For those who wish to explore the real treasures of Kerala, here we go with the list of places to visit in Cochin. Beaches and backwaters, tea plantations and spice estates, hot steaming appams with stew and vibrant Kathakali performances – these and much more epitomize the God’s Own Country, Kerala on the global tourism map. However, Cochin stands out. Cochin has an altogether different signature – history and tradition woven together with modernization. The places to visit in Cochin, especially the best ones, are absolutely captivating, and sure to leave you with a bag full of beautiful memories and aspirations.

Before starting with the list, let’s share a brief history of Kochi, previously and more popularly known as Cochin. It is an important port of south-west coast of India and was once a significant spice trading hub. If we go back to history, we see Greek, Roman, Portuguese, Arabic and Jewish settlements in Cochin for trade and commerce purposes. 

Top 43 Places To Visit In Cochin

Are you planning to visit Kochi? Today, Cochin stands as an important city and tourist place in Kerala. It is also popular with tourists heading South for a religious tour. Each one of the mesmerizing 43 places to visit in Cochin has some kind of historical and colonial significance to it. If you are planning a visit to this place in Kerala then this list of Kochi tourist places will be very helpful in planning a perfect itinerary. Dig in and see which all places are you going to cover.

• Mattancherry Palace – Gape At Marvelous Architecture
• Indo-Portuguese Museum – Dig Deep Into The History
• Paradesi Synagogue – Marvel At Age-Old Antiques
• Hill Palace – A Haven For History Buffs
• Folklore Museum – See Folk-Tribal Objects
• Veegaland – Beat The Summer Heat
• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary – Watch Birds Flying
• Santa Cruz Basilican – Pray For Everyone’s Well-Being
• St Francis Church – Pay A Visit With Family
• Cherai Beach – Perfect Destination For Fun Activities
• Veeranpuzha Beach – Witness The Changing Colors Of Sky
• Gowreeswara Temple Cherai – Worship With Clear Heart
• Shiva Temple – Glimpse At The Majestic Sculpture
• Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple – Not-To-Be-Missed Place
• Kodanad Elephant Training Centre – Watch Elephants Playing
• Kadalkkara Lake Resort – Head To A Quaint Place
• Kathakali Center – Learn A Different Dance Form
• Princess Street – Must-Visit Place For Tourists
• Kashi Art Cafe – Relish Tasty Food
• Ginger House Museum Hotel – Ideal Blend of History & Modernity
• Munambam Beach – Relax, Unwind & Have Fun
• Marine Drive – Stroll Around With Friends
• Fort Kochi Beach – End The Day On A Good Note
• Bolgatty Palace And Island Resort – Magnificent Abode
• Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple – Heal Yourself
• Chinese Fishing Nets – Witness Natural Beauty
• Wonderla Amusement Park – Fun Rides For All
• Malayattoor – Pay A Visit To Holy Shrine
• Athirapally Falls – Hear The Music Of Nature
• Museum Of Kerala History – Know More About Kerala
• Areekkal Falls – Gape At The Water Falling 
• Kuzhupilly Beach – Perfect Picnic Spot For All 
• Willingdon Island – A Quaint Place To Resort To
• Lulu Shopping Mall – Pick Beautiful Objects
• MG Road – Buy Souvenirs For Loved Ones
• Parikshith Thampuran Museum – Get Mesmerized
• Pallipuram Fort – Get A Glimpse Of Portuguese Style
• Vallarpadam – The Serene Island
• Puthenthode Beach – The Scenic Spot
• Thrikkakara Temple –Celebrate Onam In A Grand Way
• Veeranpuzha Lake – Mystic Evenings
• Puthuvype Beach – Witness The Gorgeous Sunset
• Andhakaranazhi Beach – A Perfect Place To Chill Out

1. Mattancherry Palace – Gape At Marvelous Architecture

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Mattancherry Palace, located in Palace Road and built by the Portuguese as early as 1557, is considered to be one of the important places to visit in Cochin in 1 day. Popularly known as Dutch Palace, it has the style and architecture that resembles a typical traditional Kerala house with four individual wings and a patio in between. The place is known for offering the best experience of Cochin sightseeing.

Don’t miss: Like every Kerala house, Mattancherry palace also has a courtyard in the center. The courtyard has a beautiful temple of Bhagavati, the protective deity of Kochi community. There are two other temples of Shiva and Krishna inside the palace. Also, the collection of frescos and paintings covering a large portion of the palace walls is worth seeing. However, don’t restrict to the interiors of the palace. Take in the beauty of its famous sprawling gardens and manicured lawns, that earned it a spot among the best tourist places in Kochi.
Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm. In between, the palace is closed from 1 pm to 2 pm for lunch. The Palace is closed on every Friday. Plan accordingly.
Entry fee: INR 2 per head. Yeah, read again to believe.
Location: Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

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2. Indo-Portuguese Museum – Dig Deep Into The History

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The Indo-Portuguese Museum is an amalgamation of Indian and Portuguese culture and architecture. Located in Fort Kochi area, it was built by former Bishop of the city, Joseph Urethra. The museum is divided into 5 wings exhibiting Altar of Furniture, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral and is considered to be one of the best places to see in Kochi.

Don’t miss: The museum houses some prized artifacts like Processional Cross made of silver and wood, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance, and Coat of Arms of the Francis.
Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm. The museum is closed on every Monday and public holidays.
Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 25 for foreigners. However, if you happen to visit on the first Thursday of the month, entry is absolutely free.
Location: Bishop Kureethara Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

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3. Paradesi Synagogue – Marvel At Age-Old Antiques

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Built in 1568, Paradesi synagogue or the Jewish synagogue is the oldest one amongst all commonwealth countries. One of the best places to visit in Kochi, Jewish synagogue is located in Jew Town area of Cochin and was built by Cochin Jewish group or Malabar Yehudan people.

Don’t miss: Paradesi synagogue houses very rare and appreciated antiques like carved teak ark with four scrolls of Torah (the first five books of Old Testament), silver and gold crowns, chandeliers made of Belgian glass, century old copper plates, hand-woven oriental carpet and a clock tower.
Opening hours: 10 am to 12 noon, and 3 pm to 5 pm. It is open all days of the week.
Entry fee: Entry is free inside the synagogue.
Location: Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

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4. Hill Palace – A Haven For History Buffs

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Hill Palace is a heritage museum and houses many archaeological relics and imperial belongings of the Maharaja of Kochi. This makes this Palace one of the best places to visit in Cochin for all the history buffs out there. The palace was constructed in 1865 and comprises 49 buildings. The beautiful gardens and refreshing outer facade of the museum are added as a bonus, besides the real knowledge and artifacts huddled inside the buildings. The place is known for offering the best experience of Cochin sightseeing.

Don’t miss: Along with modern-day art gallery, other popular objects worth seeing are Kudakkallu (tombstone), Thoppikkallu (hood stone), granite & laterite memorials, rock-cut armaments of the Stone Age, wooden temple replicas, and plaster cast prototypes of objects of Mohenjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilisation. If you a history or culture buff, Hill Palace is certainly among the best places to see in Cochin.
Opening hours: 9 am to 12 noon, and 2 pm to 4.30 pm. The adjoined Children’s park is open till 6 pm. Mondays are weekly off for the palace.
Entry fee: INR 30 per head
Location: Hill Palace Rd, Irumpanam, Thrippunithura, Ernakulam, Kerala 682301

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5. Folklore Museum – See Folk-Tribal Objects

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Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum is one of the popular places to visit in Cochin. It displays cultural exhibits and folk-tribal objects of the state. The museum is a 3 storeyed building, inaugurated in 2009 and representing the real legacy of Kerala. The building’s facade had a very strong Malabar architectural influence.

Don’t miss: Folklore Theatre and Museum displays traditional Kathakali masks, costumes, sculptures, musical instruments, ornaments, and utensils which belong to the historic stone age. Do not miss the manichitrathazhu, a traditional ornate door lock of Kerala while you enter the building.
Opening hours: 9.30 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: INR 100 per head

Location: Kochi, Kerala

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6. Veegaland – Beat The Summer Heat

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Popularly known as Wonder La Amusement Park, Veegaland is the country’s first theme park and one of the most happening places to visit in Cochin in 2 days. Located on a hilltop, Veegaland is famous for thrilling and fun-filled rides, thus making it perfect for a family outing.

Don’t miss: The park comprises exhilarating land and water rides. One can enjoy bumping cars, dancing cars, musical fountain, flying ammu, convoy – the toy train for kids, balloon tower, castle jet, wonder splash, rapid river, boomerang, water coasters and much more. If you like adventurous rides, go for twin flip monster, vintage tornado, thunder fall, space gun and maverick. Show the world how daring you are!
Opening hours: 11 am to 6 pm on weekdays, and 11 am to 7 pm on weekends and holidays
Entry fee: Veegaland has a concept of Regular and Fastrack tickets. The latter allows tourists to enjoy rides with a shorter queue and lesser hassle. However, it costs more than the price of regular tickets. Also, Fastrack tickets are limited to 500 PAX in a day, so it basically serves the first-come-first-serve purpose.

Location: Kochi, Kerala

Moreover, ticket prices increase on weekends and public holidays. Know more here.

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7. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary – Watch Birds Flying

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This biosphere reserve located at Central Cochin is a natural habitat to many endangered and regular species of local and migratory birds, as well as mangrove vegetation. The sanctuary encircles a tidal lake which is connected to the backwaters and one of the imperative places for sightseeing in Cochin, especially for nature lovers. It is also home to several species of fishes.

Don’t miss: In 2006, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary was home to 194 birds of 32 species. Consider yourself lucky if you happen to spot redshank, greenshank, brahminy kite, white-breasted water hen and marsh sandpiper. The beautiful landscape of the sanctuary has earned it a spot on the list of best tourist places in Cochin.
Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: None. However, carry your own water bottles and snacks as the eateries inside are far less and random.
Location: High Ct Rd, Ayyappankavu, Kochi, Kerala 682031

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8. Santa Cruz Basilican – Pray For Everyone’s Well-Being

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One of the most ancient churches in Kerala as well as in India and one among the 8 Basilicas, Santa Cruz Basilica is truly one of the oldest and the most beautiful places to visit in Cochin. It reflects historical glory and pride. This is the Cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin and is considered as one of the heritage sites of the state. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to visit in Kochi.

Don’t miss: Explore the true Gothic pattern of architecture, both on the interior and the exterior. Magnificent historical paintings on the walls of the church must be missed.
Opening hours: 7 am to 6.30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 8 am to 6.30 pm on Sundays.
Entry fee: None
Location: Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

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9. St. Francis Church – Pay A Visit With Family

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St Francis Church is one of the oldest churches in India, built by the Europeans and is one of the best places to visit in Cochin. Well-known for its beautiful surroundings, serene environment, and stunning design, you simply cannot miss this wonderful Kochi tourist places when you are exploring the town.

Don’t miss: The extraordinary exterior structure with a stepped pinnacle on two sides and the interior with pinnacle, chancel roof along with the baptism platform, book rests, offering and confessional stage are worth seeing. All these reflect the grandeur and charisma of the old-world and its traditions.
Opening hours: 7 am to 6.30 pm on all days, except Sundays. The timings are from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm on Sundays.
Entry fee: None

Location: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala

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10. Cherai Beach – Perfect Destination For Fun Activities

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A tranquil and pristine beach, Cherai is dotted with lush green swaying coconut plantations. There are golden sandy beaches, happening beach shacks and plenty of sea shells. One of the perfect places to visit in Cochin to enjoy either your own company or a lover’s hug, away from all the city noises. The serene piece of beauty, Cherai Beach is located at Vypin Island.

Don’t miss: Explore the surrounding, especially the backwater, fishing nets, thick coconut grooves and paddy fields. You may be lucky enough to spot dancing dolphins
Opening hours: The best part about this beach is that it’s accessible 24*7. However, we recommend to refrain from entering the water during high tides.
Entry fee: None whatsoever.

Location: Kochi, Kerala

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11. Veeranpuzha Beach – Witness The Changing Colors Of Sky

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A typical Malabar coastal topography with serene beaches, lush green bordering vegetation, fisherman settlements and sandy shore line sums up the picture of Veeranpuzha Beach. The beach and its backdrop are among the most placid places to visit in Cochin. Certainly a stop that assures calmness, peace and quality time with your near ones.

Don’t miss: Explore the surroundings, walk on the beach and visit the fishermen villages to know more about their work and working styles.
Opening hours: It’s accessible to public 24*7. However, please respect the privacy of fishing villages and their homes.
Entry fee: None

Location: Kochi, Kerala

12. Gowreeswara Temple Cherai – Worship With Clear Heart

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Gowreeswara Temple Cherai located in the Cherai village area is one of the prime Hindu religious places to visit in Kochi. It is locally called Malyala Palani and Muruga Temple. The main God worshipped here is Lord Subrahmanyan. Though the nomenclature is after Lord Gowreeswara, Lord Subrahmanyan’s father.

Don’t miss: This is the only temple in India with Chaturmukha Kovil, which is a Dravidian architecture style with doors on all four sides. If you happen to visit in the last two weeks of January and first two weeks of February, watch out for caparisoned elephant march, which is a part of the Cherai Gowreeswara Temple Festival.
Opening hours: 3.30 am to 11.30 am, and 4 pm to 8 pm on every day of the week.
Entry fee: None

Location: Cherai village, Ernakulum district, Kerala

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13. Shiva Temple – Glimpse At The Majestic Sculpture

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Located in the downtown Cochin, Shiva temple is also known as Ernakulathappan Temple. It is one of the seven royal temples of Kochi Maharaja and is considered as the one which protects the entire city. This temple is one of the popular places to visit in Kochi, not only among locals but also among inter-state visitors.

Don’t miss: Observe and marvel at the traditional temple structure that reflects the Malabar heritage, especially the finely sculptured walls, sanctum complex, and delicately decorated gates or gopuram.
Opening hours: 03.30 am to 8 pm on all days of the week
Entry fee: None

Location: Durbar Hall Road, Kerala

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14. Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple – Not-To-Be-Missed Place

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Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple is located in the heart of Cochin city. It is one of the ancient Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the famous Kochi attractions. The significance of this temple is that it’s the only pilgrimage in South India where the idol of the deity is facing towards the west. This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kochi.

Don’t miss: The typical Kerala style architecture and temple pattern. The use of wood, stone, and metal on the exterior, as well as interior, is truly remarkable.
Opening hours: The temple is open on all days of the week from 5 am to 12 pm, and 4 pm to 9 pm
Entry fee: None
Location: Durbar Hall Rd, Marine Drive, Ernakulam, Kerala 682011

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15. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre – Watch Elephants Play

Kodanad is a relatively small riverside village in Ernakulam district in Kochi. It is also the home to an elephant training center where the adult elephants are washed and trained. You can come to Kodanad for a day trip and be a part of this unique experience and watch the elephants early in the morning. Watching the elephants roll and play in the water is fun. It is one of the famous places in Kochi.

Don’t miss: Washing and training the baby elephants is a must-do activity in Elephant Training Centre.
Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM from Tuesday – Sunday
Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 25 for foreigners. There is an INR 25 fee for using cameras in the park.
Location: Vallom Panamkuzhi Road, Malayattoor PO, Kaprikad, Kerala 683544

16. Kadalkkara Lake Resort – Head To A Quaint Place

Kadalkkara Lake Resort is one of the most economical resorts in Cochin. If you are trying to escape from the chaotic city life, but are not ready to shell out big bucks, this is the resort for you. Close to nature, close to everything fun in Cochin, and closest to the beautiful Kadalkkara Lake, this resort is truly a reprieve to many. Nestled amongst the green surroundings, and whispering water, this retreat boasts of its cottage style rooms. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kochi.

Don’t miss: The resort has a well-furnished and fully equipped conference hall where meetings and seminars can be conducted. This makes it an ideal place for team outings.

Opening hours: Throughout the day
Entry fee: You need to book a stay
Location: Cherai Beach, Near Club Mahindra, Kochi, Kerala 683514

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17. Kathakali Center – Learn A Different Dance Form

Kathakali is a classical dance form originating in Kerala and is quite well known for its fascinating and colorful costumes. The dance form presents themes and stories that are derived from Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana as well as many other folk stories. The Kathakali Center in Kochi runs regular performances. This center is one of the best places to visit in Kochi at night.

Don’t miss: The Kathakali Center offers a backstage look at the artists as they prepare for the classical dance events.
Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
Entry fee: INR 300 for watching a Kathakali performance
Location: KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

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18. Princess Street – Must-Visit Place For Tourists

Princess Street, also known as Loafer’s Corner is one of the fun-filled Cochin tourist places and widely hailed as among the oldest locations in Kochi, which is why it is often loved by tourists. If you are looking for fun things to do in Kochi, then you should certainly visit the Princess Street. It offers the perfect amalgamation of the traditional and modern world. The influence of colonial heritage is strong here as you can see numerous homes and buildings on both the sides of Princess Street that have European architectural styles, mainly British, Dutch and Portuguese.

Don’t miss: The place is notable for cafés, street shopping, books stores, handicrafts, and souvenir shops and vibrant people.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry fee: None

Location: Princess StFort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

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19. Kashi Art Cafe – Relish Tasty Food

Located at Fort Cochin, the Kashi Art Café is known for its casual vibrations, Zen-like calmness, and an elegant semi courtyard space that are covered with many solid wood tables. One of the charming tourist spots in Kochi, the coffee served here is quite strong as well, which should appeal to ardent coffee lovers. A small gallery here presents works created by local artists. You will have a ball here.

Don’t miss: If you want to have some nice western breakfast menus and a great lunch, Kashi Art Café is the best place to be.
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 10 PM
Entry fee: None
Location: Burger St, near Police Station, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

20. Ginger House Museum Hotel – Ideal Blend of History & Modernity

Another one of the list of Kochi tourist places is Ginger House Museum hotel. The location of this hotel is unique as well. You will need to walk past Heritage Arts showroom that offers glimpses of amazing antiques and sculptures as well as explores the giant, one of a kind snake-boat canoe. Make sure to stop by here on your Cochin trip. You will have a ball of a time in this place with your family and friends. We can vouch for this! This is one of the offbeat spots for Kochi sightseeing!

Don’t miss: The Ginger House is an elegant waterfront restaurant that offers some of the most heart-filled Indian snacks and dishes such as ginger ice cream, ginger prawns, and ginger lassi.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: You need to book a stay
Location: Jew Town road, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002

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21. Munambam Beach – Relax, Unwind & Have Fun

Munambam Beach is undoubtedly among the loveliest romantic places to see in Kochi. The beach is a lengthy seashore located in close proximity to Munambam Fishing Harbour and it is counted among the best Kerala beaches. If you’re in the mood for some fun, carry one or two kites along as Munambam is considered an ideal place for kite-flying in Cochin. Make sure to stop by there on your trip to Kochi with your pals.

Don’t miss: For those lazy evenings, when all you want to do is glance at the sun as it dips in the ocean beyond the horizon.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Entry fee: None
Location: Cherai Beach – Munambam Rd, Munambam, Vypin, Kerala 683515

22. Marine Drive – Stroll Around With Frien