Witness the Charm of Cochin: Gather the Vital Information about This Destination
Cochin, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is situated in the district of Ernakulam, Kerala. A major port city on India's Malabar Coast, Cochin offers a fantastic coastline, a stunning environment, and a thriving cosmopolitan city with uniqueness for travellers who visit Cochin annually. While exploring the city, you can feel the vibrant cultural heritage and diverse festivities, adding charm to your trip. The buildings constructed in Cochin showcase the influence of the Portuguese, British, and Dutch. The iconic landscapes share a story of history, leaving an unforgettable impact on today's life. A perfect melting pot of old-age traditions and modern living practices coexist, creating a harmonious blend. Cochin offers you a closer look at a moment when you are surrounded by lush green forests, clear water, a pristine ambiance, and a location where every atom is filled with warm hospitality. If you got bored by the mountain trends and want to experience cool water and stunning sights, then your one-stop destination is Cochin. We have comprehended this post, where you can easily know about Chochin's best food, places, and much more.
Important Information About Cochin
Population: 677,381
Languages: Malayalam and English
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Closest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Top Things to Do in Cochin
The jaw-dropping sights of Cochin are hard to resist, and the best part is that the city remains vibrant year-round, making travel easy whether you are a history researcher or want to do something new and adventurous. Welcome to Cochin, from here your thrill begins:
- Go scuba diving: When you hear about Cochin, all you can think about is the water. Well, this is true, as it is no less than a paradise for you if you want to do scuba diving. You can be underwater for around 45 minutes, and this will be the best moment of your life. Regardless of how good a swimmer you are, you will be able to enjoy this activity with the help of an expert coach. With a starting amount of 6,000 INR, scuba diving permits you to see the marine life, coral reefs, and much more. For the everlasting sights, consider the months from October to March.
- Do cycling in the fantastic surroundings: Cycling might sound like just an exercise to you, but it hits different when you are not paddling on a pedestrian or a racetrack but on Cochin's beach. The soft sands, the calming sound of the waves, and the chirping birds will make you fall in love with Cochin. The budget for this might range from 4800 INR.
- Race against the waves: If you love to go on water rides, Kayaking is for you. The splash of water touching your face while you're figuring out the way through the water is the major highlight of kayaking. This is suitable for couples, nature lovers, and solo travelers. The activity is budget-friendly, with a fee starting at 1000 INR. It's best in the early morning or at sunset, during the golden hour.
- Embrace the challenge of Windsurfing: In recent times, this activity has attracted a large number of travellers from across India and abroad. There are chances that you might be able to spot a few of the aquatic animals. With the range between 1,500 and 3,000 per lesson, you will be able to learn windsurfing. The duration is from September to April, as the winds remain favourable, providing an adrenaline boost.
Best Places to Visit in Cochin
Cochin is perfect for solo travellers, couples, friends, and others, as it still embraces its beautiful traditions. From the museum to the art galleries to the temples, Cochin has some of the prominent areas that you must see once in your lifetime, which can be seen in the following lines:
- Kerala Folklore Museum: A testament to Kerala's history and culture, the museum houses bronze sculptures, stone-age artifacts, tribal art, and stunning paintings. Treasuring the trove of stone, wood structures, jewellery, and musical instruments, the museum paves the way back in time. By visiting this museum, you will gain an understanding of life.
- Great K V Kathakali Center: This center is recognised for its impeccable performances, which are a way to preserve India's culture and folk dance. The artists at this center tell a story through their wonderful Kathakali dance. The pain of the body and face, along with the movement of the eyes, expresses the whole story, offering a rollercoaster of emotions. Book the show in advance to get the amazing time with your loved ones.
- Mattancherry Palace: This palace, built by the Portuguese around 1545 C.E. and renovated by the Dutch, is known for its royal artifacts, Ramayana murals, and other artistic treasures. This spot is a live example of the cultural exchange, cultural confluence, and architectural grandeur. Naalukettu (quadrangular) style construction, spacious halls, and wood with the intricate carvings lure the tourists.
- Santa Cruz Basilica: Stunning architecture, a remarkable facade that carries the devotees who practice the Christian faith. The Gothic-style church holds religious significance and is revered as one of the eight crucial Basilicas in India. During Christmas, Easter, or New Year's Eve, the Basilica is lit up with lights, creating an illuminating night for visitors.
Best Time to Explore Cochin
Cochin's climate is one of a kind, as this coastal city is laced with abundant beauty that never fails to surprise travellers. But it cannot be denied that the time you plan to travel here will be the deciding factor in how much fun you have. Thus, acquiring the information at the best time is significant; here is all you need to know:
- Peak season: Temperatures from October to February are around 17-33 degrees Celsius. This period counts as the winter season, when the area sees a large influx of visitors to this coastal city. The weather is ideal for outdoor views, as the sun is not too hot or the temperature is not too cold. Thus, wandering in Cochin at this time will not trouble you at all.
- Moderate season: If you are looking for a season when you do not have to worry about the scorching sun, travel between July and September. At this time, Cochin reveals its truest form, and you will be mesmerized by the greenery, thanks to the average rainfall. The temperature ranges from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, aiding a smooth trip.
- Off-season: From the start of March, the summer season knocks at the door and stays till June. The weather is extremely warm and humid, with temperatures around 37 degrees Celsius, which is not favourable for going outside the hotel rooms. However, this is the perfect time to save money, as the accommodation is cheap. If you are fine with exploring the city after the sun has set, then plan your trip for this season.
Foods to Eat in Cochin
The Cochin recipe is an invitation to lose yourself in a flavourful world. From late-night snacks to fulfilling dishes, Cochin brings joy to your plate each time. The names of the famous foods that you must order in Cochin and taste can be stated in the below lines:
- Appam and stew
- Idiyappam with curry
- Idli sambhar
- Dosa
- Kerala puttu kudala
- Avial
- Kerela parotta
- Parippu curry
- Payasam
- Meen pollichathu
- Beef ularthiyathu
- Kappa and meen curry
- Malabar parotta with beef curry
- Thalassery biryani
- Chemmeen curry
- Syrian Christian beef curry
How to Reach Cochin
Cochin is connected to major cities in India, providing an effective route for travel. There are numerous options to reach Cochin, and you can choose whichever works best for you. In the further lines, understand the various transportation options leading to this wonderful region:
Air
The nearest airport is Cochi International Airport, which manages direct flights to major parts of India. Besides, the airport has international flights, making travel easy.
Train
For pocket-friendly, effortless travel, book a train ticket. You can find various trains to Cochin serving its closest railway station, Ernakulam Junction South.
Bus
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is one of the fastest transportation options to reach Cochin. Apart from this, you can also hop on a State Transport Corporation bus from a neighbouring state that runs daily.
Things to Keep in Mind When Travelling in/to Cochin
While travelling to Cochin, it is important to check what you need to stay safe and sound, especially when travelling alone. Review the points that have been indicated in the subsequent points:
- Pack your swimwear and quick-dry clothes.
- Shoes or sandals with waterproofing.
- Waterproof cameras or mobiles.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Book the hotels in advance.
- Make a list of the locations to visit before arrival.
- Maintain your hydration level.