Exploring Kochi or Cochin can be a daunting experience. After all, a country endowed with great natural beauty has a plethora of sights and activities to offer. Discovering Fort Kochi is a delightful experience throughout the year, particularly during the colder months. A trip to this captivating city with a fascinating past is ideal for families or friends. Fort Kochi, also known as Old Kochi, is a water-bound area. Amidst the chaos, it's easy to become disoriented. Even though it might not seem possible to see everything Kochi has to offer in the short amount of time, we decided to push ourselves and make the most of our three days. With a predetermined itinerary, we set out on a voyage of discovery and made stops along the way at thriving markets, tranquil gardens, and delicious food. We also discovered new cuisines, strolled through different neighbourhoods, and gained knowledge of this fascinating town's inhabitants, customs, and past.
The Foremost Reasons to Visit Kochi:
1. Another Name For Kochi Is Cochin. The Word "Cochin" Is Essentially A European Translation For "Kochi."
2. The Land Of India’s First European Church.
3. The Only Place Where Chinese Fishing Nets Can Be Seen.
4. Labelled The "Queen Of The Arabian Sea," Kochi Has Played A Significant Role As A Major Port Hub For International Trade Since Ancient times. It Still Is.
5. Home Of The Oldest Portuguese Residences.
6. Lake Vembanad of Kochi is the biggest and longest lake.
Goa – Kochi Airfare: 29000Rs approx/ 3 person
(This airfare is from the previous year. For the current price, check EaseMyTrip or any other travel website).
Review about Cochin International Airport:
It is a well-kept, well-decorated, and clean airport that showcase Kerala culture with plenty of parking spaces. The atmosphere is wonderful. Very helpful staff. They have incredibly cozy seating options. Compared to the airport in Bangalore, the food court at this one has fewer restaurants. The impressive thing about this airport is that it's the only fully solar powered airport in the world. Absolutely wonderful encounter.
Our stay at Coral Reef Hotel:
We left from the Goa airport and arrived in Cochin early in the morning, around 3:30 a.m. The hotel is located in a calm area. There is ample sitting in the gorgeous hotel lobby. There is a tasty and substantial breakfast buffet. Rooms were clean and well-organized. We stayed here nearly year ago, so I'm not sure about the hotel's current state, therefore it's best to read reviews before making a reservation.
3600Rs/premium room (3 person).
Places we visited
Fort Kochi Boat Jetty:
The busy Fort Kochi Ferry Boat Jetty serves as a bridge between the islands of Kochi. The famous Chinese fishing nets and interesting historical sites are visible from the picturesque boat ride, which provides a novel viewpoint of the region. Although they are a practical form of transportation, ferries can get crowded at rush hour. With its array of independent stores and street vendors, the jetty area exudes a lively atmosphere. But there aren't many facilities like seats and shade. In spite of this, visiting the ferry boat jetty is still a fun and necessary way to take in Fort Kochi's charm.
Government Jetty Ticket Price: 4Rs/ Non AC
20Rs/ AC
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basillica:
Situated on Bastian Street, this church is among the eight basilicas in Kerala and among the oldest Catholic churches in India. It is fascinating to explore the architectural and artistic grandeur of this Portuguese-built gothic-style building, which is a must-see location for any traveler to the city! not a museum, so their designated visitor hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. to 5.30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Sunday only, 10.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. During the hours of prayer, tourists are not allowed.
Jew Town Fort Kochi:
I have to say that this location was truly amazing! It felt as though I had entered an entirely magical realm. My jaw dropped at the opulence of the buildings, the minute details, and the breathtaking scenery. The vibrant fountains and verdant gardens were just two examples of the wonders I discovered around every corner. It was as though we were living in a dream, where amazement and wonder were present at every turn. I couldn't help but be happy and thankful that I was able to witness such beauty. A must-see is the synagogue.
Cherai Beach:
One of the most romantic places to visit is Cherai Beach. This is one of Kochi's most breathtaking tourist destinations; it lies toward the city's periphery and is dotted with breathtaking scenery and the verdant beauty of coconut plantations. This golden sand beach, which is part of Kerala's Vypin Island, is where the sea and backwaters converge. Cherai beach is a great place to spend leisure evenings because it is generally less crowded.
St. Francis Chruch Kochi:
Admiring the magnificent architecture of St. Francis Church is a marvel. St. Francis Church, the oldest church in India, is a fascinating tourist destination in Asia because it exemplifies the best of Portuguese architecture. Some of the features that define the church's elegant construction and preserve its grandeur and culture are the confessional stage, the pinnacle, the baptism floor, the book rests, and the channel roof. One of the top attractions in Kochi, a trip there is never complete without stopping by this historic church. The Portuguese Franciscan Friars built it in 1503, and it is now well-known for its charisma and tradition. It's the best sight in Kochi because of the exquisitely adorned walls and the timber-framed roof.
Timings:
Monday to Saturday: 07:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Sunday: 08:30 a.m. to 06:30 p.m.
Indo – Portuguese Museums:
Among this city's well-known attractions is the Indo-Portuguese museums, which house an extensive collection of artifacts from various churches. At Kochi Sightseeing, the Indo-Portuguese Museum is the best place to explore, housing every fascinating attraction and fact related to the art and culture of Kerala. There are altarpieces, vestments, and other treasures conserved in this museum, which is a legacy of the Catholic community in India. You can spend a whole day exploring every detail of the museum, which provides both entertainment and in-depth knowledge of Kerala culture and art. Investigating the Indo-Portuguese museums will allow you to see the altarpieces, antiques, and collections from various eras.
Note: Photography not allowed.
Timing: Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 a.m.
Closed on Monday.
Folklore Museum:
Situated as the sole synagogue in India where the community worships, it is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Cochin. A collection of antiques and handicrafts, including a handwoven oriental carpet, an ark carved out of teak wood, Torah scrolls, ancient copper plates, and priceless gold and silver crowns, are preserved in this synagogue located in India. The Torah Scrolls, which contain the first five books of the Old Testament, are the synagogue's main draw. Paradesi Synagogue is among the top attractions in Kochi to visit, not only because of its unique collection but also because of its architectural design.
Marine Drive:
A calm evening by Kerala's picturesque coast. One of Kochi's top attractions is Marine Drive, which you should not miss. Those who enjoy spending time in nature frequently congregate here, which overlooks the surprisingly beautiful backwater. Well, watching sunsets in Kochi at Marine Drive is truly magical.
Shopping
Lulu International Shopping Mall:
It is unquestionably the greatest mall in India. They are incredibly valuable. Pickles, cakes, chocolate, candies, dry fruits—you name it—there's a wide assortment. You must visit the hypermarket. Wonderfully maintained and cared for. Fulfills virtually all needs. Plenty of parking is available.
Seematti:
Lovely assortment of sarees. They have an extensive collection of sarees fit for every occasion. The daily wear sarees are the best and most affordable, their bridal line is simply amazing.
Kochi’s Must-try Cuisine
Kochi's culinary culture is one of the things that really sets it apart from other tourist destinations and its historical significance. It's true that there is an intense and genuine fixation on seafood. If you traipsed through the streets and lanes like a foodie on a mission, you would discover a lot more culinary trails in this city.
Puttu Kadala:
Nothing beats a steaming plate of Puttu and Kadala curry for breakfast, especially for a Malayali. Puttu is a staple meal in practically every Keralan home. It is made with ground rice, layered with shredded coconut and occasionally banana, and then steam-cooked. Kadala curry is made with black chickpeas, cooked in roasted coconut gravy.
Thattu Dosa:
Thattu dosa is quite thick—it's not your paper-thin version or the thicker one with masala. However, its modesty is arguably what makes it a popular street food; when paired with simple chutney, it will satisfy both your heart and stomach.
Kulukki Sarbath:
A twist on traditional lemonade, the sarbath is packed with khus-khus seeds and served after the vendor gives it a good shake, usually accompanied by intricate gestures. Actually, the meaning of "kulukki" in Malayalam is "shaking."
Appam and stew:
Stew and appam aren't just popular in Kerala but all over the nation. Similar to Puttu and Kadala, this straightforward dish is a statewide mainstay in homes, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions available. This stew of vegetables or chicken, or mutton, cooked in coconut milk and spiced with ground black pepper, has a flavor that is unmatched and is a must-try when served with appam. And these are available at every restaurant in Kochi!