Cochin

India

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Sunrise

6:14 AM

Sunset

6:36 PM

About

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a charming port city located in the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. This city boasts rich historical and cultural significance, with a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences evident in its architecture and cuisine. Visitors can explore the iconic Chinese fishing nets, tour the historic Fort Kochi, take a relaxing cruise on the backwaters, and enjoy the delicious seafood and local spices that Cochin has to offer.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Fort Kochi

A historic neighborhood with Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, filled with charming colonial-era buildings and streets.
2. St. Francis Church

The oldest European church in India, built in 1503 by the Portuguese.
3. Chinese Fishing Nets

Huge cantilevered fishing nets that are lowered into the water by a team of fishermen, a unique sight and a popular photo opportunity.
4. Marine Drive

A scenic promenade alongside the Arabian Sea, with views of the backwaters and distant islands.
5. Mattancherry Palace

A 16th-century palace of the Rajas of Cochin, with beautiful murals and antique furniture.
6. Jewish Synagogue

One of the oldest synagogues in India, built in 1568, with exquisite hand-painted tiles and glass chandeliers.
7. Paradesi Synagogue

Another historic synagogue, known for its gold pulpit and elaborate brass railings.
8. Vasco da Gama Square

A bustling market area with shops, street food, and colorful vendors selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
9. Bolgatty Palace

An English country style mansion turned hotel, located on an island with lush gardens and a golf course.
10. Willingdon Island

A man-made island with a scenic boat ride, luxury hotels, and shopping centers.
11. Hill Palace

A former palace of the Maharaja of Cochin, now a museum of Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
12. Santa Cruz Basilica

A grand church with impressive murals and stained glass windows, consecrated in 1905.
13. Pallipuram Fort

One of the oldest European forts in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503 and converted by the Dutch in 1663.
14. Cherai Beach

A tranquil and clean beach with a lighthouse and water sports such as parasailing and surfing.
15. Kerala Folklore Museum

A stunning collection of antique artifacts, masks, and costumes showcasing the history and traditions of Kerala.
16. Vallarpadam Basilica

A modern Catholic church built on a small island, with a replica of the Black Madonna statue from Lourdes.
17. Kashi Art Gallery

A trendy art gallery showcasing contemporary Indian art, photography, and design.
18. Dutch Palace

Also known as Mattancherry Palace, this historic building displays beautiful murals and artifacts from the Cochin royal family.
19. Indo-Portuguese Museum

A small museum displaying the cultural and religious influence of the Portuguese on Indian society.
20. Vypeen Island

A serene island accessible by ferry, with pristine beaches, coconut groves, and fishing villages.
21. Bolgatty Island Resort

A luxury hotel on a scenic island, with a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant.
22. Nehru Children's Museum

A fun and interactive museum for kids with exhibits on science, technology, and nature.
23. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

A small green space in the heart of the city, home to 194 species of birds and butterflies.
24. Kerala History Museum

An informative museum showcasing the cultural and historical evolution of Kerala.
25. Hill Palace Museum

A former palace of the Maharaja of Cochin, now a museum with antique artifacts, jewelry, and artifacts.
26. Edappally Church Complex

A famous pilgrimage site for Syro-Malabar Catholics with a theological college and library.
27. Chottanikkara Temple

A popular Hindu temple known for healing miracles and spiritual rituals.
28. Kodanad Elephant Training Center

A unique site where visitors can watch and interact with trained elephants.
29. Thrikkakara Temple

A medieval Hindu temple with a granite idol of Lord Vamana, an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
30. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

A grand Hindu temple in nearby Trivandrum, known for its treasure trove of gold and precious stones.