Fort Kochi is a historic coastal town in the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and unique architecture. This picturesque locale boasts a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences, which is evident in its well-preserved buildings and narrow, winding streets. This blog takes you on a virtual tour of Fort Kochi and other information you need to know before your trip.
10 Historic Places to Visit in Fort Kochi
Table of Contents
How to Reach Fort Kochi?
Fort Kochi Island is connected to the mainland of Kochi via a road bridge, but it might take a long detour. Direct public buses are not available between Fort Kochi and Kochi. You will have to change multiple times. The shortest way is via waterways. From Ernakulam or Kochi, take a boat ride to reach Fort Kochi. Refer to the Kochi Waterways blog, which details how to navigate the Kochi Waterways, including water metro, RO-RO boats, and passenger ferries.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Fort Kochi is during the post-monsoon season between October and February when the weather is pleasant. Fort Kochi can also be visited during summer, between March and May. During the monsoon, which occurs in the area between June and September, it rains the whole day, hampering your plans to roam around.
Restaurants in Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi has several good restaurants and cozy cafes. You can check the reviews online and choose the restaurant that fits your needs. Kerala’s must-try foods include seafood delicacies such as fish curry, prawns, and squid, beef curry with parotta, Puttu with Kadala curry, and Idiyappam. Fort Kochi also offers a varied range of Western cuisines.
Accommodations in Fort Kochi
From budget hostels to luxury hotels, Fort Kochi has a variety of stay options to choose from. Based on your comfort and budget, you can decide on your accommodation. We stayed at Zostel Fort Kochi. Here are a few other suggestions.
- Bunk House Fort Kochi ($)
- Oshin Home Stay ($)
- The Sunset Bay ($$)
- Rossitta Wood Castle ($$)
- Forte Kochi ($$$)
- The Postcard Mandalay Hall, Kochi ($$$)
- Eighth Bastion Fort Kochi – a CGH Earth Experience ($$$)
Network Availability
Airtel and Jio offer good network connectivity and fast internet in the city.
Languages Spoken
Malayalam is the official language spoken in Kerala. Some people communicate in English, Tamil, and Hindi.
Commuting Around
Most attractions or activities in the blog are within walking distance. You can also rent a two-wheeler or cycle. Alternatively, you can opt for taxi services like Ola and Uber.
10 Places to Visit in Fort Kochi
1. Chinese Fishing Nets
Introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th century, Chinese fishing nets are a legacy of Kerala’s rich marine history. This traditional fishing technique is still used today by the local fishermen. The huge giant nets are 10m tall and involve an elaborate mechanism of ropes, pulleys, and weights. The nets are lowered into the water and raised with the catch.
These days, the nets are used more often for tourist purposes rather than actual fishing. The fishermen demand the tourists to pay to see how the fishing nets work. They also offer to take good pictures. The prices start from INR 100 and are higher if you’re a foreigner. You can negotiate your way or go here to watch it absolutely free and in a more authentic way.
2. Kerala Kathakali Centre
Kathakali is a classical Indian dance-drama from Kerala renowned for its elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, facial expressions, and body movements, which convey complex emotions and narratives. This art form combines dance, music, and acting to depict stories from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Kathakali performances are not just a display of artistic skill. They also embody a deeply cultural experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Kerala Kathakali Centre has hosted events showcasing the dance form since 1994. Kathakali makeup starts at 5 PM, and performance occurs between 6 PM and 7 PM on all days. The center also hosts the following other events and performances:
- Yoga: 6:30 AM – 8 AM, 6 PM – 8:30 PM
- Meditation: 8 AM – 9 AM
- Kathakali: 6 PM – 7 PM
- Kalarippayat: 7:15 PM – 8 PM
- Music concerts: 8 PM – 9 PM
- Dance: 8 PM – 9 PM on Saturdays
3. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica was the first church built by the Portuguese in 1505 and was later elevated to a cathedral in 1558. In 1795, the British demolished the cathedral and reconstructed it in 1905. It was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984. It is one of India’s finest and most impressive churches, standing as a stellar example of Indo-European and Gothic architecture styles. Intricate frescos, canvas paintings, and murals adorn the basilica.
- Visiting time for tourists: 10:30 AM – 1 PM, 2:30 PM – 5 PM, on all days except Sundays and the first Fridays of every month
- Entry Fee: Free of cost
4. Dutch Cemetery & St. Francis Church
Consecrated in 1724, the Dutch cemetery in Fort Kochi is the oldest European cemetery in India. The year is engraved at the entrance. The last burial in the cemetery was done in 1913. It is closed to visitors.
The St. Francis Church is built from wood and mud. It was constructed by the Portuguese in 1516 and is dedicated to the patron saint of Portugal, Santo Antonio. The famous explorer Vasco da Gama, the first Portuguese sailor to reach the shores of Kerala, was buried in this Church in 1524 AD. After 14 years, his remains were removed and taken back to Portugal. The spot where his body once lay has continued to draw visitors over centuries.
- St. Francis Church Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays, 9 AM – 1 PM on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.
5. Fort Kochi Beach
Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, Fort Kochi Beach is not a beach but a rocky shore with a bit of sand. This sand is also washed away during high tides. Swimming is strictly prohibited. While walking from the Chinese Fishing nets to Fort Kochi Beach, you can see old steam boilers. Several eateries, snack shops, and souvenir shops are located along the walkway. Fort Kochi Beach is packed with tourists at any time of the day. However, we liked the Beach Road Beach better.
6. Indian Naval Maritime Museum
Residing within the formidable walls of World War Ⅱ bunkers, the Indian Naval Maritime Museum takes us on an enthralling journey through time. The museum building was constructed by the British in 1938. A walk through the museum gives you insights into the importance of the Indian navy during World War Ⅱ. The notable attractions inside the museum include specimens of the Sea King 42 Helicopter, AK 230 Gun Mount, and 12 Pounder Gun. You can scan the QR placed before each specimen to learn more about them. A 30-minute video about the Indian Navy is played at different times during the day.
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM from Tuesday to Friday. Open until 8 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Closed on Mondays.
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indian adults and INR 200 for foreign adults. INR 25 for Indian children under 12 and INR 50 for foreign children under 12.
- Extra fee for camera & mobile phones.
- Screening of movie about Indian Navy: 11 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:30 PM, and 4:30 PM
7. Museums & Art Galleries
Museums and art galleries are cultural treasure troves that offer a window into the region’s history, art, and heritage. Visiting these enhances one’s knowledge and appreciation of diverse cultures and artistic expressions and offers a reflective and enriching experience. There are several museums located within walking distance from each other. It is one of our favorite activities in the historic city of Fort Kochi. We visited the following museums and galleries:
- Kochi Muziris Biennale
- Fort Kochi Jail Museum
- Indo Portuguese Museum
- Aspinwall House
- Pandhal Cafe & Deli, David Hall Art Cafe CGH Earth
You’ll come across several street- and wall-art specimens across town.
8. Kerala Traditional Massage
Kerala is renowned for its massage’s rejuvenating and therapeutic benefits, which is deeply rooted in ancient Ayurvedic traditions. These massages use specially blended herbal oils to balance the body’s energies and increase overall well-being. The techniques involve a combination of gentle, rhythmic strokes, pressure points, and synchronized movements that help alleviate stress, improve circulation, and detoxify the body.
Different types of Kerala Ayurvedic traditional massages include Abhyanga, Kizhi, or Panchakarma. Fort Kochi has several good massage centers. Our recommendations are Ayurtheeram Yoga and Ayurveda. You can check the rating of the massage centers near you and choose the best one.
9. Cruise the Backwaters
Glide through the network of canals and backwaters while enjoying the tranquil beauty of lush greenery, swaying coconut palms, and vibrant waterside villages that border the backwaters of Kochi. The Government of Kerala and private companies like Minar offer cruise packages. A few packages include lunch and dinner options, DJs, and other entertainment programs. The cruises often come with amenities like children’s play areas or mini theatres, to name a few.
10. Jew Town & Mattancherry Palace Museum
Although located on the outskirts of the Fort Kochi area, the Jewish town is within walking distance and cannot be missed on your visit to Fort Kochi. Refer to the Beyond Fort Kochi guide to learn more about the attractions and other interesting things to do at Kochi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fort Kochi worth visiting?
Fort Kochi is a historic town that attracts a large number of visitors every year. The colonial vibe, colorful houses, culture, and friendliness of the locals grab everyone’s attention. Fort Kochi is a must-visit place in the state of Kerala.
How many days are required to visit Kochi?
Exploring Fort Kochi takes two days. In total, at least four days are needed to explore both Fort Kochi and mainland Kochi or Ernakulam. 4 days are enough for you to cover all the prime spots without any rush.
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