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Kochi Tourism- Sightseeing, Things to Do and Tour Pakcages

Cochin is known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" and is one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Kochi tourism and the tourist attractions in Cochin include Fort Cochin - famous for Chinese Fishing Nets, among others.

Famous for
Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi
Best time
September - March
Ideal stay
3 days
Languages
Malayalam, English
Nearest Airport
Cochin International Airport (COK)

About Kochi

What is Kochi known for?

In short: Cochin is known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" and is one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Kochi tourism and the tourist attractions in Cochin include Fort Cochin - famous for Chinese Fishing Nets, among others.

Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, is a historic port city in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, on India's southwestern coast. Popularly called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi has been an important centre of maritime trade for centuries, particularly for spices such as pepper and cardamom. Today, it is one of Kerala's major commercial centres and a popular destination for travellers interested in history, architecture, culture, coastal scenery, and traditional Kerala cuisine.

Located along the Arabian Sea and the interconnected waterways of Vembanad Lake, Kochi consists of mainland neighbourhoods, islands, and waterfront settlements. Its landscape includes busy commercial districts, traditional fishing communities, historic streets, and scenic backwaters.

Kochi is one of Kerala's most historically significant coastal cities. Its centuries-old spice trade, multicultural heritage, traditional fishing practices, and surviving colonial architecture distinguish it from many other urban destinations in India.

Visitors can explore historic churches and palaces, discover Jewish heritage in Mattancherry, experience traditional Kerala performing arts, and travel across the city's waterways.

Kochi also serves as a convenient starting point for journeys to other destinations in Kerala, including Munnar, Alappuzha, Thekkady, and Kumarakom.

Whether exploring Fort Kochi's historic streets, visiting the Chinese fishing nets, or enjoying the waterfront atmosphere, travellers will find a city where Kerala's maritime past and modern urban life continue to exist side by side.

Book with us

Kochi tour packages

Private trips with a chauffeur-driven car and hand-picked hotels, all customisable.

Sightseeing

Best places to visit in Kochi

Jewish Synagogue Kochi
Jewish Synagogue Kochi Entry Timings- 10 AM to 12 noon | 3 PM to 5 PM Weekly Holidays - Fridays, Saturdays & Jewish holidays Suitable for - All Age Groups Tourist Instruction- Visit…
Mattancherry Palace
Mattancherry Palace Also called the Dutch Palace in Cochin, Kerala, Mattancherry Palace is a popular historical attraction in Kerala’s most happening city! With stunning architecture, intrigu…
Marine Drive Kochi
Marine Drive Kochi Until 1980, the Shanmugam Road was considered as Marine Drive in Kochi. The road is next to Kochi Lake.  Marine Drive was a project of the Greater Cochin Development Author…
St Francis Church Fort Kochi
St Francis Church Fort Kochi The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama died in Kochi in 1524 when he was on his third visit to India. His body was originally buried in this church, but after fourteen years his …
Chinese Fishing Nets
Chinese Fishing Nets Chinese Fishing Nets Kochi are among the most famous tourist symbols of Kerala and Cochin city. Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheenavala) are to Kochi what the painted face of a Ka…
Dutch Palace
Dutch Palace Built by the Portuguese in 1557, the palace was presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi (Cochin), before it was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. This palace also houses a t…
Bolghatty Palace
Bolghatty Palace Bolghatty Palace is the erstwhile Governor's Palace for the Dutch which was later leased out to the British in 1909. Bolghatty Palace had served as the home of the British …
Cherai Beach
Cherai Beach Cherai is a lovely beach bordering Vypeen Island and is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. There are a couple of simple cafes and guesthouses too. A typica…
Hill Palace Museum, Thripunithra
Hill Palace Museum, Thripunithra Hill Palace Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala located in Tripunithura near Cochin city. Built in 1865, the Palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the tra…
Malayattoor Church
Malayattoor Church The only international shrine in Asia believed to have been visited by St. Thomas has been designated by the Vatican as an International Shrine. It is believed that St. Thomas h…

Kochi photos

Photos of Kochi tourist attractions like the Dutch Palace, Bolghatty Palace, St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi, Paradesi Synagogue (Cochin Jewish Synagogue), Malayattoor Church, Hill Palace Museum, Thripunithra, Cherai Beach, Chinese Fishing Nets, and Kodanad Elephant Training Center

Map of Kochi

Where is Kochi? Tourist Maps of Kochi

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Downloadable Kochi maps

Kochi map
Map of Fort Kochi
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Kochi map
Map of Kochi
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Experiences

Things to do in Kochi

Kochi, the gateway of Kerala, mixes island ferry rides, classical dance and spice shopping. Our six favourite experiences:

  • Take a ferry to the islands

    The best way to see Vallarpadam, Willingdon and Vypeen islands, floating between sky and water.

  • Hang out at Marine Drive

    The picturesque promenade facing the backwaters where locals and visitors meet.

  • Watch a Kathakali performance

    See Kerala’s classical dance, famous for its colourful costumes and make-up, at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.

  • Shop for spices

    Kerala’s spices are known worldwide. Buy authentic spices at fair prices in Kochi’s historic trading quarter linked to the ancient port of Muziris.

  • Visit the Kochi-Muziris Biennale

    An international exhibition of contemporary art where Indian and international artists show their work.

  • Try snorkelling

    A hidden underwater world for adventure lovers.

Areas in Kochi

Where to Stay in Kochi?

Choose your base by what you want to do. We hand-pick and check every hotel we suggest.

  • Fort Kochi

    Heritage hotels and homestays within walking distance of the fishing nets, churches and cafés. Best for first-timers.

    Best for: sightseeing & atmosphere

  • Mattancherry & Jew Town

    Quieter streets next to the palace, synagogue and spice and antique shops.

    Best for: culture & shopping

  • Ernakulam & Marine Drive

    City hotels close to the railway stations, malls and Marine Drive; easy for onward trips to Munnar.

    Best for: short stays & transit

  • Cherai

    Beach resorts between the sea and the backwaters, about an hour north of Fort Kochi.

    Best for: beach & relaxing

Real people, real stories, real experiences

What guests say about their Kochi tours

5.0 average rating 24 featured guest reviews Guests from 11 countries
Stephan Robinson ★★★★★ Stephan Robinson London, United Kingdom · Solo Travellers

We had the best 4 days (3 nights) in Kerela thanks to Anthony and Iris Tours. We saw waterfalls, beaches, Fort Kochi and stayed on a houseboat, with Anthony always there to advise and safely drive us about. He reccomended optional shopping, restaurants, and pointed out interesting things along the way. The houseboat wa…

Nov 2026 · Perfect 4 Days in Kerala Read more

Janet Dawn Mc Kerlie

Sydney, Australia · Solo Travellers

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

Great organisation and communication throughout. Sara was great in tour design and support, Sanju the driver/guide was an experienced driver on the crazy roads here, making me feel quite safe. He was also flexible, suggested many things and very punctual.Thank you to these two individuals in particular who mad my trip …

Janet Dawn Mc Kerlie
Sep 2026 · Wonderful 4-Day Solo Kerala Tour Experience Read more
Poppy Snowling ★★★★ Poppy Snowling Hamburg, Germany · Private Groups

We recently finished a 6-day tour with Iris Holidays, and it was such an amazing experience! We visited Cochi, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey—each place was unique and really memorable.A big shoutout to our driver, Sanoop, who was fantastic throughout the trip. He was knowledgeable, kind, and really easy to chat to, an…

Apr 2026 · Amazing 6-Day Kerala Tour Read more

Deena Marie Fens

Toronto, Canada · Solo Travellers

Classic Kerala Solo Tour Package

The entire trip was very well arranged and coordinated. My tour guide Monesh was excellent in his service. He brought me to all the spots listed, allowed me sufficient time to visit, no rushing and followed my phase all the way. he gave good insights, information and recommendations which were cheaper than other places…

Deena Marie Fens
Feb 2026 · Amazing Munnar Tour Read more

Carol Oakley

London, United Kingdom · Solo Travellers

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

I booked a 5 day tour- Kochi to Munnar, Thetkady and Kumarakom with Iris Holidays.  Firstly, the communication was fantastic. George was very responsive and flexible with my requests. The itinerary he suggested was perfect. Every part of the itinerary was fulfilled. More than I imagined.

Carol Oakley
Jan 2026 · Unforgettable trip to Kerala Read more
Michelle Vander Kelen ★★★★★ Michelle Vander Kelen Antwerp, Belgium · Culture Explorers

My partner and I travelled for 6 wonderful days, starting from Kochi and exploring Thekkady (National Park), Chinnakanal, Munnar, and finally ending our journey in Varkala. It was a truly enjoyable experience, made even better by our driver, Sanoop, who was absolutely fantastic. He was kind, helpful, and by the end of …

Jan 2026 · A perfect Kerala Experience Read more

Ellie

Glasgow, United Kingdom · Friends & Groups

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

We had an incredible trip with Iris Holidays! Everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned, making our Kerala experience truly memorable. Our guide and driver, Sinto, was exceptional—safe, highly experienced, and always going the extra mile with his planning and local recommendations. He even helped us with t…

Ellie
Dec 2025 · Wonderful and Smooth Kerala tour Read more

Erik Peterson

Gothenburg, Sweden · Solo Travellers

Wonderful Kerala ★★★★★

Fantastic custom package for a solo traveler! So much variety and things to experience. Irisholidays ensured great activity suggestions and professional service, making the trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable

Erik Peterson
Oct 2025 · Amazing Kerala Solo Tour Package Read more

Elyse

London, United Kingdom · Private Groups

Beaches, Backwaters, Hills & Palaces Odyssey ★★★★★

We booked a 15-day customized Kerala tour with Mr. George, and the process was easy and flexible. Our driver, Mr. Antony, was professional, kind, and made us feel safe as a solo mum with a child. He showed us hidden gems, ensured trustworthy activities, and was very accommodating when we had to adjust plans due to illn…

Elyse
Jul 2025 · Perfect Family Trip Read more

Stany

Manama, Bahrain · Friends & Groups

Munnar Luxury Holiday Package ★★★★★

We took a 2-night trip to Munnar in July 2025 with Iris Holidays, and it was a great experience. The package was affordable, and our driver, Mr. Monesh, was excellent—he knew the routes well, suggested good restaurants, and even recommended a relaxing massage to end our day. Highlights included the Tea Museum (loved th…

Stany
Jul 2025 · Wonderful 2-Night Munnar Trip Read more

Sophia Keo

Phoenix, United States · Solo Travellers

Munnar Thekkady Tour Package ★★★★★

Had an amazing tour with Iris Holidays! Our driver-guide, Mr. Monesh, was incredibly kind and made us feel safe and comfortable as two women travelers. He also took fantastic photos and videos for us! From elephant rides and tea factory visits to Kathakali shows and a peaceful houseboat cruise — every moment was a perf…

Sophia Keo
Jul 2025 · Majestic Munnar Vacation Read more

Aileen Rakow

Munich, Germany · Friends & Groups

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

We booked a 5-day tour and were absolutely thrilled with the experience! Everything was super well planned and organized, with so many great activities included. Our driver was incredibly kind, always helpful, and really took care of all our wishes and needs. The hotels and resorts were lovely—clean, friendly, and comf…

Aileen Rakow
Jun 2025 · Excellent Kerala Tour Read more

Mumtaz Rawat

London, United Kingdom · Senior Citizens

Kerala Village Tour ★★★★★

We had a wonderful experience on the Kerala backwater houseboat tour. Great driver who picked us up from the hotel and drove us to the houseboat. The houseboat was lovely the the driver and cook on board prepared a lovely lunch for us. Such a lovely relaxing experience. Thank you.  

Mumtaz Rawat
Jun 2025 · Wonderful relaxing experience Read more
Marei Weng ★★★★★ Marei Weng Jurong, Singapore · Friends & Groups

Our Kerala trip with Iris Holidays was simply unforgettable! George crafted a smooth, well-planned itinerary with great stays, while our guide/driver Shajeer went above and beyond—sharing local gems, offering snacks en route, and even welcoming us to his home with homemade rose milk. Their warmth and attention made the…

May 2025 · Unforgettable Kerala Journey from Singapore Read more

Adhika Pashayeva

New York, United Kingdom · Friends & Groups

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

Our 5 nights, 6 days tour with Iris Holidays was fantastic! We had a 2025 AC car and a great driver, Fahad, who made our journey smooth. The hotels exceeded expectations—luxurious and comfortable. We loved the flexibility to plan our own itinerary and stops. The highlight was our stay on a private houseboat with a dedi…

Adhika Pashayeva
Apr 2025 · Comfortable 6-Night Kerala Tour Read more
Christopher John Cramp ★★★★★ Christopher John Cramp Sydney, Australia · Families with Kids

We spent a month exploring South India as a family with Iris Holidays, and it was unforgettable! Arun organized everything smoothly, and our driver Anoop felt like family—safe, caring, and full of great suggestions. From Goa to Marari Beach, every stop was special.Spotting a tiger in Kabini, exploring Hampi, and enjoyi…

Apr 2025 · Best South India Family Trip Read more

Jennifer P

New York, United Kingdom · Friends & Groups

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

We explored Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, and Kovalam on an 11-night tour organized by Iris Holidays. Saranya handled all the planning, making it stress-free and perfect for our busy schedules. Our driver, Shajar, was fantastic—safe, knowledgeable, and full of great local tips for food and activities we’d never have foun…

Jennifer P
Apr 2025 · Great 11-night Kerala tour Read more

Stuart Walton

London, United Kingdom · Senior Citizens

Captivating Kerala ★★★★★

Email communication with George Joseph at Iris Holidays was excellent—he handled every request with care. Our airport pickup was seamless, and our driver Vipin was fantastic! He shared great local insights, communicated well, and made our journey comfortable in a clean, cozy car. Kind, courteous, and knowledgeable—high…

Stuart Walton
Mar 2025 · Wonderful Kerala Tour with Iris Holidays Read more

Sin Ling Chong

Putrajaya, Malaysia · Families with Kids

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

We are a group of friends from Malaysia, visiting India for the first time, and Kerala was the perfect destination! Known as "God’s Own Country," it truly lived up to its name. Choosing Irisholidays was the best decision—Saranya planned our itinerary perfectly, and we had an amazing experience! A special shoutout to ou…

Sin Ling Chong
Mar 2025 · Amazing Trip to Kerala from Malaysia Read more
Tara Tupper ★★★★★ Tara Tupper New York, United States · Private Groups

My dad and I had an incredible 21-day journey with Irisholidays, and our guide, Monesh, made it truly special! He ensured we had an amazing time, was super informative, and even helped us capture great memories with his photography skills. Coming from Canada, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience! If you’re bo…

Feb 2025 · 21-Day Kerala Tour Read more

Debra & Marcy

New York City, United States · Friends & Groups

Best of Kerala Package ★★★★★

Just completed an amazing 6-day Kerala tour arranged by Kannan from Irisholidays, and it was beyond expectations! From planning a flexible itinerary with luxurious five-star hotels to ensuring a smooth experience, everything was well worth it. Our driver Sadique made us feel safe and comfortable throughout the journey.…

Debra & Marcy
Feb 2025 · 6 wonderful days in Kerala Read more

David Bray

Leicester, United Kingdom · Senior Citizens

South India Tour Package

We are a retired couple from the UK who chose Iris Holidays for our 14-night South India trip. It was great value compared to UK-based agents, and having a personal driver made everything so convenient. A special thanks to Mr. Mohammed Shafique, who was always prompt, cheerful, and navigated safely. From arrival to dep…

David Bray
Jan 2025 · Really good value tour of Kerala Read more

Mr.Cirilo Da Silva

London, United Kingdom · Families with Kids

Panoramic Kerala Tour Package ★★★★★

Our Kerala tour was absolutely fantastic! The itinerary was well-organized, giving us a perfect blend of experiences across a nice variety of locations. From the serene backwaters to the lush tea gardens and vibrant cultural spots, everything was planned seamlessly.We highly recommend Irisholidays for anyone planning a…

Mr.Cirilo Da Silva
Jan 2025 · Fantastic Kerala Tour-06 Days Read more

Danielle Hemink

Den Haag, Netherlands · Solo Travellers

Blissful trip to Kerala Tour Package ★★★★★

Had a great tour and managed to see and do so much in just one week! Loved my stay at Spice Villa—it was cozy and relaxing. The full-day Borderline experience was absolutely amazing. Iris Holidays is an excellent travel agency; they planned everything perfectly and made the trip stress-free. Highly recommend them for a…

Danielle Hemink
Jan 2025 · Best 1-Week Tour in Kerala Read more

When to go

Best time to visit Kochi

September - March

The best time to visit Cochin is just after monsoons from October to March when everything in the city is refreshingly green. Covered in a carpet of green, Cochin comes alive during the rains making it the best time for Kochi tourism. However Kochi is an all-season destination and you can see tourists from all over the world in Fort Kochi, which is the most popular tourist place in Kochi.

ALSO SEE - Is Kochi and Cochin the same?

 

The temperature in Cochin varies from 19°C to 31°C (63°F to 91°F) making the temperature suitable for a holiday in Kochi. When you visit Kochi, expect occasional rain and carry comfortable casual clothes.

 

Kochi tourism during the monsoon is a must for those who want to witness the perfect blend of old-world charm and electrifying beauty of the modern-day world.

 

Kochi Location

Located in the Eravikulam district of Kerala, the gorgeous Kochi city is one of the most important seaports in India. An important spice trading center of India from the 14th century, Kochi is a major port city on the southwest coast of India. Tucked in the beauty of coconut palms and endless blue waters, Kochi Kerala India is rightly called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”.

Getting there

How to reach Kochi

By flight

Cochin International Airport (IATA: COK, ICAO: VOCI) is the largest airport in Kerala and one of the major gateways to India from other countries. It is also India's 4th busiest international airport where domestic and international flights ply. Cochin has regular flights to almost all the cities in the Middle East and a few destinations in Southeast Asia.

By train

Kochi is well-connected by train to all parts of India. Most Kerala-bound trains have a major stop here. There are two major rail terminals inside the city limits, including Ernakulam Town Station (North Station - IR Code: ERN) and Ernakulam Junction Station (South Station - IR Code: ERS). Both these railway stations in Kochi are connected to major cities across India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

By road

Kochi is accessible from all southern parts of the country as well as other parts of the state through the extensive state-run Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus services and the services of neighboring state transport corporations.

Kochi is well connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata through road, train, and flights. Kochi also has an international airport and is well connected to the Middle East, the USA, the UK, and all major countries in the world. Kochi is the gateway to major tourist places in Kerala like Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Thekkady.

Quick answers

Kochi travel FAQs

Our trip designers would love to create a personalised Kochi tour for you

Why book with Iris Holidays?

We visit and verify every resort in Kerala that we suggest, so guests like you can be warm and comfortable on an awesome holiday. We won’t suggest anywhere we haven’t been to and tried ourselves. When you book online or call us, we share the insider advice we’d give our best friends about destinations and hotels. Rest assured: when you book with us, every last detail is taken care of.

  1. 2,500+ ★★★★★ reviews on Tripadvisor

    The only tour company in Kerala with 2,500+ five-star reviews on Tripadvisor over 14 years, from guests in many countries. Consistency matters!

  2. Approved by Govt of India & Govt of Kerala

    We are approved after verification by the Govt of India and the Govt of Kerala. See certificates

  3. Private vehicle, only for you

    Chauffeur-driven vehicle for you, 24×7.

  4. Customised packages with the best hotels & resorts

    We hand-pick our hotels and houseboats.

  5. Authentic and unique experiences crafted over 15 years

    Our award-winning, personalised private trips bring insider tips from 15 years of crafting tours in Kerala.

  6. Consecutive Tripadvisor awards

    Certificate of Excellence / Travellers’ Choice every year since 2014.

Kochi photos

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Our Trip Designers would love to create a Personalised package for you

Why book with Iris Holidays ?

We visit and verify all resorts in Kerala that we suggest to you so that guests like you can have a VERY warm & comfortable about an awesome holiday. We won’t suggest anywhere that we haven’t been to and tried ourselves. When you book online or call us, we share the kind of insider low-down we'd give to our best friends about destinations and hotels. Rest assured: when you book with us, every last detail is taken care

1
2500+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews on TripAdvisor

Only Tour Company in Kerala with 2500+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews on TripAdvisor over 14 years from multiple customers from multiple countries. Consistency Matters!

2
Approved by Govt:of India & Govt: of Kerala

We are approved after verification by Govt of India & Govt of Kerala

3
Private Vehicle - Only for you

Chauffeur driven vehicle for you 24X7

4
Customised Packages with the Best Hotels & Resorts

We handpick our hotels & houseboats

5
Authentic and Unique Experiences Crafted over 15 Years

Our award-winning, personalised private trips provide incredible insights and insider tips from last 15 years of experience of crafting tours in Kerala, passionately bringing alive unique and exclusive experiences for you.

6
12 Consecutive TripAdvisor Awards for Best Tour Operator

Certificate of Excellence Award for the past 13 Consecutive Years from 2014 to 2026

Our Awards

Our tours are consistently recognized by prestigious organizations across the travel industry and TripAdvisor. We have won the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence from 2014 till 2022 consecutively for 9 consecutive years. We design our unique tours based on extensive knowledge of Kerala tourist destinations strives to offer personalized top-notch service.