Running in Kochi
Ignore the heat, humidity, stench, and mosquitoes; just run
When you first land in Kochi and as you sip on some refreshing coconut water to get relief from the heat and humidity, the last thing on your mind will be to go for a long run. But don’t let the Kerala summer, sticky humidity, and the incessant mosquito bites stop you from experiencing one of the best places to go for a morning run.
Unlike the mostly unchallenging runs through the well paved streets of well developed cities, a run trough Kochi is an adventure. Meandering roads, bridges, markets, open drains, uneven sidewalks, backwaters, crazy traffic; there is a lot to experience in a 5 to 10k run. Here are a few tips to have an amazing run in Kochi:
Best time to run
I usually visit Kochi in May (26°C to 33°C) or December (23°C to 33°C). During either of these monhts, there is plenty of sunshine, heat, humidity, hardly any rain, and perfect for running. The best time is early in the morning, between 6 and 8 am. The heat and humidity is moderate, the streets are mostly empty when you start your run, and by the time you end the run—the heat, humidity, and traffic will leave you feeling like you ran a marathon.
Bridges
For a city at sea level, the bridges are the only option for some elevation change in the running route. Most routes can be planned to include multiple bridges. Here are a few bridges I regularly include in my routes:
- South Bridge
- Pullepady Bridge
- Salim-Ranjan Bridge
- Kaloor-Kadavanthra Bridge
- Goshree Bridge
Kayal
Running along the backwaters is another beautiful experience for a runner. Routes along Marine Drive or the new Queen’s Way are some convenient options available.
Flexible Route
There is so much to explore and discover in Kochi that it’s best to keep your route flexible. Once you have a route in mind, change it up as your run. Go down that small road or lane that you are not familiar with, into a market that’s just opening up, or even a path along a canal that you notice. You will never be disappointed, and if you get lost, you can always check the map on your phone, or event better, ask for directions and you might learn something new about Kochi from one of the friendly kochiites.
Have Fun
The heat and humidity in Kochi will guarantee you the feel of a serious run. So make it a casual and fun run. Don’t make it about calories and time, instead slow down where you need to, take a path you had not planned for, observe everything you can, stop to take a picture of something new and interesting, and get to know this city at a much closer level. Keep some cash with you, so you can quench your thirst with some fresh coconut water.
Be Careful
Just like anywhere else in India, the roads here are dangerous. Run against traffic, wear bright and reflective gear, look in all directions before darting across any road, watch out for stray dogs (usually harmless), be careful on uneven footpaths, and avoid running under trees with crows.
