Visit Cochin, India
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The principal port for southwestern India, Cochin has been a trading post for centuries and the Portuguese, Dutch and British influences remain evident.
Highlights of the city
The city is a series of islands but it is the Mattancherry Palace with its detailed frescos, the old spice warehouses, the Jewish synagogue and the churches in Fort Cochin that will occupy most of your time.
The Fort area retains a colonial charm with wide tree lined streets and a large central parade ground surrounded by grand buildings.
Chinese fishing nets
The huge Chinese fishing nets that cantilever over the shallows are the indelible image of Cochin. Best viewed on an evening boat cruise, they are still in daily use by the dedicated fishermen and their catch can be tried in the numerous food stalls that line the waters edge or in the more comfortable surroundings of a hotel restaurant.
Kathakali dance
A visit to a Kathakali dance centre to watch this stylised and theatrical art form retelling stories from Hindu legend is recommended.
Speak to someone
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Cochin by contacting one of our India specialists
- 01993 838 355
- Make an enquiry
Suggested itineraries featuring Cochin
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Cochin, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Cochin
- Mararikulam 24 miles away
- Kothamangalam 27 miles away
- Kerala 29 miles away
- The Backwaters 31 miles away
- Munnar 56 miles away
- Palakkad 64 miles away
- Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary 73 miles away
- Ooty 106 miles away
- Kovalam 118 miles away
- Waynad 120 miles away
- Madurai 127 miles away
- Tellicherry 136 miles away
- Nagarhole National Park 146 miles away
- Mysore 166 miles away
- Chettinad 172 miles away
- Coorg 176 miles away
- Trichy 177 miles away
- Neeleshwar 179 miles away
- Tanjore 205 miles away
- Belur & Halebid 227 miles away
- Bangalore 229 miles away
- Tranquebar 256 miles away
- Pondicherry 280 miles away
Photos of Cochin
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![Fishing Nets, Cochin]()
Fishing Nets, Cochin -
![Kathakali performer, Cochin]()
Kathakali performer, Cochin -
![Small fishing village near Cochin, India]()
Small fishing village near Cochin, India -
![Traditional fishing nets, Cochin]()
Traditional fishing nets, Cochin -
![Fishermen, Kerala]()
Fishermen, Kerala -
![Chinese fishing nets and boats, Cochin, Kerala]()
Chinese fishing nets and boats, Cochin, Kerala -
![Local homes, Cochin]()
Local homes, Cochin -
![Cochin Harbour]()
Cochin Harbour
Accommodation choices for Cochin
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Cochin. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Garden cottage, Old Harbour Hotel, Cochin]()
Old Harbour Hotel
Our most popular hotel in Fort Cochin, The Old Harbour is a beautiful colonial property set in lush gardens. It offers a relaxing place to stay in the heart of Cochin within easy reach of restaurants, shops and the harbour.
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![Luxury Cabin, MV Vrinda, Cochin]()
MV Vrinda
This Oberoi cruise boat offers three days of luxury on the tranquil waterways of Kerala.
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![Brunton Boatyard, Cochin]()
Brunton Boatyard
This hotel has tremendous character, is beautifully designed with the best facilities in Fort Cochin and very well placed for sightseeing.
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![Restaurant, Hotel Arches, Cochin]()
Hotel Arches
This hotel was Cochin governors' mansion in years gone by. It is set in a quiet street 10 metres from the famous St. Francis Church.
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![Malabar House, Cochin]()
Malabar House
On the picturesque island of Fort Cochin an 18th century colonial house has been converted into a characterful hotel by its European owners.
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![Vivanta by Taj - Malabar Hotel, Cochin]()
Vivanta by Taj - Malabar Hotel
Stunningly situated on the tip of Willingdon Island, the Vivanta by Taj - Malabar Hotel commands a magnificent view of Cochin harbour, its beautiful back waters and picturesque surroundings.
Ideas for experiencing Cochin
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Cochin, and which use the best local guides.
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![Chinese fishing net, Cochin]()
Cochin City Tour
The tour of Fort Cochin will include Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, St Francis Church, and the Chinese fishing nets. If time permits also visit the Dutch Cemetery, Santa Cruz Basilica and enjoy a walk around Jew Town.
