11 Best Things To Do In Fort Kochi

When I visited Kochi in the winter of early 2023, my primary aim was to see the Kochi Biennale art festival. But little did I know, there is so much more to this city and soon I was overwhelmed by the number of best things to do in Fort Kochi I found that could not have possibly fit into the five short days I had. But we made do.

Fort Kochi is a living tapestry of history and culture, nestled on the southwestern coast of India. This capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala, Fort Kochi is a labyrinthine network of narrow streets where architecture bears witness to the days of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonisation. Kochi is an amalgamation of Dravidian, colonial and Jewish (yes, you read that right) history. And yet Fort Kochi is not a mere relic of the past. It is also a vibrant canvas where art, theatre, music, food and liberal thought flow freely.

So for your next trip to the rich land that is Kerala, let us quickly dive into the best things to do in Fort Kochi, shall we?

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Best things to do in Fort Kochi

Visit the Kochi-Muziris Biennale

Kochi-Muziris Biennale is India’s inaugural biennial of international contemporary art. It was initiated by the Department of Cultural Affairs of the Government of Kerala and organized by artists Riyas Komu and Bose Krishnamachari. Biennale Fort Kochi is also involved in the conservation of heritage properties and monuments and the upliftment of traditional forms of art and culture. Overall, the biennale is a celebration of art, culture, and the growth of the Indian art community on the global stage, making it one of the best things to do in Kochi.

The Biennale Fort Kochi happens once every two years. It is usually spread out around several venues, art houses and galleries around Fort Kochi. The exhibits are multi-sensory and multi-platform, using visual, auditory and tactile senses. There were some fantastic exhibits that provoked different emotions in the 2023 Kochi Biennale, which had me in awe throughout. If you are planning a trip to Kerala in the year of the Kochi Biennale, I really think you shouldn’t miss out as it is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.

The Chinese fishing nets, known as Cheenavala in Malayalam, are believed to have been introduced in Kochi by the Chinese explorer Zheng He between 1350 and 1450 AD. The Chinese nets are unique fishing equipment made of teak wood and bamboo poles. These structures are about 10 meters tall and are firmly fixed on Fort Kochi Beach. Operating each fishing net requires the effort of more than four fishermen. This fishing practice is perhaps unique to this part of India. And sitting at Fort Kochi Beach and admiring the fishermen at work is definitely one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.

Fishing using these nets is typically done during the morning and early evening. The slow rhythm and balancing of the net during this process are truly captivating, especially for someone witnessing it for the first time. The silhouettes of these large nets and the imposing fishermen also make it quite a photograph worthy site!

Check out this tour that includes Chinese fishing nets + other important Fort Kochi sites:

Watch a Performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre

The Kerala Kathakali Center is a renowned venue for experiencing the wonders of Kerala’s art forms. The centre is dedicated to preserving and nurturing ancient arts and culture. They specialize in hosting Kathakali shows, Bharatnatyam (a south Indian classical dance form) performances, Kalaripayattu (Kerala martial arts) showcases, and Carnatic music performances, making it truly one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi on any given evening.

The theatre has been remodelled with architectural influences from revered temples and the acoustics are perfect too for every performance. In addition to their shows, the centre offers various classes and services like yoga, meditation, cooking classes, and even Kathakali makeup. The cost of each show is quite affordable too ranging around 500 INR. It is definitely worth checking out Kerala Kathali Centre if you are looking for the best things to do in Kochi.

Check out this Kathakali + traditional dinner tour:

Learn Dutch History at the Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is one of the greatest historical attractions at Fort Kochi. Originally a Portuguese Palace, it has been converted into a museum that displays the lives of the kings of Kochi and various Kerala murals. The Mattancherry Palace is built in traditional Kerala style with very specific European influences and boasts a floor made of egg whites, coconut shells, lime, charcoal, and plant juices!

Entry is open to the public between 10 AM and 1 PM, and then again from 2 to 5 PM. The entrance fee is minimal and can be purchased at the entrance of the museum. Unfortunately, we happened to come here during the lunch break and didn’t get to see the inside of the palace. But just a look from outside and I can tell you it is worth checking it out, making it one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.

For a proper introduction to Dutch history in Fort Kochi, check this out:

Take a day trip to the Allepey Backwaters

Alleppey is a town located along the coast, with one side facing the Arabian Sea and the other side surrounded by rivers and canals known as Alleppey backwaters. These backwaters are made up of numerous large and small canals. On both sides of these canals and rivers, you will find picturesque lagoons, lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut palm trees, and charming local village homes. This unique setting cannot be found anywhere else in the world, and a day trip here is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi. This is also one of the most perfect places for one day trip in Kerala!

The local people of Alleppey live their daily lives along the banks of these canals and rivers, and they heavily rely on water transportation to move around. In fact, they have regular routes for public ferries picking up and dropping off locals here. They even have ferry stops which I found incredibly charming to see, definitely one of the best things to do in Kochi. Alleppey is also one of the best places to visit in Kerala with a family.

Here are some Kochi backwater tours worth checking out:

We hired a shikara boat which cost us 1500 INR for three hours which I thought was a steal deal. The boat was incredibly comfy with a small bed that could easily fit the two of us for some toe stretching. Our boatman also stopped for lunch at a local restaurant where we had some fish curry and rice, and later also took us to a place where we bought homemade coconut toddy. All in all, this is one of the most unique things we did in Fort Kochi and I’m so glad we went!

Take a Walk through Jew Town

A visit to Jew Town in Kochi is probably one of the most unique and unexpected things to do near Fort Kochi. The arrival of Jews in Kochi, particularly the Sephardic Jews, dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Since then, Fort Kochi Jew Street has preserved its erstwhile Jewish cultural identity and is home to landmarks such as the Paradesi Synagogue, one of India’s oldest synagogues. Jew Town is one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi, known for its antique shops, boutiques and cafe.

Jew Town Kochi also has many book shops on the history of Jews in India which I think might be worth exploring if you’re interested. The narrow, colourfully painted lanes of Jew Town are incredibly fun to walk around. I also found Jew Town to be a great place to shop for knick knacks and souvenirs, making it one of the best things to do in Kochi!

Here is a guided walk through Jew Town + Paradesi Synagogue:

Visit the Pardesi Synagogue

Speaking of Jew Town, the Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi, India, is a significant heritage site that showcases the history and culture of the Jewish community in the region. Built in 1568, it is the largest synagogue in the Commonwealth, making it the perfect place for offbeat Kochi.

The synagogue houses a collection of valuable artefacts, including gold crows, Torah scrolls, and gifts from rulers. There is also a small museum/ art gallery of sorts within the synagogue complex, making it not only one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi, but also one of the most unique things to do in Fort Kochi.

Stay at a colonial-era mansion

A really cool way to indulge yourself while on your Cochin sightseeing tour would be to stay a night (or many) in one of the many heritage properties around. It’s one of the best things to do around Fort Kochi with several old colonial mansions being restored into boutique hotels where you can live the charm of a bygone era!

Here are some great heritage hotels in Fort Kochi to look out for:

• Dutch Bungalow: As the name suggests, this luxury property is housed in a restored Colonial Dutch-era mansion. It’s located within walking distance of major Fort Kochi highlights. It’s the perfect place to add to your Fort Kochi tourist map!
• Santa Maria Hostel: If you’re looking for something more economical, this unassuming hostel is the perfect place. Located right by Fort Kochi Beach, it has an undeniable colonial charm about it!

Get a traditional Kerala massage

This was definitely one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi that I found. Ayurveda is practised extensively in Kerala, which is home to some of the world’s best massage treatment centres. From Uzhichil or Abhyanga to Pizhichil and Njavarakizhi, various types of Ayurvedic massages are available here, making for one of the most relaxing best things to do in Fort Kochi.

There are several spas offering different prices available all around Fort Kochi. We went for a traditional Abhyanga massage at Ayurville which is also a homestay. This 60 minute massage set us back 1,500 INR per person but was well worth it. With warm oil slathered all over the body and each knot gently taken out, I would definitely recommend it as it is one of the most unique things to do in Fort Kochi!

Ride India’s first water metro

The Kochi Water Metro is a groundbreaking project in Kochi, Kerala, making it the first city in India to have a Water Metro system. Powered by 23 battery-operated electric boats, the Water Metro project covers 15 routes spanning over 75 kilometres. Getting around Kochi and its surroundings on this Water Metro is definitely a must do in Fort Kochi!

Shop till you drop at Princess Street

Loafer’s Corner, also known as Princess Street Fort Kochi, is a charming street little lane. Princess Street Fort Kochi is the oldest street in the area and is known for its scenic houses and colonial architecture with British, Dutch, Portuguese, and French influences. The street offers a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, and it often also has several Kochi Biennale venues, making it one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi.

You can explore the street while shopping for handicrafts, spices, and textiles as well as the usual neo-hippie attire that is found in most South Asian tourist spots! Shopping in Kochi is also synonymous with wood carved cow masks, attar and a lot of other specialities that you only see while shopping in Kochi!

How To Reach Fort Kochi

To enjoy the best things to do in Fort Kochi, here’s how to reach Fort Kochi:

• Air: The Cochin International Airport is connected to most major cities in India.
• Rail: Kochi is also well-connected by rail to various parts of India. There are two main railway stations in the city: Ernakulam Jn (South) and Ernakulam Town (North).
• Road: Kochi is served by an extensive network of State Highways and National Highways, allowing for easy road travel. Both state-operated and private bus services are available to reach Kochi from cities within Kerala and even from outside the state.

We took a flight to Cochin, and then took the airport express bus into the Kochi city, followed by another local bus to get to Fort Kochi.

Best Places to Eat in Fort Kochi

Kashi Art Cafe

The Kashi Art Cafe is one of the best cafes in Fort Kochi, is set in a traditional Kerala-style bungalow. With its old-school charm, vertical gardens, wooden furniture, and art installations, it offers a unique and zen-like atmosphere. It is also a Kochi Biennale venue. The cafe was a bit overpriced but I did enjoy their elaborate breakfast platter. Worth a visit.

Some foodies tours in Kochi for you:

Trouvaille Cafe

Trouvaille Cafe was often my go-to cafe after a big meal to get a quick sweet bite. Their desserts are all bangers one after the other. And not a single thing I tried here disappointed me! Going here after a scrumptious dinner for some sweet treats is definitely one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi at night!

Kayees Rahmathulla Restaurant

Eating at Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe, popularly known as ‘Kayikkante Biriyani’, itself has to be one of the best things to do in Fort Kochi. Established in 1951 by one V K Kayee – a cook for the British Army – this restaurant serves delicious chicken and mutton biryanis. The biryani recipe has apparently been passed down, generation after generation, making it a Kochi famous food. But regardless of how much truth there is to this story, the biryani really was kick-ass!

Spice Root

Spice Root was one of my favourite places to try authentic Kerala cuisine. We had the mango prawn curry here and it was so delicious! It is run by a really warm lady and I enjoyed my meal here very much. Definitely recommend checking out this one of the best places to eat in Fort Kochi!

Fusion Bay

Yet another restaurant offering an authentic Kerala cuisine experience, but with a modern twist, this is also a great place to try their authentic Kerala style seafood menu. Delicacies including Seafood Chattichoru, Prawn Mango Curry, and Fish Moilee are a must-try here. We tried the Kerala curry chicken and loved it completely!

Some more Kochi food tours worth checking out:

Best Time to Visit Fort Kochi

The best time to visit Fort Kochi is from October to March. The weather during this time is usually sunny yet pleasant, making it the best time to engage in various activities in Fort Kochi. The Kochi Biennale also usually runs from December until April, so definitely the right time to plan a trip to Fort Kochi!

Frequently Asked Questions – Best Things to Do in Fort Kochi

How do you spend a day in Fort Kochi?

Having a wholesome day in Fort Kochi is easy: start your day with a visit to the Chinese fishing nets, then visit the Mattancherry Palace, followed by exploring the Fort Kochi Jew Street and the Paradesi Synagogue. Enjoy the local Kerala cuisine, take a leisurely stroll along Fort Kochi Beach at sunset and end the day with a Kathakali Performance. This way you have covered some of the best things to do in Fort Kochi in one day!

What is Fort Kochi famous for?

Fort Kochi is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and unique blend of architectural styles. Fort Kochi has a long history that dates back to the 14th century when it was occupied by various foreign powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Fort Kochi has been a melting pot of different cultures and religions for centuries.

You can explore the vibrant mix of influences through its diverse art forms, festivals, and cuisine. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is also a very integral part of Fort Kochi. In summary, Fort Kochi is famous for its historical significance, colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, cultural diversity, maritime history, and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How much time is required to visit Fort Kochi?

Honestly, even five days felt too few in Fort Kochi. But ideally, you need a minimum of three nights to be able to juice out the essence of Fort Kochi entirely.

What is the best time to visit Fort Kochi?

The best time to visit Fort Kochi is between October and March for the perfect weather and Kochi Biennale festival.

Is Fort Kochi worth visiting?

Yes! There are some of the best things to do in Fort Kochi on offer. These include the Kochi Biennale, Dutch Palace, Chinese fishing nets, Jew Town and a lot more, making Fort Kochi worth visiting.

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