Top 8 Things To Do In Kochi For A Mesmerizing Vacation In This Port City

A nestling ground of many foreign powers like Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese and Arab, Kochi has a glorious past which is reflected in its monuments, museums and other architectural wonders. Not just this but Kochi is also home to several surreal beaches and gardens, offering an enchanting ambience to everyone. There are so many amazing things to do in Kochi that will make your travel experience a memorable one. From admiring a classical dance performance to spending blissful time at the Marine Drive, Kochi will definitely give you memories for a lifetime. Check out this blog to know about the best things to do in Kochi.

Top 8 Things To Do In Kochi For A Holiday Vacation Like Never Before

With so many things to do in Kochi, travelers often get confused from where to start. We have sorted this list of top 8 things to do here for a delightful experience.

1. Spend Some Peaceful Time At Marine Drive

Just like Mumbai’s Marine Drive, the Marine Drive at Kochi is equally enchanting and stunning. It is visited by both travelers and locals alike early in the morning or during evening where they come for jogging, walking and to spend some leisure time. The beach area is accessible any time of the day and offers mesmerizing views of the Kochi harbor. This place is very tranquil and great for relaxation of mind, body and senses. One of the best things to do in Marine Drive, Kochi is to go for a jetty ride and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The beach is also dotted with several cafes and restaurants where a hearty meal or a hot coffee can be enjoyed with views of the harbor. It is also a great place for couples to enjoy some private time amidst serenity.

Location: Stretches from Jankar Jetty in the north to Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south

Timings: 24 Hours

Famous for: Amazing views, boat rides, strolling through the beach

2. Witness A Traditional Kathakali Dance Performance

One of the best things to do in Kochi is definitely witnessing a traditional Kathakali dance performance performed by the local dance artists here. One of the nine classical dance forms of India, Kathakali dance is known for its bright traditional attires, heavy makeup and magical steps. The themes of this dance form are inspired from various mythological stories or Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. Travelers who travel to Kochi shouldn’t miss out on this dance performance to witness the true magic of Indian cultures and traditions.

Location: Kathakali Center, KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Timings: 09:30 am to 10:00 pm

Famous for: Traditional dance form performed by several artists

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3. Take A Relaxing Ayurvedic Massage Session

Take a relaxing ayurvedic massage session at any of the ayurvedic centers in Kochi. Kerala is known for its healing ayurvedic treatments which are soothing to mind, body and soul. Various plants and herbs grown in Kerala are known to have healing properties which are used for these treatments to cure many diseases. Self-pampering amidst nature is one of the best activities in Kochi which will not only give you relaxation but will also heal you from several things. From manicures, pedicures to body massage and body scrubs, there are several treatments which are offered at various spa centers and ayurvedic massage centers here.

Location: Veda Wellness Ayurveda Spa & Yoga Centre, Ayurveda Sanctum, and Ayurville

Timings: Depends on center to center

Famous for: Ayurvedic treatments and spa massages

Suggested Read: Stunning Places To Visit In India To Rejuvenate Your Senses

4. Stroll Through The Jew Town

One of the best places to visit in Kochi is Jew Town which is a heaven for shopaholics and people who love antiques. It is a street which is brimming with antique shops selling unique pieces from Arab countries, European countries and also from India. The street also houses several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy and have meals that will delight your taste buds. Big Vaarpu is one of the best antique things to buy from here apart from spices. Also, you can try your luck at bargaining here and get some really cool stuff at prices quoted by you. On the Jew Town Road, you will also find Ginger House Museum Hotel which is known for its ideal location, offering stunning vistas and also for serving rich delicacies like ginger lassi, ginger prawns and several other things.

Location: Mattancherry in Fort Kochi

Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm

Famous for: Antique shops, cafes and restaurants

5. Have Fun With Elephants At Elephant Center

In a small and quaint village in Kochi named Kodanad, there is a small elephant sanctuary where you can play and have fun with these mighty creatures. Coming here is one of the most fun things to do in Kochi as the place has positive ambience. Elephants are considered auspicious creature in Kerala and none of the important festivals here are celebrated without worshipping elephants. Elephants in Kerala are worshipped, groomed, respected and well taken care of as they form an integral part of Kerala’s culture and traditions. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is one of the largest training centers in Kerala which is nestled on the banks of Periyar River. You can even give bath to elephants here under experts' supervision, can feed them and enjoy some playful time.

Location: Abhayaranyam, Kaprikkad

Timings: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm

Famous for: Having fun with elephants, bathing and feeding them

Suggested Read: Festivals In India That Strengthen The Cultural & Religious Bond Of The Country

6. Enjoy A Scenic Ride On A Ferry

Taking a ferry ride is one of the best adventure activities in Kochi where you will find yourself in the middle of water, away from the hustle-bustle of daily life. Explore several beautiful islands here which are also the best islands in Kerala while on a ferry ride which will take you to different islands here that houses stunning sandy shores and offers mesmerizing views. Marvel at the stunning vistas on your way through this ferry ride and feel the fresh sea breeze touching your face. Wellingdon, Vypeen and Bolghatty Island are some of the islands that you will come across during this ferry ride.

Famous for: Adventures, Scenic views, mesmerizing islands and beaches

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7. Indulge In Water Sports At Beaches In Kochi

There are so many enchanting beaches in Kochi which have a scenic coastline and offers opportunities to indulge in exhilarating adventures. Dolphin watching, paragliding, snorkeling, jet skiing are some of the water sports to enjoy at the scenic beaches in Kochi. If you are looking for adventure activities in Kochi then you can come here to enjoy water activities, stroll through the sandy shores or just to click some Instagram-worthy photos as the beauty of these beach is enchanting and picturesque.

Location: Puthuvype Beach, Cherai Beach, Fort Kochi Beach, Kuzhupilly Beach, Munambam Beach, Puthenthode Beach, Andhakaranazhi Beach

Timings: 24 Hours

Famous for: Dolphin watching, paragliding, snorkeling, jet skiing

Suggested Read: Beaches In India: Recreate The Wildness With Sand Water And Foam

8. Take A Tour Of Historic Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is one of the most visited attractions in Kochi which is known for its rich history. This place will take you back to ages when Britishers used to rule the country and Kochi was a trading ground for their activities. Walking through the streets near Fort Kochi, you will come across several other places like Thakur House, Dutch Cemetry, St. Francis Church, David Hall, Vasco-da-Gama Square, Koder House, Pierce Leslie Bungalow and several other places that define the true Portuguese architecture and tell tales from the past. Visiting this part of the city is definitely one of the top things to do in Kochi.

Location: Kochi, Kerala

Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

Famous for: Portugues architecture, rich history

Kochi is one of the best places to visit in Kerala if you are someone who gets enchanted by scenic beauty, rich traditions and history. You will find here both historical and natural places which are a must visit. From admiring fishing nets to visiting the historical places, enjoying water sports on the beaches to walking through the Marine Drive, there are so many amazing things to do in Kochi. So, the next time you book your flights to Kochi, do not forget to indulge in these activities for a fun-filled vacation.

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