Hello travel lovers, it’s Garima on this side.
As a passionate traveler who loves exploring India, Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, holds a special place in many hearts. Unlike some friends and family who prefer rushing through X cities of Kerala in Y days, I believe in the magic of slow travel. Through my experiences in various Indian states, I’ve come to appreciate the unique vibe each city or town offers, and I believe slow travel is the key to truly savoring the essence of each place. In March, I decided to visit Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea.
Kochi, or Cochin, is a lively city in Kerala, India, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving commerce. A favorite among tourists, Kochi is also a key economic hub.
How to Reach Kochi?
One can travel to Kochi by train, bus, or flight, depending on where one is starting from. I booked myself a direct flight from Chandigarh to Kochi, which took me around 3 hours.
Getting around in Kochi is easy – you can rent a scooter or take a cab. Personally, I found Ola Auto to be convenient and budget-friendly. If you’re staying in or around Fort Kochi, many places are within walking distance.
Which Places to Cover?
- Fort Kochi
- Fort Kochi Beach
- Jew Town
- Indo-Portuguese Museum
- Dutch Palace
- Vypin Lighthouse
- Vembanad Lake
- Jewish Synagogue
- Kerala Museum
- Idiom Bookshop
Where to Stay in Kochi?
Kochi, being a top tourist destination, offers numerous hotels and hostels. Opting for a budget stay, I chose Zostel and Hosteller in Kochi. Between the two, I’d recommend Hosteller for its better comfort and facilities.
Where to Eat in Kochi?
Kochi is a heaven for food lovers. I recommend exploring both the chic cafes in Fort Kochi and savoring the local cuisine. Here are a couple of places I personally enjoyed during my stay:
- Pandhel Cafe and Deli
- French Toast Cafe
- Kashi Art Cafe
- Lila Art Cafe
- Jew Town
- Canvas Pizzeria
- Kochi Kapital Kafe
- Andhra Karam
- Cafe Noir
- Qissa Cafe
- Trouvaille Cafe
What is the best time to visit Kochi?
Even though you can visit Kochi at any time of year, October to March are the ideal months to go because of the lovely, peaceful weather that provides a break from the chilly northern winds.
What is the average budget for the Kochi Trip?
Accommodation in Kochi ranges from Rs. 1500 per night in budget options to around 20K for luxury resorts. Meals vary from Rs. 50 for a South Indian thali to Rs. 300 for a cafe meal. Renting a scooter for a day costs around Rs. 400, excluding petrol expenses. Choose according to your budget!
Tips for Travelers
- Carry loose cash since not all local vendors accept online payments.
- Carry flip-flops for your stay at the beach.
- Shortlist the cafes you want to visit since there are a tad bit too many in Kochi and you might get overwhelmed.
- Shop from local vendors, you can get very good deals for authentic stuff.
- Buy a lot of local snacks like banana chips etc. for your family and friends back home:) Kerala is also a great place to buy a lot of spices.
Kochi, with its kaleidoscope of cultural influences, historic landmarks, and natural wonders, left an indelible mark on my soul. As I bid farewell to this enchanting city, I carried with me the memories of its vibrant streets, the warmth of its people, and the echoes of a place that truly lives up to its moniker – God’s Own Country.
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Happy Exploring!!!
