16 places to visit in Kochi that are not tourist traps

Kochi is the city where cultures dock and decide to stay. It opened its shores to colonial powers—Portuguese, Dutch, and British—who claimed it as their own, while Arab, Chinese, and Jewish traders found a home in its spice-laden streets. Today, it welcomes urbanisation with the same grace, blending the old with the new. Old Cochin, with Fort Kochi and Mattancherry at its core, forms the city’s historic heart—where colonial mansions, ancient synagogues, and spice markets still thrive. Across the harbour, urban Kochi bustles with modern energy—pubs, art galleries, and thriving business hubs. Venture further, and the outskirts reveal Kochi’s quieter side—island villages and forests. This guide explores Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, through its three distinct zones—Old Cochin, the urban city, and the outskirts. Here are the best places to visit in Kochi, Kerala.

The best places to visit in Kochi

Cochin, the Old Quarter

Fort Kochi Heritage Landmarks

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Fort Kochi was the seat of colonial powers, one after the other, until India’s independence. With trees older than your grandparents and colonial landmarks that hold more stories than a library, the best way to soak in its charm is on foot by a self-guided tour, where heritage sites sit just a stone’s throw from one another. Start at Vasco da Gama Square, where the iconic Chinese fishing nets sway against the Arabian Sea—sunset is when they are most magical. From there, stroll along Napier Street to the remnants of Fort Immanuel, the first Portuguese fort built in India. Continue to visit Bastion Bungalow, a Dutch-era structure overlooking the sea, open to visitors interested in its colonial past. On Rose Street, step into the historic St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was once laid to rest. Nearby, pass by Vasco House, believed to be one of Fort Kochi’s oldest Portuguese homes. Detour down River Road to view the weathered tombstones at the Dutch Cemetery before concluding your walk at the Santa Cruz Basilica, with its grand Gothic spires and stunning stained glass interiors. If you want to discover the roots of Cochin’s history and dive into fables of yore, join the Kochi Heritage Project for their signature A Queen’s Story walking tour.

Kerala Kathakali Centre

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