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This guide to the best things to do in Fort Kochi is brought to you by a local Kochi expert.

Fort Kochi packs quite a lot for a tourist for its size. It is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its iconic Chinese fishing nets to its colonial-era landmarks, there’s something here for every adventurer.

If you’re planning a trip to Fort Kochi, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, I will take you through the 18 Best Things to Do in Fort Kochi that capture the essence of its unique appeal.

I have been a resident of Kochi since 2022 and have visited Fort Kochi innumerable times. I have drawn this list from my own experience, and so, I have also added my personal review of the activities to help you choose which ones to include in your trip.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means, at no added cost to you, the affiliate pays a small commission to me for every qualified purchase. Read the disclosure to know more.

Read 10-Day Kerala Itinerary

Why Visit Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its historical significance but also because of the way it immerses you in its rich colonial past. This town was once a vital hub for trade and exploration, and its strategic location made it a magnet for European powers like the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Each of these colonial influences has left its mark, giving Fort Kochi a unique architectural and cultural identity.

Whenever I visit Fort Kochi, it feels like I’m stepping into a living history book. The landmarks, like St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India) and Bastion Bungalow, are so well-preserved that they seem to whisper stories of the past. Many of these heritage buildings have been transformed into charming resorts, blending the old with the new.

As I wander through the narrow lanes, lined with Dutch-style cottages and British-era mansions, I’m reminded of the town’s multicultural heritage. It’s fascinating to see how Malayalis, Europeans, and other ethnic groups have come together, creating a vibrant tapestry of customs and traditions that thrive here.

One of my favorite things to do in Fort Kochi is to explore the bustling markets and indulge in its eclectic cuisine. The fusion of flavors and cultural influences is truly a treat for the senses, making each meal an experience to remember.

But it’s not just the history and culture that make Fort Kochi special. The natural beauty here is simply captivating. The serene backwaters, fringed with coconut palms and mangrove forests, offer a peaceful retreat from the chaos of city life. I always find boat rides along the backwaters particularly soothing, as they provide a glimpse into traditional Kerala village life and a chance to spot some incredible birdlife and wildlife.

18 Best Things to Do in Fort Kochi

Here are the best things to do in Fort Kochi according to me, a resident of Kochi:

Take a Stroll at Vasco da Gama Square

Whenever I find myself in Fort Kochi, a leisurely stroll along Vasco da Gama Square is one of my favorite things to do. Vasco da Gama Square is a prominent landmark located in Fort Kochi, Kerala, named after the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who arrived in India in the late 15th century.

It serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic Chinese fishing nets that dot the coastline.

There’s something so soothing about watching the waves crash against the walls of the beach promenade while the sounds of street hawkers and fishermen fill the air. I always enjoy browsing the trinkets from local vendors and watching the fishermen proudly display their fresh catch of the day. It’s a perfect way to soak in the local culture and atmosphere.

Taking a stroll at Vasco Da Gama Square is the best way to soak in the local coastal culture of Fort Kochi.

Immerse in Art at Kochi-Muziris Biennale

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is an international contemporary art exhibition held once every two years in Fort Kochi. It was first launched in 2012 and has since become one of the largest art exhibitions in Asia.

The biennale showcases the work of both Indian and international artists across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance art. The event takes place across multiple venues in Fort Kochi, including historic buildings, galleries, and public spaces, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for you.

As I live in Kochi, I always make it a point to visit the Biennale. I love how the exhibition not only celebrates artistic diversity but also promotes cultural exchange, drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of Kochi and its historic port city, Muziris.

The Biennale is conducted from mid-December to mid-April. The dates vary each time, so you need to check online before you plan to visit.

In my opinion, visiting Kochi-Muziris Biennale is a must-do activity in Fort Kochi if you are visiting during the Biennale season.

Chinese Fishing Net

The Chinese fishing nets are iconic landmarks along the coast of Kochi dating back to the 14th century. Watching the local fishermen handle the Chinese fishing net on the coast of Fort Kochi is a must-have experience.

Believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders, these massive fishing nets are operated using a unique system of counterweights and ropes, allowing fishermen to lower and raise them into the water with ease. The nets are a testament to Kochi’s historic maritime trade links with China and Southeast Asia.

I find these fishing nets particularly enchanting at sunset, when they create a picturesque scene that’s perfect for photography. If you are at the Vasco da Gama Square in the evening, you can see the fishermen operating the fishing nets.

St. Francis Church

St. Francis Church holds a special place in my heart as one of the oldest European churches in India. Built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, it holds historical significance as the final resting place of the explorer Vasco da Gama, whose remains were originally interred here in 1524 before being relocated to Portugal.

I’m always struck by the simplicity and elegance of its whitewashed walls and the serene interior. The traditional wall-mounted hand-operated fans of Kerala can be seen in this church.

Walking through St. Francis Church, I can’t help but think about the colonial struggles that took place here. The church changed hands from the Portuguese to the Dutch and finally to the British, making it a symbol of Kochi’s rich and complex multicultural heritage. Today, it stands as a symbol of Kochi’s multicultural heritage and serves as an active place of worship for the local Christian community.

St. Francis church is open to tourists from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week except Sundays. On Saturdays, the church is open to tourists from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm only. Photography is allowed inside the church for free.

Santa Cruz Basilica

Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi, a splendid gothic-style architectural marvel with fresco and mural paintings on the ceiling by an Italian painter.

Originally built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, the church was later reconstructed by the British in the 19th century after it was destroyed by the Dutch.

What I love most about Santa Cruz Basilica are the towering spires, intricate carvings, and vibrant stained-glass windows that make it such a visual masterpiece.

Santa Cruz Basilica holds great religious significance for the Catholic community in Kerala and is a popular pilgrimage site during festivals and special occasions.

You can visit Santa Cruz Basilica on any day from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. However, keep in mind that, being a Catholic church, masses are held multiple times on all days. Do avoid taking photographs during the masses as an act of respect.

Learn about Indian Navy at Indian Naval Maritime Museum

The Indian Naval Maritime Museum offers a fascinating insight into India’s naval history and maritime heritage.

Located within the premises of INS Dronacharya, the Naval Academy, the museum offers a rich collection of naval artifacts that always leave me in awe. From historic ships and submarines to aircraft, weapons, and navigational instruments, there’s so much to explore.

The two rooms of the museum are actually two quaint pillbox-styled bunkers originally constructed by the British in 1938.

The interactive element of the museum is one of my favorite features. Each exhibit is assigned a QR code, which when scanned using your phone offers an audio narration about the exhibit. The museum also has a video room that screens a movie of the evolution of the Indian Navy from the 1970s.

Indian Naval Maritime Museum charges an entry fee of Rs. 50 for Indian adults and Rs. 200 for a foreign national. Photography is free if you are using a mobile phone camera, however, additional charges are applicable if you are using a digital, roll camera, or video camera.

Indian Naval Maritime Museum is open to visitors on all days of the week, except Mondays. The museum timing is from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm on weekdays and till 8:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Fort Kochi Beach

Fort Kochi Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline overlooking the Arabian Sea. Historically, it served as a strategic trading post for European colonial powers and witnessed significant maritime activity.

Fort Kochi Beach is a tranquil haven where I love to stroll along the sandy shores, watching traditional fishermen skillfully maneuver the iconic Chinese fishing nets. The sunsets here are simply breathtaking, and I often find myself just relaxing, soaking in the coastal breeze.

Fort Kochi Beach is a vibrant place that also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Watch a Scintillating Performance of Kathakali

Kathakali is a classical dance-drama native to Kerala known for its elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive gestures. And what better place to witness this enthralling art form than the famous Kerala Kathakali Center at Fort Kochi?

Kathakali combines elements of dance, music, and theatre to depict stories from Hindu mythology and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The art form is characterized by its stylized movements, vibrant facial expressions, and rhythmic drumming, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for audiences.

Kerala Kathakali Center conducts performances of Kathakali, Kalaripayattu (a traditional martial arts form), and classical music on an almost daily basis. Check out the dates and times on their website here to plan your visit.

Ashley’s Tip: Most hotels and homestays in Fort Kochi have tie-ups with the Kathakali center. They can arrange you your tickets hassle-free.

Visit a Dutch Era Laundry Service at Dhobi Khana

Dhobi Khana is one of those hidden gems in Fort Kochi that I love to explore. This traditional laundry facility has been around since the 1720s and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The story goes that the King of Cochin set up this laundry service for the Dutch colonizers, inviting washermen from the Vannan community in Tamil Nadu and providing them with 13 acres of land to establish the facility.

While the colonizers have long gone, the washing area got  revamped in 1975 into its present form and since then been catering to the laundry needs of hotels and families nearby.

The facility features large stone washing basins, wooden slabs for beating clothes, and open-air drying yards, providing a glimpse into the traditional methods of laundry in Kerala. This facility uses the traditional coal-based iron box to iron the clothing, another tradition they have carried for generations.

When I visited Fort Kochi’s Dhobhi Khana, I was really moved by the hospitality of the people who worked here. They were very eager to share their history and life story with us, offering us a glimpse into the community’s past and present.

Indo Portuguese Museum

The Indo Portuguese Museum is a testament to the rich cultural and historical ties between India and Portugal. Housed within the compound of the Bishop’s House, the museum showcases artefacts and exhibits that highlight the centuries-old Indo-Portuguese heritage in Kerala.

As I walk through the museum, I’m always drawn to the religious artifacts, furniture, costumes, and artwork on display. Each piece tells a story of the fusion between Indian and Portuguese influences, offering a glimpse into a time when these two cultures came together to create something truly special.

Established in 1910, the Indo Portuguese Museum aims to preserve and promote the cultural legacy of the Indo-Portuguese community in Kerala, which flourished during the colonial era.

You can explore the museum’s galleries, learn about the history of Portuguese colonization in India, and appreciate the unique blend of traditions and customs that emerged from this cultural exchange.

Indo Portuguese Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. On Sundays, it closes at 3:30 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The entry fee for Indo Portuguese Museum is Rs. 10.

Bastion Bungalow

Bastion Bungalow, located in Fort Kochi, Kerala, is a historic colonial-era building that dates back to the early 17th century.

Originally constructed as a residence for the Dutch governor, the bungalow later served as the residence of the British governor and subsequently as the office of the Collector of Kochi.

The building’s architecture reflects a blend of Dutch and British influences, with its distinctive sloping roofs, large windows, and spacious verandas. As I wander through its interior spaces, I can almost feel the echoes of its storied past.

Today, Bastion Bungalow stands as a symbol of Fort Kochi’s colonial heritage and serves as a venue for cultural events, art exhibitions, and heritage tours. You can admire its architectural features, explore its interior spaces, and learn about its storied past through guided tours and interpretive displays.

The entry fee for Bastion Bungalow Museum is Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children between 6-12 years. There is no additional charge for photography. You can expect to spend 1-2 hours exploring Bastion Bungalow Museum and its premises. Bastion Bungalow Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days except Mondays.

Click Snaps of Fort Kochi Graffiti Art

One of my favorite things to do in Fort Kochi is to wander through its streets and discover the vibrant graffiti art that adorns so many of the buildings and alleyways. The street art scene here is truly something special, with colorful murals that capture the creativity and cultural diversity of Kochi’s residents. Each mural tells its own story, whether through abstract designs, bold socio-political messages, or playful depictions of daily life.

I love how these artworks bring the walls to life, turning ordinary spaces into canvases that reflect the artistic pulse of the city. Many of these murals are part of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, created by both local and international artists. Every time I’m here, I find myself taking countless photos, trying to capture the energy and beauty of the art that makes Fort Kochi so unique.

Shop at Princess Street

No visit to Fort Kochi is complete without a stroll down Princess Street. This bustling street, with its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, is one of my favorite places to shop in Fort Kochi. Named after the Princess of Travancore, this historic street dates back to the colonial era when it served as a prominent commercial hub for European traders.

Today, Princess Street retains its old-world charm while offering modern amenities and a wide array of shopping opportunities. I enjoy exploring the diverse range of shops and boutiques, each offering something different. And when I need a break, there’s always a cozy café or bakery nearby where I can sit down with a cup of coffee and a delicious local treat.

Whether searching for unique gifts or simply soaking in the atmosphere, shopping at Princess Street is a must-do activity for tourists to Fort Kochi.

Take a Gastronomic Journey

Fort Kochi boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a plethora of restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines to suit every palate. From traditional Kerala fare to international dishes, you can indulge in a culinary journey that reflects the town’s multicultural heritage.

I love how many of these eateries are tucked away in historic buildings, some even doubling as art museums, which adds a unique charm to the dining experience.

Seafood lovers can savor fresh catches of the day at waterfront eateries, while vegetarians and vegans can enjoy flavorful South Indian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Check out my recommendations for the best restaurants in Fort Kochi.

Experience Overnight Houseboat Stay

Houseboating is a popular activity in Fort Kochi, offering you a unique opportunity to explore the serene backwaters of Kerala in style and comfort.

Traditionally used for transporting goods and people, houseboats have been transformed into luxurious floating accommodations equipped with modern amenities.

You can rent a houseboat and embark on a leisurely cruise along the tranquil waterways, passing through picturesque villages, lush greenery, and coconut groves. Houseboat tours typically include freshly prepared meals served onboard, allowing you to savor the flavors of Kerala cuisine while admiring the scenic beauty of the backwaters.

Whether for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, a houseboat experience in Fort Kochi offers a memorable and relaxing way to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Kerala.

Go on a Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise along the serene backwaters of Fort Kochi offers a captivating experience that showcases the town’s natural beauty and maritime heritage.

Sunset cruises typically depart from Fort Kochi’s waterfront and pass by iconic landmarks such as the Chinese fishing nets and historic buildings, providing a scenic backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

You can relax on deck, enjoy refreshing sea breezes, and witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink.

Sunset cruise is one of the Top Things to Do at Kochi Marine Drive

Stay at a Heritage Hotel

Staying at a heritage hotel in Fort Kochi provides you with a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the town’s colonial-era charm and rich cultural heritage.

Many of these hotels are housed within meticulously restored historic buildings, dating back to the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods. Each property offers a blend of old-world elegance and modern comforts, with spacious rooms, antique furnishings, and personalized service.

Guests can explore the hotel’s heritage features, such as ornate architecture, vintage artifacts, and charming courtyards, which evoke a sense of nostalgia for bygone eras. Some heritage hotels also offer guided tours, cultural performances, yoga training, and cooking classes that highlight Fort Kochi’s unique history and traditions.

Get an Ayurvedic Spa

Fort Kochi’s Ayurvedic spas offer you a rejuvenating retreat that combines ancient healing traditions with modern wellness practices. Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine originating in India, emphasizes holistic healing and natural therapies to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Many spas in Fort Kochi offer a range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies, including massages, herbal remedies, yoga, and meditation. Guests can indulge in personalized wellness programs tailored to their specific needs, whether to alleviate stress, improve circulation, or detoxify the body.

The tranquil ambiance of Fort Kochi’s Ayurvedic spas, often nestled amidst lush greenery or overlooking the backwaters, provides a serene sanctuary for relaxation and self-care. Experienced therapists and Ayurvedic practitioners offer expert guidance and individualized care, ensuring a transformative healing experience for guests.

Things to Do Near Fort Kochi

Explore Jew Town

Jew Town, located in the Mattancherry neighborhood of Kochi, Kerala, is a historic area known for its Jewish heritage and bustling market streets. At Jew Town, you can explore landmarks such as the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and the nearby Jew Town Market, which is filled with shops selling antiques, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

The area is also home to several art galleries, cafes, and heritage buildings, offering you a glimpse into Kochi’s multicultural past and vibrant present.

Mattancherry Palace Museum is another attraction to check out in the area.

Experience Kumbalangi Village Tourism

Kumbalangi is a picturesque fishing village located on the outskirts of Kochi, offering you an authentic rural experience through its unique village tourism initiatives.

At Kumbalangi, you can participate in activities such as fishing with local fishermen, exploring mangrove forests on traditional rowboats, and learning about sustainable farming practices. The village also offers opportunities to experience traditional Kerala cuisine through homestay experiences, where you can enjoy home-cooked meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Click Backwater Photographs at Kadamakkudy

Kadamakkudy is a scenic village located along the backwaters near Fort Kochi, offering you stunning vistas and unique photo opportunities. The village is renowned for its tranquil backwaters, lush greenery, and traditional Kerala architecture, making it an ideal location for capturing captivating photographs.

You can explore the village by boat or kayak, meandering through narrow canals lined with coconut palms and observing daily life along the waterways. Photographers can capture the reflections of the sky and surrounding landscape in the calm waters, as well as the vibrant colors of local fishing boats and traditional houseboats.

Sunset and sunrise are particularly magical times for photography at Kadamakkudy, offering soft, golden light and dramatic skies that enhance the beauty of the backwater scenery.

How to Reach Fort Kochi

Reaching Fort Kochi is relatively straightforward, given its well-connected transportation network. Here’s how to reach Fort Kochi:

By Air

The nearest airport to Fort Kochi is Cochin International Airport, located approximately 45 kilometers away in Nedumbassery. From the airport, you can hire taxis, pre-booked cabs, or use app-based ride-sharing services to reach Fort Kochi. The journey typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Train

Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town are the major railway stations in Kochi, both located in close proximity to Fort Kochi. If you are arriving by train, you can take local buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws from the railway stations to reach Fort Kochi. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen and the traffic conditions.

By Road

Fort Kochi is well-connected to various cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states via roadways. National Highway 66 (NH 66) passes through Kochi, providing access to major cities like Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram.

You can also opt for state-run or private buses, which operate regular services to Fort Kochi from nearby towns and cities. Additionally, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based ride-sharing services are available for travelers who prefer private transportation.

By Sea

For a unique and scenic experience, travelers can also reach Fort Kochi by sea. The Cochin Port Trust operates ferry services between Fort Kochi and Vypin Island, providing a picturesque journey across the backwaters. Additionally, cruise ships often dock at Kochi Port, allowing passengers to explore Fort Kochi and other nearby attractions during their visit.

How to Get Around in Fort Kochi

Most tourist attractions in Fort Kochi are packed quite close to each other. You can take tuk-tuks to transit between the clusters of tourist spots and cover each spot in a cluster on foot. It is ridiculously cheap to explore Fort Kochi!

Best Time to Visit Fort Kochi

Having been living in Kochi for years, I can say that I am not a big fan of the weather here. It is either hot and humid or raining cats and dogs. It is never cool here. However, except when you are at the beach, you are rarely out in the sun. This is because Fort Kochi is a well-maintained neighbourhood with large old trees that provide you shade no matter how bad the summer is.

As the weather stays pretty consistent throughout the year, I will call Fort Kochi a year-round tourist destination. However, October to February is the peak tourist season, meaning that the town is bustling with activity, and various cultural events and festivals take place during this time.

The beginning of the monsoon in June and the end of the monsoon in September is another good time to visit Fort Kochi as the occasional shower will bring down the temperature and make your trip more pleasant. But you also run the risk of having your outdoor activities dampened by the rains. This is completely your call!

FAQs on Things to Do in Fort Kochi

What is Fort Kochi famous for?

Fort Kochi is famous for its rich history, colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Some of its main attractions include the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi-Muziris Biennale (an international contemporary art exhibition), and its thriving street art scene. Fort Kochi is also renowned for its culinary delights, offering a diverse range of cuisine

Is Fort Kochi and Cochin same?

Fort Kochi and Cochin are often used interchangeably to refer to the same area. Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood within the city of Kochi (formerly known as Cochin), located on the southwestern coast of India in the state of Kerala. Kochi is a larger city that encompasses several neighborhoods, including Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and Ernakulam.

Is Fort Kochi and Mattancherry same?

No, Fort Kochi and Mattancherry are not the same. They are in fact two adjoining towns in the town of Kochi. Historically, Fort Kochi was the residence of the colonizers, while Mattancherry is where the native king of Kochi and the local population lived. As a tourist spot, Fort Kochi is known for its colonial-era buildings, cultural festivals, and scenic beauty, while Mattancherry is famous for its historic Jewish synagogue, Dutch palace, and spice markets.

Is 1 day enough for Kochi?

While it’s possible to see some of the main attractions in Fort Kochi in a day, ideally, you should plan to spend at least a couple of days to fully explore the town and its surroundings. With just one day, you can visit key landmarks such as the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, explore the quaint streets of Fort Kochi, and take a sunset cruise in the backwaters. However, to delve deeper into the town’s history, culture, and culinary offerings, additional time would be beneficial.

Is Fort Kochi couple friendly?

Fort Kochi is generally considered to be couple-friendly, with plenty of romantic spots to explore, such as the picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and waterfront promenades. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions while visiting Fort Kochi as a couple.

18 Things to Do in Fort Kochi: Wrapping Up

Fort Kochi is a gem waiting to be explored, offering a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. From its iconic Chinese fishing nets to its serene backwaters and eclectic art scene, Fort Kochi has something to offer every traveler.

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the allure of this coastal town, and create unforgettable memories amidst its captivating landscapes and vibrant streets.

I hope my list of the top 18 things to do in Fort Kochi has given you a glimpse of the treasure trove this quant town offers.