Best Places to Visit in Kochi for a Memorable Vacation

Kochi or Cochin is a land blessed with the immense beauty of nature. Listed among the top cities in India, Kochi offers a surreal experience to every traveler. Located in Kerala, amidst the beauty of backwaters and beaches, Kochi is an ideal destination for witnessing the captivating panorama of nature. The best places to visit in Kochi include every iconic landmark, right from tea fields and spice farms toco areas and historical attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or avid traveler, Kochi should be on your must-visit list. To make your trip easier, we’ve compiled a list of the 22 best tourist attractions in Kochi that are definitely worth exploring. Take a look!

These 22 Places to Visit in Kochi Will Leave You Mesmerized

Kochi is popular for its diverse beauty and spectacular skyline. From pristine beaches to old churches and iconic museums, the city has a lot to offer to every traveler. The best time to visit Kochi is between October and March, when the weather is perfect for exploring the city’s attractions. Read on to discover the famous places to visit in Kochi that should be on your bucket list.

• Fort Kochi
• Willingdon Island
• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
• Cherai Beach
• Kalady/Kaladi
• St. Francis Church Kochi
• Areekkal Waterfalls
• Indo-Portuguese Museum
• Mattancherry Palace
• Bolgatty Island
• Ginger House Museum Hotel  
• Paradesi Synagogue
• Kerala Folklore Museum
• Wonderla Amusement Park
• Veeranpuzha Lake
• Vypeen Island
• Kodanad Elephant Training Centre
• Marine Drive
• Cherai Gowreeshwara Temple
• Hill Palace Museum
• Ernakulam Shiva Temple
• Andhakaranazhi Beach

1. Fort Kochi

The colonial beauty and heritage can be experienced at Fort Kochi, an old town that lies towards the south-western part of Kochi. Even after all the development and transformation, the region remnants the era of Britishers and preserves the remains of Dutch art. The entire region  showcases Dutch, British and Portuguese architecture highlighting it among Kochi sightseeing.

Every year, the town experiences a horde of travelers during the holiday season when tourists across the globe gather to witness the panorama around. The Fort Kochi beach and Chinese fishing nets are two of its major attractions that you can add to your day sightseeing tour. Stroll around and spend the evening to capture the spectacular sight of sunset at Fort Kochi, one of the best places to visit in Kochi.

Location: South-Western Kochi, Kerala

Places to visit in Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi Beach, Chinese Fishing Nets, Kerala Kathakali Center, Santa Cruz Basilica

Famous for: Beach and Portuguese architecture

Nearby Hotels: Dutch Bungalow - The Heritage Hotel, Solo In, Crowne Plaza Kochi, Saj Earth Resort, Hotel Airlink Castle

2. Willingdon Island

One of the biggest man-made islands in India, Willingdon Island is among the top Kochi tourist places where you plan a leisure holiday. Named after the former Viceroy Lord Willington, the island is home to Port of Kochi, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology and Kochi Naval Base of the Indian Army. The best part is you can find some of the best beach resorts and hotels in India to spend a luxury holiday in this serene city of Kerala.

Explore every nook and corner of the island to admire its spectacular architecture and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. If you are planning to discover places to visit in Kochi in 1 day, make sure to put this stunning attraction at the top of your list. Here, you can even enjoy a ferry ride, and other water activities with your friends and family.

Location: Kazhuthumuttu, Thoppumpady, Kochi, Kerala

Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, Daily

Famous for: Beaches, Water Adventures, Sightseeing, Photography

Nearby Hotels: Casino Hotel, Trident Cochin, Taj Malabar Resort and Spa Cochin

Suggested Read: Islands In Kerala Calling You To Witness Enchanting Beauty Of Nature

3. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

A paradise for bird lovers, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is nestled in the middle of Kochi. Spreading to an area of 2.74 hectares, the sanctuary is enclosed by the Arabian Sea and beaches. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is one of the best places to see in Kochi for photography and nature lovers.

You can spot migratory birds and other native species that dwell in the natural habitat. The tidal lake, surrounded by the thick mangrove forests attracts the exotic birds of 32 different species.

The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a protected area and a breeding ground for many rare bird species. Free nature camps are often organized by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department for tourists to explore the wildlife prevailing in this Kochi tourist place. The ideal time to visit the sanctuary is mid-January to early March, making it one of the best places to visit in Kochi in March.

Location: Mathai Manjooran Rd, Ayyappankavu, Ernakulam, Kerala 682018

Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Daily

Entry Fee: Free

Famous for: Birdwatching, Various Species of Flora and Fauna

Nearby Hotels: The Senate Hotel, Emerald Inn, Hotel Garden Inn, Hotel Prayana, Treebo Trend Petals Suites

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4. Cherai Beach

The enthralling coastline of Kerala makes it a perfect honeymoon destination in Asia and Cherai Beach is among the most romantic attractions to explore in Kochi. Lying towards the outskirts of the city, it is the most spectacular places to visit in Kochi, dotted with splendid scenery and lush beauty of coconut plantation.

Located in the Vypin Island of Kerala, this golden sand beach is a merging point of backwaters and the sea. One of the best places to visit in Kochi for couples, Cherai Beach is mostly less crowded and is ideal to spend leisure evenings. Spreading to an area of 10 kilometers, this is the longest and the cleanest beach in Kerala, where there are many activities to enjoy. The dolphin show is something that you cannot miss while spending quality time at this scenic tourist attraction in Kochi. There are cafes that serve the best seafood to the visitors.

Location: Kochi, Kerala

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm, Daily

Entry Fee: Free

Famous for: Scenery, Sunset view, Sea food

Nearby Hotels: Cherai Beach View Heritage| Sea Pride, Sapphire Club Cherai Beach Villa, Sealagoon Health Resort, Cherai Beach Resorts, Renai Blue Waters Cherai Resort

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5. Kalady/Kaladi

Kalady or Kaladi, one of the spiritual places to visit in India, is a land of knowledge and culture. The birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya, Kalady is among the top tourist places in Kochi for sightseeing, where you can witness the presence of history, religion, and heritage. There are shrines and temples that attract devotees across the globe to admire the spirituality, making it one of the best places to visit in Kochi with family.

The Manickamangalam Temple, Sri Adi Sankara Keerthi Sthamba Mandapam and Chittoor Sri Krishna Swamy Temple are some of the famous Hindu temples in Kochi.

The ghats and rivers flowing along the city make it a place to seek solitude and attain peace. You can plan a visit to Kalady or Kaladi in April or May when five days of Sankrant festival is celebrated at the most blissful and spiritual places you can visit for a one-day trip from Kochi.

Location: Ernakulam, Kerala

Famous for: Ghats and Temples

Popular Hotels in Kalady: Townhouse Kalady Near Airport, Comfort Tourist Home, Luxury Budget Homestay Villa Kochi Airport, Sara Hotels and Apartments, Bluebell Airport Hotel

6. St. Francis Church Kochi

The spectacular architecture of St. Francis Church is a wonder to admire. The oldest church in India, St. Francis Church exhibits the excellence of Portuguese architecture making it one of the fascinating attractions in Asia. The channel roof, the pinnacle, the baptism floor, the confessional stage, and the book rests are some of its features that defined how elegantly the church is built, keeping the culture and grandeur alive.

One of the best places to visit in Kochi, your holiday can never be complete if you miss out on a visit to this old church. It was constructed in 1503 by the Portuguese traders and was then named Santo Antonio. In 1949, the church officially came under the Church of South India, and today, it is famous for the traditionality and charisma. The timber-framed roof and beautifully decorated walls make it count among the top places to visit in Kochi.

Location:  Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala

Timings:

• Monday to Saturday: 7 am to 6.30 pm
• Sunday: 08:30 am to 06:30 pm

Famous for: Architecture and Religious values

Nearby Hotels: Treebo Grand Canyon By D2V, Hotel Fort Queen, Hotel Bright Heritage- Fort Kochi, Hotel White Rose, Roses Inn

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7. Areekkal Waterfalls

With the natural beauty of cascading waters and the lush panorama around, Areekkal Waterfalls can be listed among the top places to visit in Kerala. The clean and enthralling landscape around enhances the beauty of this waterfall that is perched in between the green woodlands. Located close to the main road, Areekkal Waterfalls is easily accessible from any corner of Kochi.  

Areekkal Waterfalls is a serene natural wonder, perfect for a peaceful escape, making it one of the top places to visit in Kochi in 2 days. There are no cafes or any other facility provided near the falls so make sure you are all prepared with every item of utility. Surrounded by the refreshing beauty of nature, it's without a doubt among the many places to visit in Kochi for couples.

Location: Piramadam-Vettimood Road, Muvattupuzha, Kochi, Kerala

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm, Daily

Entry Fee: INR 20 per person

Famous for: Natural Beauty

Nearby Hotels: Wetzlar Resorts and Hotels, Paray’s Residency, Hotel Green Palace, Hotel Saj International, Hotel Kabani Palace

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8. Indo-Portuguese Museum

The Indo-Portuguese Museum, with the vast collection of artifacts from different churches, is one of the top 10 places to visit in Kochi..  This museum is a heritage of the Catholic community in India, housing vestments, altarpieces, and collection from different eras. The museum also showcases the Portuguese cultural influence in Kerala, featuring artifacts like a 16th-century teak altar, heritage pieces from the Bishop's House and a silver processional cross.

Offering a deep knowledge about the culture and art of Kerala along with entertainment, the museum is surely an attraction where you can spend a day admiring every detail.

Location: Beach Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Timings:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm, 02:00 pm to 06:00 pm
• Closed on Monday

Entry Fee:

• Indian adults: INR 10
• Indian children: INR 5
• Foreigners: INR 25

Nearby Hotels: Mãi House Heritage Hotel, Roses Inn, Fragrant Nature Kochi, Hotel Park  Avenue, Hotel Mango Tree Inn

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9. Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace, also known as Dutch Palace is one of the most impressive tourist places in Cochin. With its magnificent architecture and style, the palace has set an example of colonial influences in the state. The Palace was built by a Portuguese in 1545 C.E. as an honor of present for King Veera Kerala Verma of Kochi dynasty. The Dutch later did many renovations and repair work at the Mattancherry Palace.

Talking about the architectural design, the palace rightly resembles the traditional art and style of Kerala. You can find a similarity in the structure of the traditional Kerala house and the Palace. The courtyard has a temple dedicated to Goddess Pazayannur Bhagavathy. Other temples inside the Mattancherry Palace are dedicated to Lord Krishna and Shiva. If you're planning a trip, this is certainly one of the places to visit in Kochi in 3 days. You can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and architecture while exploring many other attractions around the city.

The palace has a number of paintings and frescos that are nothing lesser than the best tourist attractions in Cochin.

Location: Palace Road, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

Timings:

• Monday to Thursday, Sunday – 9:45 am to 01:00 pm, 02:00 pm to 04:45 pm
• Closed on Friday and Saturday

Entry Fee:

• Adults - INR 2 per person
• No entry fee for children below 15 years

Famous for:

• Architecture
• Dutch Art
• Paintings and Traditional art

Nearby Hotels: Hotel White Rose, Treebo Grand Canyon By D2V, Fragrant Nature Kochi, Bloom Boutique | Waterfront Fort Kochi, Hotel Fort Queen

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10. Bolgatty Island

Located near Fort Kochi, Bolgatty Island is a hotspot for tourists to relax. Well, this is not just an island, but an island resort where you can enjoy a luxury staycation. A Dutch trader built the Bolgatty Palace in 1744 that today is among the best tourist places in Cochin. The island palace is now transformed into a resort with spacious four Palatial rooms and every amenity they need for a royal stay. There is a Marina block, Palace rooms, and a 9-hole golf course for the guests to enjoy their utmost luxury.

Around the resort, there is a serene view, a beach with some giant umbrellas tucked to relax under the shade. This exotic destination in Kerala is a perfect place for honeymooners to enjoy a romantic holiday.

Adding to its popularity, the Marina of Bolgatty island is one of the biggest to hold 34 yachts. The resort has space for hosting the conference and there are many international conventions and exhibitions organized.

Location: Bolgatty Island,  Mulavukadu, Kochi - 682504, Kerala

Contact Number: +91-9400008578, +91-484-2750500

Entry Fee: Free

Famous for:

• Luxury holiday
• Marina Block
• Archiecture
• Nature

Nearby Hotels: Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Bloom Boutique | Waterfront Fort Kochi

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11. Ginger House Museum Hotel

A heritage hotel, Ginger House Museum Hotel is located in the most beautiful city of Kerala. What makes the heritage hotel, one of the best tourist attractions in Kochi, is its fascinating indigenous architecture, art collection, paintings of churches, temples, and the traditional touch of art. Staying in this spectacular property means closely witnessing the beauty of culture and customs followed in God’s Own Land.

There are art rooms where one can discover a vast collection of sculptures, antiques, and a big snake boat canoe that is 120 years old. The 108 feet long-snake boat in the lobby of the Ginger House Museum Hotel resembles the shape of a long-hooded snake. These snakes' boats are an integral part of Kerala's culture. There is a boat race organized for years where hundreds of oarsmen row each snake boat to compete. Kerala boat race is one of the best things to see in Kochi in August.

Choose to stay in one of the 8 well-designed room categories, including Royal Suite, Deluxe, and Sea View room. Every accommodation unit features a luxury amenity to make it a pleasurable stay in Kochi.

Location: Heritage Arts, Jew Town Road, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

Timings:

• Check-in: 2 PM
• Check-out: 11 AM

Famous for:

• Luxury Stay
• Antique Collection
• Heritage tour

Nearby Hotels: Dutch Manor, Spice Heritage, Forte Kochi, Hotel Fort Queen, Casino Hotel, CGH Earth

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12. Paradesi Synagogue

The oldest Synagogue - Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi was built in 1568. Today it is one of the famous places to visit in Kochi that stands as the only synagogue in India where the community worships. It was originally built as a traditional house of worship for the Jews or the community of Sephardic Jews who were exiled from Spain and Portugal.

This synagogue in India preserves a collection of antiques and handicrafts like the carved teak wood ark, oriental carpet that is handwoven, Scrolls of Torah, old copper plates, and the precious gold and silver crowns. The major attraction of the synagogue is Scrolls of Torah - the first five books of the Old Testament.

Not just the rare collection, it is the architecture too that has made Paradesi Synagogue, one pf the popular tourist attractions in Kochi. The four-clock tower, inspired by the Dutch style of architecture feature a unique numbering style in Hebrew, Roman, Malayalam, and Arabic. The best time to explore this iconic site is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is particularly pleasant. If you're planning your trip during this time, the synagogue is definitely one of the top places to visit in Kochi in November, offering a unique cultural experience.

Location: Synagogue, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

Timings:

• Sunday to Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
• Friday: 10 am to 2 pm
• Closed on Saturday

Entry Fee: Free

Famous for:

• Clock towers
• Antique collection
• Jewish Paintings

Nearby Hotels: Ginger House Museum Hotel, Daffodils Spice, Palm Rivera Kochi, Spice Heritage, The Postcard Mandalay Hall, Kochi

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13. Kerala Folklore Museum

The Kerala Folklore Museum is a captivating cultural landmark in Kochi, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the rich and diverse folklore of Kerala. If you’re looking for places to visit in Kochi near airport, this museum provides the perfect combination of accessibility and cultural enrichment, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Established to preserve and promote Kerala’s cultural legacy, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, musical instruments, traditional costumes, and ritualistic items that represent the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala. The museum is housed in a beautiful heritage building, designed in the traditional Kerala style, adding to the immersive experience. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the folk dances, art forms, and indigenous practices of the region, with an emphasis on the stories and myths that have shaped the local way of life for centuries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the state’s unique traditions, the Kerala Folklore Museum offers a comprehensive understanding of the cultural diversity that defines Kerala.

Location:  Folklore Junction, Thevara, Kochi, Kerala 682013

Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm, Daily

Entry Fee:

• Adults: INR 100 per person
• Students: INR 50 per person

Famous for:

• Old artwork
• Antique collection
• Sculpture and Murals
• Tribal Objects

Nearby Hotels: Noah’s Ark Hotel, D’Homz Suites, Keys Select By Lemon Tree Hotels, Sugar Business Hotel, Le Meridien Kochi

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14. Wonderla Amusement Park

The  Veegaland or Wonderla Amusement Park is one of the best tourist places in Kochi that you can visit with your family or friends. With every adventure to boost your holiday mood, the Wonderla Amusement Park has lots of rides and thrilling games that attract both tourists and locals. The weekend at Veegaland is really crowded as there are kids and adults enjoy a day with their family.

There are jumping or dancing cars, flying Ammu, musical fountain, castle jet, convoy toy train, wonder splash, rapid river, balloon tower, boomerang, water coasters, etc. for an adventurous experience.  If all you’re looking for is a fun day, you can simply relax by the poolside and enjoy the moment.

Location: Pallikara, Kumarapuram, Kochi, Kerala 683565

Contact Number: 0484 351 4001, +91 75938 53107

Timings:

Park Timings:

• Monday to Friday: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Saturday and Sunday or Holidays: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm

Water Park Timings:

• Monday to Friday: 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm
• Saturday and Sunday or Holidays: 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Famous for:

• Fun Rides
• Water Sports
• Adventure games

Nearby Hotels: Holiday Inn Cochin, Kochi Marriott Hotel, Abad Plaza Hotel, Novotel Kochi Infopark, Four Points by Sheraton Kochi Infopark

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15. Veeranpuzha Lake

While Kerala is all about the backwaters and coasts, the Veeranpuzha Lake is among the best attractions to visit in Kochi. Located towards the northern end of the Vembanad Lake, this is the most serene place where you can spend an evening. Admire the lush green beauty of the surroundings and witness the sunset while spending some leisure time at Veeranpuzha Lake. This is one of the best places to visit in Kochi in June or July during the monsoon when you can attend the water festivals.

There are many brackish lagoons and lakes that are lying parallel to Veeranpuzha, forming one of the largest water bodies in the city. The charismatic landscape makes it an abode for the photographers as they can capture the beauty of nature at its best. The paddy fields around and the beautiful water boats sailing on the brackish water of the lake make it one of the top things to do in Kochi.

Location: Kochi, Kerala

Famous for:

• Scenic beauty
• Largest backwaters and lagoons

Things to do:

• Enjoy breathtaking landscape
• Houseboat tour
• Photography

Nearby Hotels: Gopika Regency, Hotel Baha, Chittor Kottaram – CGH Earth

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16. Vypeen Island

Sprawling to an area of 25 km, Vypeen Island is surely a place that you can visit on your holiday in South India. While there are many beaches and islands in India, Vypeen is one of the best Kochi places you can visit to discover the history of Portuguese. There are many structures and buildings that are inspired by Portuguese architecture like the old churches, the Goshree bridge, and more. The Goshree Bridge connects the city to this island in Kerala.

Talking about the history of Vypeen island, the origin dates to 1341, but the island was established in the 16th century. Before that, there were tribal communities living on the island. The Portuguese built some of the best architectural attractions in Kochi, like the Pallipuram Fort. Their influence and efforts helped in inhabiting Vypeen, which is now one of the densely populated places.  Vypeen Island offers a serene escape with stunning views of the blue waters, making it the perfect spot to unwind. It is generally considered one of the best places to visit in Kochi at night, as it offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for evening strolls and boating.

Location: Edavanakkad, Vypin, Kochi, Kerala 682509

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

Famous for:

• Portuguese architecture
• Old Church
• Goshree bridge

Things to do:

• Stay at Bungalow Heritage homestay
• Admire the beauty of the island
• Explore the old building and church

Nearby Hotels: Indriya Sands, Kuzhupilly Beach House, Club Mahindra Resort Cherai Kochi, Cherai Beach Resorts, Shravanam Greens Homestay

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17. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Elephants have been an essential part of culture and tradition in Kerala. History states how auspicious these animals are as every festival is marked by the presence of these giant creatures, which is being organized by following the right customs. You will find many temples where elephants are worshipped. The elephant training center is one of the places in Kochi where these elephants are trained and nurtured.

Kodanad a small village by the riverside has provided shelter to orphan elephants where they are trained and taken care of. Here you can closely watch the elephants playing in the mud, bathing in the rivers, and feed the little calves. There is an Abhayaranyam mini zoo and shelter that is dedicated towards the care and shelter of wilds like deers and elephants who are either orphans or are rescued from being used and tortured. It's undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kochi for animal lovers and those seeking a unique, memorable experience.

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

Timings:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 08.00 am to 05.00 pm
• Monday closed

Entry Fees:

• Children up to 12 years - INR 5
• Adults - INR 10
• Foreigners - INR25

Nearby Hotels: Malayattoor Residency, Elephant Pass Ayurveda and Yoga Retreat, Hotel Dewland Cochin, RiverLand's - A Luxury Retreat, Namami Health Retreat & A Wellness Sanctuary

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18. Marine Drive

A peaceful evening by the scenic coast of Kerala. Marine Drive is one of Kochi's best attractions that you surely cannot miss to visit. Overlooking the breathtaking backwaters of Kerala, this is a place that is often crowded with people who love spending time close to nature. Well, sunsets are pretty magical when enjoyed at Marine Drive in Kochi.

As dusk approaches, you will see a number of food stalls and shops selling handicrafts at an affordable price. It's one of the best places to visit in Kochi at night. You can buy souvenirs while strolling around the lanes of Marine Drive. There are seating benches where you can relax and admire the galloping waves of the water. Something that cannot be messed here is a romantic dinner date with your beloved as the Marine drive has the best restaurants offering the delighting taste of South India. Adding to the beauty, there is a Rainbow bridge that is another tourist spot in Kochi, lying in this beautiful Marine Drive. Our Kerala Guide covers this and many more such beauties.

Location: Abdul Kalam Marg Near Rainbow Bridge Ernakulam, Kochi

Timings: 24/7

Things to do:

• Witness the Sunset
• Have a romantic dinner
• Shop from the local shops

Nearby Hotels: The Mercy Luxury Business Hotel, Noah's Ark Hotel, Treebo Grand Canyon By D2V, IMA House Cochin, The Senate Hotel

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19. Cherai Gowreeshwara Temple

To immerse yourself in the culture of this city, you must visit  Cherai Gowreeshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan or South Pazhani. Built in 1912, this is the only temple in Asia which has four side doors, wherein Lord Subrahmanya faces east, Lord Ganapati faces south, Lord Shiva faces west, and Goddess Parvati faces north. Even though Lord  Subrahmanya is the main deity, the name of the temple is after Lord Shiva. The simple yet pleasing décor of the temple would win you over and it's among the ideal places to visit in Kochi with family during one of the four pujas held here as it providesa glimpse intoKerala’s culture and traditions.

Location: 45MW+44W, Pallippuram Road, Gowreeswara, Cherai, Vypin, Kerala 683514

Timings: 4 amto 11 am and 5 pm to 8 pm, Daily

Famous for:

• The only temple in Asia with four side doors
• Four pujas are held here everyday

Nearby Hotels: Club Mahindra Resort Cherai Kochi, Renai Blue Waters Cherai, Sea Star Beach Homes, Maliekal Heritance - Resort In Cherai, Sealagoon Health Resort

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20. Hill Palace Museum

The Hill Palace was the abode of the Maharaja of Kochi and was later turned into the largest archaeological museum. The traditional Kerala style architecture of the building, opulent air about it, and  rare and antique artefacts here, including ornaments, manuscripts, weapons, and more, make it one of the top 10 places to visit in Kochi.. This museum also includes a deer park, medicinal plant garden, pre-historic park and a children’s park. It's among the best places to visit in Kochi with friends as it'll acquaint you with the history of this city and its royal heritage.

Location: Hill Palace Rd, Irumpanam, Thrippunithura, Ernakulam, Kerala 682301

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday - 9:30 am to 12:30 pm , 2:00pm P.M to 4:30 pm

Closed on Monday

Entry Fee:

• Adults: INR 10
• Children: INR 5

Famous for:

• Traditional Kerala style architecture
• Houses a collection of rare and antique artefacts
• Includes a deer park, medicinal plant garden, pre-historic park and a children’s park

Nearby Hotels: Hotel Prasanth, Hill Palace Hotel & Spa, NM Royal County, The Classik Fort, Aquaria – The Boutique Resort

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21. Ernakulam Shiva Temple

One of the places to visit in Kochi in 2 days is this popular Ernakulam Shiva temple, which is also known as Ernakulathappan Temple. It’s considered to be one of the seven royal temples of the king of Kochi and is the major pilgrimage site forLord Shiva worshippers. You’ll find Lord Shiva in the Gowrishankar form here, facing west towards the Arabian Sea. However, the highlight of this temple is the preservation of the original lingam, which was worshipped by Mahabharat’s Arjuna. It’s believed by the locals that this temple protects the city, and there’s also a majestic statue of Lord Shiva here, which is a sight to behold. The grand annual festival is held during the Malayalam month of Makaram, coinciding with various other festivals and special occasions.

Location: Durbar Hall Rd, Marine Drive, Ernakulam, Kerala 68201

Timings: 3:30 am to 11 am, 4 pm to 8 pm, Daily

Famous for:

• Preserving the original lingam worshipped by Arjuna
• One of the seven royal temples of the Maharaja of Kochi
• Lord Shiva is in the Gowrishankar form in this temple

Nearby Hotels: The Trios Hotel Kochi, The Senate Hotel, Hotel Aiswarya, The Luminara A Unit of Elite Tourist Home, Hotel Prayana

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22. Andhakaranazhi Beach

Andhakaranazhi Beach, often called "The Lagoon of Darkness," is a serene coastal village located in Pattanakad, Alleppey district of Kerala. The beach is a unique confluence of the backwaters and the Arabian Sea, offering a stunning landscape that attracts both domestic and international travelers. Known for its natural beauty, the beach is surrounded by lush greenery and calm waters, making it a peaceful retreat.

A major highlight of Andhakaranazhi Beach is its towering 30-year-old lighthouse, which stands proudly near the shore, guiding seamen during the night. The beach’s picturesque surroundings have also been featured in many Malayalam film songs. Visitors can take a walk along a long aerial walkway that extends up to the seawall, providing a perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular sunset. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore its scenic beauty, Andhakaranazhi Beach is a must-visit destination in Kerala.

Location: Alappuzha-Arthunkal-Chellanam-Thoppumpady Rd, Alappuzha, Kerala 688531

Timings: 24/7

Things to Do:

• Swimming
• Photography
• Water sports
• Admire the beautiful sunset
• Enjoy breathtaking views

Nearby Hotels: Ragas Beach Villas, Sailor Homes, Ameya Kerala, Allepey Beach Bay Resort, Aswini Residency

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Kochi, with its old buildings, ancient churches, pristine beaches, and every other tourist attraction is surely a place where you can spend the best holiday. The list of best places to visit in Kochi offers you a diverse holiday experience, where you can explore the history, heritage, and blissful panorama of this city in Kerala. There are Kochi flights that depart from almost every major country, making it easier for travelers to visit this fascinating city in the south. So don’t wait! Choose from one of our well-curated Kerala tour packages and get ready to have the vacation of a lifetime.

Places to Visit in Kochi - FAQ’s