10 Awesome Things To Do and See in Kochi

Chinese Fishing Nets

The Chinese Fishing Nets are without doubt Kochi’s most popular sight. According to legend, the nets were brought from the court of Chinese emperor Kublai Khan and were introduced to fishermen in Kochi by Chinese explorer Zheng He in the 14th century, and have been in use ever since. Local fishermen show how to use them in return for a small fee, it’s a fun experience and later on in the day, you can purchase the morning catch from the fishmongers, have it cooked in the nearby shacks and enjoy it while taking in the breath-taking sunset.

Address: River Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace was built and presented as a token of appreciation by the Portuguese to the Raja of Kochi, Verra Kerala Varma, in 1555. The Dutch carried out renovations and created extensions in 1663, hence it also called the Dutch Palace. The double storeyed palace has the architectural style of the Portuguese but it follows the design patterns of Kerala temple architecture, which can be seen in the wooden balconies and the sloping roof. Today, the palace serves as an art gallery showcasing some of India’s best art murals and paintings, the star attractions being the murals depicting scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana and other Puranic legends in elaborate detail.

Address: Mattancherry Kochi, Kerala 682002

Elephant Training Centre

Kodanad is a small rural riverside village in the district of Ernakulam in Kochi. Most hotels arrange a day trip to this small, unspoilt village which has best training centers for stranded adult and baby elephants. If you’re able to reach before eight in the morning, there is a good chance that you can lend a hand to the trainers in giving a wash to the elephants, one of the most lively and happiest pleasures available in Kochi. Watch the elephants roll around and douse you in water as they play around. One can also attend elephant safaris for a small fee.

Address: Vallom Panamkuzhi Road Kodanad, Kerala 683544

Kathakali Performance

Kathakali is one of the nine classical dances of India and has its origins in Kerala. It is well known for its colourful and fascinating costumes. The dance presents themes derived from the Hindu epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and many others. Kochi’s Kerala Kathakali Centre runs performances every day and also provides opportunities to watch the artists apply their makeup and offers training programs in the classical dances too.

Address: Near Santa Cruz Bazilica, K.B. Jacob Road, Fort Kochi, Kerala 682001

Princess Street

Loafer’s Corner or Princess Street is one of the oldest areas in Kochi, and is an amalgamation of the traditional and modern. Situated right in the middle of Kochi, the influence of the colonial powers is evident, with both sides of the street dotted with buildings and homes of European architecture with Dutch, Portuguese and British being the main ones. Princess Street is the place to go in Kochi for street shopping, cafés, books stores and people watching. The best way to experience it is by foot, as there are many shops selling artefacts, souvenirs and little handicrafts.

Address: Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Dal Roti

In a south Indian state, a restaurant serving north Indian cuisine and considered one of the best restaurants in the area is a commendable job. Welcome to Dal Roti, a simple restaurant in the Fort Kochi with old wooden tables and a laid back ambiance. The restaurant is popular for its kati rolls and parathas. The sweet and friendly owner Ramesh always makes sure each of his customers is well looked after. It’s a great place to relax and have simple, homely and delicious food.

Opening hours: 9am-10pm

Address: Napier Street Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Scuba Cochin

Scuba Cochin is South India’s first PADI authorized dive centre and offers various PADI certification courses from open water diver to instructor level and daily dive trips. Located in the centre of Kochi, it also offers a course in Emergency First Responder. They also conduct snorkelling, kayaking and have a dive store which offers updated and branded equipment.

Address: GCDA Shopping Complex, Shop No.12 Opp.Central School IGH Road Kadavanthra Ernakulam, Kerala 682020