Kochi offers a mix of historical, natural, and cultural sites. The city features many significant landmarks originally built by Portuguese settlers in the 15th Century. Some historical places to visit in Kochi include Fort Kochi with its colonial-era streets and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Visitors can also explore synagogues and cultural sites like Mattancherry Palace and Santa Cruz Basilica. Attending Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances will give you a chance to experience the vibrant array of performing arts and classical dance forms of Kerala.
Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach or exploring the history of Kochi’s European influence, there is something for everyone in the city. If you are planning a trip soon, book a self-drive car rental in Kochi to ensure a memorable, worry-free vacation.
Kochi is often called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea” because the city has a long history as a melting pot of diverse cultures. The Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Chinese have all contributed to making Kochi what it is today. Hence, Kochi offers visitors an abundance of historical sites to explore. Here are some historical sites and other best places to visit in Kochi.
Fort Kochi is a seaside community rich in colonial architecture and noted for its artistic cafes as well as its well-known Chinese Fishing Nets. The architecture exhibits various doors and windows with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British styles, combined with local elements.
The Paradesi Synagogue is located in Jew Town and is one of the oldest operating synagogues in the Commonwealth. The synagogue is well-known for having hand-painted Chinese tiles, Belgian chandeliers, and an extensive collection of rare manuscripts.
The Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) is a historically significant palace displaying battlements and stunning murals of Kerala that tell the story of the Ramayana as well as royal portrait paintings of former rulers. This palace provides visitors with extensive knowledge of the history of Cochin’s royal family.
Santa Cruz Basilica is one of the oldest churches located in India and features stunning Gothic-style architecture and numerous stunning murals contained within the church. The Basilica is an important landmark representing Kochi’s Christian heritage.
A location where people can experience real-life Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances. The Centre aims to give people an understanding of the classical art of Kerala and the traditions associated with it.
A location displaying a large amount of information about the Portuguese influence on the development of Kochi, including artwork, architecture, religious artefacts, sculptures, and some items from the colonial period.
Kochi has many appealing and unique attractions, which represent the iconic charm of the city. From colonial appeal and regal splendour to serene beauty of beaches and backwaters, each site offers a distinct perspective of the city’s rich history. Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Cochin:
Located near Kochi, Cherai is a clean beach with gentle waves offering excellent views of sunsets to relax and swim in. Visitors can see glimpses of local fishermen as they move along the shoreline.
Located along the backwaters of Kochi, Marine Drive is a beautiful waterfront promenade that is perfect for an evening walk or a sunset cruise while viewing the city’s skyline from the water. Marine Drive remains one of the most popular recreational areas in Kochi.
A system of canals and lagoons in Kochi, these backwaters provide a picturesque way to travel and observe life in the surrounding villages. The backwaters represent many of the natural features and relaxed lifestyle found in all parts of Kerala.
The historical palaces of Kochi provide a glimpse into the royal history of Kerala through Indo-European architecture, artistic beauty of the murals, as well as royal artifacts and relics left behind by Portuguese, Dutch and native rulers.
Bolgatty Palace, located in Bolgatty Island, is one of the oldest Dutch palaces built outside of the Netherlands. This palace was built in 1744 by Dutch traders and served as the residence of both Dutch and British Governors. Now converted into a heritage hotel, the palace has preserved its historic ambiance intact. The extensive gardens surrounding Bolgatty Palace provide an ideal place to relax or escape from the hectic lifestyle of urban life. A walk or boat trip on Bolgatty Island provides stunning scenery as well as a peaceful retreat where you can unwind while enjoying the picturesque views of the backwaters and the city’s skyline that surround Bolgatty Island.
The Hill Palace Museum, located in Tripunithura, just outside of Kochi’s city centre, is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and the former home of the royal family of Cochin. Located on a 54-acre site in 1865, the Hill Palace Museum is an impressive building with an extensive collection of royal items, including ornaments and jewellery, paintings, manuscripts, and the crown jewels. A royal throne is also on display. Visitors to the museum can learn about the wealth of history associated with the royal family’s legacy through a visit to this museum. The museum facility includes a deer park and a heritage garden, which will enhance your visit.
You can book a self-drive car rental in Kochi through Revv to explore all that Kochi has to offer and beyond without having to rely on public transportation or be confined by taxi schedules. A self-drive car lets you go wherever and whenever you want, whether you are visiting the heritage-filled streets of Fort Kochi, watching the sunset over the famous Chinese fishing nets, or driving down Marine Drive. Renting a self-drive car through Revv makes it easy to plan day trips to Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, or Cherai Beach. You can stop at any local cafe, enjoy the local cuisine, shop at local spice markets, and enjoy incredible coastal views. With Revv car rentals, you will receive a clean, well-maintained vehicle delivered to your location, providing an enjoyable, convenient, worry-free travel experience.
Kochi is a city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful backwaters, and plenty of greenery. Kochi’s tourist attractions combine traditional charm with modern lifestyles, the old with the new, to allow visitors an opportunity to experience both worlds at their own pace. Visitors can explore Fort Kochi and its sacred places of worship, scenic beaches, the peace and calm of Kochi’s backwaters, and the bustling spice markets. The diversity of food culture in Kochi gives visitors an opportunity to try local dishes along with international flavors. Kochi offers tourists everything a leisure traveller would want, whether it is a short weekend trip or an extended vacation, you are sure to have the best time.
Nagpur is located at the centre of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. With many historical…
More than a picturesque hilly city, Dehradun is an excellent travel destination that combines leisurely…
Indore is located in the scenic Narmada valley, where the rivers Saraswati and Khan converge.…
The city of Dehradun, located in Uttarakhand, is a charming city due to its attractive…
Though known for its parties and beaches, Goa is truly an excellent destination for all…
North Goa is a tropical paradise offering tourists numerous attractions, including unspoilt beaches, Portuguese heritage…