.

• Aruvi Restaurant , Tea, coffee etc. are not available. Instead "Jappi" an ayurvedic herbal drink is offered. Aruvi is on I. S. Press Road (9496044519), Kacherippady (9496044519), and Chambakkara at Vyttiila (9496044517).
• Arya Nivas , Chitoor Rd ( opposite South Bus Stand ). A chain of vegetarian restaurants run by Tamilians, famous for typical south Indian foods.  
• Hotel Thali ( opposite Little Flower Church, near Kadavanthra ). Very good Kerala style cuisine.  
• Hotel Unnikrishnan , Pallimukku ( opposite Medical Trust Hospital ). Famous for Kerala style fish fries and set meals.  
• Indraprastha Gujarati Food Court , MG Rd ( Ground floor, DD Food Court, near Shenoy's Theatre ). Famous for its unlimited North Indian thalis and various sweets. A full plate thali with five dishes, Roti and rice costs ₹50.  
• 9.962741 76.254745 1 Kayees Rahamatulla Cafe , Mattanchery .  
• 9.967849 76.283252 2 Kayees Hotel , Durbar Hall Road ( opp. Darbar Ground ).  
• Krishna Kripa Seafood Restaurant , Fort Kochi ( opposite SantaCruz Basilica Church ). Good Kerala-style food, low prices and a great location.  
• Mughal Restaurant , South Railway Station Rd . Has a good range of north Indian foods and a good juice bar.  
• 9.957844 76.254832 3 Sree Krishna Cafe , Gujarathi St, Mattancherry . Gujarati restaurant famous for its cutlets and battoora and vegetarian curries.  

There are many street side Arabic restaurants offering shawarma and grilled chicken. Popular options are Real Arabia , Arabia Dreams and Grill Arabia , which are dotted all over the city. Most supermarkets and bakeries have a Shawarma Corner outside, which is a cheap, yet filling sandwich. most budget Arabic restaurants are open from 5PM-midnight.

• Royal Food Court ( Near North Railway Station ). Good food with Arabic-Lebanese delicacies around the clock.  
• Street Menu ( Opposite SBT Bank, Padma Junction, MG Rd ). Offers a lot of grilled options at low prices.  

Most of the restaurants in Kochi are mid-range and there are lots of them.

• Banana Leaf , Jos Junction, MG Rd ( near Jos Collections ), ☏ +91 484 4022334 . noon-3PM . Good traditional Kerala food with non veg and veg options. ₹60 .  
• Delhi Durbar , Pallimukku, MG Rd . A good, small North Indian restaurant.  
• 9.968857 76.249834 4 Fort House Restaurant and Hotel , 2/6A Calvathy Rd ( next to Coast Guard ), ☏ +91 484 2217103 . At the water front offering good Kerala food and great views.  
• 9.970612 76.285331 5 The Grand Pavilion , Grand Hotel, Jewel Junction, MG Rd . Popular especially during evenings for its seafood, particularly karimeen pollichathu (smoked pearlspot fish) and alleppey fish curry.  
• Kadaloram , Abad Plaza . Good typical Kerala buffet at about ₹300 per head.  
• Khyber Pass , First floor, Bimbis Restaurants, Jos Junction, MG Rd . A North Indian/Afghan food outlet with a wide range of tikkas and kebabs.  
• Mirch Masalas , TD Rd ( near to Temple ). Vegetarian Punjabi restaurant with good ambiance.  
• 9.978139 76.277207 6 Ojeen , By-lane after SBT towards Broadway, Marine Dr ( From High Court junction, proceed toward SBT along Shanmugham Road. Right after SBT, on the left, there's a by-lane leading to Broadway. ), ☏ +91 484 3121591 . 11AM-7PM . Variety of snacks from the Malabar region, juices and milk shakes. Ojeen is probably the only place in Kochi for the delectable, meat-rich Malabar snacks. ₹100 .  
• Raju dhaba , Falcon truck terminal, Kalamassery . 11AM-11PM . Authentic north Indian dhaba food. ₹100 .  
• Shala , 1/605 Peter Celli St, Fort Kochi , ☏ +91 484 2216036 . Started by the same people who run the Kashi Art Cafe, Shala serves delicious Keralan food. The menu which changes daily. The owner, Anoop, hires local housewives to cook their local specialties. The restaurant is in a beautiful and tastefully restored historical building.  
• Sharma's Restaurant , Broadway, Marine Dr ( Just behind Penta Menaka ). Good North Indian food at low prices.  
• 9.970158 76.286896 7 Woodland Junction , SRV Road .  
• 9.966948 76.28625 8 Opp. Avenue Regent, South area, MG Rd .  
• Chinese Garden , Dwaraka Junction, MG Rd and Kadavanthara, SA Rd . A good restaurant, serving lots of Indianised Chinese dishes.  
• Chiyang Restaurant , Madhava Pharmacy Junction, Banerji Road ( adjacent to PNVM hospital, opposite erstwhile Oman International Bank ). One of the oldest Chinese restaurants.  
• 14Avenue Restaurant , 14 Cross Rd, Main Avenue, Panampilly Nagar . Italian and continental cuisines, including lasagna, pies, pastas and steaks.  
• South Star , Bimbis Menaka ( near Penta Menaka, Marine Drive ). Well maintained, nice interiors. Food styles from North Indian, South Indian, Chinese and Arabic and a wide range of Biriyanis.  
• Thai BBQ House , Kunnumpuram Road, Njaliparambu Junction, Fort Kochi . Thai cuisine, with grilled squid tempuras and coconut prawns.  
• Upstairs Italian , K.B. Jacob Rd, Fort Kochi ( opposite Santa Cruz Basilica ). Run by an Italian family, classic traditional Italian cuisines.  

Most of the upscale restaurants are in hotels with 3 stars or more.

• BTH Kempa , BTH Hotel, BTH Junction, Durbar Hall Rd . A classic hotel which dates back at least 100 years. Its restaurant, Kempa, is popular among high-end vegetarian travellers. Serves North Indian, South Indian and Kannadiga-Udupi dishes.  
• Chillis Andhra , Layam Rd . Very tasty, as well as fiery food, particularly the chicken options. Few vegetarian options.  
• Hotel Dwaraka , Dwaraka Junction, MG Rd . It was the first star hotel in Kochi and it remains a popular option for Indian vegetarian food.  
• Ila , Marine Dr ( near Hakkoba Lodge ). 11AM-11PM . Tasty Travancore food, with both Southern Travancore veg options and Central Travancore Syrian Christian non veg specialities.  
• Lily Grace Seafood Restaurant , Post box 22, River Rd., Fort Kochi ( near Hotel Killians - Fort Kochi Vypeen Ferry Terminal ), ☏ +91 484 2217245 , [email protected] . 7AM-11PM . Freshly caught seafood from Kerala.  
• Sreekrishna Inn , Warriam Rd, Durbar Hall Rd . This restaurant is famous for its classic look and theme, and offers a large range of Indian vegetarian dishes. The dosas are most famous, along with its elaborate thalis.  
• S36 , Mills St, Foreshore Rd ( within Bat&Ball Inn ), ☏ +91 484 645 9495 . 11AM-11PM . Traditional North Indian cuisine, particularly Mughal specialty foods.  
• Tandoor ( Clay Oven ), Layam Rd ( near Hotel Woodlands, Woodland Junction, MG Rd ). 11AM-11PM . Tasty North Indian, particularly Punjabi, food. The Kadai chicken and ginger chicken is truly world class, and no other place in Kochi can offer their unique taste. The peas masala is also really superb. Their trademarks are romali roti and stuffed bread options. A full Kadai chicken serves at least 4-5 people. Caution, it is very spicy.  
• Arctic Circle ( next to Hokkoba Lodge, Marine Drive, near to Coffee Beanz ). 11AM-11PM . Steak, more than 14 sizzlers, such as an American styled sizzler with Texas mashed potatoes with mushroom sauce. 20 European dishes, along with a few continental salads.  
• Ayela & Keshai ( Part of Dreams Hotel ), near Elamkulam Lake, SA Rd . A very good seafood restaurant with four theme courts, Kochi, Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese. It has a fresh seafood selection court, with the fish cooked in front of the guests. A multi-cuisine restaurant also operates at the site.  
• Conucopia , Mills St, Foreshore Rd , ☏ +91 484 6459495 . 11AM-11PM . A cricket theme restaurant, operating inside Bat&Ball Inn, this restaurant is famous for its wide selection of Continental, Greek, Mediterranean cuisines.  
• Golden Dragon , Mercy Estate, Atlantis Junction, Ravipuram side of MG Rd . 11AM-11PM . A pure Chinese restaurant without any Indianisation. Serves alcohol.  
• Hon. East India Company , Hotel Travancore Palace, Warriam Rd, Durbar Hall Rd . 11AM-11PM . A historical themed restaurant operating within the four star Travancore Palace Hotel. Famous for its classic paintings and heritage photo galleries as well as its food. The evening buffet is one of the largest in town, offering the best of English, Kerala and North Indian cuisine.  
• Lokah World Cuisines , NH Bypass Rd, Vytilla ( near Mithra Supermarket ), ☏ +91 484 4033220 , +91 484 4033221 . 11AM-11PM . Offers nine international cuisines from an American Wild West theme to Vietnamese sea-food, Italian pastas and Arabic grills. This restaurant has a family hall, a smoking lounge, a street food area and French cafe along with bakery. Free wifi for guests.  
• Itty's Place , G31, Panampally Nagar ( near Hotel Centre ), ☏ +91 94 4657 5551 . 11AM-11PM . Itty's place is an eco-friendly restaurant made completely with bamboo, coir and wood having 3 sit-down options. Favourite Italy offers traditional Italian pizzas, pastas and subs.  
• Ming's Wok ( Opp.Bank of Baroda Near Malayala Manorama Panampilly Nagar Cochin ), ☏ +91 484 231355 . 11:30AM-11PM . Authentic Chinese cuisine prepared by professional chefs, using quality ingredients.  
• Spice Route , Level 4, Oberon Mall, NH Bypass Rd, Palarivattom , ☏ +91 484 4000040 . 11AM-11PM . Themed around historical spice route with focus on traditional Persian foods.  
• Somewhere Else ( near Muscat Tower (Sony and Vileno Showroom), near Kadavanthara Junction ), ☏ +91 484 2313339 . 11AM-11PM . It has a cafe and restaurant. The cafe serves a wide range of coffees and mocktails, whereas the restaurant has sizzlers, steaks, grilled wraps, burgers and desserts. Also offers some good biriyanis and Indianised European options. Free wifi for guests.  
• 24 Carat , 3rd floor, Gold Souke Mall, Vytilla . 11AM-11PM . A popular upscale multi-cuisine restaurant, themed around weddings, it is ideal for candle-light romantic dinners and high power lunches.  

Keralites are well known for their drinking habit. Finding bars or pubs is not difficult in Kochi. For those who do not drink alcohol there are lots of excellent local options.

• Fresh toddy ( kallu ) is an alcoholic brew from the coconut tree. Be careful as adulteration is very common. Your best bet is to get it from a local who has given over his coconut trees for extraction. Mullapanthal Kallushap near Thripunithura is a certified Kallu brew shop.
• Karikku /ilaneer (tender coconut), could be found at many hawker stalls, especially in Marine Drive.
• Sambhaaram (buttermilk) , is especially popular on hot summer days when it is even distributed freely by some clubs.
• Shakes , such has Sharjah Shake are good cool down options and there are numerous cool-bars and juice stalls across the city.
• Sarbath (sharbat) is a popular sweet drink which can be of various varieties. Soda lime, lime water, fresh lime, etc. are other common thirst quenchers available everywhere.

Finding a bar or pub is not difficult. Most of the budget oriented bars are near the railway stations and in Kaloor and Edappally. Mid-market and high end bars are all over. There are many beer and wine bars catering for foreign tourists at Fort Kochi. As elsewhere in Kerala, all bars and pubs have to close every first and second day of the month as well as on all state holidays . These are known as dry days. All bars have to close by midnight.

You can buy almost any brand of liquor from state-run Beverages Co stores, which have an extensive network of in Kochi, selling at competitive rates. Expect long queues, especially on the eve of dry days.

• Central Park Bar , Kaloor-Kadavanthara Rd . A posh well maintained bar having a designer lounge.  
• Nasha , at the Metropolitan Hotel bar, South Railway station . A well maintained good lounge bar, ideal for families and visitor. Offers a wide range of drinks offering at moderate prices. Very famous for its signature Kerala dishes as short eats.  
• Oberoi Bar , MG Rd . A good small bar dominated by men.  
• Polakkulattu Sliverspoon Bar , Jewek MG Rd . A good, well maintained bar with branches in Palarivattom near Metlife, and in SA Rd at Janatha Junction.  
• Silca Bar , Hotel Mercy, Ravipuram area, MG Rd , ☏ +91 484 2367372 . A lovely, upscale bar lounge popular with businessmen and upscale visitors. Famous for its signature dishes and cocktails.  
• Velocity , Banerjee Rd . A seedy bar with a wide range of liquors and beer. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• XL Fishnet Bar , Rose St, Fort Cochin . until about 10:30PM . The bar fills up each day with tourists looking for a beer in Fort Cochin. There is nothing cosy about the place and the staff are quite lazy. It can be a nice spot to meet other travellers, since everyone has one thing in common: drinking beer. There is a busy restaurant downstairs that also serves beer (more pricey) and may be preferred by solo women. ₹125 for a Kingfisher beer .  

Nightlife DJ parties & pubs

The nightlife is mostly very limited compared to big cities. There are lots of bars available but the city is very conservative compared to big metros.

• ÁVA lounge , Dreams Hotel, SA Rd . A lounge cum disco bar, ideal for families. Good music, a large dance floor and wide range of cocktails.
• Champs Sports Lounge , Gokulam Park, Kaloor . Has a good sports gallery, cricket-themed interiors, 2 gigantic screens for regular broadcast of cricket or football matches, signature cocktails and snacks.
• Couchyn , The Grand Hotel, Woodlands Junction, MG Rd . A traditional English styled lounge bar with great music and a wide variety of cocktails.
• Glow&Corktales , ☏ +91 484 409 0000 . Atlantis Junction-MG Rd. Dance floor and large lounge bar. It has night parties from Thursday to Sunday with various themes and age groups.  
• Opium the Club , ☏ +91 93 8825 6882 . Palarivattom Jn, Palarivattom Jn., A posh upscale dance floor and large discotheque, it has various events from Tuesday to Sunday, each in various themes. (Closed on dry days)  
• Loungevity , Hotel Avenue Regent, MG Rd . House an in-house DJ and the latest in electronic dance music. One of the coolest places for families.
• Tandav Discos , ( Le Meridien ), Maradu . Famous for its weekend all night parties and grand balls.

Coffee shops

There are many coffee shops around the city.

• Amaara Maradu , Petta-Maradu Rd, Tripunithara ( near Gandhi Square ), ☏ +91 484 2706922 , [email protected] . 10AM-9PM . A unique heritage hangout set in a 200-year-old Mangayil house. Serves authentic Kerala coffee and popular varieties of dosas. Regular cultural performances, cooking class, ethnic handicrafts class are some of the popular activities there. The cafe also houses a large library for reading as well as venue of regular book exhibitions.  
• Barista ( Bay Pride Mall, Marine Drive ). 10AM-10:30PM . The place to cool down with coffee after a walk at Marine Drive. Not cheap though.  
• BTH Coffee Shop ( Nr North Railway Station; International Stadium-Kaloor ). 9AM-10:30PM . A moderate priced coffee shop, famous for its traditional Kerala snacks and savouries along with dosas and idilies.  
• Cafe Cochin Lavazza ( G-360, Panampally Nagar ), ☏ +91 484 3114816 . 9AM-10:30PM . The only direct Lavazza coffee outlet in South India.  
• Cafe Coffee Day ( Shenoys Jn, MG R; Oberon Mall; Pallimukku, MG Rd ). 10AM-9:30PM . A popular national chain, which is a standard coffee hangout with western style eateries and a wide range of coffee. ₹100 for coffee .  
• Cafe Persia ( TD Rd, near Banerjee Rd ). 9AM-10:30PM . A unique Arabic themed cafe, famous for Sheeshas/Hookah smoking and an excellent range of Arabic coffee and tea, along with snacks.  
• Kashi Art Café , Fort Cochin, Burgher St ( parallel to Princess St ), ☏ +91 484 2215769 , [email protected] . 8:30AM-10PM . Serves great iced coffee, fresh lunches, and a variety of sandwiches and tasty cakes.  
• Teapot ( Peter Celli St, Fort Cochin ). 10AM-10:30PM . A unique cafe which serves a variety of teas, particularly 6 unique Indian flavours. It also has good traditional English snacks.  

Ice cream parlours

There are numerous cool-bars and juice stalls that sell branded and custom made ice-cream dotted all over the city. There are also a few specialist ice cream parlours.

• Caravan Softies , Caravan Complex, Marine Drive and Opposite Shenoys Cineplex. One of the most traditional ice-cream parlours famous for many in-house varieties.
• Horter Place de Glance , Jawahar Nagar Colony and Opp. Durbar Hall grounds. A premium ice-cream outlet selling the Uncle John brand. It has 29 ice-cream flavours and 18 ice-cream varieties with many toppings including sauces, creams, fruits and nuts.
• Kwality Walls , Foodcourt-Abad Bay Pride Mall Marive Drive. A local favourite.
• Merriboys Ice-cream Cafe , Food Circle, Oberon Mall. Famous for its original milk ice-creams and innovative fruit sundaes.

• Viththaga Hotels , Banerji Road. Opp. Sani Rest. , ☏ +91 484 2363527 , +91 484 2364040 , +91 484 2364070 . ₹350 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Hotel City Tower , Near Reserve Bank . 1,200 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• PRB Residency , PRB Residency, 32/25005a., PJ Antony Road, Palaarivattom Jn , ☏ +91 484 2337011 . 600 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Banana Hut Hotel , Main Ferry Rd ( On the left 150m to the Chinese Fishing nets from the main Ferry Station ). Basic rooms, but cheap and kind hosts. Leaving your bag there during the day is possible and was safe. from ₹300 (off season) .  
• Casa Linda Ballard , St.Paul's St ( Near St.Paul's School ), ☏ +91 484 2216888 . A well-maintained hotel in typical European style. Budget .  
• Hotel Fort Avenue , Bazaar St ( Near old Bazaar ), ☏ +91 484 2226103 . A well maintained hotel. Budget .  
• Hotel White Rose , Fort Nagar , ☏ +91 484 3236004 . A newer hotel, which is clean and good looking. Ideal for families  
• Vintage Inn , Rids Dale Branch Road, Njaliparambu Jn., ( near K.B. Jacob Rd, traffic circle ), ☏ +91 484 2215064 . Clean, comfortable ensuite rooms, fan or A/C, free WiFi in the lobby, 5 min walk from historic centre.  
• AJ Residency , Kaloor Rd ( near Kaloor Jn, behind Lenin Centre ), ☏ +91 484 2371711 , [email protected] . Check-in: noon . Near Kaloor bus stand at Kaloor Road and nearby Palarivattom Shopping district. It has the Rahamaniya tender Chicken Restaurant at ground floor. ₹350-800 .  
• Hotel Aiswarya , Warriam Rd ( Near Durbar Hall Ground ), ☏ +91 484 2364454 . A good well maintained hotel with nice interiors and good hospitality in heart of the city.  
• Hotel Bijus , Cannon Shed Rd, Near Boat Jetty ( Near General Hospital ), ☏ +91 484 2361661 , +91 484 2381881 . Ideal hotel for budget tourist. A well maintained, clean and nice hotel.  
• Abad Plaza , Kavitha Junction, MG Rd , ☏ +91 484 2384380 . One of the oldest hotels in town. There is also another hotel just behind which belongs to this chain. It has good restaurants, pools, gyms, spa, supermarket, bookshop and business facilities in centre of the city.  
• Avenue Centre Hotel , Panampally Nagar ( Opposite Rotary Club and near to Passport Office ), ☏ +91 484 2315301 . A good hotel in an upscale residential area with a multi-cuisine restaurant and swimming pools.  
• Ballard Bungalow ( Near Fort Kochi Junker Jetty ), ☏ +91 484 2215854 . A heritage colonial bungalow, which still maintains the colonial charms and recreates an atmosphere of the British Raj. Moderate .  
• BTH , BTH Round, Durbar Hall Rd ( Near to Shiva Temple ), ☏ +91 484 2353501 . The oldest business hotel of the town, BTH is a popular option, especially among Indian families. It has good lawns, a large swimming pool and vegetarian restaurants.  
• Gama Heritage Residency , Napier St , ☏ +91 484 2217475 . A typical Portuguese bungalow, which housed the Portuguese army until its defeat by Dutch forces. Today it is a stylish heritage hotel, famous for its hospitality.  
• Mermaid Hotel , Kaniyampuzha Road, Vyttila , ☏ +91 484 3988444 , +91 484 2307999 , fax : +91 484 2307804 , [email protected] . Spacious rooms with river views.  
• Old Courtyard , Princess St ( Near Vasco Da Gama Square ), ☏ +91 484 2215035 . An old Dutch bungalow, remodelled with modern interiors. Famous for lovely dinner parties. Moderate .  
• Sealord , Marine Dve , ☏ +91 484 2382472 , +91 484 2382473 . One of the first star rated hotels in Kochi and offers rooms at moderate rates. Has good restaurants and a pub.  
• Times Square , Layam Rd, Near Durbar Hall Ground ( Opposite Chief Justice's House ), ☏ +91 484 2374488 . Business hotel, near the shopping quarters of MG Rd with a very good multi-cuisine restaurant.  
• Beaumonde The Fern
• Dreams , S.A Rd, Kadavanthara ( opposite Naval Enclave ), ☏ +91 484 4129999 . A premium property which is a sister concern of Times Hotel-New York, with all 5 star facilities. ₹6,000-20,000 .  
• Gokulam Park Inn International , Kaloor ( opposite Techno-towers ), ☏ +91 484 2400707 . A 4-star property in the business corner of Kochi. Has a good convention centre and a host of facilities. ₹4,000-12,000 .  
• Le Méridien , Maradu Junction ( near Maradu Bridge ), ☏ +91 484 2705777 . One of the most exclusive addresses in the city. It has a host of facilities, including a large convention centre. Near to riverside, it offers good boating facilities and has an indoor shopping complex selling luxury items. ₹6,000-20,000 . ( updated Jan 2019 )
• Renai Cochin ( formerly Rennaissance ), Palarivattom Junction , ☏ +91 484 3919000 .  
• Adams Wood House , Andy Achari Rd ( Behind Saga at Paravana junction ), ☏ +91 98 9535 3782 , [email protected] . Four clean rooms with comfortable beds. The owner,and his family are very friendly and helpful. Free Wi-Fi, help with arranging trips inside and outside of town. Breakfast available. ₹1,000-3,000 .  
• Daniels Homestay , Rids Dale Branch Rd ( 2 min walk from Santa Cruz Church ), ☏ +91 98 9557 5181 , [email protected] . In one of the silent by-lanes of Fort Kochi very close to the Santa Cruz Basilica. Friendly, clean and comfortable. ₹750-1,000 .  
• Dream Catcher Home Stay , Vasavan Lane Rd ( Near Thamaraparambu School ), ☏ +91 484 2217550 , +91 97 4601 7881 , [email protected] . Home-cooked food, clean rooms, but host quite unpleasant. Free pick-ups from bus and railway station. ₹600-1,200 .  
• 1/1375 A KB Jacob Rd, Njaliparambu Junction , ☏ +91 96 5643 0583 , [email protected] . Check-in: 1PM , check-out: 11AM . Clean with comfortable beds. The owner and his family are very friendly and helpful. Free internet, help with arranging trips inside and outside of town. ₹400-800 .  
• Green House Home Stay , Kunnumpuram Road, Njaliparambu , ☏ +91 98 9526 2296 , [email protected] . Friendly home stay in a good location close to Princess St. TV and a fridge are provided in the communal living room as well Internet. High season doubles are around ₹1,000 non A/C or ₹1,500 A/C, ₹300-600 during the low season, extra charge for A/C rooms .  
• Leelu Home , Cheerans Ebenezer, behind Fort Kochi Post Office, Quirose St ( 2-min walk from the famous Santa Cruz Basilica ), ☏ +91 48 4221 5377 . A renovated Victorian building in the heart of Fort Kochi. Cooking classes are conducted in the kitchen daily from 11AM-1PM and from 6PM-8PM.  
• Maison Casero Home Stay , Near Santa Cruz Basilica Church, Fosse Road, Kottavalappu, Fort Cochin ( 45 km from the Cochin International Airport, 18 km from the Ernakulam Junction railway station, 150 m from the fort cochin bus stand ), ☏ +91 484 2215955 , +91 9847125955 (mobile) . Check-in: 11:30AM , check-out: 11AM . The owner Jaison and his family are very friendly and helpful. ₹600-1500 .  
• Padikkal Residency , Njaliparambu Junction ( 50 m from Santa Cruz Basilicum ), ☏ +91 98 95423033 , [email protected] . Check-in: 1PM , check-out: 11AM . Free Wi-Fi, private rooms with ensuite bathroom. Common balcony. Traditional style homestay with helpful staff. Approved by the Department of Tourism Development. Close to the main Fort Kochi area, but in a quiet enough location to be away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist traps.  
• Prem's Homestay , Njaliparambu Junction ( Close to the Santa Cruz Basilica ), ☏ +91 484 2215269 , +91 98 4715 8166 , [email protected] . Clean, homey atmosphere, welcoming hosts. Home-cooked food on order. Close to major tourist attractions. Will organise trips inside and out of town if you wish. ₹600-1,000 .  
• Riverside Heritage Homestay , ☏ +91 93 8879 4279 .  
• Rak Villa ( near Edavanakad Juma Masjid ), ☏ +91 960 595 1111 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 11AM . Rak Villa is a four-bedroom villa mostly suitable for family. Alcohol is prohibited here. Most preferable for Arabians. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• San Mike Tours Homestay , No. 1/957, Directly opposite Santa Cruz Basilica , ☏ +91 484 2215385 , +91 48 4657 1203 . Friendly homestay run by two brothers Victor and Martin. They can organise anything from a ₹500 backwater cruise in Allepey to a day riding an old Enfield motorcycle down the Malabar coast. ₹500 per person or less if there is more than one of you .  
• Sherlys Casa Grande , 10A, Asset Casa Grande , ☏ +91 984 705 6756 , [email protected] . Features a lake view. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Tag und Nacht ( Homestay ), Beach Rd, Mackenzie Garden ( opposite the Naval Maritime Museum ), ☏ +91 999 599 4550 , +98 467 51505 , [email protected] . Very clean and beautifully decorated rooms with comfortable beds. The owners, Antonio & Kristina, are friendly and helpful. Free WiFi, assistance with arranging trips inside and outside of town. Fabulous breakfasts. ₹500-1,200 .  

There are many popular institutes for learning local art-forms such as Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattom, Kathakali and music, which can offer regular and crash courses.

• Kerala Kathakali Centre , ☏ +91 484 2215827 . Offers short term courses in Kathakali, Kalaripayattu and percussion instruments for visitors. Ideal for learning a bit about the essence of Kerala's, although it is not so authentic being aimed mostly at tourists.  
• RLV College of Dance and Music , ☏ +91 484 2779757 . Established in the 1920s by the Maharaja of Kochi in Tripunithara as a remembrance to his late wife and daughter, this is one of the most popular music and dance colleges in the state. There are many short-term courses, making it ideal for interested visitors.  
• Sree Sankara School of Dance and Music , ☏ +91 484 2462501 , +91 484 2464189 . Popular school for learning classical Indian artforms, offering certificates and diplomas.  

Kalaripayattu

Learn this martial art of Kerala at the following government-authorised centres:

• ENS Kalari , ☏ +91 484 2809810 . One of the most popular Kalari centres in the state. Part of Kerala Kalaripattyattu Association, this institute is guided by trainers who are versed in ayurveda, mathematics and physical education.  

Yoga and meditation

• Art of Living-Ernakulam Chapter , ☏ +91 484 2383738 . Part of the international yoga and spiritual centre of Sri Sri Ravishankarji.  

Kochi is one of the safest cities in India with excellent police coverage. Common sense is of course required when being alone at night. Also beware of moral policing groups as many incidents are reported.

• Late night life is not common in Kochi. If you are planning on clubbing, make your own transport arrangements before hand, very few buses ply after 9:45PM, and none after 10:30PM. You can find autos and taxis, but only near railway stations or major bus stands. Be wary of eve-teasers, especially drunkards.
• Kochi is infamous for mosquitoes, due to presence of large water bodies across the city. Make sure any room you book, has mosquito repellents or at least a mosquito net. Its always better to have any anti-mosquito creams or spice oil extracts like lemongrass oil to ward off mosquito bites.
• Crossing roads - unlike in the other cities in India, vehicles do not tend to stop when you initiate crossing; so wait till there is a comparative lull in the traffic - the oncoming vehicles will slow down for you.
• Be wary of Private Line bus and KSRTC bus drivers on the roads. Pedestrians live a hard life especially during peak hours in Kochi. There are many cases of road accidents and hit-run cases involving private buses and pedestrians, thus earning them the nickname, Red Killers . Take extra care, while crossing the roads. If difficult to cross then do so only at major signal junctions or seek assistance of local traffic policeman.
• Kochi lacks good pedestrian walkways, though many are being rebuilt now, along with the roads. Beware of walking on these walkways, especially during night. Jaywalking may be safe in the nights in sub-urban roads, but with the coming of better roads and with an increasing traffic, avoid walking on the roads in the city, especially in the daytime.
• Kochi is only a few metres above the sea level, so a few roads in the arterial city tend to flood during rainfall. It's better to avoid such roads while raining. When these roads are flooded it may be difficult to distinguish whether you are walking on road or walkway, which sometimes can land you inside drainage holes. However, these floods do tend to drain off quickly after the rain. Flood prone roads are - Edapally Junction, roads leading to Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, South junction (in front of Hotel Woodlands)
• Public smoking bans are strictly enforced in the city more so than in other regions. The High Court of Kerala has decreed a public smoking ban across the state. Smoking on the roadside, in shopping complexes, restaurants, and parks is illegal and police can charge ₹500-1,000 for breaches. No shop that sells loose cigars or tobacco is allowed to provide lighters. Provision of lighters to customers may lead to a ₹150 fine being imposed upon both the supplier and the purchaser.
• Prostitution is illegal in Kochi, as elsewhere in Kerala and India. However, there is a good chance of encountering street prostitutes and their agents who may try to lure you. Beware of such offers as HIV is common among prostitutes. As it is a criminal offence to commit adultery, regular police raids occur in local cheap hotels to catch prostitutes and their clients.

Emergency support & assistance

For any emergency support of Police, ☏ 100 (for Flying Squad) or ☏ 1090 (for Crime Stopper) . The city has around 16 Police Station zones.

• Kochi Central Police Station ( Central Circle ), Old Railway Station Rd ( Behind High Court of Kerala ), ☏ +91 484 2394500 . 24 hours . This is the main police station in Kochi.  
• Kochi Women Police Station ( Vanitha Station ) ( General Police Quarters, Near to High Court ), ☏ +91 484 2394250 . 24 hr . A female-staffed police station dedicated to assist female travellers.  
• Kochi Tourist Police Station ( Fort Kochi Station ) ( Parade grounds ), ☏ +91 484 2224055 . 24 hrs . This is the country's first and only tourist police station. Assistance for tourists including visa and immigration information can be provided. There is a small police museum here. Check for the difference of police uniform here. The Tourist Police wear a blue shirt and khaki pants.  
• Foreigners Registration Office-FRO ( City Police Commissioner's Office ) ( Commissariat, City Police HQ, Marine Drive ), ☏ +91 484 2394651 . 10AM-5:30PM . The city commissioner is the FRO, who has powers and authorization for any immigration issues. For any visa conversion, loss/theft of foreign passports, extension of visa, overstay of visa, immigration clearance, reporting a missing foreigners then report at this office.  
• Sailors & Seaport Users Registration Office ( DySP Office- Island ) ( SSRO Office, Near Port Trust Office, Willington Island ), ☏ +91 484 2666027 . 24 hr . For sailors or ship crew, their registration and embarkation/disembarkation order has to be issued for this office. The DySP has authorization to issue landing permits for yachts, private boats as well as foreign ships and allow its passengers to board down for 72 hours without visa. Travellers arriving on cruisers and yachts should report at this office for any transit visa or short term visa required.  

Stay healthy

Along with Thiruvananthapuram , Kochi is one of South Asia's best medical hubs. Many hospitals operate in the city, with 12 specialist hospitals. For accident cases, only hospitals marked with accident care are authorised to admit such cases. The toll free emergency number (from all telephones) is ☏ 102 and ☏ 1298

• Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) ( Amrita Hospital ), Edapally North ( Take left in NH 17 after Edapally Toll Gate ), ☏ +91 48 4280 1234 , +91 48 4280 4321 , +91 48 4400 1234 (hotline) . 24 hr . One of the top 10 leading specialist hospitals in South Asia. AIMS is reputed for its cost effective complex treatments and latest medical care facilities. Reputed for its cost-effective surgeries, the hospital offers several specialised over-all general check-ups  
• Ernakulam General Hospital .  
• Lakeshore Hospital , Near Maradu Bridge, NH Bypass, Maradu , ☏ +91 484 2701032 , +91 484 2701033 . 24/7 . One of the most high tech hospital in South India famous for its innovative, modern medical treatment. Has various specialised departments including cancer care treatment and bone/neuro treatment. The cardiac division has the latest facilities and highly qualified dcotors. There are 8 other specialist clinics. The hospital is well-equipped with all emergency services. Also offers comprehensive medical check-up services.  
• Medical Trust Hospital , Pallimukku, MG Rd , ☏ +91 484 2358001 , +91 484 2358032 , +91 484 2358033 , +91 484 2358034 . 24 hr . One of the oldest Super Specialty hospital in heart of the city, this hospital is one of the most important referral hospital in Kerala. Famous for its organ transplant operations. Has the largest number of intensive care facilities in the state. Its a very crowded hospital but is well organised. This hospital is part of Rapid Medical Action Force and they have an accident care.  

Other important hospitals are -

• City Hospital , Padma Junction, MG Rd , ☏ +91 484 2361809 . 24 hr . A good hospital, with accident care facilities. It is famous for its orthopedics and paediatrics department.  
• Cochin Port Hospital , Willingdon Island , ☏ +91 484 2666403 . 24/7 . General medicine and has a large in-patient ward. Near to Kochi Port area, its regularly used by sailors. All certifications required for mariners and sailors are available from this hospital.  
• Gautham hospital , at Panayapilly, near Fort Kochi and Mattanchery , ☏ +91 484 2210510 , +91 484 2210510 , +91 484 4043457 . 24/7 . A major multi-speciality hospital in West Kochi. 24-hr casualty, accident and trauma unit, ambulance services and an ICU and other state of the art medical care.  
• Fyndmed Dental Care , Kochi , ☏ +91 9495865589 , [email protected] . Affordable, Accessible and Approachable dental clinics in Kochi ( updated Jul 2023 )
• Air Ambulance , ☏ +91 98 4544 6634 , +91 99 8609 0451 . Need to have prior booking  
• Amrita Jeevanraksha , ☏ +91 484 2801234 , +91 484 2802100 .  
• Emergency Medical Assistance , ☏ 1298 .  
• Kochi Police Medical Assistance , ☏ +91 484 2366100 , 100 .  
• Lions Club Free Ambulance , ☏ +91 484 2354139 .  
• NSS Community Free Ambulance , ☏ +91 484 2369920 .  
• On-Road Accident Emergency Care Force , ☏ +91 98 4609 9900 , +91 98 4600 7740 .  
• Rapid Medical Action Force , ☏ 102 .  
• Rotary Emergency Medical Force , ☏ +91 98 4706 0077 .  

24-hour pharmacies

• Gautham Pharmacy , Panayapally , ☏ +91 484 2210514 , +91 484 3096020 .  
• Amritha Pharmacy , AIMS, Edappally , ☏ +91 484 4001055 .  

There are many 24-hour pharmacies near Medical Trust Hospital in Pallimukku.

The Area code for Cochin is 0484. If calling from outside India the format is +91 484 xxxxxxx. Almost all national telecommunication operators, operate in Kochi.

Mobile Services . If you require an Indian phone number it is strongly recommended that you get a pre-paid mobile connection. To do this you need a photocopy of your passport (including the visa and the ID pages), a colour photo, and (officially) proof of local address (in Kochi). Most star hotels allow you to use their address for this. In the event of not having address you can still get a pre-paid connection using your visa number, finger prints and in some cases providing passport size photographs.

Most of the mobile operators in India operate in Kochi, GSM as well as CDMA. Popular GSM service providers are BSNL Mobile, Vodafone, Idea Mobile, Aircel, MTS, Airtel, Tata DOCOMO, Uninor, Virgin Mobile GSM and Reliance GSM. Popular CDMA service providers are Tata Indicom, Reliance India Mobile and Virgin Mobile.

Public Telephony  :- PCOs (Public Call Offices) are a good option. You will find them almost every 100 m. These are public pay-phones (post-pay) and there will be a person on the shop to take the payments. Check your bill generated (from the billing machine) and make the payment accordingly. Payments are always in Indian rupees (₹). Coin boxes are available everywhere where you can make local calls (within a radius of 10 km from the phone).

BSNL Calling cards are available in all stores, which is a prepaid calling card, that could be used in any phone, without charging the phone user. Vodafone World Cards and Airtel Globe cards are also another good option.

General &amp business telephone directory can be accessed by calling ☏ +91 484 4444444 .

Toll free directory enquiry from BSNL landphones & BSNL Mobile is ☏ 197 .

Kochi was one of the first places in India to be connected to the Internet. Being the landing site of 3 major international submarine network cables (FLAG, SEA-ME, SAFE) as well as focal point for most of the fiber-optic networks in South India. The city has good bandwidth at low rates.

There are plenty of internet centres which charge around ₹10 per hour. Some cafes in Convent Road as well as near Cochin University offer high speed net connectivity at ₹5 per hour. If you have laptop with wifi connection, you can roam anywhere with BSNL WiMax USB connection (speed around 40 Mbit/s to 512 Mbit/s), as Kochi has 4th generation Wimax. In addition to this, Kochi is also a network city with services provided by the 3rd Gen-EVDO BSNL network as well as 3G services of BSNL, Docomo and Reliance Mobile.

Most of the 3 Star hotels provide wifi connectivity. You require pre-paid connection cards of Tata Indicom or Reliance. The majority of hotels have Tata. Some hotels provide complementary wi-fi for the use of their guests.

India Post has offices throughout the city, generally open 8:30AM-5PM weekdays, 8:30AM-1PM Saturdays, closed Sundays. The Kochi Airport post office (in Departure side of International Area) is open 6AM-8:30PM on all weekdays and Saturdays. The General Post Office (GPO) is in MG Road (Opp. Avenue Regent) and in Edappally near High School. The Head Post Office (HPO) is at the Postal Complex, Hospital Road. The express (EMS Service) is available at the HPO and Edappally GPO, which is open 24 hrs on all days except the 5 state holidays. Service through EMS Postal service is very fast and reliable. Post boxes are available all over the city and daily clearance is at 10AM and 4:30PM. A postcard to anywhere in the world costs ₹20 (March 2018).

There are numerous of private courier companies operating in Kerala. FedEx, DHL, First Flight, UPS, DTDC and Aramex are some of leading private services.

Almost all the national newspapers have editions for Kochi. The major English language dailies are The Hindu (has a detailed city tabloid called Metroplus), The New Indian Express (the local City express along with this paper provides good insights of city happenings), The Times of India , The Pioneer , Hindustan Times and many popular Malayalam and Tamil newspapers. Being the seat of Cochin Stock Exchange and the financial hub of Kerala, lots of financial dailies in English are available in Kochi, like The Economic Times , The Business Standard , Businessline , and The Financial Express .

Lots of popular English magazines are available. Many American and British magazines like Forbes, Mirror etc. is available in many supermarkets and bookstalls. Popular Indian English magazines are India Today , The Week and The Frontline .

Electricity

Kochi uses the British three-pin and two-pin circular socket that follows British standard 546 (230 V/50 Hz). Plug adapters are available at any hardware store.

Kochi has 15-20 public listed state holidays as else where in Kerala, when almost all government and a few private offices are closed. However, few holidays involve total closure of all commercial establishments. Please be aware that on these days most of the public transport options like bus, taxis and autos take a break. Beware of days declared as hartals , which are mass political strikes often involving a shutdown of the city. Attempting to travel in public routes could be dangerous without local information on the severity of the hartal. For the few holidays listed below, restaurants and food corners other than those operating inside hotels also close. Its always better to avoid these days, while planning holidays. The major holidays that Kochinites love to spend indoors are

• Christmas (25 Dec)
• Good Friday and Easter (April)
• Thiruvonam - the main day for Onam celebrations (between August-Sept)
• Vishu - the Malayalam New Year (14 or 15 April)

A few religious holidays listed below marks closure of all commercial establishments owned by members of that communities. However public transport works as usual.

• Cheriya Perunal ( Eid al-Fitr ), Valiya Perunal ( Eid al-Adha ) and Muharram marks full closure of all Muslim owned establishments. All these firms take break for 3 hours from noon for Friday Juma Prayers.
• Diwali, Holi and Navarathri marks private holiday season for almost all North Indian establishments, particularly in Mattancherry.
• Saturdays, Hanukkah and Rosh Hashanah marks total closure of all Jewish establishments, particularly in Fort Kochi

Apart from these holidays, the Sunday laziness can make most of the establishments do not to function in the morning time, though many open by afternoon. The city bus services on Sundays are also limited, though other public transport like autos and taxis function normally.

Public libraries

• Eloor Lending Library , Convent Junction ( Near St. Theresa’s College ), ☏ +91 484 2363539 . Daily 10AM-8PM . Eloor Lending Library has mainly two membership options. Unlike other libraries, this library has a different way of lending books: when you take membership by paying ₹1,200 you can access books worth ₹1,800. When you pay ₹600 you can access books worth ₹900. Here you have to pay (an additional) 10% of the price of the books you take, as the reading charge.  
• EMS Co-operative Library , Mavelipuram, Kakkanad ( Near Ernakulam District Co-Operative Bank ), ☏ +91 484 2421988 . M-Sa 1PM-7PM, Su 10AM-5PM . A well maintained library where subscribers can register by presenting proof of identity(non-residents of Ernakulam will have to pay 50% extra on admission and annual fees). There are many subscription plans (₹50 as admission fees, plus annual membership fees starting from ₹100). This library also has a park near it, though it is not very well maintained.  
• Ernakulam Public Library , Convent Rd ( Opp. Shenoys Theater ), ☏ +91 484 2351894 . M-Sa 10AM-7PM, Su 10AM-5PM . The Ernakulam Public Library is one of the oldest public library in India started in 1839. Books could be rented for 2 weeks for various rental options ranging from ₹60 for four books to ₹15 for single book. A refundable caution deposit is required ranging between ₹1,000-250 depending upon membership class. There is a free reading room with good collection of all national and international newspapers and magazines. Try here if you like read some of the treasured archives or original historical manuscripts.  
• Just Books , Panampilly Nagar . a good library  

Hairdressers

Kochinites are particular about their hair styles and adopt almost all latest fashion. Thus there is no shortage of various hair salons charging from ₹50 up for the latest trends. Most of the budget saloons are found almost every part of the city, normally calling as Barber shops or Saloons. The middle range hair salons are mainly in MG Road, Palarivattom, Marine Drive and Edappally areas, offer haircuts with hair wash as well as other frills. For splurge, most of the premium beauty parlours and skin clinics are in Panampally Nagar, GCDA Nagar, Girinagar, SA Road and MG Road that offers various skin and hair treatment, all costing above ₹1,000.

• Alappuzha (70 km) — (also called Alleppy) is famous for house boats, the heart of backwaters of Kerala with amazing maze of lagoons, backwaters, rivers, canals created by nature. ₹81 bus from the interstate bus stop.
• Athirappilly Falls — milky waterfall in Chalakuddy 18 km from Cochin International Airport. This 80-foot-high waterfall at the threshold of the Sholayar ranges on the Western Ghats is a popular picnic spot. Two amusement parks, DreamWorld and SilverStorm, are nearby. The falls are referred to as the Niagara of India - you can spot two large falls reminiscent of the Bridal veil and Horseshoe falls at Niagara, and a smaller falls nearby. The falls are most famous for being shooting locations for popular Indian movies such as Ravan, Punnagai Mannan and Guru. From the entrance, a 5-minute walk leads to the head of the falls. From there, a walking path criss-crosses downward to the foot of the falls. The water falls into a deep well, making the location unseemingly dangerous, so the water area is off-limits to tourists. ₹15.
• Bhoothathankettu (35 km) — scenic dam site with boating facilities is situated in a vast virgin forest. It is a popular picnic sport with Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary near by.
• Guruvayur (102 km) - A Hindu religious town that attracts 6-10 million pilgrims every year.
• Idukki (90 km) — a hilly region with lots of hill resorts, in Northern Travancore .
• Kumarakom (40 km) — popular internationally known bird sanctuary on edge of a backwater island.
• Kottayam (55 km) — The biggest spice trading hub famous for large churches, wild trekking and cultural monuments.
• Muvattupuzha (30 km) — a small town famous for pineapple cultivation, historical orthodox churches, spice trading and rubber plantations.
• Paniyeli Poru (55 km) — an unexplored beautiful scenic river bank
• Thattekkad (45 km) — bird sanctuary near Kothamangalam , famous for a good boating and a wild picnic.
• Thenmala (225 km) — famous for ecotourism, waterfalls, boating, adventure activities and a deer park.
• Thiruvananthapuram — the capital city of Kerala, 5 hours away by train with many attractions such as Kovalam beach, Neyyar dam, Ananthapadmanabhan temple and East fort.
• Thrissur (60 km) — cultural heart of Kerala famous for various cultural monuments, temples and grandest festival- Thrissur Pooram.
• Wagamon (50 km) — famous for pristine forests, small rapids, vast green meadows, its also known as Scotland of Asia.

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Kochi – kerala travel guide.

Adorned by the enchanting charm of the Arabian Sea, Kochi or Cochin boasts of being one of the best tourist destinations in Kerala that is perfectly blended with an old world charm and the electrifying beauty of modern day world! Located within the Ernakulam district of God’s Own Country, this gorgeous city is also called the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ and has been a centre of attraction since time immemorial!

An important port city; in fact the most popular, in Kerala, Kochi showcases a mixed bag of culture. Once ruled by Portuguese, Dutch, and British, the city still echoes the essence and aura of these eras in livelier ways. Also, owing to its location along the shorelines of the Arabian Sea, it has been an important spice trade centre for countries like Syria, Arab, China, and several other Asian countries.

Rated as one of the ’50 Greatest Places to Visit in a Lifetime’ by National Geographic Traveller Magazine, Kochi is truly is a melting point of history and culture. Though the city boasts of its cosmopolitan outlooks, it is still connected to its indigenous roots with its high cultural and traditional values. If you are planning for a Kerala trip, a visit to this promising port city is a must!

How to Reach Kochi:

KSRTC buses to Kochi are available at regular intervals. These buses connect Cochin with most of the major tourist destinations in Kerala. Visitors from Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and other popular cities can also reach Kochi easily through the roadways.

2 By Train:

Ernakulam Town Station and Ernakulam Junction Station are the two nearest railway stations to Kochi. Both the train stations have a good connectivity to other Indian cities and serves as the most convenient railway destinations to reach Kochi.

Cochin International Airport is the largest airport in Kerala. For the travellers who wish to reach Kochi by air, they can board a flight to this airport from almost all the major cities in India. The airport also has a good-connectivity with some of the major international tourist destinations as well.

Best Time to Visit Kochi:

1 Winter (October to February):

Kochi showcases an alluring ambience during the winters. With the mercury level going down, the city becomes livelier and offers great options to its visitors. Winters in Kochi proves to be an ideal time for the honeymooners, adventure junkies, leisure seekers, and other classes of travellers.

2 Summer (March to June):

Temperature in Kochi starts rising with the onset of the summers! However, owing to its location along the shorelines of the Arabian Sea, the city does not experience harsh summers. Though not a perfect time to visit this port city; summers can still be a good choice as tourism slows down a bit within and around the city during the summers.

3 Monsoon (July to September):

Visiting Kochi during the monsoons has its own charm and appeal! It is during this period of the year that the entire port city gets blanketed by Mother Nature’s green colour and showcases an entirely different facet of Kochi!

Places to Visit in Kochi:

1 Fort Kochi:

The once a hub of the spice traders from various corners of the globe, Fort Kochi is among the most spectacular place to visit in Cochin. Steeped with history or the livelier reminiscent of the past, a walk around this vicinity along with the prismatic views of the Chinese fishing nets is a must experience for the visitors.

2 Vasco House:

Kochi is the melting point of history and culture; the Vasco House on the Rose Street of this port city is one such livelier example! Believed to be the residence of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, it is among the oldest heritage houses in India.

3 Santa Cruz Basilica:

This pious site dates back to 1505, and was originally built by the Portuguese. Though it was later destroyed by the British colonists, it was later rebuilt in 1905.

4 Dutch Palace:

The Raja of Kochi received this historic palace as a gift from the Portuguese! Built in typical Portuguese and Malabar architecture, the palace showcases ancient murals and wall paintings, and is a true treasure trove for the visitors to Kochi.

5 Bolghatty Palace:

Situated in the Bolghatty Island, this historic palace was once a royal retreat. At present, it has been converted into a heritage hotel that can be accessed only by boats.

6 Hill Palace:

A 19th century palace, Hill Palace was once the royal seat of Raja of Kochi. It now serves as a museum that houses numerous belongings of the past; a visit to Hill Palace will get the visitors acquainted with the glorious history of Kochi.

7 Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary:

An indigenous home to a large number of avifauna, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a major attraction among the nature lovers to Kochi. Located at the heart of the city, it is a wonderful day-out destination and a paradise for the bird watchers.

Things to do in Kochi:

1 Sightseeing:

Kochi is one of the most beautiful cities in Kerala. Decked with historical landmarks, alluring shorelines, religious spots, and much more, it definitely makes it for an ideal sightseeing destination in God’s Own Country.

2 Cultural Tours:

This charming port city is also a wonderful destination to witness and enjoy the colourful cultures and traditions in Kerala. Visitors to Kochi can revel in regular Kathakali dance performances along with several other shows while manoeuvring around the city.

3 Enjoy Backwater Homestay:

For those visitors who want to delve deep into the history and hospitality of Kochi, they must go for backwater homestays! Located on the outer fringes of the city limits; mostly in and around Alappuzha, these homestays are the doorways to Kerala’s rustic cultures and traditions.

4 Visit Chinese Fishing Nets:

Mostly located towards the northern side of Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets have become synonymous to the enchanting beauty of Kochi’s shorelines. On a visit to this promising port-city, visitors must visit these traditional fishing nets to have a glimpse of Kerala’s golden past.

Hotels in Kochi:

Be it about the stay options or eateries, Kochi is jotted with numerous options. Starting from budget-friendly hotels to ultra-luxurious options, visitors can find all the options while on a Kerala trip to Kochi.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Kochi Prefecture, Japan

Travel guide to the top ten activities around Kochi

Kochi (高知, Kōchi) prefecture is located along the southwest coast of Japan’s island of Shikoku. This natural paradise is famous for an abundance of sunshine, and soothing waters in the form of clear rivers and lengthy coastlines. In addition to top sightseeing destinations and historic sights, Kochi is well known for the informal, folksy appeal of local markets and activities, and rustic food halls. Exploring the Kochi countryside is also a must for seeing some of the most beautiful and natural tourist destinations in Japan.

City Destinations

The capital city—also called Kochi—is relatively small, but filled with country charm, hospitality, and iconic streetcars. Before setting out across the greater prefecture we strongly advise visitors to spend a day or two around town to take in the top sightseeing spots and get to know some of the locals that make Kochi such a warm and inviting place. These first five destinations can all be found in and around Kochi City.

1. Kochi Castle (Kōchi-jō)

Kochi Castle stands high atop the downtime area of Kochi City, surrounded by fifteen castle structures, beautiful parks, and a picturesque moat. Originally built in 1603, the castle was burned down in a massive fire in 1727 and fully rebuilt in 1749. This makes Kochi Castle Japan’s only castle where all original structures have been preserved. The tower itself is one of only 12 castle keeps still preserved in Japan. Fully explore the insides of the keep and Kochi Castle Museum for less than 500 yen.

The keep observatory provides great views of the surrounding city making Kochi Castle an excellent first stop. The castle is conveniently located at the start of our next recommendation, the Sunday Market.

• 1 Chome-2-1 Marunouchi, Kochi, 780-0850
• 9:00 - 17:00 (Closed now)

2. Sunday Market

The Sunday Market is an open-air market along the downtown streets of Kochi that has continued for more than 300 years since the Edo period. Take in the atmosphere by watching customers and vendors bargain and interact cheerfully in the Kochi dialect. Every Sunday around 500 stores line the streets offering a variety of Kochi local foods and products. Find anything from unique fruits and vegetables to cutlery and traditional crafts. Whether you are interested in sampling foods and taking in the smells or buying souvenirs, this expansive market will not disappoint.

The market extends from the Otemon main gate of Kochi Castle for over one kilometer. Along the way, be sure to stop by Hirome Ichiba, the next spot on our list for lunch.

• Access : Walk from Kochi Station (10 minutes)
• Address : Otesuji, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
• Business hours : Sundays - 5:00-18:00 (5:30-17:00 from October to March)
• More info : Sunday Market (official prefecture website)

3. Hirome Ichiba (Hirome Market) / Katsuo no tataki

Hirome Market is the meeting hub for locals and visitors alike to share stories and sample local and international flavors. More than 65 street stall-style restaurants are contained within the market including fresh fish and meat shops, beer and local alcohols, unique souvenir shops, and clothing boutiques.

Long tables are spaced through the market and ordering takeout from multiple restaurants is encouraged to optimize your selection with a variety of foods. The one must-have is katsuo no tataki, or seared bonito tuna. Prepared in a grand demonstration with large flames over straw pits, katsuo is served sliced and seared with a touch of salt.

The open style of the market encourages communication with locals, a unique aspect for those familiar with the fast-paced Tokyo area. In Kochi, the locals are fond of drinking during all hours of the day so be prepared for friendly surroundings.

Located next to Kochi Castle along the same road as the Sunday Market. When you see the sign pictured above, you will know you are in the right place.

• 2 Chome-3-1 Obiyamachi, Kochi, 780-0841
• 10:00 - 21:30 (Closed now)

4. The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Nestled on Godaisan, a mountain just East of Kochi, The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden is one of the most comprehensive botanical gardens in all of Japan. Get lost in the walking paths of the outdoor garden filled with seasonal plants or head indoors to the expansive greenhouse with over 3,000 types of tropical plants. Unique and enhanced plant species such as a plant with leaves resembling a goldfish can be found (and purchased as a souvenir) for those looking carefully.

Created in honor of world-renowned botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino (1862-1957) museum halls and displays are available for those interested in learning about his achievements and botanical garden developments across Japan.

• Access : Ride the My Yu Bus from JR Kochi Station (30 minutes) / Makino Shokubutsuen Seimon Mae bus stop.
• Address : 4200-6 Godaisan, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
• Business hours : 9:00 to 17:00 / Closed from Dec. 27 to Jan. 1
• More info : The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden (official prefecture website)

5. Chikurin-ji (Chikurin Temple)

Established by the Buddhist priest Gyōki in 724 under order of Emeperor Shomu, Chikurin Temple sits on Godaisan nearby the Makino Botanical Gardens. The outdoor area surrounding the temple is peaceful and filled with covered forests and serene, moss-covered gardens. The main area holds the temple buildings which include colorful five-story pagoda. An important stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and perhaps the most famous temple in all of Kochi Prefecture, Chikurin-ji is number 31 of the 88 temples.

If coming from Makino Botanical Gardens or the Godaisan observatory, Chikurin-ji is a short walk, less than five minutes. The My Yu Bus day pass can be purchased just outside Kochi Station and is 50% off (around 500 yen) for tourists with a passport.

• Access : Ride the My Yu Bus from JR Kochi Station (30 minutes) / Chikurin-ji bus stop.
• Address : 3577 Godaisan, Kochi, Kōchi Prefecture 781-8125
• Business hours : Open access. The last bus towards Kochi Station departs around 17:30.

Country Destinations

After a few days getting to know Kochi City and the surrounding area, we recommend going just a bit farther out. Renting a car or better yet, a camper van can help explore Kochi freely. The streets are not congested and some of the best campgrounds and sightseeing spots are best reached by motor vehicle.

6. Katsurahama Beach

Katsurahama is essentially a Kochi City destination as it is the last stop on the aforementioned My Yu Bus route. That being said, natural beauty all around makes this stunning landscape one of the most picturesque spots in Kochi Prefecture. The beach has been known since ancient times as a popular venue for viewing the moon.

The beach stretches in a great concave arc with a cliff and small Japanese Shrine (Ryuogu Shrine) at the far end, accessible by a walking path. The unique appeal of this beach is the dense and traditional Japanese green pine grove curated just behind the sands of the beach which contrasts perfectly with the azure ocean in front.

Area sites include a famous bronze statue of Kochi Prefecture's Sakamoto Ryoma, the beachside Katsurahama Aquarium, souvenir shops and restaurants that serve the famous Katsuo no tataki. This is a sightseeing destination as swimming is prohibited due to strong currents.

Katsurahama Beach is the last stop on the My Yu Bus and can be reached in about one hour from Kochi Station.

• Katsurahama Beach, Kochi

7. Niyodo River / Nakatsu Gorge

The Niyodo is one of two key rivers that help to define Kochi's countryside. At 124 km in length there a range of activities from fishing and swimming to riding a river houseboat ( yakatabune ) with tatami mats and tables for lunch and music or storytelling from a local guide knows as you float down the tranquil waterway. There are also soft rafting tours of the upper streams of this Niyodo River if you are looking for light activity.

Known for the Niyodo Blue, a mysterious cobalt blue color born from the crystal clear streams, the water is transparent all the way to the riverbed below. This clear water makes the Niyodo River the highest water quality in all of Japan.

The Nakatsu Gorge, where the Nakatsu River flows to join the Niyodo River, is a popular spot for viewing Niyodo Blue. The ravine features a scenic walking path that weaves between large boulders and crosses the river with stone bridges. As you take in the waters from different angles, you will clearly see why the Niyodo Blue is such an apt name. At the end prepare for a splendid close-up view of the 20-meter “Ryudosui”, waterfalls. The total trek is around one hour and there is a restaurant just near the opening of the path. At night time, the walking path is not recommended, but there is an attractive light display over the Niyodo River.

• Nanokawa, Niyodogawa, Agawa District, Kochi 781-1741

8. Shimanto River

The Shimanto River is the longest river in Shikoku at 196 km and is known as “Japan’s last remaining unobstructed stream” with no dams or blockage throughout.

Unique attractions along the river include the “Chinkabashi”, concrete bridges with no railings designed to submerge into the river during times of flood. The bridge paths are just wide enough for a single car to cross in most places. The 291.6-meter Sada Chinkabashi is the closest to the river’s mouth and the longest of all these bridges. A large number of tourists visit the area to see the bridge as it is the best known low-water crossing.

One of the best ways to explore the river is through the Shimanto Rin-Rin Cycle service. The land is flat and there are few cars alongside the river making cycling tours highly accessible. Bicycles can be rented and returned form seven terminals along the river.

The Shimanto Tourist Information Center has English support and materials available.

• Access : Approximately 120 minutes by car from Kochi City
• Address : 8-3 Ekimaechō, Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture
• Business hours : 8:30 - 17:30 (Tourist Information Center)
• More info : Shimanto River (official prefecture website)

9. Shikoku Karst Natural Park

Known as the roof of Shikoku, the highland "Shikoku Karst" area is an elevated landform dotted with white limestone and cone-shaped sinkholes. In addition to interesting paths and majestic viewpoints over a sea of clouds, the area is also home to a great number of pastured milk cows.

Trails have been built in the park and some of them, covered with Japanese cypress woodchips, wind through forested areas, offering visitors a comforting environment and therapeutic effects. The nearby Tengu Kogen Highlands holds the aptly named Forest Therapy Road which takes you through the forest on a path of soft wood chips surrounded by nature.

Kochi is famous in Japan for some of the best views of the starry night skies. Shikoku Karst National Park commands some of the best views of the night sky, and at times the stars appear close enough to reach out and touch.

• Yoshiunootsu, Tsuno, Takaoka, Kochi Prefecture

10. Cape Ashizuri

Cape Ashizuri is a promontory featuring an observation area with sweeping views of the ocean and the nearby lighthouse. Located at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula jutting out into the azure Pacific Ocean the cape is the most distant spot on the list from Kochi City, but for those who have the means and ability to fully explore Kochi, it is not to be missed.

The cape observatory provides spectacular views of landscapes created by nature, and certainly feel the grandeur of the earth. The lighthouse stands 18 meters tall and the observation deck offers a breathtaking panoramic 270-degree view of the surrounding land and waters.

There are several trails in the area including a two-kilometer seaside hiking trail that snakes through the landscape overlooking the raging waters. Visitors may also take a glass-bottomed boat tour to view underwater scenes, such as coral and tropical fish, off the Tatsukushi and Minokoshi beaches near Cape Ashizuri.

If you are lucky enough to stay the night, this is another of Kochi's top star viewing destinations. The stars shine down over the expansive seas unobstructed by objects or artificial lights.

• Access : Approximately 150 minutes by car from Kochi City
• Address : Ashizurimisaki, Tosashimizu City, Kochi Prefecture
• Business hours : Open access
• More info : Cape Ashizuri (official prefecture website)

Bonus: Yosakoi Matsuri / Kochi Yosakoi Information Exchange Center

Although not a sightseeing destination, the Yosakoi festival is deeply rooted with the people in Kochi. Celebrated as one of Japan's 10 largest festivals, Yosakai is held every summer from August 9th to 12th. Yosakoi is an energetic and powerful festival which attracts dance groups from around the country clad in bright and vibrant costumes. Visitors and encouraged to join in the street festivities so pick up your “naruko” wooden clappers and get ready to move your hips. Fireworks displays are a part of the opening ceremonies.

In addition to the main event, teams of Yosakoi dancers perform in the city’s central arcade every Sunday from May to July and in front of JR Kochi Station every Sunday from August to December.

Sample the atmosphere of the Yosakoi Festival at the Kochi Yosakoi Information Exchange Center open year-round.

• Access : 10-minute walk from JR Dosan Line Kochi Station on Shikoku Railway.
• Address : 1-10-1 Harimaya-cho, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
• Business hours : 10:00 to 18:30 (Visitors must enter by 18:00) / Closed on Wednesdays
• More info : Yosakoi Festival

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• Travel Destinations

Kochi Japan Travel Guide And Top Things To Do Kochi Prefecture

Published: September 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Lianne Pegram

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• Cultural Experiences
• Local Attractions
• Things To Do

Introduction

Welcome to Kochi, a beautiful prefecture located on the southern coast of Shikoku Island in Japan. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine, Kochi offers a unique and memorable travel experience for visitors.

Kochi Prefecture is blessed with an abundance of natural attractions, including picturesque mountains, breathtaking coastlines, and pristine rivers. The region is also steeped in history, with numerous historical sites and traditional temples that reflect the fascinating past of the area.

One of the highlights of Kochi is its famous Kochi Castle, a symbol of the region’s samurai history. This well-preserved castle stands majestically in the heart of Kochi City, offering visitors a glimpse into the feudal era of Japan.

For those who love the outdoors, Kochi is a paradise. The Shimanto River, often referred to as “Japan’s last clear stream,” is perfect for a scenic cruise or kayaking adventure. The rugged cliffs and pristine beaches of Cape Ashizuri provide a stunning backdrop for sunset views and leisurely walks.

But Kochi is not just about nature and history; the prefecture also boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Kochi is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially katsuo (skipjack tuna), which is a local specialty. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the delicious local dishes, such as katsuo tataki (lightly seared skipjack tuna) or Jakoten (deep-fried fish cake).

Kochi also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The Yosakoi Festival, held in August, is a vibrant and energetic dance festival that draws participants from all over Japan. The Harimayabashi Summer Festival is another popular event, featuring traditional dances and fireworks.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a food lover, Kochi has something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of this charming prefecture.

Location and Overview

Kochi Prefecture is located on the southern coast of Shikoku Island, one of the four main islands of Japan. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Kii Peninsula to the north. With a land area of approximately 7,100 square kilometers, Kochi is the largest prefecture on Shikoku.

Despite its size, Kochi has a relatively small population, making it a peaceful and tranquil destination for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The prefecture is known for its abundant nature, with lush mountains, pristine rivers, and stunning coastlines.

Kochi City serves as the capital and largest city of the prefecture. It is located on the southern coast and offers a blend of modern amenities and historical charm. The city center is compact and easily navigable, making it a convenient base for exploring the rest of the prefecture.

The climate in Kochi is classified as humid subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The region experiences a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year, contributing to its lush greenery. The best time to visit Kochi is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are adorned with cherry blossoms or vibrant fall foliage.

Kochi is renowned for its strong connection to Japanese history, particularly the samurai era. Many historical sites and museums in the prefecture offer insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Kochi Castle, a designated national treasure, and learn about the influential figure of Ryoma Sakamoto at the Ryoma Memorial Museum.

Travelers seeking outdoor adventure will find plenty to do in Kochi. The Shimanto River, often referred to as “The last clear stream in Japan,” is a haven for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The lush mountains of Kochi also offer hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and hot spring retreats.

With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Kochi Prefecture is a hidden gem that awaits exploration. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in nature, diving into the history and culture of Japan, or simply enjoying delicious local cuisine, Kochi has something for every traveler.

Getting to Kochi

Kochi Prefecture is well-connected to the rest of Japan, with multiple transportation options available for travelers. Here are some ways to get to Kochi:

• By Air: The most convenient way to reach Kochi is by flying into Kochi Ryoma Airport. The airport serves domestic flights from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach your destination in Kochi City or other parts of the prefecture.
• By Train: If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Okayama Station and transfer to the Limited Express Nanpu or Shiokaze train bound for Kochi. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the train. Alternatively, you can take a local train to Kochi from nearby cities like Osaka or Takamatsu.
• By Bus: Kochi has bus connections to major cities in Japan. There are overnight buses available from Tokyo, Osaka, and other cities that take around 10 to 12 hours to reach Kochi. Bus services also operate within the prefecture, making it a convenient option for exploring different parts of Kochi.
• By Car: If you prefer a road trip, you can rent a car and drive to Kochi. The prefecture is accessible via major highways, and the journey from cities like Osaka or Hiroshima takes around 3 to 4 hours. It’s important to note that tolls apply on highways in Japan, so be prepared for the additional cost.

Once you have arrived in Kochi, getting around the prefecture is relatively easy. Kochi City has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trams, which are convenient for exploring the city and its nearby attractions. Renting a car is a great option if you want to venture further into the countryside and explore the natural beauty of Kochi at your own pace.

Whether you choose to fly, take a train, bus, or drive, reaching Kochi is a straightforward process. With a range of transportation options available, you can easily plan your journey based on your preferences and travel schedule.

Best Time to Visit

Kochi Prefecture is a year-round destination with each season offering its own unique charm. The best time to visit Kochi depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Kochi:

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Kochi as the cherry blossoms come into full bloom. The sight of pink petals adorning the landscapes is truly breathtaking. During this season, temperatures are mild, ranging from around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).
• Summer (June to August): Summers in Kochi can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). However, this is the ideal time to enjoy the beaches and coastal areas, as well as participate in vibrant festivals like the Yosakoi Festival.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another pleasant season in Kochi, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The foliage turns into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, nature walks, and enjoying the local sights.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in Kochi are mild and offer a respite from the summer heat. Temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere. It is also a good time to enjoy hot springs, as the colder temperatures make the hot baths even more inviting.

In addition to seasonal considerations, it’s worth noting that Kochi experiences rainfall throughout the year, so be prepared for occasional showers regardless of the season. However, this also contributes to the lush greenery and beautiful landscapes that characterize the region.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Kochi depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you seek. Whether you want to witness the cherry blossoms in spring, indulge in outdoor activities in the summer, marvel at the autumn foliage, or enjoy a peaceful winter getaway, Kochi offers something for every season.

Take into account the weather, festivals, and activities that interest you most, and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time in this captivating prefecture.

Places to Visit in Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Prefecture is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Here are some must-visit places in Kochi:

• Kochi Castle: Located in the heart of Kochi City, Kochi Castle is a symbol of the region’s samurai history. This well-preserved castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the feudal era of Japan, with its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Katsura Hama Beach: Just a short drive from Kochi City lies Katsura Hama Beach, a picturesque stretch of coastline with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of relaxation by the sea.
• Ryoma Memorial Museum: Dedicated to the influential figure of Ryoma Sakamoto, a key figure in Japan’s Meiji Restoration, this museum provides insights into his life, achievements, and impact on Japanese history. The museum is located in Kochi City and exhibits artifacts related to Ryoma’s life and the Meiji period.
• Shimanto River Cruise: Experience the beauty of “The last clear stream in Japan” by taking a relaxing cruise along the Shimanto River. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you glide past lush greenery, traditional fishing villages, and ancient bridges.
• Sunday Market in Kochi City: Every Sunday, the streets of Kochi City come alive with the bustling Sunday Market. Explore the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, local crafts, street food, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the local culture and traditions.
• Hirome Market: Located in the heart of Kochi City, Hirome Market is a lively indoor market where you can indulge in a wide variety of local dishes and beverages. Grab a seat at one of the communal tables and savor regional delicacies like katsuo tataki, seafood tempura, and sake.
• Cape Ashizuri: Situated at the southernmost tip of Shikoku Island, Cape Ashizuri offers breathtaking coastal views and rugged cliffs. Visit the iconic Ashizuri Lighthouse, explore the Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, and soak in the mesmerizing beauty of this natural wonder.
• Chikurin-ji Temple: Located in the mountains of Kochi, Chikurin-ji Temple is one of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The temple complex features stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

These are just a few of the many incredible places to explore in Kochi Prefecture. From historical landmarks to stunning natural landscapes, Kochi offers a diverse range of attractions that will captivate and inspire you throughout your visit.

Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle, also known as Kochi-jo, is a prominent historical landmark and one of the most iconic attractions in Kochi Prefecture. Located in the heart of Kochi City, this well-preserved castle stands as a testament to the region’s samurai heritage and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into feudal Japan.

Originally constructed in 1603, Kochi Castle has a rich and storied history. The castle underwent several reconstructions over the years, with the current structure dating back to 1749. It is one of only twelve original castles remaining in Japan.

One of the highlights of Kochi Castle is its impressive architecture. The main keep, known as the donjon, stands five stories high and is adorned with black tiles and white walls. The castle’s design incorporates both Japanese and Western elements, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles.

Visitors can explore the interior of the castle, which has been transformed into a museum. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of historical artifacts, samurai armor and weapons, as well as exhibits that showcase the castle’s role in shaping the region’s history.

As you climb to the top floor of the castle, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Kochi City and the surrounding landscapes. On a clear day, you can see the shimmering Pacific Ocean in the distance, adding to the charm of the experience.

Surrounding the castle is a beautiful park, known as Kochi-jo Ryoma Park. The park features lush greenery, cherry blossom trees, and tranquil gardens, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring.

In addition to exploring the castle itself, visitors can also immerse themselves in samurai culture through various activities such as wearing traditional samurai armor, participating in sword demonstrations, or trying their hand at archery. These interactive experiences offer a deeper understanding of the samurai way of life and provide a unique opportunity to step back in time.

Kochi Castle holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, as it represents their regional pride and heritage. Throughout the year, the castle serves as a venue for various cultural events and festivals, which further highlights its significance in the community.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to appreciate the architectural beauty and cultural significance, a visit to Kochi Castle is a must during your time in Kochi Prefecture. It offers a captivating journey through time and a deeper appreciation for the samurai legacy that shaped the region.

Katsura Hama Beach

Katsura Hama Beach, situated just a short drive from Kochi City in Kochi Prefecture, is a picturesque and inviting coastal gem. With its soft sandy shores, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Katsura Hama Beach offers a perfect seaside escape for both locals and visitors alike.

Stretching approximately 500 meters, Katsura Hama Beach is renowned for its pristine beauty and tranquility. The beach’s gentle slope creates a calm and safe swimming environment, making it an ideal destination for families or those looking to relax and soak up the sun.

One of the highlights of Katsura Hama Beach is its stunning natural landscape. Flanked by lush greenery and framed by majestic cliffs, the beach offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere that feels like a hidden paradise.

Visitors to Katsura Hama Beach can enjoy a variety of activities. Whether you’re a beach lover, an avid swimmer, or simply someone seeking solace in nature, this beach has something for everyone. Take a refreshing dip in the clear waters, bask in the sun on the soft sand, or explore the rocky outcrops and tide pools teeming with marine life.

Katsura Hama Beach is also known for its mesmerizing sunsets. As the golden sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of red and orange, the beach becomes a magical place to witness the beauty of nature. Many visitors gather to capture this stunning spectacle or simply reflect upon the natural wonders surrounding them.

Along the beach, you’ll find facilities such as showers, restrooms, and beachside cafes where you can grab snacks or refreshing drinks. There are also rental services for beach chairs, umbrellas, and sports equipment, allowing you to make the most of your beach day experience.

For those seeking adventure, Katsura Hama Beach offers opportunities for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Rental equipment is available, and there are local companies that offer lessons and guided tours for beginners.

Visiting Katsura Hama Beach is not just about the beach itself, but also about experiencing the natural wonders that surround it. Take some time to explore the nearby trails that lead through lush forests and offer stunning viewpoints of the coastline. The fresh air, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal place to connect with nature.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a place to enjoy the beauty of nature, Katsura Hama Beach in Kochi Prefecture is a hidden paradise that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Kochi.

Ryoma Memorial Museum

The Ryoma Memorial Museum, located in Kochi City, pays homage to the influential figure of Ryoma Sakamoto, a key figure in Japan’s Meiji Restoration. This museum provides a fascinating insight into Ryoma’s life, achievements, and his significant impact on Japanese history.

Ryoma Sakamoto was a visionary and revolutionary thinker who played a crucial role in the 19th-century movement to overthrow the Tokugawa Shogunate and bring about a modern, unified Japan. Born in Kochi in 1836, Ryoma’s ideals and actions made him a central figure during a time of great political and social change.

The Ryoma Memorial Museum showcases Ryoma’s life through a variety of exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection, which includes personal belongings, letters, historical documents, and detailed explanations of Ryoma’s revolutionary ideas.

The museum beautifully depicts Ryoma’s journey from a young samurai to a prominent statesman. It highlights his efforts to promote modernization and unification in Japan, as well as his contributions to the creation of a new government and the abolition of the feudal system.

Through interactive displays and multimedia presentations, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Ryoma’s trials and achievements. The museum beautifully illustrates the historical context in which Ryoma operated and the significant impact he had on shaping the future of Japan.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific aspects of Ryoma’s life and the Meiji Restoration period. These special exhibitions provide even more insights and create a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

Surrounding the museum is a serene garden, offering a peaceful retreat where visitors can reflect on the life and accomplishments of Ryoma Sakamoto. The garden features lush greenery, a small pond, and statues that depict key moments in Ryoma’s life, creating a tranquil setting for contemplation.

The Ryoma Memorial Museum also offers various cultural activities, such as traditional martial arts demonstrations, calligraphy workshops, and kimono dressing experiences. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and get a taste of the samurai spirit that Ryoma embodied.

For history enthusiasts, the Ryoma Memorial Museum is a must-visit destination in Kochi. It not only sheds light on Ryoma Sakamoto’s remarkable life but also offers a deeper understanding of the pivotal period of Japan’s modernization. The museum stands as a tribute to a visionary leader who helped shape the nation’s path and continues to inspire generations.

Shimanto River Cruise

The Shimanto River, often referred to as “The last clear stream in Japan,” is a beloved natural treasure in Kochi Prefecture. A Shimanto River cruise is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this remarkable river and experience the tranquil charm of the surrounding countryside.

The Shimanto River stretches approximately 196 kilometers, making it the longest river in Shikoku Island. It meanders through picturesque valleys, dense forests, and traditional rural landscapes, offering a peaceful and scenic environment that feels a world away from the bustling city life.

Embarking on a Shimanto River cruise allows you to experience the tranquil rhythm of this pristine waterway. Board a traditional wooden boat, known as a sappa-bune , and let the gentle flow of the river carry you along its course. The sound of the water and the soft swaying of the boat create a soothing ambiance that instantly relaxes the mind and rejuvenates the spirit.

As you cruise along the Shimanto River, you’ll be enchanted by the surrounding natural beauty. Lush greenery lines the riverbanks, providing a rich tapestry of colors and textures. The area is teeming with diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.

One of the highlights of the Shimanto River cruise is the opportunity to witness traditional rural life along the river. You’ll pass by charming villages, terrace fields, and small traditional houses nestled among the green hills. It’s a chance to get a glimpse of the timeless countryside and the unhurried way of life that prevails in this idyllic region.

In addition to the stunning natural scenery, the Shimanto River cruise offers a chance to interact with the local community. The boatmen, who are often lifelong residents of the area, share their knowledge and stories about the river and its significance in the local culture. They might even serenade you with traditional songs and folktales, adding an extra touch of authenticity to the experience.

Another aspect of the Shimanto River cruise is the opportunity to enjoy local delicacies. Some boats offer onboard dining, allowing you to savor fresh seafood caught from the Shimanto River and taste regional specialties as you float along the tranquil waters.

Whether you choose a short leisurely cruise or a longer excursion deep into the river’s heart, a Shimanto River cruise is an immersive and enchanting experience. It offers a different perspective on Kochi Prefecture, providing a glimpse into its natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and the enduring spirit of the Shimanto River.

So, sit back, relax, and let the Shimanto River carry you on a peaceful journey through pristine landscapes and the gentle rhythms of rural life.

Sunday Market in Kochi City

Every Sunday, the streets of Kochi City come alive with the bustling Sunday Market, a vibrant and colorful event that has been a tradition in the city for over 300 years. This bustling market is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors, offering a lively atmosphere, a wide array of products, and a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

The Sunday Market in Kochi City is a true feast for the senses. Spanning several blocks, the market is teeming with vendors selling a diverse range of goods, from fresh produce and local delicacies to handicrafts, clothing, household items, and much more. The market offers a captivating mix of sights, sounds, and scents as vendors enthusiastically showcase their wares and interact with customers.

As you wander through the market, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant colors of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers beautifully displayed in stalls. Locally grown produce, such as Kochi’s famous yuzu citrus fruits and fresh seafood, are among the highlights of the market. It’s a great opportunity to taste and purchase seasonal and regional specialties directly from local farmers.

Not only can you find a wide variety of food and produce, but the Sunday Market is also a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs and handcrafted items. Discover traditional crafts like pottery, textiles, handmade accessories, and local artwork, showcasing the skill and creativity of local artisans.

It’s not just shopping that makes the Sunday Market special; it’s also the lively and cheerful atmosphere. As you navigate through the vibrant crowd, you’ll encounter street performers, musicians, and entertainers, adding to the festive ambiance. Take a moment to enjoy the sounds of traditional music or witness local street performers showcasing their talents.

The Sunday Market is not just limited to commercial activities; it also serves as an important social hub. The market is a meeting place for locals to catch up with friends, engage in lively conversations, and share stories. This creates a strong sense of community and adds an authentic touch to the market experience.

When visiting the Sunday Market, don’t forget to sample some of the delectable street food offerings. From savory treats like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewers) to sweet delights like taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes) and soft-serve ice cream, there’s a wide range of flavors to satisfy your taste buds.

Overall, the Sunday Market in Kochi City offers not just a shopping experience but an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with the vibrant community. It’s a chance to witness the lively energy of Kochi and appreciate the diverse array of products, flavors, and traditions that make this market a true gem of the city.

Hirome Market

Located in the heart of Kochi City, Hirome Market is a bustling and vibrant indoor market that offers a unique and delightful culinary experience. Known for its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and warm hospitality, Hirome Market is a must-visit destination for food lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

As you step into Hirome Market, you’ll be greeted by a lively and energetic scene. The market’s open-plan layout features numerous food stalls, communal dining areas, and vibrant decorations, creating a welcoming and communal space where locals and visitors can gather.

The highlight of Hirome Market is undoubtedly its diverse range of food options. From local delicacies to international cuisines, the market offers a mouthwatering selection that will satisfy any palate. You’ll find stalls serving up regional favorites such as katsuo tataki (lightly seared skipjack tuna), yakitori (grilled skewers), and Jakoten (deep-fried fish cake). The aroma of sizzling seafood, grilled meats, and savory snacks fills the air, making it impossible to resist indulging in the delicious offerings.

One of the unique features of Hirome Market is its communal dining area. Large shared tables invite diners to sit together, fostering a sense of community and encouraging conversations with fellow food enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to interact with locals, exchange travel tips, and learn more about the culinary traditions of Kochi.

Aside from the wide array of dining options, Hirome Market is also a great place to sample the local sake and craft beer. There are dedicated stalls where you can try different brands and varieties, enjoying the rich flavors and the craftsmanship of the local brewers.

Shopping is an integral part of the Hirome Market experience. You’ll find vendors selling a variety of goods, including fresh produce, artisanal products, traditional crafts, and souvenirs. Take the opportunity to browse through the stalls, pick up some Kochi-inspired items, and support local businesses.

While Hirome Market is primarily known for its culinary delights, it also hosts cultural events and performances. From live music and traditional dance performances to local festivals and art exhibitions, there’s always something happening at Hirome Market, adding an extra layer of entertainment and cultural immersion.

Whether you’re an adventurous eater, a curious traveler, or simply someone who appreciates good food and lively atmospheres, Hirome Market is a must-visit destination in Kochi. It offers a unique opportunity to sample the local flavors, connect with the community, and create lasting memories of your time in this vibrant city.

Cape Ashizuri

Nestled at the southernmost tip of Shikoku Island, Cape Ashizuri is a captivating natural wonder that offers breathtaking coastal views and a serene atmosphere. Known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and stunning vistas, Cape Ashizuri is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst awe-inspiring landscapes.

One of the highlights of Cape Ashizuri is the Ashizuri Lighthouse, a prominent landmark perched atop a rocky cliff. Built in 1914, this historic lighthouse provides panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. From the observation deck of the lighthouse, visitors can marvel at the dramatic cliffs, watch the waves crash against the rocks, and revel in the vastness of the ocean.

Surrounding the lighthouse is the Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, a protected area that encompasses a diverse range of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The park offers an extensive network of walking trails that wind through lush forests, leading to scenic viewpoints and hidden coves.

For beach lovers, Cape Ashizuri boasts pristine and secluded beaches that are perfect for relaxation and quiet contemplation. Kashiwajima Beach, with its soft sand and clear blue waters, is an ideal spot for sunbathing or a leisurely beach walk.

Immerse yourself in local folklore and spirituality by visiting Kongofukuji Temple, a Buddhist temple situated near Cape Ashizuri. The temple, believed to have been founded over 1,200 years ago, features a stunning statue of the Goddess of Mercy and offers a serene and peaceful environment for contemplation and meditation.

Exploring the coastal area of Cape Ashizuri is an adventure in itself. Follow the walking trails that lead you along dramatic cliff edges, allowing you to soak in panoramic views of the sea and the rugged coastline. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations, including the iconic “Lion Rock,” which resembles a roaring lion overlooking the ocean.

Cape Ashizuri is also known for its onsen (hot springs) that offer therapeutic and relaxing experiences. Dip into the warm waters while gazing at the sweeping coastal vistas, rejuvenating body and soul.

Throughout the year, Cape Ashizuri hosts various festivals and events that celebrate local traditions and cultural heritage. The Ashizuri Summer Festival, with its lively street performances and fireworks, is a highlight that attracts visitors from near and far.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Cape Ashizuri offers an unforgettable experience. From its majestic cliffs and pristine beaches to its rich cultural heritage, this scenic cape has an enchanting allure that makes it a hidden gem in Kochi Prefecture.

Chikurin-ji Temple

Located in Kochi Prefecture, Chikurin-ji Temple is a serene and historic Buddhist temple that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. As one of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Chikurin-ji Temple offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Chikurin-ji Temple, which dates back over 1,200 years, is nestled amidst the lush mountains of Kochi. It is known for its tranquil and picturesque surroundings, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The temple’s name, “Chikurin,” translates to “bamboo grove,” and true to its name, the temple is enveloped by beautiful bamboo forests. The rustling of the bamboo leaves, combined with the scent of the surrounding greenery, creates a serene and meditative atmosphere.

Chikurin-ji Temple is a three-story pagoda-style temple, featuring stunning architecture with intricate woodwork and exquisite craftsmanship. The main hall houses a golden statue of Amitabha Buddha, the principal deity worshipped at the temple. Visitors can admire the temple’s elegant design and appreciate the sense of peace and spirituality that permeates the air.

One of the highlights of visiting Chikurin-ji Temple is the captivating panoramic view it offers from the observation deck. As you ascend to the top of the temple, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking vista of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the cityscape of Kochi in the distance. It is a perfect spot to reflect, meditate, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

The temple grounds feature serene gardens and peaceful walking paths, offering visitors a calming environment for contemplation and self-reflection. The gardens are meticulously maintained, and the seasonal flowers and foliage create a changing tapestry of colors throughout the year.

Chikurin-ji Temple holds significant cultural and historical importance. It has attracted pilgrims and devotees for centuries, seeking spiritual solace and the blessings of the Buddha. The temple also has ties to Ryoma Sakamoto, an influential figure in Japan’s history, who was believed to have sought guidance and inspiration from Chikurin-ji Temple during his quest for societal change.

Visiting Chikurin-ji Temple is not only a religious or spiritual experience but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history. Take part in the traditional practice of sutra copying or attend a Buddhist ceremony to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist traditions and rituals.

Chikurin-ji Temple offers a serene and reflective moment in the midst of nature. It is a place to find solace, connect with the divine, and appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Whether as part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage or a standalone visit, Chikurin-ji Temple offers a peaceful sanctuary and a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Japan.

Kochi Traditional Cuisine

Kochi Prefecture is known for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a rich and diverse array of traditional dishes that reflect the region’s natural bounty and cultural heritage. From fresh seafood to unique local specialties, Kochi’s traditional cuisine is a delight for food lovers and a true reflection of the region’s gastronomic treasures.

One of the highlights of Kochi’s traditional cuisine is its fresh seafood. Situated on the southern coast of Shikoku Island, Kochi is blessed with abundant marine resources, and its coastal location means that the seafood is incredibly fresh. The prefecture is particularly famous for its katsuo (skipjack tuna), which is often served as sashimi or lightly seared. The delicate flavor and firm texture of katsuo make it a beloved local delicacy that should not be missed.

Another beloved dish in Kochi is Jakoten, a unique local specialty. Jakoten is a deep-fried fish cake made from minced white fish, primarily mackerel. The fish paste is seasoned with spices and formed into a patty before being deep-fried to perfection. The result is a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a tender and flavorful interior. Jakoten is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and pairs well with a dipping sauce.

Kochi is also known for its delectable vegetarian dishes. The region’s mountainous terrain and fertile lands yield a variety of fresh vegetables. Take, for example, kankoro-mochi, a traditional vegetarian dish made from glutinous rice cakes wrapped in cabbage leaves, served with a savory soy-based sauce. The combination of the chewy mochi and the umami-rich sauce creates a harmonious and satisfying flavor profile.

No visit to Kochi would be complete without trying its famous Kochi Ramen. Kochi-style ramen features a rich, flavorful soy-based broth that has been simmered for hours to extract maximum depth and complexity. The noodles are typically thin and straight, and the bowl is topped with various ingredients like slices of tender pork, scallions, bamboo shoots, and a soft-boiled egg. Kochi Ramen is a hearty and comforting dish that will warm your soul.

For those with a sweet tooth, Kochi offers its own unique desserts. Try Botan Mochi, a traditional sweet made from glutinous rice cake wrapped around a soft Azuki red bean paste filling. These delightful treats are often enjoyed with a cup of green tea and are a popular souvenir among visitors.

When dining in Kochi, keep an eye out for local izakayas (traditional Japanese pubs) and small family-owned restaurants that specialize in regional cuisine. These establishments often use fresh and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

So, whether you’re savoring the exquisite flavors of fresh seafood, indulging in unique local specialties, or exploring the breadth of Kochi’s traditional cuisine, you’ll find yourself immersed in a culinary journey that showcases the incredible tastes and traditions of this vibrant region.

Festivals and Events in Kochi

Kochi Prefecture is renowned for its vibrant and lively festivals and events, which showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in local traditions. Throughout the year, Kochi comes alive with colorful processions, energetic dances, and captivating performances. Here are some of the festivals and events that highlight the unique spirit of Kochi:

Yosakoi Festival: Held in August, the Yosakoi Festival is one of the most energetic and dynamic events in Kochi. Participants dressed in vibrant costumes perform a traditional dance known as “Yosakoi,” featuring lively movements accompanied by the sounds of traditional music and instruments. The festival draws thousands of participants from all over Japan, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere that engulfs the streets of Kochi City.

Harimayabashi Summer Festival: The Harimayabashi Summer Festival takes place in August and is a renowned celebration of Kochi’s cultural heritage. The festival features traditional dances performed by local groups, magnificent fireworks displays, and a variety of food stalls offering regional delicacies. The highlight of the festival is the “Harimayasai,” a procession in which participants carry portable shrines through the streets, accompanied by the beat of drums and musical performances.

Kochi Castle Festival: Celebrated in early May, the Kochi Castle Festival is a grand event that pays homage to the historical significance of Kochi Castle. The festival features samurai processions, martial arts demonstrations, traditional music performances, and cultural exhibitions. Visitors can witness reenactments of samurai battles, try on samurai armor, and immerse themselves in the ambiance of feudal Japan.

Danjiri Festival: The Danjiri Festival, held in October, is a thrilling and dynamic event that celebrates bravery and teamwork. Teams of participants pull enormous wooden floats, known as “Danjiri,” with great excitement and energy through the streets of Kochi City. The floats are adorned with elaborate decorations and are accompanied by traditional music and chanting. The festival is a true spectacle showcasing the strength, dedication, and coordination of the participants.

Sukoshicon Anime Convention: Anime enthusiasts will delight in the Sukoshicon Anime Convention, which takes place annually in Kochi City. The convention showcases cosplay contests, anime screenings, live performances, and interactive workshops. It’s a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for Japanese animation and pop culture.

These are just a few examples of the festivals and events that take place in Kochi Prefecture throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in traditional culture, dance, music, or anime, Kochi offers a vibrant and diverse calendar of festivities that celebrate the spirit and heritage of the region.

Attending these festivals and events provides a glimpse into the local culture, offering immersive experiences that create lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the traditions that make Kochi so unique.

Outdoor Activities in Kochi Prefecture

Kochi Prefecture is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a plethora of outdoor activities that showcase the region’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. From scenic hikes to thrilling water sports, there are numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration throughout the prefecture.

One of the top outdoor activities in Kochi is hiking. The prefecture is blessed with majestic mountains and picturesque trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Mount Godaisan, located in Kochi City, is a popular choice, offering panoramic views of the cityscape and the surrounding countryside. The trail to the peak is well-maintained and accessible, making it suitable for beginners. For more experienced hikers, the trail to Mount Tengu in Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park provides a challenging but rewarding trek through lush forests and rugged terrain.

Kochi’s pristine rivers and coastlines offer fantastic opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Shimanto River, often referred to as “The last clear stream in Japan,” is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddling. The crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery create a peaceful and rejuvenating experience as you glide along the river’s gentle currents. On the coast, Katsura Hama Beach and Kashiwajima Beach are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

For those seeking a unique and exhilarating experience, paragliding is a popular option in Kochi. The Tosa Sky Adventure Club offers tandem paragliding flights that allow you to soar through the sky and admire panoramic views of the coastline and mountains.

Kochi’s national parks, including Ashizuri-Uwakai and Muroto-Anan, offer breathtaking natural landscapes and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Explore the hiking trails, rent bicycles to explore the park’s scenic routes, or simply wander through the lush forests and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Another popular outdoor activity in Kochi is fishing. With its abundant marine life and pristine rivers, Kochi offers excellent fishing opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. Whether you prefer river fishing for trout and Ayu (sweetfish) or deep-sea fishing for tuna and mackerel, there are numerous fishing spots and tour operators available to guide you on your angling adventure.

Additionally, camping enthusiasts can find several campsites that provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Set up tents, gather around a campfire, and enjoy the starry night skies in Kochi’s beautiful camping sites such as Kazeno Machino Mori Campsite or Shimanto River Camp Village.

Kochi Prefecture is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Whether embracing the thrill of adventure or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the captivating outdoor playground of Kochi.

Kochi Prefecture is a captivating destination that offers a myriad of experiences for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich culture, abundant natural beauty, and warm hospitality of the region. From historical landmarks to picturesque landscapes, traditional cuisine to vibrant festivals, Kochi has something to captivate the hearts of every visitor.

Exploring the historical treasures starts with a visit to Kochi Castle, where you can step back in time and delve into the samurai history of the region. The peaceful ambiance of Chikurin-ji Temple offers a serene retreat, allowing you to reflect in the tranquil bamboo groves and appreciate the spiritual heritage of the area.

Kochi’s enchanting natural landscapes offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Shimanto River invites you to embark on a relaxing cruise, while the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches of Cape Ashizuri provide breathtaking vistas and a tranquil seaside escape. The Sunday Market in Kochi City and Hirome Market offer vibrant showcases of local culture and culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.

Immerse yourself in the lively energy of Kochi’s festivals and events, such as the Yosakoi Festival and the Danjiri Festival, where you can witness traditional dances, processions, and fireworks that embody the vibrant spirit of the region.

Throughout your journey, indulge in the delectable flavors of Kochi’s traditional cuisine, from the freshness of its seafood to the unique local specialties. Experience the warm hospitality and rich culinary heritage that define Kochi Prefecture.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a serene escape, Kochi provides a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences. It’s a destination that offers a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Japan’s past and present, leaving you with cherished memories and a desire to return.

So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Kochi, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern comforts, and the treasures of the past coexist harmoniously with the wonders of nature. Discover the magic of Kochi Prefecture and create lasting memories in this hidden gem on the southern coast of Shikoku Island.

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Shikoku Kochi Rural views, surfing and river camping

• Destinations

Facing the Pacific Ocean, Kochi captivates visitors with its rustic charms and outdoor recreational possibilities

How to get there.

You can fly direct from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe and Fukuoka to Kochi Ryoma Airport. If you would rather travel on land, catch the shinkansen to Okayama and change to an express train or a bus bound for Kochi Station. There are also local train lines serving Kochi Prefecture and other areas of Shikoku. Rental cars are an easy way to freely explore the prefecture.

• The view of the Pacific from the coast of Kochi Prefecture
• The Shimanto River, the longest river in Shikoku and a fantastic place to camp
• Hirome Market, Kochi’s culinary wonderland
• Kochi Castle, one of only 12 castles in Japan with its original keep

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Cherry Blossoms

Forecast of first bloom

20 Mar 2024

Forecast of full bloom

30 Mar 2024

Explore Kochi by Area

Trending Attractions in Kochi

Local Specialties

Kochi Dorome

The people of Kochi are known for their love of dorome (fresh young sardines) and alcohol. Every year there is a dorome festival where people eat fresh sardines, pray for a bountiful harvest and have a sake-chugging competition. (Photo: Kochi Visitors ＆ Convention Association)

Imokenpi are strips of sweet potato fried until crispy and coated in sugar and a touch of salt to balance the flavor. An old-style Japanese snack that is like a dessert french fry. Since they're made from sweet potatoes, though, imokenpi are a bit healthier.

Kochi Bonito

The bonito, or katsuo in Japanese, is a relative of the tuna fish. Katsuo has a deep red coloring and rich flavor. It is most commonly served tataki-style by searing the outside and leaving the inside raw.

Tosa Forged Blades

Tosa uchihamono are free-forged blades. Sharp, durable and easy to care for, these cutting tools reflect swordsmithing techniques from another era. Order-made blades include kitchen knives, hatchets, forestry saws and more.

Tosa Handmade Paper

Tosa has been in the papermaking business for over 1,000 years. Today, it boasts one of the few Japanese washi-producing techniques with huge variety—300 to be exact, including the unrivaled, ultrathin 0.03-millimeter tengu jyoshi variety.

Seasonal Highlights

The whole prefecture comes alive with colorful blossoms. The Kochi Flower Festival in Chuo Park boasts an impressive array of over 40,000 flowers.

The Yosakoi Festival is the highlight of Kochi’s warmer season, featuring 20,000 dancers and plenty of music, food and festivities.

The Kochi Castle Autumn Festival is highlighted by a Shinto dance performance called kagura. Nonehachiman Shrine and Kasuga Shrine have ritual displays of yabusame, traditional horseback archery.

Kochi’s temperate climate provides a welcome respite from frigid temperatures in the rest of the country.

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