Kochi (Fort Kochi)

Overview

Fort Kochi has centuries of trading history in its streets: Chinese fishing nets, Dutch and Portuguese buildings, a Jewish quarter and a lively art scene. It is a good first stop in Kerala and a base for backwater day trips.

Best time to visit

1. ●Jan
2. ●Feb
3. ●Mar
4. ◐Apr
5. ◐May
6. ✕Jun
7. ✕Jul
8. ◐Aug
9. ◐Sep
10. ●Oct
11. ●Nov
12. ●Dec

● best time · ◐ okay · ✕ best avoided (Jun, Jul)

How to reach

• By air

  ~1 h by road

  Cochin International airport is about 35 km away with flights to most big cities.

• By rail

  30–45 min

  Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town are the main stations; take a ferry or cab to Fort Kochi.

Where to stay

• Fort Kochi heritage homestays

  ₹2,000–10,000 / night

  Walkable and atmospheric; book ahead in season.

• Ernakulam city

  ₹1,200–5,000 / night

  Cheaper and closer to the stations, but less charming.

Things to do

• Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi

  1 h

  Best at sunrise or sunset. Watch for people selling fish at the shore.

• Mattancherry Palace and Jew Town

  Half day

  Old palace museum and antique lanes.

• Kerala Kathakali show

  1–2 h

  Evening dance performances; choose one with a clear explanation.

• Kochi-Muziris Biennale

  Varies

  Contemporary art exhibition held in some years; check dates.

Food

• Kerala seafood and appams

  ₹250–700 / person

  Fish curry, karimeen, appam with stew.

• Cafés in Fort Kochi

  ₹200–600 / person

  Many cafés and bakeries in old houses.

Safety & permits

Places in Kochi (Fort Kochi)

Tips & questions

Quick tips, questions and photos from people who've been — or are going.

Reviews & tips