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Kochi is a stunning city situated around a saltwater lagoon on India's southwest coast, known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ with its islands, canals,and riverside villages. Blessed with white sandy beaches, a tropical climate, lush green countryside, rich fauna and flora, and swaying palm trees – what more can you ask for? Brightsun travel offers Kochi holidays at competitive prices, transporting you to this beautiful land.
Kochi has been influenced by the British, Chinese, Portuguese, and Dutch over the centuries and this is reflected in its outstanding architecture. The city is worth exploring by foot, especially around its narrow streets hidden with artistic treasures. If you desire a more chilled out holiday, then Kochi will not disappoint, renowned for its age-old healing therapies and the art of rejuvenation which tourists come from all over the world to experience.
PV Sreedharan Rd, Kumbalam South, Kumbalam, Ernakulam, Kerala 682506
Auto-rickshaws are widely available and ideal for short distances and navigating narrow streets. Taxis are convenient for longer distances, and they can either be booked in advance or found at taxi stands. Kochi does have a local bus service that is affordable and useful for travelling to different parts of the city, though they can get crowded, and routes might be confusing for newcomers.
Kochi is known for its backwaters and waterways. Ferry services can provide a scenic and enjoyable way to travel, especially between the islands and along the backwaters. The Kochi Water Metro is an upcoming project designed to enhance connectivity through waterways.
Kochi offers a rich and diverse culinary experience reflecting its cultural heritage and coastal location. Seafood is popular, with dishes to sample including fish molee – a mild fish curry, prawn masala – spicy prawns cooked in a masala sauce, and crab roast – cooked with spices and coconut, and served with bread or rice. Street food is also popular, with staples like Putta rice cake served with kadala curry, and shredded kothu parotta (flatbread). Don’t miss out on Kerala sweet treats like ada pradhaman and palada payasam.
Kochi is generally considered a safe city for travellers, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and tourist hotspots. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery or large amounts of cash. Keep emergency contact numbers handy. In India, the emergency number for police is 100, and for ambulance services, it's 108.
If using auto-rickshaws, agree on the fare before starting your ride or ensure the meter is used. Avoid sharing auto-rickshaws with strangers. Use reputable taxi services and ride-sharing apps. Verify the vehicle details and driver information before getting in.
Eat at well-known restaurants and avoid street food that might not meet hygiene standards. Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Familiarise yourself with nearby hospitals or clinics. Kochi has a range of good medical facilities, including Aster Medcity and Lakeshore Hospital.
Fort Kochi is the heart of the sightseeing action in Kochi, home to the iconic large fishing nets along the Fort Kochi waterfront, St. Francis Church - the oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried, Santa Cruz Basilica - a beautiful church with stunning Gothic architecture and elaborate interiors, and Jain Temple - a serene place of worship with a unique architectural design, blending both North Indian and South Indian styles.
Mattancherry is a place where you can immerse yourself in culture and visit key landmarks of Kochi such as the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) - a historic site with intricate murals and artifacts, showcasing Kerala’s royal history, the Jewish Synagogue – an old synagogue with beautiful chandeliers and historic Hebrew inscriptions, and the bustling Spice Market which provides the ultimate sensory experience.
Ernakulam is Kochi’s Central Business District, home to Kochi’s famous Marine Drive promenade along the backwaters, plus the Kochi Water Metro.
Experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala with a houseboat cruise in Alleppey backwaters or Kumarakom, not far from Kochi. Visit Chekkanadu Island for a more immersive backwater experience.
Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance form in Kerala, at venues like the Kerala Kathakali Centre. Witness Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form of Kerala, at local cultural centres. Visit Kochi during the Onam Festival, a harvest Hindu festival with grand celebrations like fireworks, local dance performances, flower decorations, and fun beach activities.
Cherai Beach Kochi is a serene beach with golden sands and calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxation. Vypin Island offers less crowded beaches and a peaceful atmosphere.
Athirappilly Falls - known as the “Niagara of India,” this impressive waterfall is a great day trip from Kochi, as is Alleppey (Alappuzha), which is famous for its houseboat cruises and picturesque backwaters.
Kochi, located on the southwestern coast of India, experiences a tropical monsoon climate.
Winters in Kochi are pleasant and dry, making it the peak tourist season. Low humidity and clear skies are typical, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C.
The weather in spring becomes hotter and more humid as summer approaches. Some pre-monsoon showers might start occurring. Daytime temperatures can rise to 30°C to 36°C.
This period sees heavy and frequent rainfall due to the southwest monsoon. High humidity and occasional flooding can occur. The landscape becomes lush and green, though travel can be affected by heavy rains. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, but it feels cooler due to the rain.
In autumn the monsoon rains taper off, leading to a more pleasant climate with reduced humidity. It’s a good time to visit as the weather becomes more comfortable. Temperatures begin to cool slightly, ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
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