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Places to Visit in Kochi

The Lulu Shopping Mall which is one of the largest shopping malls in India is an invite to the world of happiness. With 225 outlets, 2,500 seater food court and the presence of top 100 brands and 11 fine-dining restaurants, this is definitely a place to pamper yourself.

The mall also houses a 9 screen Cineplex, amusement rides, one of the largest ice skating rink and a 12-lane bowling alley making it a destination for every age group, especially during the weekends. Housed within the campus of Hotel Marriot, it offers convenience and luxury to domestic and international tourists.

Location: 34, 1000, N.H 47, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi.

Timings: 9.00 am to 11.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fee: None.

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The Kerala Kathakali centre was founded in 1990 and aims to popularize the traditional art form of Kerala, discover new talents and train the existing performers with rigorous discipline and dedication. Kathakali is a combination of literature, painting, music, dance and acting and all the five forms culminate to this charming dance form done with grace and command.

This is a place to visit in Kochi if you are keen on learning the dance form directly from the experts. You may also be privy to the daily shows organised here by talented participants expert in their field of art.

Location: KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi.

Timings: 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm 

Entry Fees: Rs. 250/- per head to watch the performance.

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This charming beach is neatly nestled in the suburbs of Cherai, which is one of the most visited beaches due to its serenity and clean environ. The low tides and slow waves make it a highly recommended beach for swimming and other forms of water sports. It has an alluring walkway along the beach dotted with greens and sufficient places for seating. 

Elderly visitors are often seen indulging in yoga, meditation or light strolls during the early morning or evening hours to enjoy the splendour of mother nature. The beach has several luxury villas, resorts and beach hotels lined along the Arabian sea where river Periyar confluence to make for a picture postcard frame.

Location: Ernakulam 15 km from Kochi.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset.

Entry Fees: None

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This is one of the largest amusement parks in Kochi having water rides, land rides, 3D rides and several other fun rides to keep the visitors entertained. This is one of those places to visit in Kochi if you are accompanied by a kid or an adventure seeker by nature.

Caterpillar village, adventures of Chikku, Dashin cars, Fire Brigade, Sky wheel, Windmill and wonder splash are a few of its major attraction. Weekends are filled with locals having a ball of a time with friends and family. The Wonderla Pass gives access to special discount packages with added enjoyment.

Location: Kumarapuram, Pallikkara, Kochi.

Timings: 11.00 am to 6.00 pm on weekdays and open till 7.00 pm on weekends.

Entry Fees: Rs.650/- per child and Rs. 800/- per adult on a normal season, peak season charges are higher.

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The Jewish Synagogue also known as the Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest active Synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations making it one of the hotspots amongst Kochi tourist places. The Synagogue has Scrolls of the law, several gold crowns received as gifts, a brass-railed pulpit, Belgian glass chandelier, hand-knotted Oriental rug and many more precious artefacts are on display at this place for visitors to have a sneak peek at the history of Kochi.

Visitors are expected to enter barefoot into the premises. A narrow street between the Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace is Jew town, a den for antique lovers. Little fractions of history crafted in metal and wood waiting to be owned by a curious tourist.

Location: Synagogue, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi.

Timings: 10.00 am to 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm 5.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fee: None.

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Marine drive is a quaint destination amongst the many Cochin tourist places the Kerala takes pride in. Exclusively built facing the backwaters, it offers a charming and a picturesque image especially during the evening hours attracting the locals and tourists alike.

Along with the Rainbow bridge, which is a major draw for tourists, the Marine drive is lined with Shopping malls, fast food joints and other important landmark buildings of Kochi. Be ready to be allured by the gentle breeze while enjoying a walk down the promenade enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Location: Ernakulam, Kochi.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset.

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This Portuguese palace, also known as the Dutch Palace is one of the prime places to visit in Kochi due to its historic relevance. This quadrangular palace built in typical Kerala Nalukettu style has a courtyard in the centre where is seated Pazhayannur Bhagavati' the goddess of the Kochi royal family.

The flooring of the palace is a sight to behold, because it looks like polished black marble, but has been made the traditional Kerala way using burnt coconut shells, lime, charcoal, egg white etc giving a lasting finish. The reputation of the Palace is in the various murals painted in warm and rich colours the tempura style.

Location: Mattancherry, Kochi.

Timings: Sunday to Friday 9.45 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.45 pm, Saturday closed.

Entry Fees: Rs. 2.00/- per adult and free entry for children below 15 years.

Apart from being a very popular holy place for Christians, St. Francis Church, Ernakulam holds high historic relevance, as this is the place where the famous explorer Vasco da Gama was buried. Built by the Portuguese in a regal style with Dutch and Portuguese influences, it is an architectural marvel.

Visitors remain awestruck at the sight of the gabled timber-framed roof, the confession box, the baptism platform and the pulpit. It narrates many tales of the old world and their way of spiritual life.

Location: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi.

Timings: Monday to Saturday 7.00 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday – 8.30 am to 6.30 pm.

Entry Fees: None

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This is considered to be one of the 8 Basilicas in Kerala. It is also considered to be one of the most visited Kochi tourist places as it is counted as one of the heritage edifices of Kerala constructed in gothic style with architectural grandeur. Built by the Portuguese, it was elevated by The Pope as a cathedral along with the erection of a diocese in India. 

The main altar of the Church has been painted by the famous Italian Painter, Fr. Antonio Moscheni S.J. Beautiful stained glass painting enhances the beauty of the painting of the Last Supper. The exterior of the church is whitewashed in white with two lofty spires adorning the façade.

Location: Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi.

Timings: Monday - Saturday 7.00 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday 8.00 am to 6.30 pm.

Entry Fees: None

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While making a bucket list of places to visit in Kochi, Bolgatty Palace and Island resort is a must. This unique mansion with four palatial rooms was built by the Dutch in 1744 and is one of it’s kind outside Holland. The palace has been now converted to a luxury stay for travellers pampering them to ultimate comfort and grandeur.

Popularly known as the Honeymooner’s paradise, Bolgatty palace has earned a name for itself due to its extravagant location across the Island surrounded by a canopy of greens and a breathtaking view of the landscape. The resort has an event centre to house weddings, meetings and other ceremonies accommodating a large number of guests.

Location: NH966A, Mulavukad, Kochi.

Timings: All day.

Entry Fees: None.

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The largest artificial island of India named after the Viceroy of India, Lord Willingdon, is a part of Kochi formed by filling in dredged soil around an already existing tiny island. The island takes pride in housing several landmark offices, especially of the Navy, Customs, Port Trust and Fisheries departments.

This island links Kochi to major seaports internationally and thus is a well-known destination for commercial and financial establishments. A stay at any of the luxury resorts or hotels on the island provides an unhindered view of the Arabian Sea and its charming beauty.

Location: 3 km from Ernakulam Railway station.

Timings: All day.

Entry Fees: None.

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A small fishing hamlet later converted to the first European township in India, today features amongst tourist places in Kochi due to the vibrancy of this place. The temperature is more or less pleasant round the year except for summer making it ideal to explore the place in a motorcycle to navigate the deepest history and beauty of this place.   

The Fort Kochi beach looks divine during sunset offering various hues of vermilion and scarlet let. The old houses of this place have been built by British traders, thus the Dutch cottages, split farms all reminisce of an era bygone. Fort Kochi can easily be planned for two days to delve deep into the place with numerous options for stay suiting every pocket.

Location: Ernakulam, Kochi.

Timings: All day.

Entry Fees: Places to Visit in Fort Kochi

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This is the most visited and highly revered Hindu temple down south. The temple is believed to be 1500 years old where the goddess Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and the Keezhu Kaavu Bhadrakali Amman are worshipped as healing goddesses. A continuous practice of worshipping the deities in this temple is believed to cure life-threatening diseases.

The temple premises houses a Pala tree which is pierced with thousands of nails, the reason being patrons who are cured of mental maladies drive a nail across the tree. Men are required to open their shirts before they enter the premises, while women are requested to be dressed in Indian attire to offer reverence.

Location: Chottanikkara, Ernakulam ( 20 km from Ernakulam )

Timings: 4.00 am to 8.45 pm every day.

Entry Fees: None

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This museum was established by the Late Bishop of Kochi, Dr Joseph Kureethra to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Portuguese in India. The Altar, treasure, procession, Civil Life and Cathedral are the five main sections of the museum exhibiting various artefacts and objects of that period.

The contributions of this collection have arrived from various churches across Kerala. You may opt for a guided tour of the museum for a better understanding of history.

Location: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm every day, Monday closed.

Entry Fees: Rs.5/- for children, 10/- adult (for Indians) and Rs.25/- for foreign tourists.

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Built in 1912, this popular temple in Kochi is dedicated to Lord Murugan also referred to as the South Pazhani. The idol was installed by Sree Narayana Guru and is the only temple in Asia that is a Chaturmukha Kovil, which means four side doors.

The Lord Subramanyah faces east, while Lord Ganapati faces south, Lord Shiva faces west and Goddess Parvati faces north. Four daily pujas are conducted every day to the deities, Usha Pooja, Pantheeradi Pooja, Uchcha Pooja and Azatha Pooja where panchamrutam and Pushpanjali are offered.

Location: Sree Gowreeswara Temple, Cherai, Vypin.

Timings: 5.00 am to 11.30 am and 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm every day.

Entry Fees: None

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Malayattoor holds a special relevance amongst all tourist places in Kochi as it is a meeting point for land, river and mountain. The Malayattoor Hill has the famous Malayattoor Church dedicated to St. Thomas, who as per belief had prayed at this shrine. This important holy place for Christians in Kochi draws a lot of pilgrims through the southern part of the country around the year.

The Church houses a life-size statue of the Saint and the imprint of the feet of the Apostle on a rock. This site has been conferred as an international pilgrim centre for Christians worldwide. The annual feast is organised on the first Sunday of Easter every year.

Location: 47 km from Kochi in Ernakulam district.

Timing: Monday to Saturday, 6.00 am and 5.15 pm and Sundays - 6.00 am, 7.30 am and 9.30 am.

Entry Fees: None

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This beach drawing several tourists is located in a coastal village, located 4km from Pattanakkad. The tall lighthouse in white and red grabs attention as it helps navigate the seamen at night. The Andhakaranazhi Beach happens to be a site for frequent shooting of Malayalam films, thus drawing more attention from the locals.

Though seriously affected by the Tsunami in 2004, a brand new bridge and an aerial walkway have been constructed to the sea wall for a magnificent view of a dramatic sunset to cherish for a lifetime.

Location: 4 km west of Pattanakkad under Cherthala Taluk.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset.

Entry Fee: None.

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Chinese fishing nets, also known as Cheena wala are seen quite frequently in Kochi. These are stationary lift nets fixed at a particular place operated from the shore using mechanical contrivances to fishing nets almost 20m across.

This unique way of fishing was introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th century extending its relevance to “Ko-chi”, meaning China like. Sunsets across the backwaters, rivers or sea offer a panoramic splendour of the skyline with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the backdrop.

Location: Across water bodies of Kochi.

Timings: All day.

Entry Fees: None.

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Kerala is gifted with nature’s bounty and the magnificent animal which is found in large numbers in this part of the country is the elephant. As per Hindu culture, elephants are considered to be very auspicious and are worshipped in many temples all over.

The Abhayarnyam mini zoo and shelter for orphaned wild animals are a part of ecotourism, an initiative raised by the Kerala Government making it a places to visit in Kochi as this is the venue where you would find several pachyderms living peacefully in harmony with nature.

The mammoth animals are trained to carry heavy logs from the jungle and other tedious jobs. It also houses a deer park where you may find Sambar deers and spotted deers grazing to glory.

Location: Near post Office, Kodanad, Dist. Eranakulam, Kaprikad.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 8.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday closed.

Entry Fees: Free.

One of the oldest art and history museum of Kerala is in Kochi founded by philanthropist and entrepreneur Mr Madhavan Nayar. The museum is divided into three sections, the doll museum, museum of Kerala history and gallery of modern art.

The statue of Parasurama has been strategically placed outside the hall to pay reverence to the saint who is believed to have brought forth the land of Kerala from the mighty ocean. The doll museum is adorned with 150 plus dolls from various ethnic groups of India showcasing the cultural diversity of the nation.

The modern art gallery boasts of more than 230 paintings done by eminent artists like Raja Ravi Verma, M.F.Hussain, Ram Kinker Baij and several other painters of international acclaim.

Location: Salem - Kochi Hwy, Near Hotel Seagate, Koonamthai, Edappally, Ernakulam.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday closed.

Entry Fees: Rs. 50/- per adult and Rs. 20/- per child.

The largest archaeological museum which features in the list of tourist places in Kochi used to be the residence of the Maharaja of Cochin built in traditional Kerala style with lavish façade. The complex houses 49 buildings spread across 54 acres of land which now comprises of an archaeological museum, deer park, Medicinal plant garden, pre-historic park and a children’s park.

The museum showcases ornaments, weapons, manuscripts and other belongings of the royal family with a few exhibits from the Paliam Devaswom.

Location: Hill Palace Rd, Irumpanam, Thrippunithura, Ernakulam, Kochi.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and 2.00 am to 4.30 pm, Monday closed.

Entry Fees: Rs 10/- per adult and Rs 5/- per child.

The museum is dedicated to Folk art, Tribal art, Traditional art, Anthropology, Architecture, History, Culture, and Heritage of South India. The museum is promoted by Mrs. & Mr George Thaliath and aims to preserve, the culture, heritage and folk art education of Kerala.

It is a storehouse of lost pride of the southern part of India which consists of some rare artefacts like Sri Guruvayurappan, watercolour on paper, Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswathi marriage, oil on canvas, Kindi, a type of a pitcher usually found in old houses and many other precious treasures.

62 artists worked on wood for almost 8 years burning the midnight oil to create this temple for artisans. A must places to visit in Kochi for tourists, students, researchers and also for anthropological studies.

Location: Near 2059C No 26 Pandit Karuppan Road, Thevara Ferry Road, Junction, Kochi.

Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fees: Rs. 50/- for students and Rs. 100/- for adults.

This ecologically sensitive area at the heart of Kochi is spread amidst 2.74 hectares of land. It has a shallow tidal lake connected to Kochi through a canal. It is popular for the many migratory birds that flock this place during the migratory season and also supporting the mangrove forests of this area.

It is thus considered to be the green lungs of Kerala thereby keeping the pollution of the city at bay. The rich flora and fauna of the Mangalavanam Bird sanctuary are of interest to many nature enthusiasts and environmentalist alike. A whopping 72 different species of birds have been located in this area alone adding to the biodiversity of this place.

Location: High Ct Rd, Ayyappankavu, Kochi.

Timings: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fees: None.

Veeranpuzha is one of the places to visit in Kochi, situated in the northern extension of Vembanad lake and is an extremely alluring lake along with a series of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Malabar coast. Popularly known as the Vembanad lake, it is surrounded by lush green paddy fields swaying to the gentle breeze offering a mystic beauty of the place.

The area is also a confluence of modern life amalgamating with life at the backwaters. Angling is a famous weekend activity enjoyed by the locals and is famous for cultivating Pokkali rice, a speciality of Kerala.

Location: Vembanad Lake, Kochi.

Timings: All day.

Entry Fees: None.

Locate at the heart of Ernakulam, this ancient Shiva temple is also known as the Ernakulathappan Temple and is one of the major temples of Kerala for it’s devout Shiva worshippers. Considered to be one of the 7 royal temples of the Maharaja of Kochi it is located on the Durbar hall ground. The deity, Lord Shiva is present here in Gowrishankara form and faces west towards the Arabian Sea.

Located in 1 acre of holy land the original lingam worshipped by Arjuna of the Mahabharat fame is still preserved within the temple premises. The grand annual festival is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Makaram along with other festivals and occasions.

Location: Durbar Hall Rd, Marine Drive, Ernakulam.

Timings: 3.30 am to 8.00 pm every day.

Entry Fees: Free.

At a height of 80m, this is the largest waterfall of Kerala and is often regarded as the“ Niagra of India”. The Athirapally Falls is a charming cascade of frothy waters emerging from the Anamudi mountains of the western ghats.

The Athirapally gushes across the lush green forest of Vazhachal towards the Arabian sea creating an exquisite panoramic spectacle. On the way to Athirapally, one may also visit the theme parks Dreamworld and Silver storm and decide to stay over at the many resorts strategically located amidst the greenery.

Location: Athirappilly, Chalakudy Taluk, Thrissur.

Timings: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fees: Rs. 15/- per person.

Out of the several beaches in Cochin, the tourist place which is popular among visitors is the Veeranpuzha beach due to its distinct golden sand and aquamarine water. The beach is lined with foliage and vegetation which is a contrast on a hot and sandy beach. Spending a few idle hours at the beach will unleash a close view of the fishermen folk busy by the shore either fishing, managing their fresh catches or planning for the next catch. 

Be ready to grab your camera to capture some picture postcard moments during the picturesque and dramatic sunset.The gorgeous sunset view with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the backdrop is the prime reason for visitors to throng this place in numbers.

Location: Kochi.

Timings: Sunrise to sunset.

Entry Fee: None.

This is a little waterfall worth a visit during the monsoons as the fall is in its glory with white cascading water gushing from atop. The area is surrounded by thick foliage and dense rubber plantation offering as a decent picnic spot among the locals.

Adventure seekers and bikers frequent this scenic place for their sheer love for nature and some long drive on their bike in the outskirts. It is recommended to pack food in case one plans to stay for long, as there are hardly any eateries, however, one may mind occasional toddy shops selling the local beverage with pride.

Location: Piramadam-Vettimood Road, Kochi.

Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm everyday.

Entry Fees: Rs 10/- per visitor.

Vypeen is one of the many tiny islands that form the city and is considered one of the most gorgeous tourist places in Kochi. Sprawling over an area of 25 kms, it is one of the most densely populated and fast-growing places in Kochi. Reaching the island itself is a mesmerizing journey involving a series of bridges called Goshree bridges that provide a stunning view against the clear blue waters.

Once you reach the island, there are numerous tourist destinations to enjoy – the Portuguese Azhikotta fort, which is one of the oldest European Forts in India and the lighthouse at Ochanthuruthu in Vypeen that offers bewitching views of the sea from the top. While you are here, book your stay at the gorgeous Bungalow Heritage homestay and experience excellent hospitality and thoughtful amenities.

Location: Fort Kochi bus stand.

Timings: The first boat to the island leaves at 6 am and the last returns at 9 pm.

Entry Fees: None.

Built by the Portuguese in 1503 the Pallipuram fort has gracefully evolved to be a very popular tourist place in Kochi today. This preserves the roots of the ancient European culture, their antiques and is considered to be one of the oldest lasting European masterpieces in India.

The monument has an hexagonal outpost made out of wood laterite and mortar. The open space inside the fort is assumed to secure passage to the basement. The fine architectural marvels of the fort never fails to astonish the tourists. This fort boasts a rich tradition and heritage.Unlike other forts, this is very well maintained by the Archeological department.

Location-Near Munambam police station, palliport, pallipuram, Kochi, Kerala 683515
Timing- 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: None