3-Day Romantic Local Experience in Kochi: Sightseeing, Cuisine & Nightlife

Kochi, India

3 days

Chinese fishing nets outside the water at sunset
Colorful powders on display for Holi season
Boat transporting people through a lush tropical forest
Boat flowing through the waters of a jungle river
St. George's Syro-Malabar Forane Church, also known as Edapally Church

About Kochi, India

Discover the enchanting city of Kochi, India, a vibrant blend of cultures and architectural styles. As a gateway to Kerala, Kochi offers a unique mix of modernity and tradition. Explore the historic Fort Kochi, with its colonial-era buildings, Chinese fishing nets, and St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Wander through the aromatic lanes of the Spice Market, or visit the Dutch Palace, showcasing intricate Hindu temple art. Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Keralan art form, or relax on the serene Cherai Beach. Kochi's diverse cuisine, from spicy local dishes to international fare, is a gastronomic delight. With its rich history, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty, Kochi promises an unforgettable travel experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Fort Kochi, a charming seaside area with a mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque streets, explore the antique shops, and marvel at the Chinese fishing nets.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal, known as a 'sadya', in a local eatery. This vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf includes a variety of delicious dishes.

Afternoon

Visit the Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace. Explore its intricate murals depicting scenes from Indian epics. Afterwards, head to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Dinner

Savor the flavors of Kochi with a seafood dinner. Try the local specialties like Karimeen (pearl spot) fry and prawn curry.

Evening

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kochi at a local pub. Enjoy live music and a variety of cocktails.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Hill Palace, Kerala's first heritage museum. Explore the vast collection of artifacts and relics showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.

Lunch

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, trying out the famous Kerala biryani, a flavorful dish made with fragrant rice and meat.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Cherai Beach, a beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxation and swimming. Enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Dinner

Have a beachside dinner, enjoying the fresh catch of the day, cooked in traditional Kerala style.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoying the cool sea breeze and the sound of the waves.

Morning

Visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, one of the eight Basilicas in India. Admire its beautiful interior and stained glass windows.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café, trying out the popular Kerala snacks like 'puttu' (rice cake) and 'kadala' (chickpea) curry.

Afternoon

Explore the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international exhibition of contemporary art held in Kochi. It's a great opportunity to appreciate the works of artists from around the world.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Kerala thali for dinner, a platter with a variety of dishes served in small bowls.

Evening

End your Kochi trip with a Kathakali performance, a classical Indian dance-drama noted for its elaborate costumes and makeup.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Fort Kochi

1
Fort Kochi

A historic region with colonial-style bungalows, ancient churches, and fishing nets.

Attractions
Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Chinese fishing nets

2
Chinese fishing nets

Iconic fishing nets that are a testament to the early Chinese influence on the region.

Attractions
Landmarks
Mattancherry Palace

3
Mattancherry Palace

A Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace, featuring Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi.

Attractions
Museums
Architecture
Paradesi Synagogue

4
Paradesi Synagogue

The oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, featuring rare antiques, Belgian chandeliers, and a clock tower.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Hill Palace

5
Hill Palace

Kerala's first heritage museum, showcasing royal collections of the erstwhile Maharaja of Kochi.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Cherai Beach

6
Cherai Beach

A beautiful beach located on the north-end of the Vypeen Island, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and stunning views.

Attractions
Beaches
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

7
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

One of the eight Basilicas in India, known for its beautiful pastel interior and Gothic style architecture.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Kochi-Muziris Biennale

8
Kochi-Muziris Biennale

An international exhibition of contemporary art held in Kochi, showcasing works from artists around the world.

Cultural Experiences
Artifacts
Entertainment
Kathakali performance

9
Kathakali performance

A traditional Indian dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and makeup, performed in various venues across the city.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Karimeen Pollichathu

Karimeen Pollichathu

A popular dish in Kochi, Karimeen Pollichathu is a spicy fish dish where the fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaf and then grilled or baked.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu and Kadala Curry

A traditional breakfast dish in Kochi, Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake cooked with coconut shavings and Kadala Curry is a mildly spicy curry made from black chickpeas.

Appam with Stew

Appam with Stew

Appam is a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It's often served with Stew, a coconut milk based dish with vegetables or meat.

Kappa and Meen Curry

Kappa and Meen Curry

Kappa is boiled tapioca and Meen Curry is a spicy fish curry. This combination is a staple food in Kochi.

Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry

Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry

Malabar Parotta is a layered flatbread and Kerala Beef Curry is a spicy curry made with beef. This combination is a popular dish in Kochi.

Thalassery Biryani

Thalassery Biryani

A popular dish in Kochi, Thalassery Biryani is a type of Biryani made with Khyma rice, meat, and a blend of spices.

Idiyappam with Egg Curry

Idiyappam with Egg Curry

Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, is a steamed dish made of rice flour, often served with Egg Curry for breakfast in Kochi.

Palada Payasam

Palada Payasam

A popular dessert in Kochi, Palada Payasam is a sweet dish made with milk, sugar, and ada (rice flakes).

Unnakai

Unnakai

Unnakai is a popular snack in Kochi made from ripe bananas stuffed with coconut and jaggery filling, then deep-fried.

Sulaimani Tea

A popular drink in Kochi, Sulaimani Tea is a sweet and sour black tea flavored with lemon, cardamom, and cloves.

Toddy

Toddy, also known as Kallu, is a traditional alcoholic beverage in Kochi made from the sap of palm trees.

Kerala Sadya

Kerala Sadya is a traditional vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf. It includes a variety of dishes and is popular in Kochi, especially during festivals and weddings.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Kochi, India is during the winter season, from October to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing, beach visits, and exploring the city's rich heritage. The temperatures typically range between 17°C and 33°C. This is also the time when Kochi hosts its famous Cochin Carnival and the International Film Festival of Kerala, offering a cultural feast for visitors.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 13

Sat

Lohri

January 26

Fri

Republic Day

March 25

Mon

Dolyatra

March 25

Mon

Holi

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 11

Thu

Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

April 17

Wed

Rama Navami

April 21

Sun

Mahavir Jayanti

May 23

Thu

Buddha Purnima/Vesak

June 17

Mon

Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha

July 17

Wed

Muharram/Ashura

August 15

Thu

Independence Day

August 26

Mon

Janmashtami

September 16

Mon

Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

October 2

Wed

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

October 12

Sat

Dussehra

October 31

Thu

Diwali/Deepavali

November 15

Fri

Guru Nanak Jayanti

December 25

Wed

Christmas

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Kochi Metro is a rapid transit system serving the city of Kochi in Kerala, India. It is an efficient and convenient way to travel around the city, especially during peak hours to avoid traffic.

Auto rickshaws are a common mode of transport in Kochi. They are ideal for short distances and can be found almost everywhere in the city. However, it's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

City buses are a cost-effective way to travel around Kochi. They cover most parts of the city and its suburbs. However, they can get quite crowded during peak hours.

Taxis are readily available in Kochi and can be hailed from the street or booked through a hotel. They are metered, but it's always a good idea to confirm the fare before starting the journey.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are available in Kochi. They can be booked using their respective mobile apps and offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Kochi being a coastal city, ferries are a popular mode of transport. They are used to travel between the islands and the mainland. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel.

Rental cars are available from various agencies in Kochi. This option provides the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore areas that public transport may not reach.

Kochi is a bicycle-friendly city with dedicated cycling paths in certain areas. Renting a bicycle can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Many of Kochi's attractions are located close to each other, making walking a viable option. It's also a great way to experience the local culture and lifestyle.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₹ INR

Time zoneUTC+5.5

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 102; Fire: 101; Police: 100, 103 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type M

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Kochi, India as a first time visitor

1

Kochi is located in the southern part of India, in the state of Kerala.

2

The official language is Malayalam, but English is widely spoken and understood.

3

The currency used is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

4

Kochi has a tropical monsoon climate. The best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is cooler and drier.

5

The average temperature in Kochi ranges from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C).

6

It's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes.

7

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. A tip of 10% is generally acceptable in restaurants.

8

Kochi is generally safe for tourists, but like any other city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

9

Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transport in Kochi. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

10

Kochi has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional art forms like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu.

11

Kochi is famous for its seafood. Don't miss out on trying the local cuisine.

12

It's common to haggle in markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price.

13

Public display of affection is generally frowned upon in Kochi, as it is in many parts of India.

14

Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited in Kerala. However, you can enjoy a drink in licensed bars and restaurants.

15

It's advisable to drink bottled water to avoid any health issues.

16

Kochi has a mix of religions including Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. Respect for all religions is important.

17

The city operates on Indian Standard Time (IST), which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

18

Kochi has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics. However, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

19

Power cuts are common in Kochi, especially during the monsoon season. It's a good idea to carry a portable charger for your devices.

20

Internet access is widely available in Kochi, with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes offering free Wi-Fi.

Basic Malayalam to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Namaskaram

Nam-uh-ska-ram

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Vida

Vee-da

Leaving someone

Please

Dayavayi

Day-uh-vayi

Making a request

Thank you

Nanni

Nan-nee

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Athe

Aa-the

Agreeing with someone

No

Alla

Al-la

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Kshamikkuka

Ksha-mi-kku-ka

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Enikku kshamikkuka

Eni-kku ksha-mi-kku-ka

Apologizing

I don't understand

Enikku manassilayilla

Eni-kku ma-nas-si-la-yi-lla

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Ningal English samsarikkumo?

Nin-gal En-glish sam-sa-ri-kku-mo

Asking if someone speaks English

I need help

Enikku sahayam venam

Eni-kku sa-ha-yam ve-nam

When you need assistance

Where is the bathroom?

Kakkoos evideyaanu?

Kak-koos e-vi-de-ya-nu

Looking for a bathroom

How much does this cost?

Ithinte vilkkanethra?

I-thin-te vil-kka-ne-thra

Asking for the price of something

I would like to order

Njan order cheyyanam

Njan or-der chey-ya-nam

Ordering food or drink

Water

Vellam

Vel-lam

Asking for water

Food

Bhojanam

Bho-ja-nam

Talking about food

Help!

Sahayam!

Sa-ha-yam

In an emergency

Call the police

Police vilikku

Po-lice vi-li-kku

In an emergency

Good morning

Suprabhatham

Su-pra-bha-tham

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Shubha raathri

Shu-bha raa-thri

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight jacket

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo

  • Travel-size conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Driver's license

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory card

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader

  • Travel guidebook

  • Notebook and pen

  • Umbrella

Weather Conditions

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a beautiful city located in the southwestern coastal region of India. The city experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which means it's generally hot and humid throughout the year. The summer season in Kochi, which runs from March to June, can be quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 35°C (95°F). If you're planning to visit during this time, it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the city. If you're visiting during this period, it's essential to carry an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the rain, this season can be a great time to visit as the city turns lush green and the temperatures drop to a more comfortable range of 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The winter season, from October to February, is considered the best time to visit Kochi. The weather during this time is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). It's the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before planning your day's activities. This will help you prepare for any sudden changes in weather, which are quite common in tropical regions like Kochi. Remember, the weather in Kochi can be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared. Enjoy your trip!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

32° / 23°

January is a pleasant month to visit Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 32 degrees Celsius. The weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing.

February

33° / 24°

February is a great time to visit Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. The weather is still dry and slightly warmer, perfect for outdoor activities.

March

34° / 25°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 25 to 34 degrees Celsius. The weather starts to get humid, but it's still a good time for beach activities.

April

35° / 26°

April is the start of the hot season in Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 35 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but do remember to stay hydrated.

May

35° / 26°

May continues to be hot in Kochi, with temperatures similar to April. The pre-monsoon showers start to hit the city, bringing some relief from the heat.

June

33° / 24°

June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy rain and lush green landscapes.

July

32° / 24°

July continues to be rainy in Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. The city looks beautiful in the monsoon, but do carry an umbrella or raincoat.

August

32° / 24°

August is the last month of the monsoon season in Kochi, with similar temperatures to July. The city is still lush and green, and the weather starts to dry up towards the end of the month.

September

33° / 24°

September is a transitional month in Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. The weather is mostly dry, making it a good time to visit the city.

October

33° / 24°

October is a pleasant month to visit Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

November

33° / 24°

November is a great time to visit Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. The weather is still dry and slightly cooler, making it ideal for exploring the city.

December

32° / 23°

December is one of the coolest months in Kochi, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 32 degrees Celsius. The weather is cool and dry, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Kochi, also known as Cochin, is often referred to as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'?

1 of 10

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