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The ideal cultural and coastal experience while visiting Kochi is to stroll through the historic streets of Fort Kochi, watch a Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre, visit both the Mattancherry Palace and Paradesi Synagogue, shop for spices in the spice market of Jew Town, view works of art from local artists at Kashi Gallery, enjoy the tranquil environment of Cherai Beach, take a ride on the Water Metro, and if you are lucky enough to be visiting when the Kochi Biennale is taking place, make sure to attend that event. Also, while in the city, sample the fresh seafood and dine at local cafes. One of the best things to do in Kochi is to enjoy the colonial and Indian influences in every dish. To make your commute to all these places hassle-free, book a self-drive car rental in Kochi with Revv. 

Exciting Things to Do in Kochi to Experience the Best of Its Culture and Coastal Sites

Discover Kochi’s unique charm through its colonial heritage, serene backwaters, vibrant art scenes, and scenic coastal experiences. Here is a list of things to explore: 

1. Visit Kerala Kathakali Centre

Experience a mesmerizing performance of Kerala’s classical dance form, Kathakali, at the Kerala Kathakali Centre. Located in Fort Kochi, this centre hosts performances that bring the state’s traditional art forms to life. 

2. Explore Mattancherry Palace and Paradesi Synagogue

Mattancherry is located approximately 3 km from Fort Kochi, where you can visit the historic Mattancherry Palace. This palace was a gift to King Veera Kerala Varma in 1555 by the Portuguese and was later restored by the Dutch.  The Paradesi Synagogue, a testament to the once-thriving Jewish community, is located a short stroll away in the Jew Town. 

3. Visit Willingdon Island

Home to some of the city’s most lavish hotels and commercial buildings, Willingdon Island is one of the largest man-made islands in India, named after Lord Willingdon, the British Viceroy of India. 

4. Explore Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village

The Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village, located near Kochi, offers visitors an immersive experience of traditional Kerala village life. A model for sustainable tourism and rural development, the village is set amid serene backwaters and lush greenery, making it an ideal getaway. 

5. Enjoy Sunset at the Chinese Fishing Nets

Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Vasco da Gama Square, enjoy the Arabian Sea, and watch the sunset for a magical experience. Sunset at the Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheena Vala) in Kochi provides breathtaking views of this historic attraction, as well as fresh seafood, all set against the backdrop of Fort Kochi’s Vasco da Gama Square. The large, wooden cantilever fishing nets operated by local fishermen create a scenic backdrop to the Arabian Sea during sunset. Visitors can enjoy this beautiful view for both photography and cultural experiences.

Also Read: Splendid Sights to Behold on Kochi to Bangalore Trip

6. Ride the Kochi Water Metro

Enjoy a ride on the newly launched Kochi Water Metro, India’s one-of-a-kind water metro featuring floating jetties and electric-hybrid boats. The metro serves the Greater Kochi region and connects 10 island communities with the mainland. Riding the water metro is among the top things to do in Kochi. 

7. Explore the Hill Palace and the Folklore Museum

The Hill Palace is an archaeological museum featuring artefacts of the Kochi Maharajas in traditional architectural style and is one of the most significant archaeological museums in Kerala. The Folklore Museum preserves and exhibits the state’s traditional lifestyles, artistic practices, and cultural customs. Exploring this museum is among the most fun things to do in Kochi.

8. Visit Vypin Beach

Vypin Beach is located on Vypin Island, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. This beautiful beach with golden sand and blue waters offers natural beauty, local culture, and historical significance. 

9. Enjoy the serene beauty of Veeranpuzha Lake

Veeranpuzha Lake is located in Kochi’s serene backwaters and offers tranquil, scenic beauty. This is a captivating destination surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to explore the vast network of waterways while experiencing the traditional village life as well as the vibrant life of birds and animals.

10. Experience Ayurvedic Massage in Kochi

Many Ayurvedic massage centres offer relaxing massages that promote inner peace and leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Explore the best among them to receive a blissful Ayurvedic Massage. Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest systems of healing that was discovered more than  5,000 years ago in India. Ayurveda helps restore your body and mind’s perfect balance. A massage is among the must-do things to do at Cochin for every visitor.

Tips to Explore Kochi: How to Make your Trip Worthwhile

Here are some helpful tips for visitors exploring tourist places in Kochi:

1. Start early: Popular attractions like Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Marine Drive, and the backwaters are best explored early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
   
   
2. Respect local culture and traditions: Kochi has a rich cultural and religious heritage. Dress modestly and behave respectfully while visiting churches, temples, mosques, and heritage neighbourhoods.
   
   
3. Dress for the weather: Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal due to Kochi’s humid climate. Carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially during the monsoon season.
   
   
4. Plan around traffic hours: Kochi experiences congestion during morning and evening rush hours. Plan sightseeing during off-peak hours to ensure smoother driving.
   
   
5. Follow water and coastal safety guidelines: If exploring beaches or taking a backwater cruise, follow local safety instructions and avoid swimming in restricted areas.
   
   
6. Support local businesses: Try authentic Kerala cuisine at local cafés, buy spices and handicrafts from traditional markets, and book local cultural performances to experience Kochi’s true essence.
   
   
7. Know local driving rules: If you are using a self-drive car from Revv, always carry valid documents and drive carefully on narrow roads, bridges, and busy city stretches.
   
   
8. Carry some cash: While digital payments are common, small eateries, ferry services, local markets, and auto-rickshaws may still prefer cash, especially in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.
   
   
9. Avoid littering: Help preserve Kochi’s scenic beauty by disposing of waste responsibly, especially near beaches, waterways, and heritage areas.
   
   
10. Soak in Kochi’s charm: Kochi is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Blend heritage walks, backwater experiences, café hopping, and sunset views for a well-rounded city experience.

Also Read: Book Self-Drive Car Rental in Kochi with Revv

Final Thoughts

There is a fascinating combination of culture, history, and modernity in Kochi. The colonial legacy, the backwaters of Kochi, the arts, and the beauty of the natural environment create a unique combination of attractions for visitors to the City. A Heritage Walk in Fort Kochi offers insight into the city’s architecture and heritage, while a Backwater Cruise lets visitors enjoy the area’s peaceful, picturesque beauty. A wide variety of cafés and restaurants can be found by the water, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy. Renting a Revv car rental in Kochi is the most convenient way to visit all the popular tourist attractions and hidden gems of the city at your own pace.