Fort Kochi is a beautiful mix of different cultures and a city that was once ruled by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. As you arrive at Fort Kochi, you will feel a different kind. of vibe altogether, be it the old-style colorful buildings, the food stalls, or the churches around. Everything screams history! It’s one of the most developed cities in Kerala, yet the city is still serene as history remains alive within the streets and structures here.
Now, the first question you’ll probably ask as soon as you arrive is “where is the fort, exactly?”. Well, not to disappoint you, but there isn’t one anymore! It was destroyed.
With fishing communities and great beaches, Fort Kochi stands apart from all other coastal regions due to the famous Chinese fishing nets that are seen here. Chinese nets are actually the main attraction at Fort Kochi that attracts tourists from all over the world. Along with that, the colonial mansions, European architectural style, and rich heritage of the place, aesthetic cafes, street markets, seafood, colorful murals make it worth visiting.
How to Reach Kochi?
By train: Kochi is connected with most of the Indian cities through railways.. You can check out the train options on IRCTC website.
Kochi is in the Ernakulam district. While searching for trains on IRCTC, add Ernakulam Junction or Ernakulam Town as your arrival destination. The journey is close to 10 hours and makes sure you book your tickets in advance. It’s difficult to get last-minute tickets.
By Bus: You can also find direct buses for Kochi from Chennai, Bangalore, and some other south Indian cities. You can simply look for buses on RedBus, paytm, Makemytrip etc.
I took an overnight non AC Sleeper bus to Kochi which costed me approx. 1300 Rs.
Kochi Airport: Kochi has an international airport (Cochin International Airport- COK) with direct flights from main Indian cities and is also well connected to the middle east and Southeast Asian countries.
How to Reach Fort Kochi?
Fort Kochi is the old town side of Kochi. You can book an Ola/ Uber to reach Fort Kochi. They are readily available without the hassle of bargaining. If you prefer public transport and are on a budget, you can also take a local bus from a nearby bus stop. And you can also take an auto.
Fort Kochi from Cochin Airport: 50 km (INR 1000 from taxi)
Fort Kochi from Kochi bus Terminal: 15 km (INR 200 from taxi)
Fort Kochi from Kochi Railway station: 15 km (INR 200 from taxi)
Auto rates are similar to taxis and bargaining is a little difficult.
Where to Stay?
There are multiple stay options available at Fort Kochi, from budget hostels to premium boutique properties.
During my stay, I booked a private room at The Hosteller.
It is right there in the heart of Fort Kochi which is the best part and was my major concern also, because I prefer to take morning and evening walks around, wherever I travel. That’s the best way to understand any new place.
How to Book The Hosteller?
Address: X68V+2P4, Fosse Rd, Fort Nagar, Kunnumupuram, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
You can book through their Website, Hostelworld.com, Makemytrip.com, Goibibo.com, Booking.com
Website:
You can also check The Hosteller’s Instagram page.
Location Map:
Facilities at The Hosteller:
Wifi | Parking | Lockers | Common Kitchen | Air Conditioner | HouseKeeping | Pet Friendly | Workation Packages | Attached Washrooms | Common Areas | Terrace | Indoor Games | Books
Accommodation at The Hosteller:
Mixed Dorms | Deluxe rooms with Balcony | Girls only Dorms | Standard Rooms
Best time to visit Kochi?
It’s a coastal town and is usually hot and humid during summer. October mid till February is the best time to visit Kochi or Kerala in general. During monsoons (July till October), there could be heavy rainfall, and not really an ideal time to visit.
Things to do in Fort Kochi?
- Visit the very famous Chinese Fishing Nets point
- Walk through the Jew Town
- Soak in the vibes at Vasco da Gama Square
- Visit Fort Kochi beach
- Visit the oldest in India- Paradesi Synagogue
- Explore the Indo-Portuguese Museum
- Visit the museum at Bastion Bungalow
- Explore the old Mattancherry Palace
- Visit St. Francis’ Church
- Watch a scintillating Kathakali performance
- Visit Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
- Check out the cafes
- Visit the Cherai Beach in Vypin Island
- Take a ferry ride to and fro in just 10 Rs.
My personal travel tips:
- Dress modestly. Kochi is a developed town but not as open as Goa. Shorts and dresses are still fine but avoid bikinis.
- I personally didn’t like Vypin island and Cherai Beach. There is a lot you can do instead.
- Avoid going to the beaches after 8-9 pm.
- Rent a scooty and ride towards Alleppey. Open the maps and there are multiple areas with both side water, paddy fields, and unnamed beaches. If you really wish to explore the unexplored, see what fascinates you, on the map and trust your guts!
- Fort Kochi is a vibe! Don’t expect a lot, just try to absorb the aura of the town and its lifestyle.
- Definitely rent a cycle and enjoy the streets of Fort Kochi.
- At least once, for breakfast, early in the morning, try eating at some roadside stalls near the Chinese fishing net point.
- Shop for the spices.
- A maximum of 2 days is enough to explore Fort Kochi and nearby
Well, that was it from Fort Kochi. On the last note, I would just like to say that the place is a vibe and The Hosteller has truly justified that vibe. A comfortable stay contributes a lot to the overall travel experience. No joke!
Happy planning your trip to Fort Kochi. See you in the next blog.
Cheers!
