List of top 15 tourist attractions in Kochi!
As Kochites would say, “Kochi is not a city, it’s a feeling”.
Kochi boasts of a culture so diverse and unique, that it is possibly one among the few cities in India, where a multitude of castes and cultures can be witnessed. The integral part of Kochites is, in fact, their sense of acceptance. Anyone and everyone is welcome here and all the Kochites will willingly give you a piece of their hearts!
Agreeably, it is no surprise that Kochi is home to a fair amount of tourist attractions. Let’s now dig into exploring Kochi — “The Queen of Arabian Sea”
This vacation, don’t forget to check out these places of interest:
THE CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
1. Kochi Muziris Biennale Sites
Quite possibly the mecca for art connoisseurs, the Kochi Muziris Biennale has attained great popularity both in Kerala as well as all over the world. It is an international art exhibition held in Kochi and was the first of its kind to be held in India. The exhibition is spread over a number of sites in Kochi, Muziris and surrounding islands, including galleries, heritage buildings and some site-specific installations. So, checking out the biennale will itself take you on a mini tour across Kochi. For a art lover, it is, in fact, the best place to be.
The next exhibition begins on 12th December 2018 and ends on 29th March 2019.
Make a day of it with your friends, check out some amazing places and when you travel to Fort Kochi — which is the hub of the Biennale — do use the ferry from Boat Jetty. The boat ride should be a must-do on your itinerary!!
2. Changampuzha Park
A quiet park located near Edapally in Ernakulam, this site is fast becoming the hub of cultural activities. The “Nrityaswadana Club” organises a variety of dance shows, music fests and movie appreciation days. The dance shows are conducted by eminent personalities in the field of Indian classical dance. Furthermore, the music shows focus on the classical music and all in all, offer an artistic pleasure like nowhere else.
The best part about it, everyone will find something to do there. I have literally seen people playing chess and caroms in the evening, kids wreaking havoc and meanwhile, on the other side, you can find people exploring and appreciating amazing art.
Having a Lassi Shop nearby to hangout, doesn’t hurt as well.
3. Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple
This temple is situated in Thripunithura, which is considered as the capital of the Royal Family. It is one of the most famous temples in Kerala and also one of the 8 royal temples of the Cochin Kingdom. The primary deity here is Lord Vishnu. The temple architecture is absolutely beautiful and it leaves you spellbound.
The temple is famous for its ‘Vrishchikotsavam’ or yearly fests and draws a huge crowd during the festival. The best time to visit is during the Utsavam season (November-December). We, Kochites regard it as our personal “pooram”!
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4. Chinese Fishing Nets
A beacon of culture and traditions made long ago, the Chinese Fishing Nets are a view to be perceived at least once in your lifetime. Commonly known as “Cheena Vala”, these large fishing nets are permanent land installations used for fishing. Requiring 5–6 people to operate, it is a wonder to behold the working of this huge mechanical contraption.
All those budding photographers out there, these fishing nets will offer the perfect location for a photoshoot during sunset so definitely click some amazing pictures!
If you do, don’t forget to send those to the caption contest conducted by PaperKin! You might end up being the lucky winner of some amazing goodies. Stay tuned to find out more!
5. Vypin Lighthouse
Also known as the Cochin lighthouse, is situated at Puthuvype in Vypin Island. The tower is shaped as an octagonal prism with a balcony and lantern. It has recently become a popular tourist attraction as it is the tallest lighthouse in India. Tourist attractions, nearby include the Puthuvype beach which is just a half kilometre away. There is an entry fee for the lighthouse as a measure to promote tourism.
A picturesque location for a picnic or just a wonderful background for your new profile picture; a trip to see the lighthouse will not be in vain!
BEACHES
Kochi boasts of having a number of wonderful beaches that have always been a spot to come and relax after a hectic week. The sound of waves, the wind, the sunset and a packet of “kappalandi” is a dynamic combo for sure!
6. Cherai Beach
The hub of Fort Kochi tourism, this beach has always been an important tourist attraction. Located about 20–30 km from the Cochin International Airport, it is one of the cleanest beaches of Kochi. It is a destination perfect for relaxation after a productive day of visiting various other tourist places around Kochi. What better way to wind up the day than by witnessing a beautiful sunset at Cherai beach, right?
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7. Kuzhupilly Beach
Located near Vypin in Kochi, this beach is ideal for swimming. The calmness and beauty of the white sands and beautiful backwaters really makes Kuzhupilly stand apart . Another highpoint is the frequently held kite festivals. Although it is situated at a remote location when compared to the other beaches, it is fast becoming the hangout spot for kids and adults alike.
THE ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS
You might think Kochi doesn’t look so much artistic, as much as it looks chaotic. But believe me, Kochi hides within itself, a rich history of architecture and culture. And if it does look chaotic, we’re proud of it, aren’t we? ;)
8. Mattancherry Palace
Popularly known as the Dutch Palace, it features murals containing portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. The Palace has a rich history behind it as it was gifted by the Portuguese to the King of Cochin around 1555. Today, it is famous for being one of the best places featuring the examples of Hindu temple art, known extensively for its decorative and elaborate style.
If you’re an art enthusiast, you should definitely visit this enchanting palace. You will definitely love it here!
9. Hill Palace
It is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Located in Thripunithura, this was previously the Imperial Administrative Office and the Official residence of the Kochi Maharaja. The complex includes an archaeological museum, a heritage museum, a deer park. The deer park is a popular tourist spot. The museum contains exhibits of the Cochin Royal Family including the crown jewels, paintings, sculptures and much more. The site is open to public on all days except on Mondays and Government holidays.
Hill palace truly, in all entirety, celebrates the grandeur and history of Kochi.
THE SHOPPING HUBS
Kochi has long since became the financial capital of Kerala. There is nothing you won’t find here, if only you’re willing to search for it, wading through the numerous shopping hubs.
10. Jew Street
The Jew Street in Fort Kochi is aptly named so, because of the rich historical importance it contains. This was the place where a number of Jews made their home way back when they first came to India in AD 52. Consequently, you can see their unique culture and ethnicity in the street shops, the antiquities displayed and the people living there. The street is most famous for its antique shops, each piece having its own adventurous tale to narrate.
https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/jew-street-fort-kochi/215
If you want to purchase some unique, yet quirky accessories, go around the Jew Street and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
11. Menaka
Every city must have a busy marketplace and Menaka is Kochi’s answer to that. But more than that, Menaka represents the workforce of Kochi; the common man and his life. Filled with people of various cultures, languages and ethnicities, Menaka gives a glimpse into the everyday life of a Kochite. The Penta-Menaka Shopping Complex is the hub of electronic gadget shops, duty paid shops etc., and the best part is that everything is really cheap and affordable.
If you want to go on a shopping spree with a moderate budget, this is your destination.
THE FOODIE JUNCTION
Oh, I have been waiting to write this section since the start of the article!
Kochi is, in my humble opinion, a paradise for foodies. You have an eclectic collection of restaurants, cafes, cute hole-in-the-wall kinda food joints, and my personal favourite — the chaat shops.
12. Kismath Restaurant
Kismath is a personal favourite as such because it’s convenient for me. Trust me when I say you’ll never find such tasty biryani for such affordable prices anywhere else. Located near CUSAT, this is a favourite spot for students from all the nearby colleges.
Good food and even better company, what more do you need!
13. The Dhabas
You go around Kochi, and you will find some amazing dhabas. Most of them stick true to their Punjabi root and offer the kind of food and quality that wouldn’t look out of place in Amritsar! The delicious food they serve up there is the prime reason I am such a fan of North-Indian cuisine now. There’s “Sethi da Dhaba”, “Mallus Dhaba”, “Sardarji Ka Dhaba” to name a few. When you do go there, make sure to taste the quintessential lassi!
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14. Shifus’s Momos
Momos is another favourite of kids and adults alike now. The Tibetan delicacy has made it’s way down south and Kochites don’t hesitate to try out really good food! So it is natural that this dish would be a favourite amongst the citizens of Kochi. When you want to get some really tasty momos and enjoy a relaxing evening, check out Shifu’s Momos near Panampilly Nagar. It’s located near Central Park, the ultimate hangout spot for kids!
15. For all the Vegetarians out there!
There’s a common misconception that the vegetarian people never get to have tasty food. Well, they will wholeheartedly disagree! Vegetarians are having it much better in Kerala with more options opening up in recent years and Kochi is no exception. If you still think vegetarians don’t get some delicious food, your mind will change after you’ve had a plate of some delicious “masala dosa” from Gokul Oottupura! There’s also BTH and Ambiswamy’s restaurant which are perfect for vegetarians.
Hope you are fascinated by all that Kochi has to offer. While it might be a bit of a hassle to explore Kochi, with the torrential rain playing spoilsport, but do not forget to explore these amazing locations! Pick up your best friend and check out all these places and more.
Don’t forget to share your amazing experiences via comments!
