Fort Kochi is a charming and historic destination that offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse heritage of Kerala.
Located on the western coast of India, Fort Kochi is often known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ for its scenic beauty and strategic importance.
Fort Kochi has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries, as it was influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, Jewish, and Arab traders who visited or settled here.
Today, Fort Kochi is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique attractions, activities, cuisine, festivals, and art.
If you are looking for a memorable and enriching vacation in Kerala, Fort Kochi is a perfect choice. Whether you are interested in history, culture, architecture, nature, or food, Fort Kochi has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will show you the best things to do, places to see, how to get there, where to stay, and more in Fort Kochi.
So, get ready to explore this fascinating city with us and discover why it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
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Best Time To Visit Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a year-round destination that can be enjoyed in any season. However, if you want to experience the best weather and avoid the crowds, the ideal months to visit Fort Kochi are October to March.
During this time, the climate is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C.
You can also witness some of the major festivals of Kerala, such as Onam, Navratri, Christmas, and Cochin Carnival. These festivals showcase the rich culture and traditions of Fort Kochi and Kerala, and offer a lot of fun and entertainment for visitors.
You can also indulge in various activities such as boat cruise, beach walk, fishing, sun bath, sand castles building, dolphin sighting, and swimming at the Fort Kochi Beach.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can also visit Fort Kochi during the monsoon season (June to September), when the prices are lower and the scenery is greener. However, be prepared for heavy rains and high humidity during this time.
Things to Do in Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a place where you can experience the best of Kerala’s culture and heritage. There are plenty of things to do in Fort Kochi that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout your stay. Here are some of the top activities that you should not miss in Fort Kochi:
Watch the Chinese Fishing Nets at Sunset:
One of the most iconic sights of Fort Kochi is the Chinese Fishing Nets that line the shore. These are large wooden structures that operate on a cantilever system and are lowered into the water to catch fish.
They are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still used by local fishermen today.
The best time to see them in action is at sunset, when the sky turns into a riot of colors and the nets create a stunning silhouette against the horizon.
You can also buy fresh fish from the fishermen and have it cooked at nearby stalls.
Experience the Kathakali Dance Drama at Kerala Kathakali Centre:
If you want to witness the traditional dance drama of Kerala, head to the Kerala Kathakali Centre where you can watch a live performance of Kathakali.
Kathakali is a classical art form that combines elaborate costumes, makeup, gestures, music, and storytelling to depict stories from Hindu epics.
The performers undergo rigorous training and preparation to master this complex and expressive art form.
At the Kerala Kathakali Centre, you can also see other cultural shows such as martial arts, classical music, and puppetry.
Explore the Colonial Architecture and Heritage of Fort Kochi:
Fort Kochi is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and heritage that reflects its past as a trading port and a settlement of various European powers.
You can admire the Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences on the buildings, churches, cemeteries, palaces, museums, and streets of Fort Kochi.
Some of the notable landmarks that you should visit are Santa Cruz Basilica, St Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, Dutch Cemetery, Indo-Portuguese Museum, and David Hall Gallery. You can also take a guided walking tour or a tuk-tuk tour to learn more about the history and culture of Fort Kochi.
Shop for Antiques and Souvenirs at Jew Town:
If you love shopping for antiques and souvenirs, you will enjoy exploring Jew Town, a historic area that was once home to a thriving Jewish community. Today, Jew Town is a bustling market that sells a variety of items such as spices, handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, furniture, lamps, paintings, books, and more. You can find some rare and unique pieces here that will make great gifts or mementos of your trip. You can also visit the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth nations, which is located in Jew Town.
Taste the Authentic Kerala Cuisine at Local Restaurants:
No trip to Fort Kochi is complete without tasting the authentic Kerala cuisine that is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes. You can find a range of restaurants and eateries that serve delicious Kerala food such as appam (rice pancake), puttu (steamed rice cake), idiyappam (rice noodles), dosa (rice crepe), sambar (lentil stew), avial (mixed vegetable curry), fish molee (fish curry), karimeen pollichathu (fried fish), beef fry (spicy beef dish), parotta (layered bread), and more. You can also try the local snacks such as banana chips, pazham pori (banana fritters), and achappam (rice flour cookies). Don’t forget to end your meal with a cup of hot Kerala tea or coffee.
Enjoy the Beach Activities and Festivals at Fort Kochi Beach:
If you are looking for some fun and relaxation, head to the Fort Kochi Beach where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. You can indulge in various activities such as boat cruise, beach walk, fishing, sun bath, sand castles building, dolphin sighting, and swimming. You can also witness the annual Kochi Carnival that takes place every year on the white sands of the Fort Kochi Beach. The carnival is a colorful and lively celebration that features parades, dances, music, games, competitions, and fireworks. It is a great way to experience the festive spirit of Fort Kochi.
Visit the Maritime Museum and Learn about the Indian Navy:
If you are interested in learning about the history and achievements of the Indian Navy, you should visit the Maritime Museum in Fort Kochi. The museum displays various exhibits such as antique pistols, navy warships, aircraft carriers, medals, uniforms, and photographs that showcase the naval heritage of India. You can also see a special section dedicated to post-independence naval victories, which include Junagadh Operation, Goa Liberation, Indo-Pak Conflicts of 1965 and 1971, Operation Cactus, Operation Pawan, and Kargil War.
Admire the Art and Culture at Kashi Art Gallery and David Hall Gallery:
If you are an art lover, you will be delighted by the art and culture scene in Fort Kochi. You can visit the Kashi Art Gallery and David Hall Gallery, two of the most prominent contemporary art galleries in Fort Kochi that exhibit local and international artists. You can see a variety of artworks such as paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and videos that reflect the creative and diverse expressions of Fort Kochi. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee or a bite to eat at the cafes attached to the galleries.
Relax and Rejuvenate at an Ayurvedic Spa or Yoga Centre:
If you want to pamper yourself and rejuvenate your body and mind, you can visit an Ayurvedic Spa or a Yoga Centre in Fort Kochi. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that uses natural herbs and oils to treat various ailments and promote wellness. You can choose from a range of treatments such as massages, facials, scrubs, wraps, steam baths, and more that will make you feel refreshed and revitalized. Yoga is a practice that combines physical poses, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve your health and happiness. You can join a yoga class or a workshop that will teach you the basics or advanced techniques of yoga.
Places to See in and around Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to many other attractions in and around Kochi. You can easily take a day trip or a short excursion to some of these places that will enrich your experience of Kerala. Here are some of the places that you should see in and around Fort Kochi:
Chinese Fishing Nets: One of the most iconic sights of Fort Kochi is the Chinese Fishing Nets that line the shore. These are large wooden structures that operate on a cantilever system and are lowered into the water to catch fish. They are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still used by local fishermen today. The best time to see them in action is at sunset, when the sky turns into a riot of colors and the nets create a stunning silhouette against the horizon. You can also buy fresh fish from the fishermen and have it cooked at nearby stalls.
St Francis Church: The oldest European church in India and the burial site of Vasco da Gama
Santa Cruz Basilica: A Gothic-Style Church with Artistic Grandeur
Mattancherry Palace: A Museum that Showcases the History and Art of Kerala’s Royal Families
Paradesi Synagogue: The Oldest Active Synagogue in the Commonwealth Nations
Dutch Cemetery: The Final Resting Place of Many European Colonists
Indo-Portuguese Museum: A Museum that Preserves the Portuguese Influence on Fort Kochi’s Art and Architecture
Vypeen Island: An Island that Offers Scenic Views, Beaches, Lighthouses, and Fishing Villages
Cherai Beach: A Serene Beach that Offers a Scenic View and Natural Beauty
How to Get to Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is easily accessible from various locations by different modes of transportation. You can choose the one that suits your budget, time, and convenience. Here are some of the ways to get to Fort Kochi:
By Air: The nearest airport to Fort Kochi is Cochin International Airport, which is about 36 kilometers away. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a metro from the airport to Fort Kochi. The taxi fare is around Rs. 800-1000, the bus fare is around Rs. 100-150, and the metro fare is around Rs. 50-70. The travel time is about an hour by taxi or metro and about two hours by bus.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Fort Kochi is Ernakulam Junction, which is about 12 kilometers away. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a ferry from the railway station to Fort Kochi. The taxi fare is around Rs. 300-400, the bus fare is around Rs. 20-30, and the ferry fare is around Rs. 5-10. The travel time is about half an hour by taxi or ferry and about an hour by bus.
By Bus: There are regular buses that connect Fort Kochi with other cities in Kerala and neighboring states. You can find buses from KSRTC Bus Stand or Vyttila Mobility Hub in Ernakulam to Fort Kochi. The bus fare is around Rs. 20-30 and the travel time is about an hour.
By Ferry: One of the most scenic and enjoyable ways to get to Fort Kochi is by ferry. You can take a ferry from Ernakulam Jetty or Vypin Jetty to Fort Kochi Jetty. The ferry fare is around Rs. 5-10 and the travel time is about 15-20 minutes. You can also enjoy the view of the backwaters, the islands, and the Chinese Fishing Nets along the way.
Where to Stay in Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi offers a range of accommodation options for every budget, preference, and style. You can find hotels, resorts, homestays, hostels, guesthouses, and heritage properties that cater to your needs and expectations. Here are some of the suggestions for where to stay in Fort Kochi:
Hotel Forte Kochi:
If you are looking for a luxury and heritage hotel in Fort Kochi, you can book a room at Hotel Forte Kochi. This hotel is located in a restored Portuguese mansion that dates back to the 16th century. It offers spacious and elegant rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, a restaurant, a spa, and a garden. It is also close to many attractions such as Santa Cruz Basilica, St Francis Church, and Chinese Fishing Nets.
Brunton Boatyard:
Another option for a luxury and heritage hotel in Fort Kochi is Brunton Boatyard. This hotel is located in a former shipyard that was built by the British in the 19th century. It offers cozy and comfortable rooms with colonial decor, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a library. It also offers a stunning view of the harbor and the sea.
Costa Gama Homestay:
If you are looking for a budget and homely accommodation in Fort Kochi, you can book a room at Costa Gama Homestay. This homestay is run by a friendly and helpful family that will make you feel at home. It offers clean and cozy rooms with basic amenities, a common kitchen, a terrace, and a garden. It is also close to many attractions such as Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, and Jew Town.
Zostel Kochi:
If you are looking for a backpacker and social accommodation in Fort Kochi, you can book a bed at Zostel Kochi. This hostel is located in a colorful and quirky building that has a graffiti wall, a mural staircase, and a rooftop cafe. It offers dorms and private rooms with funky decor, free wifi, lockers, and laundry facilities. It also organizes activities such as walking tours, pub crawls, movie nights, and games.
You may also like to read: Fort Kochi, Kerala: Quaint & Beautiful
Fort Kochi is a destination that will captivate you with its charm and diversity. It is a place where you can experience the best of Kerala’s culture and heritage in one city. Whether you want to explore the colonial architecture, watch the traditional dance drama, shop for antiques, taste the spicy cuisine, or enjoy the beach activities, Fort Kochi has it all.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to Fort Kochi and found it useful for planning your trip. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading and happy travels!
