Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Kochi (COK)

About Kochi

Kochi, India’s gateway to the Arabian Sea

Kochi, on the southwest coast of India, blends coastal charm with a rich trading heritage. Set along a series of islands and peninsulas, the city welcomes you with sea breezes, leafy streets, and a relaxed pace that contrasts with larger urban centres.

You will find historic districts with colonial-era architecture sitting alongside modern cafes, galleries, and waterfront promenades. Colourful markets, quiet backwaters, and a busy port create a destination that is both atmospheric and easy to explore.

Whether you are travelling for business, leisure, or a family visit, Kochi offers an inviting mix of culture, scenery, and coastal life that rewards both short stays and longer journeys through Kerala.

Top sights in Kochi

Fort Kochi

Wander through Fort Kochi to see heritage buildings, leafy streets, and a seafront lined with iconic Chinese fishing nets.

Mattancherry Palace

Visit Mattancherry Palace for detailed murals, traditional Kerala architecture, and insights into the region’s royal history.

Jew Town and antique shops

Stroll along Jew Town’s narrow lanes, browsing antique shops, spice stores, and small boutiques in historic surroundings.

Marine Drive promenade

Enjoy an evening walk along Marine Drive, where views over the backwaters and skyline create a calm city escape.

Kerala backwater cruises

Take a day trip to the nearby backwaters for a scenic boat cruise through palm-fringed canals and quiet villages.

Experience Kochi’s coastal culture

Kochi is an engaging place to explore on foot. In Fort Kochi, you can spend unhurried hours between art galleries, independent cafes, and small museums, pausing at the waterfront to watch the silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets against the setting sun. The eclectic streets make it easy to create your own walking route.

If you would like to see more of Kerala’s landscape, day excursions to nearby backwaters are a highlight. You can glide along placid waterways lined with coconut trees and small villages, observing daily life from the comfort of a traditional boat. For a different perspective, head to the modern city centre, where shopping streets, cinemas, and parks offer a lively urban contrast.

Kochi also serves as a convenient base for wider journeys through Kerala. Coastal drives, hill stations, and wildlife areas are all within reach, allowing you to combine time in the city with nature-focused trips if your schedule allows.

A taste of Kochi

Kochi’s dining scene reflects its maritime history and coastal location. Fresh seafood is a highlight, often prepared with local spices, coconut, and tamarind, and served alongside fluffy rice or flatbreads. Simple neighbourhood eateries and family-run restaurants offer generous portions and a chance to try everyday Kerala cooking.

You will also find a growing number of contemporary cafes and bistros, especially around Fort Kochi and the city’s newer districts. These spots pair local ingredients with international influences, serving everything from south Indian breakfast dishes to light lunches, coffee, and baked goods in relaxed surroundings.

In the evenings, waterfront restaurants make the most of Kochi’s setting. Dining with views of the harbour or backwaters adds a memorable backdrop to your meal, whether you choose a traditional fish curry, vegetarian thali, or lighter snack before a stroll along the promenade.

Retail therapy in coastal Kochi

Shopping in Kochi ranges from compact local markets to modern malls. Around Mattancherry and Fort Kochi, you can browse small shops for handicrafts, textiles, and decorative items that showcase Kerala’s craftsmanship. Many visitors enjoy picking up handwoven fabrics, carved wooden pieces, or simple souvenirs that are easy to pack.

Spice shops are another distinctive feature, reflecting Kochi’s long history as a trading port. Shelves lined with neatly labelled jars add a sensory element to your visit, and you can select whole spices or blends to bring the flavours of Kerala into your own kitchen at home.

For a wider selection of brands, Kochi’s newer districts offer air-conditioned malls and department stores. Here you will find clothing, accessories, electronics, and lifestyle products in a convenient setting, along with cafes and cinemas if you would like to combine shopping with a relaxed afternoon indoors.

Best time to visit Kochi

Winter season (December to February, peak season) brings pleasantly warm days around 23–32°C (73–90°F) and lower humidity, ideal for sightseeing in Fort Kochi, backwater trips, and relaxed evening walks along the waterfront.

Pre-monsoon summer (March to May, shoulder season) is hotter, with temperatures of about 26–34°C (79–93°F), but sea breezes and occasional showers help, and this is a good time for coastal stays and indoor attractions such as galleries and cafes.

Monsoon season (June to November, low season) sees frequent rain and temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F), creating lush green landscapes and a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere for enjoying Kochi’s historic streets and scenic backwaters.

Frequently Asked Questions