‘Welcome to the Queen of Arabian Sea, a melting pot of all cultures’ said Satish, my guide, who picked us up from our hotel while heading to the Fort Kochi area. He informed us how Kochi is surrounded by backwaters and has many bridges to cross to small islands. After a brief background about Kochi city, he told us the history of Fort Kochi and how it has embraced many religions and cultures throughout the centuries.

I was on my third trip to Kochi, but I never explored the Kochi city or the Fort Kochi area, as I used it only as a transit point for my road trip in Kerala. But I was excited to explore it this time.

ABOUT FORT KOCHI

Fort Kochi is India’s historic port town with roots in the 14th century and influenced by a flow of European, Egyptian, Arab and Chinese merchants. Kochi was part of the silk and spice route for these traders. 

Kochi is a mix of small islands, and Fort Kochi and Mattancherry are the historic colonial areas within the city limits. Fort Kochi is primarily home to the Christians influenced by the European settlers. While Mattancherry is the vibrant trade centre and home to the Jews, Muslims and Hindus.

Due to the colonial influence, Fort Kochi has many heritage buildings that are over 500 years old. Not only buildings, but many historical records, antiquities and even the mortal remains of important traders still find a place in Fort Kochi. Most of these are now part of the tourist circuit in Fort Kochi.

HISTORY OF FORT KOCHI

Fort Kochi was a fishing village in pre-colonial Kerala. The Portuguese arrived in 1498 during the Age of Discovery, and the Cochin king allowed the Portuguese to settle in the Fort Kochi area for 160 years. 

The ‘Fort’ in Fort Kochi comes from Fort Emmanuel, which was constructed to protect their commercial interests. However, the Dutch later destroyed it. The Dutch ruled Fort Kochi for 112 years.

It was later captured by the British, who ruled the place for 152 years.

With such a diverse history of colonisation, Fort Kochi is now a treasure trove for tourists. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT FORT KOCHI

Kochi remains hot and humid all year round, but winters (November to February) are by far the best time to visit Kochi, as the weather is very pleasant. Summer in Cochin can get extremely hot and humid, and temperatures begin to rise in March. I went in the first week of May, and the outdoors were uncomfortable.

If you want to see the Onam celebrations in Kochi, September is the time when the festival happens. The Snake boat race also takes place at the same time

HOW TO GET TO FORT KOCHI FROM KOCHI AIRPORT

Fort Kochi to Cochin International Airport is 30 km. It roughly takes 1.5 hours because of heavy traffic. Government bus service is available at a cheaper cost (INR 90) while app-based taxi and pre-paid taxi services are also available from the airport. Taxis charge anything between INR 1200 to INR 1800 one way from the airport.

Getting around Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

The best way to get around Fort Kochi and Mattancherry is by walking or by bike. Hire a local guide who can take you around Fort Kochi, exploring the quaint neighbourhoods and heritage mansions.

FORT KOCHI WALKING TOURS | FORT KOCHI HERITAGE WALK

The best way to explore any area, especially its heritage through a heritage walk. Heritage walks are synonymous with many cities in India, and they are the best way to know a place in depth.

One of the best ways to explore Fort Kochi is by the Fort Kochi walking tour or bike tour. These are guided tours held by local guides or organisations and take tourists through the important yet offbeat places of Fort Kochi. The duration of the walking tour is 2-3 hours.

✦ Pro tip: Book Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets Private Walking Tour or Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Sightseeing Tour

Fort Kochi Heritage walks with a unique itinerary:

Heritage walk

• Learn about the European settlement in Kerala by walking through street names such as Burger Street, Loafers Corner, Princess Street and Lilly Street.
• Walking through old avenue trees that are more than 500 years old. One of them is assumed to be the world’s biggest Christmas tree.
• Photograph the colonial houses, each having a unique history. Most of these are converted into bungalows, heritage hotels, elite hotels, boutique hotels, and leftover English clubs.
• Explore the monuments of St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz basilica church.
• Finish the walk at the Chinese fishing nets and the beach with some souvenir shopping.

Urban Spice Trail Walk 

• Know about the rich heritage and cultural colonies, exploring the spices that are grown in each house.
• Pay a visit to the world’s biggest Christmas tree, called the Rain Tree. 
• Visiting the Dhobi Khana, a community introduced by the Dutch and British, who are involved in laundry services.
• Pay respects to the 34 multilingual Hindu orthodox religious communities who live in harmony. 
• Visiting a flour mill to see how it works. 
• Walk to the biggest Kerala Tirumala temple of Asia’s biggest working bell.

Other Fort Kochi walking tours are the Christian Heritage Walk, Kochi Food Tours and many others.

Since we had about 4 hours in hand, we combined the best of these 2 itineraries and explored all that we could in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN FORT KOCHI

We parked somewhere near the Dutch cemetery and started our walk through the shaded pathways of the Dutch colony. The following sums up my experience and all the things to do in Fort Kochi in one day.

Walk along the Dutch Colony road

Get friendly with the peaceful and clean roads with cobbled pavements, antique-looking street lights and heritage mansions. Just soak in the architecture of how these colonial mansions have now turned into boutique shops, Airbnb and even government offices.

Pay homage to the Dutch Cemetery

The tombstones here are the most authentic record of the hundreds of Dutch people who left their homeland in a mission to expand their colonial empires and who changed the course of the history of the land they conquered. The cemetery was consecrated in 1724 and is now managed by the Church of South India.

The gate to the Cemetery is generally closed, but visitors can peek in through the gate and notice the Portuguese inscriptions on the tombstones.

Visit the Vasco House, Fort Kochi

Believed to have been the residence of Vasco da Gama, Vasco House is one of the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Kochi. It is now a private residence and offers a heritage home stay facility. 

Visit the St. Francis Church, Cochin

Built in 1503 by the Portuguese, this is believed to be India’s oldest European church. The church was initially built of wood and was a rather humble-looking church following Roman Catholic preachings.

It was captured by the Dutch and then by the British. It was later reconstructed in stone. 

The church has always been important, as the explorer Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524. His mortal remains were later moved to Lisbon, Portugal. But his tomb was taken inside the church during renovation. This visit to St. Francis Church is one of the most historical things to do in Fort Kochi.

This humble church is one of the best tourist attractions in Kochi. It is still an active church wherein over 250 families take part in the Sunday mass. 

One of the most striking features of the church is the manual fan that is hung from rods on either side of the room. In the olden times, without electricity, people stood on the side of the rod’s end and pulled ropes to make the fabric swing and generate a breeze. One of the specialities of these fabric swings was that they used to be stuffed with herbal roots. The fabric was then sprinkled with water. On swinging, this fabric, laden with herbs and water, is used to provide cool relief during hot and humid months. 

The church has Victorian tiles in the centre of the church from the British era. The church still has instruments (mouth organ, piano, wooden pulpit, reading desk) from the bygone era and the same are being used and played during the Sunday mass. 

St. Francis Church Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Monday–Friday), 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturday, and 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm on Sundays.

Visit Bastion Bungalow

Head to the 17th-century Indo-European architecture mansion called Bastian Bungalow. It was used as a residential building during the British period. At present, it is used as the residence of the Sub-Collector of Kochi. The Bungalow on top of the Bastion is in European style with large rooms and high roof ceilings.

It is a protected monument and a heritage museum with a large collection of artefacts.

Bastion Bungalow Timings: Open all days from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Lunch break 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm).

Explore Vasco Da Gama Square

Head to the square, which is always active with many things to do in Fort Kochi. The steam boiler exhibit is hard to miss as soon as one enters. Steam Boilers from a dredger are installed near the walkway at Fort Kochi beach. 

The square is also popular for souvenir shopping in Fort Kochi, with street vendors selling street food, souvenirs and ice creams. 

Dip feet at Fort Kochi beach

Overlooking the Vasco da Gama Square in Kochi Beach. A walkway leads to a promenade, which is a good spot for photography.

Kochi overlooks the Chinese Fishing Nets and the ships that come and go. The beach also overlooks a factory, which makes the beach not such a great place to hang out. The beach is also dirty, which makes you think twice before dipping your feet in the water.

Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi

Locally known as ‘Cheenavala‘ and popularly known as Chinese Fishing Nets, they were introduced in the 14th Century by a Chinese explorer in Kochi. This method is said to be one of the oldest and most traditional fishing methods in the world. Visiting the Chinese Fishing nets is one of the Kochi Bucketlist places and most popular things to do in Fort Kochi.

Earlier, the nets used to be smaller, where one fisherman could manage the operation. However, now the entire Chinese fishing net assembly weighs over 250 kg and requires 4-5 men on deck for work. Fishing is usually done in the morning and early evening.

The structure is made of teak wood and bamboo poles, which are 10m high, fixed on the beach and has a cantilever with an attached net that is spread over an area of about 20 meters. Stones as counterweights are tied to ropes of different lengths that facilitate the working of the nets. 

The net is lowered into the water for a short time and then raised delicately by pulling on the ropes. The fish catch is collected by a sail net, segregated and stored.  The caught fish is sold in nearby markets by auction. Unwanted fish that do not have any selling value are returned to the sea. 

Only 8 Chinese Fishing Nets remain here in Fort Kochi and are part of the city’s Heritage. 

Watching this procedure from a distance is free, but in case you want to walk on the planks and see the process up close, the fishermen charge money. Worth the Instagram shot? Absolutely!

Check the working of Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi in this Instagram reel.

Kerala Kathakali Centre

A trip to the Kerala Kathakali centre is highly recommended while in Fort Kochi. The centre showcases traditional dance – Kathakali and martial arts – Kalaripayattu every day. 

Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial art forms in the world that originated in Kerala in the 3rd century. Considered among the oldest and most scientific martial arts in the world, the word ‘Kalari’ literally means ‘battlefield’ and ‘payattu’ means ‘training of martial arts. Kalaripayattu uses weapons such as swords and daggers, sticks, spears, maces, axes, arrows, discuses, catapults, boomerangs and others.

Kathakali is a form of classical Indian dance. It is unique as it is distinguished by the elaborately colourful make-up, costumes and facemasks that the traditionally male actor-dancers wear. The dance form is associated with storytelling through dance.

Tickets can be bought on the Centre’s premises ahead of the performance. Ticket price: INR 300 per person, and the duration is one hour.

✦ Pro tip: Pre-book your tickets for the Kathakali show and skip the line.

Visit Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Fort Kochi

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Fort Kochi. Built in 1558 by the Portuguese, it was later destroyed by the British in the 19th century. On the same ground, a bishop rebuilt the cathedral, and it was proclaimed a Basilica in the early 20th century.

The stained glass in the interior, the Gothic architecture and the murals give a European vibe. It surely reminded me of St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow, Poland.

Santa Cruz Cathedral timings: (Monday to Saturday) 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm,  Sunday: 10:30 am – 1:00 pm. It is closed on the first Friday of every month.

Praise the Fort Kochi Street Art

With many art galleries to boast of in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, visitors can get a flavour of art on the streets too. Everywhere around Vasco da Gama Square and Mattancherry, visitors cannot miss the wall art on the walls. Burger Street is also a lane full of colourful corners and walls. The street art is done by local and international artists. Portraits, murals, and graffiti in different shapes, sizes and colours adorn the walls.

This street art is done every year during the Muziris Biennale – A contemporary art event where art sessions, art exhibitions, talks, workshops, educational performances, film screenings, etc, are held. Happening worldwide, Kochi is also a host of this festival.

Because of the pandemic, Muziris Biennale was not held for 2 years, which has made the murals fade away in most areas. Kochi-Muziris Biennale is set to open on December 12, 2022, and will run for four months, till April 10, 2023.

Must-visit art galleries in Fort Kochi are the Durbar Hall Art Gallery, David Hall and OED Art Gallery.

Getting Ayurvedic Treatments in Fort Kochi

Kerala is home to the ancient tradition of Ayurveda. While Thekkady is a more popular place for getting these treatments, Fort Kochi also offers Ayurvedic massages for tourists who are not travelling elsewhere.

Ayurville is one of the most recommended places in Fort Kochi for getting Ayurvedic treatment. It offers long-duration retreats with stay and food for holistic healing. The treatment solutions are for people suffering from chronic ailments.

Cafe Hopping at Fort Kochi

There is a strong coffee and art culture in Fort Kochi, and if you are visiting here, then cafe hopping in Fort Kochi is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi. There are many coffee shops and cafes dotted around Fort Kochi, and it can truly be challenging to choose one to visit during a Kochi day trip.

Kashi Art Café

Kashi Art Café is the most popular café in Fort Kochi and was recommended by at least 4 people to visit.

I visited it in the morning around 10:30 am, and it was already full with locals and tourists grabbing some breakfast overlooking some unique installations. The cafe has a relaxing ambience and is full of green vibes. There are shrubs and creepers everywhere, as well as some contemporary artwork displayed at the entrance.

I tried the ginger lemon soda as I was full, not looking for food, and it was decent. The food looked appetising and I promised myself to come back here during a more relaxed time.

Brunton Boatyard 

The colonial-style building right by the harbour is hard to miss. With splendid views of the waterways and this cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner.

Fort House Hotel 

Fort House Hotel serves authentic Keralan cuisine at its waterfront restaurant. This family-run hotel provides panoramic views from the table. Some of the must-try dishes here are Ginger-garlic prawns with appams and fish with green mango curry.  

The Jetty Restaurant at the Forte Kochi Hotel 

Located in the Heritage property on Princess Street, Forte Kochi Hotel is a beautiful place to stay, visit and dine. Jetty Restaurant is a poolside restaurant that serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian varieties of Indian and International cuisines. 

Ginger House & Hotel 

A perfect lunch spot is Ginger House after all the walking and shopping for antique gift articles in Jew Town. This is a waterfront restaurant that is extremely green, vibrant and very different from what you may see.

Built in a typical colonial style with ornate woodwork and glass-paned windows, it is a must-visit place in Kochi.

It is an open-air restaurant overlooking the Kochi waterways, has a huge garden and is decorated with antique art and crafts all across.

BEST THINGS TO DO NEAR FORT KOCHI – MATTANCHERRY AND JEW TOWN

While Fort Kochi always hog the limelight, its neighbouring areas are nothing but a treasure trove and a must-visit in Kochi. A short ride away from Fort Kochi is Mattancherry and Jew Town, both tourist attractions offering unique places to see in Kochi.

Take a walk on the Palace Road

On the way to Mattancherry Palace, stop near the bustling streets to interact with the locals or simply observe them going about their lives. One can still find several traders selling spices as well as various religious places here: Temples, churches and mosques.

On the walk, we saw many fruit vendors and grocery stores selling unique items that are very particular to Kerala. Puja items and flower garlands for hair were also on display at many places.

We also visited a spice flour factory and a house making rice papads.

Pay respect at Cochin Thirumala Devaswom

Chochin Thirumala Devaswom is a temple with Sri Venkateswara as the main presiding deity.

The temple is a must-visit for its architecture. The double-storied northern tower or Gopuram is done in Pagoda style, which is influenced by the Indo-Tibetan architecture. It has a copper-plated roof and wooden carvings depicting scenes from holy relics.

Another important feature of the temple is its bronze bell. Every Hindu temple is known to have a bell or sometimes even multiple bells. However, Cochin Thirumala Devaswom has the largest bell in Asia in front of the main hall of the temple. The southern end before the main hall is richly decorated with chandeliers, domes and wooden sculptures. The exquisite carvings on the inner ceilings depict scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagwat.

Note: Only Hindu worshippers are allowed inside the temple. Worshippers have to strictly adhere to the traditional dress while entering the temple – women have to wear a saree, and men in a dhoti.

Visit the Mattancherry Palace Museum

If you think you are visiting a Palace like the ones in Udaipur or Jaipur, then you will be disappointed.

Mattancherry Palace Museum is a humble-looking 2-storey plan building overlooking a pond lined by coconut trees. 

Mattancherry Palace Museum is one of the oldest buildings in the Portuguese architectural style. Built in the 16th century, it was gifted to Bira Kerala Varma as an apology for plundering a temple nearby. It was accepted by the king and served as a set of the Royal House and hence was called a palace.

The palace underwent a major renovation in the later part of the 16th century at the hands of the Dutch and hence is also known as the ‘Dutch Palace’.

The palace is a perfect blend of Indo-European architecture. The Palace museum consists of a coronation hall, bed chambers, ladies chamber, royal dining hall and other rooms. The highlight of the palace lies in its wooden ceilings, murals and paintings covering over 300 square meters of area. The murals depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharat, and legends connected to Indian gods like Vishnu, Krishna and Durga.

The museum also exhibits oil portraits of the Kings of Cochin, their palanquins, dresses, weapons, coins and weapons.

Mattancherry Palace Museum timings: Open all days from  10:00 am – 5:00 pm except Fridays. 

Mattancherry Palace Museum fees: INR 5

Note: Photography is not allowed in the rooms having murals.

Shop for Vintage collectables

After coming out of the Mattancherry Palace Museum, our guide made us take a shortcut, and we reached the backyard of scraps.

On going further, these scraps took shape in the form of antiques. This is when we realised we were in the antique market in Jew Town.

Jew Town in Kochi is the biggest antique market in India. Each shop is divided into sections and sub-sections, and honestly, it is like a maze where you keep moving without finding an exit. It is very easy to get lost in the antique market of Jew Town, so best to move around with a guide.

The antique shops here have a rich collection of antiques, crafts and spices in heritage buildings. Shops that look and feel as old as time are filled to the brim with antiques that are beautifully cared for and displayed. Some of the most pristine and historically relevant artefacts can be found here. They are like fractions of history, waiting for the right person to come and finally claim them. 

Shops towering over 2 storeys high with a basement are nothing short of a treasure waiting to be explored.

Photography is prohibited here. But some may allow you if you are with a guide.

Visit the World’s longest canoe boat

Canoe boats are special for Kerala as they participate in Vallam kali, the traditional boat race in Kerala that is held every year during the season of the harvest festival, Onam. This sporting event – Vallam Kali, also known as Kerala Snake Boat Race, is a huge attraction in Kerala, and sporting enthusiasts visit the race from near and far. Each canoe boat is about 100 feet long and has a seating capacity of 150 men. Each boat is meticulously crafted by skilled craftsmen using local teak wood.

A 107-year-old wooden canoe boat is on display in one of the most humble-looking shops in the labyrinth lanes of Jew Town. It is no less than an art, and one can praise the fine craftsmanship of making this snake boat, which was once a pride of the backwaters.

It is displayed at a shop 2 doors away from the entrance of Ginger House and Hotel.

Visit the world’s largest cooking vessel, ‘Varpu’

Another gem often missed by tourists in Jew Town is the display of the world’s largest ‘Varpu’. Varpu or Uruli can be translated as a cooking vessel. This huge cooking vessel is made of bronze, has a 12-foot diameter and weighs 3184 kilograms. Made in 2004 by the lost wax method by the craftsman in Munnar, it took 13 months for 30 craftsmen and 160 artisans to make it.

The vessel was crafted in a 14-foot trench, and the mould was fired for 30 hours continuously.

It is displayed at a store called ‘Crafters’.

Try Aromatherapy in Jew Town

Incense sticks, perfumes and attars all made from endemic flowers are found in shops around Jew Town.  Take a seat as the experts demonstrate various aromas and fragrances by placing a small drop of oil on your hand. Rub it and try to guess which flower is responsible for it. A small apparatus displayed at the shop gives the idea of how oils are removed from flowers

The oils removed from the flowers are used as base fragrances in many designer perfumes and body mists.

Walk the quaint streets of Jew Town

Jew town, as the name suggests, was a neighbourhood where Jews lived. Only 2 families live here now. But the colourful streets and vibrant shops are a must-visit place in Kochi.

Jew Town is a narrow shopping street that leads up to the Jewish synagogue, Kochi. There are shops and art galleries on both sides of the street selling antiques, relics, Kerala souvenirs, handicrafts and clothes. It is a walking street with no motor activity allowed and is painted as though a street straight from the European markets.

Spice shopping on Bazaar Road in Mattancherry

Coming to Kerala and not shopping for spices is a crime! Kerala is known for its spices that are grown all over the state. Green cardamom, cloves, pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg are some of the must-buy spices in Kerala. They are known for good quality and are adulteration-free.

Explore the Paradesi Synagogue, Kochi

Walk to the end of Jew Street to reach Pardesi Synagogue. Pardesi means foreign, and locals called the Jews “paradesis” or foreigners in the local language. That is how the Jewish Synagogue got its name, Pardesi Synagogue. 

This 16th-century synagogue was constructed after the Cochin Jews were them land. Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest and most active one in Kochi.

A blossomed pink Bougainvillaea near the entrance is quite a spectacle, and the guard at the entrance requests visitors to put their phone in switch-off mode or hide it away in their bag. Photography is not allowed in the synagogue.

Hand-painted porcelain tiles from China, Belgian chandeliers, and the brass-railed pulpit demonstrate the charm of the bygone era. Spend some time in the sitting area just soaking in the interiors. 

Pardesi synagogue timings: Sunday to Thursday – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, and Friday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Pardesi Synagogue is closed on Saturday.

Pardesi synagogue entry ticket: INR 10 per person.

THINGS TO DO IN KOCHI IN AREAS OTHER THAN FORT KOCHI

Explore the Aluva Spice Market

While there are spice shops across Fort Kochi, they are a bit on the pricier side because of the tourist area. The spice market in Aluva is a wholesale market which supplies spices to these shops in Fort Kochi, Kerala and the entire nation. Hence, the prices here are lower and the quality is fabulous. The only downside is that one must purchase a minimum quantity of 250 g or 500 g, depending on the spice.

Ride the Kochi Water Metro

Kochi Water Metro is the first-ever water metro in India, and it only makes sense to ride it if you are in Kochi. The Kochi Water Metro is an eco-friendly transport initiative that links different parts of the city via an extensive network of waterways. Designed to ease traffic congestion and enhance urban connectivity, the project champions sustainable mobility for a greener future.

 I took the metro from High Court to Fort Kochi and paid INR 40 for this 15-minute scenic ride.

Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum

The Kerala Folklore Museum is a privately run, three‑storied wooden marvel which has an amazing collection of artefacts from Kerala.  Inside, over 4,000 to 6,000 artefacts, including masks, ancient stone‑age tools, sculptures in wood, bronze, and stone, ritual costumes, manuscripts, musical instruments, and tribal art, paint a vivid picture of Kerala’s folklore and cultural traditions 

Each floor tells a different story: the ground level features tribal art, masks, and ritual objects; the first floor, Kalithattu, displays elaborate dance costumes for Theyyam, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Ottanthullal; while the second floor, Kanjadalam, boasts dramatic murals and a sculpted wooden ceiling.

WHERE TO STAY IN FORT KOCHI | BEST HOTELS IN FORT KOCHI

If you are going to be spending some time visiting the tourist spots in Fort Kochi, then it is ideal that you book a hotel in Fort Kochi. Since most properties here are colonial mansions that are now converted into heritage villas and homes, it is the best way to spend time in Fort Kochi.

Heritage properties in Fort Kochi

Forte Kochi

One of the best-known heritage properties in Fort Kochi is the Brunton Boatyard. It is a CGH Earth property (CGH is a big name in luxury stays in South India) and is housed in a former shipyard from the British times. All of their rooms and en-suite bathrooms overlook the sea, and you can catch some stunning sunsets dotted with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets right from the comfort of your room. Do not forget to dine at their History restaurant, where every dish has an interesting story behind it.

Forte Kochi can be booked here

Ginger House Museum and Hotel

I have already mentioned the art and restaurant of the Ginger House Museum. But it is also a heritage property that offers a luxurious experience. It is popular amongst international tourists who are known to book the room’s furniture for their own home back home. Now that is a lovely USP to have.

Ginger House Museum and Hotel can be booked here 

Dutch Bungalow, Fort Kochi

If you are looking for something less expensive, try the Dutch Bungalow. Built in 1668 by the Dutch, the mansion is more than 350 years old. The rooms have lofty ceilings, a separate living area, huge bathrooms, and a beautiful, rustic feel about them. I stayed here when visiting Fort Kochi and had an absolutely amazing time.

Dutch Bungalow can be booked here

Hostels in Fort Kochi

Mansions are the best way to stay in Fort Kochi, but if you are a backpacker, then there are options for hostels as well. goStops and Zostel are one of the good chains of hostels and offer great value for money.

DAY TRIPS FROM FORT KOCHI

While Fort Kochi has a lot to do and explore, many day trips from Fort Kochi are worth exploring. My favourite 3 places to visit for day trips from Fort Kochi are:

Cherai and Chendamangalam

Cherai is nestled at the northern end of Vypin Island and is blessed with calm and shallow waters, making it a favourite spot for swimming and bathing. It has a unique ecosystem, having backwaters from the Arabian Sea on one side and the Periyar River water on the other.

Apart from the beach, there are many water sports and adventure activities to choose from. There are many cultural and heritage sites in Cherai, which make it an interesting place to visit.

Among the places to visit near Cherai Beach, Chendamangalam Handlooms is also a cluster worth exploring. The Chendamangalam Heritage focuses on rural development and the sustainability of the handloom industry. A guided tour here takes the visitors through the history, the process, and the ecological and economic impact of Handlooms.

Alleppey

One of the most popular activities in Kerala is the houseboat experience in the backwaters of Kerala. Houseboats are available in Alleppey, Kumarakom and Kovalam. But the one on Alleppey has a different charm altogether.

Alleppey is around 50 km from Fort Kochi and takes you roughly 2 hours to get there by road. It is the ideal place to experience the houseboats of the backwaters. 

✦ Pro tip: Book Cruises & boat tours in Alleppey

Locally known as a Kettuvallam, the houseboat is primarily made of a wooden hull and a thatched roof of coir. You can hire a houseboat for a day trip or spend a few days relaxing and sailing around the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey.

All houseboats are well-staffed, including cooks who will prepare authentic Keralan cuisine. A standard menu includes fresh fish cooked in spices, steamed rice, curries with locally grown organic vegetables and fried banana fritters.

✦ Read about my Alappuzha experience: Kerala Backwaters of Alleppey

Munnar

A day trip to Munnar is possible from Kochi, and it is the perfect getaway to the hills. Munnar sightseeing includes a visit to the tea garden, a tea factory visit, boating and waterfalls.

✦ Pro tip: Book this Munnar Private Day Trip from Kochi (12-hour trip with pick-up and drop from hotel).

If you have more time on hand, check out more posts on Munnar: 

• Things to do in Munnar  
• Eravikulam National Park
• Glamping in Munnar
• Trekking in Munnar

FORT KOCHI FAQ

Why is Fort Kochi called so?

Fort Kochi gets its name from Fort Emmanuel, which the Portuguese first built when they landed in India.

Is Fort Kochi a fort?

Earlier, there used to be a fort-like wall which gave it the name, but only a stone remains around the Vasco da Gama store and can be easily missed unless a local points it out. However, Fort Kochi has palaces, churches, mansions, beaches, areas of cultural importance, street art and food, which make it must must-visit.

Is Fort Kochi worth visiting?

Yes! Fort Kochi is a historical place that has stunning mansions, beaches, areas of cultural importance, street art, food and other important landmarks. Fort Kochi appeals to tourists of all kinds and ages.

Is a guided tour required in Fort Kochi?

I would certainly recommend you to get a day guide for Fort Kochi who can take you to all the places of interest. I highly recommend C Satish, who is a local Kochi guide who has immense knowledge of Kochi (architecture, heritage culture, flora, food and the list goes on). Since he is based in Kochi, he is a great resource for the Fort Kochi Walking Tour. C Satish can be reached at +91 9495690929

Is Fort Kochi safe?

Yes, Fort Kochi is safe for all travellers, even solo women travellers. 

Is Fort Kochi and Kochi the same?

No, Fort Kochi and Kochi are not the same. Fort Kochi is a small area in Kochi city. Fort Kochi is the most popular area for tourism in Kochi because of its heritage angle to this place.

Is Fort Kochi and Mattancherry the same?

No, Fort Kochi and Mattancherry are not the same. They are two different heritage neighbourhoods in Kochi and offer different places to visit. In Fort Kochi, there are mansions, ancient churches, street art, a beach and artsy cafes, whereas in Mattancherry, there is street shopping, an antique market, Paradesi Synagogue and a spice bazaar.

How much time do you need in Fort Kochi?

Fort Kochi is a small neighbourhood but has a lot to offer. It can be explored in one day or sometimes even 3 days in Fort Kochi is not enough. The itinerary can be planned as per time availability.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR THINGS TO DO IN FORT KOCHI AND MATTANCHERRY

• Kochi is a unique city having cultural, heritage and environmental importance, so please respect it in all ways.
• Respect the ancient structures of palaces, synagogues and temples by not sitting on them or by carving or writing on them.
• Dress modestly in places of religious importance.
• Do not use phones or conduct photography where it is prohibited.
• Do not litter any of the tourist areas.

Overall experience of Things to do in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry in one day

Fort Kochi is special, and I regret not coming here on all my previous visits to Kerala. I also wish I had more time to explore other Fort Kochi walking tours and try the umpteen cafes here. I thoroughly had a lovely time overlooking the Fort Kochi streets lined with blue and yellow buildings, terracotta roofs and cobbled pavements reflecting the colonial era, and the modern art vibes. All these make Fort Kochi one of the most popular holiday destinations in India. 

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The post 25 Best Things to do in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry in One Day appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.