When you visit Kerala, it is impossible to not  visit Kochi because this emerging cosmopolitan city truly embodies the spirit of Kerala. With plenty of tourist attractions, and the proximity to the Arabian Sea, Kochi is the perfect getaway for short and long trips. The best time to visit Kochi is between November and February as the weather remains dry and the temperature is comfortable. 

Here is a list of the top 15 places to visit in Kochi: 

1. Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach is a 10 km long beach with sparkling, clear water. It's an ideal spot to relax, see the Chinese fishing nets, or watch the Cheena Vala. This beach is good for photographers, as the golden sand, seashells, calm waters, and fishing boats make for a beautiful landscape. If you're lucky, you might even spot a dolphin. The beach is best visited during sunrise and sunset, when shacks sell refreshing coconut water and food. It offers the best view for sightseeing in Kochi. 

2. Marine Drive

Marine Drive is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. It’s also a great place to visit at night. Couples often visit for boat rides that take them to various other tourist destinations, like the Mattancherry Jewish Synagogue. There are three beautiful bridges, The Houseboat Bridge, the Rainbow Bridge (near GCDA shopping complex), and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge. They are located on this promenade, exhibiting exceptional architecture.

3. Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace is one of the best tourist places in Kochi as it is the most well-known monument in Kochi. It was built as a present to the King of Kochi, and it has a Portuguese colonial style. The palace has four individual wings and one patio in the middle. Plus, there's Pazhayannur temple, which is dedicated to the royal family's deity, Pazhayannur Bhagavathy.This beautiful palace is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. 

4. Jew Town

For items such as antique clocks and carved furniture, head to Jew town. Legend has it that the first Jews who settled in this area can trace their lineage back to King Solomon. One of the must visit places in Kochi is the Paradesi Synagogue. Jew Town in Kochi, India is the last Jew Town in all of Kochi. It’s believed that the first Jews to settle near Kochi can trace their lineage back to King Solomon. The Jewish Synagogue or Paradesi Synagogue is the most popular attraction in this city. 

5. Veeranpuzha Beach

India is home to one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The Veeranpuzha Beach is an ideal place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life. It offers mesmerising views for sightseeing in Kochi. It's also a fishing village, so visitors can explore the fishermen's lifestyle and enjoy the natural beauty of the environment. Time stands still here and you can relax and gaze into the sunset as you sip refreshing coconut water. The best time to visit kochi and head to this beach is October to March. 

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6. Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary

The Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary is the perfect getaway for families who love animals and want to spend some time away from the chaotic city. The elephants here are integral parts of many festivals in Kerala, so it's a great place to get acquainted with them. You can give them baths, and walkways surrounding the sanctuary are easily accessible by boat. This sanctuary is one of the must visit places in Kochi for sightseeing in Kochi. 

7. Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a historic place, where visitors can slow down and take in the charm. The small fishing village that sits outside of Fort Kochi is known as Old or West Kochi. It is an Indo-Portuguese Museum that can be visited as well and is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. For more exploration, Fort Immanuel is also worth taking a look at, which was built in 1503 for strategic alliances between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Portuguese monarch. If you love history, include this fort in the list of must visit places in Kochi. 

8. Kerala Folklore Museum

There is an old saying, "the value of cultural heritage cannot be measured." The Kerala Folklore Museum, a place where you can see everything from antique and sculptures to tribal art and folklore installations, is a place where visitors can become enlightened not only by the sheer amount of knowledge they absorb but also by the history and culture it will provide. This is one of the must visit places in Kochi when in the city. Include this museum in your list of top 10 places to visit in Kochi. 

9. Hill Palace

If you are looking for the best sightseeing places in Kochi, visit this palace. Kochi is a city that's perfect for people who want to get a closer look at the lifestyles of kings and queens. This is the former residence of the Maharaja, which is now converted into a museum, with 49 lavish buildings. Inside, there are paintings, swords, manuscripts, murals, and other items used by the royal family on display. One of the main attractions for places to go in kochi? It's the crown. Located on top of a hill, it overlooks the entire city which is why it is the best destination for sightseeing in Kochi. 

10. Kalady 

Adi Shankara was a philosopher who lived during the eighth century CE. He was born in a region known as Kerala, which also hosts the Sringeri Math and the Paduka Mandapam. This place is special to people of many different faiths because of its historic background. This town is one of the best tourist places in Kochi as it a pre-eminent centre for inspiration on the banks of Puma river.

11. Chottanikkara Temple

Why is the famous Sree Mahalakshmi Temple dedicated to mother goddess Mahalakshmi Devi? It's because she is considered a healing goddess. People with mental disorders or spiritual possessions are encouraged to visit this temple. Men are required to remove their shirts and women are requested to wear sarees or suits upon entrance. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Kochi. 

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12. Ernakulathappan Temple, Kochi

In the city of Ernakulam, India, a temple is dedicated to Shiva. Legend has it that the original temple was built in the 12th century, and the current temple is a modern reconstruction. The city gets its name from this temple, which is a favourite spot for visitors. The best time to visit Kochi and go to this temple is 3:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

13. M.G. Road

If you're looking for places to go in Kochi to find souvenirs and goods, the M.G. Road area in Kochi is perfect. It's rich with spice, clothing, sculptures and jewellery – and of course, branded items – to suit every taste and budget. 

14. Santa Cruz Bascilica

One of the most popular sightseeing places in Kochi for tourists is the Santa Cruz Basilica. The Portuguese built this Catholic basilica over 500 years ago. It was originally a Gothic-style cathedral, but has since been converted into a Diocese. Its interior is covered with pastel colors and historical paintings. One painting you should definitely check out is Antonio Moscheni's imitation of Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’.

15. Veeranpuzha Backwaters

The Veeranpuzha Backwaters in Kochi, Kerala, is a great getaway for anyone who is looking for a quiet and serene evening. With a beach to take a leisurely stroll and scenic views of the surrounding landscape, the Veeranpuzha Backwaters is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy one of the most serene places to go in Kochi. 

What are some of the famous things in Kochi to indulge in?

1. Coffee

Do you love coffee? Do you also love visiting cafes? If so, then Kochi is the perfect vacation destination for you.

2. Banana Chips

Feeling stressed out lately? Banana chips might help. If you find yourself in the Malabar region of India, you can't miss the famous banana chips from this well-known store. Unlike some banana chips found in supermarkets, these are not overly sweet or oily. A trip to Malabar is not complete without a bag of this crunchy, tasty treat.

3. Kathakali Dance

How do you tell a story? We all like to share stories through words, but in Kochi, they tell stories through dance. Kathakali is an ancient and complicated kind of dance that uses drama. The dancers wear elaborate, billowing costumes with painted faces, flowing scarves, detailed ornaments, and majestic crowns. It is very famous in Kochi and has attracted huge crowds who want to see it. This dance form is one of the famous things in Kochi that should be witnessed on your trip. 

You’ve got your list of destinations handy. You’re all set. Now go ahead and plan your perfect getaway to Kochi. If you like Kerala, also read about the top 10 places to visit in Munnar for the most picturesque settings imaginable.