Houses on the waterfront in Cochin

Visit Cochin, India

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.

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Hannah, an Audley Travel specialist

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Cochin by contacting one of our India specialists

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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.

Map of Cochin

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Cochin

    Photos of Cochin

    • Chinese fishing nets and boats, Cochin, Kerala
      Chinese fishing nets and boats, Cochin, Kerala
    • 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
    • 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.

    • Garden cottage, Old Harbour Hotel, Cochin

      Old Harbour Hotel

      First Class

      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.

    • Brunton Boatyard, Cochin

      Brunton Boatyard

      First Class

      This hotel has tremendous character, is beautifully designed with the best facilities in Fort Cochin and very well placed for sightseeing.

    • Malabar House, Cochin

      Malabar House

      First Class

      On the picturesque island of Fort Cochin an 18th century colonial house has been converted into a characterful hotel by its European owners.

    • Vivanta by Taj - Malabar Hotel, Cochin

      Vivanta by Taj - Malabar Hotel

      Deluxe

      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.

    • Chinese fishing net, Cochin

      Cochin City Tour

      Cochin

      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.