Cochin (Kochi)
Country: India · Region: South Asia · Currency: Indian Rupee
Kochi is Kerala's financial and commercial capital with a bustling port, cosmopolitan culture influenced by centuries of trading history, and colonial charm. The cruise port at Willingdon Island provides access to a city of 2.1 million with unique districts and historical significance as the gateway to colonial India.
Top sights
Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, Fort Cochin colonial architecture, Mattancherry spice trading district, Bolgatty Island, Willingdon Island, Thripunithura
Things to do
- Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi
- An iconic symbol of the city located at Fort Kochi.
- Fort Cochin
- Colonial quarter with Portuguese influence and western-style architecture.
- Mattancherry
- Historic spice trading district where Gujaratis settled in the 15th century.
- Bolgatty Island
- Former capital of British Ernakulam with colonial heritage.
Where to eat
- Airport international terminal restaurants
- Reasonably priced international cuisine available in the terminal.
- Ernakulam Junction food court
- Good food court with dining options at the railway station.
Bars and nightlife
- International terminal terrace garden lounge bar
- Bar with lounge seating in the airport's international terminal.
Getting around
Kochi has an excellent public bus network; taxis and auto-rickshaws are available but traffic is heavy during peak hours (8-10AM, 1:30-2:30PM, 5:30-7PM), so plan three to four sights per day.
What to eat
Kochi has international cuisine restaurants at the airport and throughout the city, reflecting its cosmopolitan culture with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, Arab, and Chinese cuisines.
Tips
Allow extra time for traffic congestion and use landmarks rather than house numbers when communicating directions to taxi drivers, as Kochi lacks a standard addressing system.
Best for
Colonial history, spice trading heritage