Kochi, the queen of arabian sea

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is the gateway of Kerala. Kochi was first occupied by the Portuguese in 1503, then by Dutch and then finally by British. The fact that Kochi was a colony of these three Colonial powers, has influenced Kochi in a lot of ways. The fusion of these cultures along with the local culture has made Kochi a totally unique city. Colonial rule has not only influenced the culture, but also the architecture, festivals and even people.

How to reach Kochi?

The Nedumbassery Airport is around an hour from the City. You can use a taxi service or a bus to get to the city centre. You can also rent a motorcycle from the Airport if you choose.


How much: Taxi: Expect to pay around $10-15 for taxi ride per hour.
                     Bus: $1-2 to Kochi.
                     Rental Motorcycle: $12- $30 per day.

Where to stay?

Fort Kochi is the most popular location people choose to stay in Kochi, because of the proximity to other tourist spots.You  can choose to stay at hotels or home stays which are widely available in Kochi. Be warned that sometimes it can be difficult to get accommodation in Fort Kochi especially during the peak season (Dec- Feb).


How much:  Expect to pay around $15-25 a day for a comfortable one.
                       Luxury accommodation: $ 50+


Places to see

Because of the central location of Kochi, most of the places are accessible from Kochi. But in Fort Kochi some must see spots are.

Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch palace, its a fusion of European architecture styles with the Kerala nalukettu style.

Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: the synagogue has some beautiful artwork and is looked after by the tiny Jewish community that remains in Cochin

Hill Palace: Hill palace museum in Tripunithura is well worth a visit. Filled with exhibits from around Kochi. Especially some amazing horse drawn carriages.

Marine Drive: Perfect for an evening walk. Just minutes on a ferry from Fort Kochi/ Mattancherry.

Chinese Fishing nets: A sight to see, especially during the sunset. Found around the city, especially near Fort Kochi.

Wonderla Water park: One of the best water themed amusement park in India. Over 40 rides, suitable for all ages. Rate around $10.

Evening Boat rides: Easily available from Marine drive, spend a fun night out at the sea.

Bolgatty Palace, Wellington Island,  are other attractions.


Other Places to visit from Kochi

Munnar (Hill station), Thekkady (Lake), Alleppey( Backwaters.Beach), Marari (Beach), Athirappally Waterfalls and Sholayar, Thommankuthu falls and many more amazing places to visit from Kochi.


Season

Any season is good to visit Kochi. But if you don’t like rain, June- Aug is not ideal for you.

If you come during onam (Aug), you will be able see many cultural celebrations.

Christmas and New year in Fort Kochi is celebrated with so much enthusiasm. You will really enjoy the Cochin Carnival.