Discover Cochin (Kochi), a city full of culture and of charm in India.
Immerse yourself in the heart of a destination rich in history and traditions, where influences blend harmoniously Indian, arabs And European.
Stroll through its picturesque streets and let yourself be enchanted by its captivating spices, witnesses of a past trader And cosmopolitan.
Explore its majestic palaces, colorful temples, century-old churches and Chinese fishing nets, emblems of a city with architectural treasures unique.
Soak up the captivating atmosphere of backwaters and let yourself be charmed by the warm welcome of its inhabitants, proud of their cultural heritage.
A city between sea and backwaters
Located in the southwest of India, Cochin (also known as Kochi) is the most populated city in the Kerala. This city is a true treasure for travelers looking for a unique experience combining history, culture and nature. Nestled between the Laccadive Sea and the Arabian Sea, Cochin is surrounded by lush backwaters made up of canals, lagoons and mangroves. The almost-island of Mattancherry, where the town is located, offers a perfect fusion of seascapes and waterscapes.
Traditions and cultural riches
Fort Kochi, the historical and cultural heart of the city, is full of ancient traditions. Among the must-sees, you will discover fishing with Chinese nets, an impressive technique introduced by Chinese merchants over 500 years ago. Visitors will also be fascinated by the Kathakali theater, famous for his elaborate makeup and spectacular costumes, as well as the martial art kalarippayatt.
Fort Kochi is a true cultural crossroads where Jewish, Muslim, Dutch and Portuguese influences come together. This diversity is reflected in the colorful architecture of the buildings, as well as in the diversity of Hindu temples, churches, mosques and even synagogues.
Explore the surroundings of Cochin
The surroundings of Cochin are particularly rich in lush vegetation. Here you can explore tea plantations and fruit gardens, perfect for a nature getaway. Cruises on the peaceful backwaters are also a popular activity, offering stunning views of Kerala’s tropical landscapes.
For those who love beaches, there is no shortage of stretches of sand lined with coconut trees. Fort Kochi Beach is the most accessible from the city. Just like Mahatma Gandhi Beach, it is ideal for relaxing and admiring the chinese fishing nets traditional in action.
Art and food in Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is also a place where foodies and art lovers will delight. Streets like Princess Street and the Santa Cruz Ground are essential places to discover astonishing works of street art. Fort Kochi’s restaurants and cafes offer tasty local cuisine, often spicy and coconut-flavored.
For a pleasant stay, several accommodation options are available, ranging from comfortable guesthouses to luxury hotels such as the Malabar House, offering swimming pool, spa and restaurant services.
Unmissable activities and sites
Cochin is full of places not to be missed. On site, you can visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, L’Saint Francis Church and the Indo-Portuguese museum. These iconic sites reflect the city’s rich colonial history.
Nature lovers will appreciate the city’s various green areas such as the Santa Cruz Ground, a true center of creativity with its street artists, or the Parade Ground, often animated by sporting activities. THE Cochin Club, meanwhile, is a former British site converted into a club hotel, offering a peaceful green space in the heart of the city.
The backwaters of Kerala
Be sure to take a boat trip from Marine Drive Pier to explore the famous backwaters of Kerala. This complex network of waterways offers magnificent landscapes with coconut palms, rice fields and traditional fishing villages. A stop in local villages will allow you to discover the daily life of the inhabitants and local traditions.
The unique experiences of Cochin
Cochin also offers unique experiences like participating in a film shoot of the famous “Mollywood” film industry. Westerners are often recruited for roles as extras on the streets of Fort Kochi, providing an unexpected and memorable opportunity for immersion.
Idyllic beaches nearby
After exploring the city, don’t hesitate to extend your stay on the idyllic beaches of Kerala. Whether at Cherai Beach or Marari Beach, you’ll find quaint waterfront bungalows and coconut palms shading golden sandy beaches, perfect for a true escape to paradise.
