The Best Family-Friendly Activities In Kochi India

Kerala is a perfect family destination as it offers plenty of sights, sounds, and activities that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. From enjoying the vibrant nature that the state is bestowed with, to fun activities; choose from a range of things to do for a complete and entertaining family time. Kochi is a thriving city that offers limitless possibilities to keep little ones busy and learning while they enjoy.

1. Trip to Hill Palace Museum

Museum

Introduce children to the history and culture of Kerala at the palace-turned-museum that was once the abode of the rulers of the erstwhile kingdom of Cochin. Discover the well preserved art and history through murals, oil paintings, sculptures, and ancient curios. It is built in the ettukettu style – a traditional style of Kerala architecture. Entry fee: Rs 30 for adults; Rs 10 for children up to the age of 12
Timings: Open daily except Mondays, from 9:30am to 12:30pm, and then 2 to 4:30pm

2. Time out in Subhash Bose Park

Park

How to reach: Take a bus to Marine Drive and get down at the District Court bus stop
Timings: 10am to 9pm

For sparkling times at Sparky’s

One of the largest shopping malls in India – Lulu Mall in Kochi has a special attraction for children. Their topmost floor houses Sparky’s – an entire section filled with games and rides for children. A safe place to leave the little ones while the elders enjoy shopping, Sparky’s ensures hours of unending fun. But beware as it can get addictive for the little ones who don’t want to leave!

How to reach: Hire a taxi or take a local bus to Lulu Mall in Edappally. You can also travel conveniently in the Kochi metro and get down at the Edappally Station.

Lulu Mall, 34/1000, N.H 47, Edapally, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi, Kerala 682024, India

Heritage Walks in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

Fort Kochi and Mattanchery are two small towns within Kochi that ooze historical charm and are dotted with monuments from the past, influenced by various communities who made Fort Kochi their home. Lessons on Kochi’s history is incomplete without a visit to Fort Kochi and Mattanchery. Take a walk (or hire a bicycle) and visit the following places/structures of historical importance here:

512 year old Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica – one of the eight Basilicas in India
515 year old St Francis Church – the oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was buried in 1524
Array of Chinese fishing nets along the Mahatma Gandhi beach promenade – an influence of trading with Chinese merchants
Dutch Cemetery – believed to be the oldest European cemetery in India
Walk/ride along Vasco da Gama square to the ruins of the Gunnery of Fort Emmanuel
Indo-Portuguese Museum – a museum with exhibits that show Portuguese influence in the area’s art and culture
Bastion Bungalow – a 17th century Indo-European bungalow
Jawahar Park and the interesting houses that ring the park – Koder House, Tower House, Old Harbour Hotel
Stroll along Princess Lane and Napier Street, flanked by building from the Imperial times
365 year old St George Orthodox church aka Koonan Kurishu – the oldest St George church in Kochi
Gujarathi Jain Temple built in 1960
Paradesi Synagogue – the oldest functioning synagogue in India
Mural art at Mattancherry Palace
Stroll and shop along Jew Town