With three days in Kochi, you’ll have enough time to visit colonial Fort Cochin, take a houseboat tour through Kerala’s scenic backwaters, and still have time to visit Munnar’s tea plantations or Muziris archaeological remains. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 1: Historic Fort Cochin<\/strong>
Explore the nearby historic areas of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry on your first day in Kochi. The16th-century Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, exhibits paintings of imperial art and antiquities. It’s a short walk from here to the Paradesi Synagogue, which was built in the 16th century and is the Commonwealth’s oldest synagogue. After that, drive to Fort Cochin to see St.Francis Church, India’s oldest church, and the adjoining Dutch Cemetery, which is thought to be the country’s oldest graveyard. Before heading to the beach for a photo op with the city’s famous Chinese fishing nets as the sun sets into the sea, stop by the lovely Santa Cruz Basilica. Start your first evening with a Kathakali dance performance, or choose a package that includes a Keralite supper at a local restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 2: Ripples of Backwaters<\/strong>
Spend your second day in Kerala doing something truly unique: taking a backwater cruise. Most cruises leave from Alleppey, an hour drive from Kochi, and are commonly hosted on kettuvallam, traditional coir houseboats . These cruises frequently travel deep into the state’s vast network of canals, passing through woodlands, rice farms, and traditional communities. Lunch is frequently included and is typically regional, consisting of rice, coconut-based curries, and fish. While some backwaters cruises last three days, there are also half- and full-day itineraries that include transportation from Kochi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n