Kochi or Cochin is the most popular city in the state of Kerala because of the variety of experiences it offers. The tourists are guaranteed a memorable experience due to the breathtaking views and scenic spots that this city offers. The city truly captures the heart and soul of the mesmerizing scenic state of Kerala. Thus it is not a surprise that Kochi has become a major tourist destination in Kerala not just for Indians but also for international tourists.
Best Places to Visit Near Kochi (Cochin):
Tourist places near Kochi can promise a variety of culturally rich experiences in the form of backwaters, waterfalls, temples, churches, and heritage spots. Here we have listed the top places that can be visited while backpacking in and around Kochi:
1. Athirappilly Falls – Niagara Falls of India
One of the popular tourist spots near Kochi, the Athirappilly Falls is rightly called the “Niagara Falls of India”. Located in the Thrissur District of Kerala, the falls are a scene to behold during monsoon season. An added experience for the tourists is the drive through the scenic countryside towards the falls. Among the many tourist places near Kochi within 100 kms, Athirappilly Falls is slightly beyond but still a must-visit for its sheer natural beauty.
The falls themselves offer no less exciting as they are a spectacular vista of flowing waters amidst the lush green vegetation and natural flora and fauna of the region. The entry charges to the falls are also minimal.
| Location | Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Timings | Everyday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | Adult: 50/- Children (5 to 12 years): 15/- Foreigner: 200/- Students: 10/- |
| Distance from Kochi | 72 km |
| Best time to Visit | September to February |
Also read: 10 Best Places to Visit in Kerala During Monsoon
2. Cherai Beach – One of the Most Captivating in Kerala
An important part of the Kochi sightseeing tour, Cherai Beach is located on Vypeen Island in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. The beach is such a lively and bustling place that it is called “the swimmer’s paradise”. The tourists can also enjoy the local Vypeen island where the peaceful local life and local delicacies of the state can be savored. If you want to enrich your palette with local seafood delicacies, the region has multiple shops in your service.
Cherai Beach is also counted among the best places to visit near Kochi within 50 kms because of its accessibility and vibrant charm.
| Location | Ernakulam District, Kerala |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Distance from Kochi | 34 km |
| Best time to Visit | September to March |
3. Alleppey Backwaters – Paradise of Kerala
Alleppey is an ideal backpacking experience near Kochi. The region offers the experience of the picturesque Kerala backwaters which can be enjoyed on Houseboats. Apart from this, the tourists can also visit the local temples and churches in Alleppey and intake the rich culture and local life of the state. This destination is one of the most famous tourist attractions near Kochi for its mesmerizing houseboat rides through coconut palm-lined waterways.
Plan a trip to Alleppey around August and you get the added benefit of experiencing the adventurous and exciting Nehru Trophy boat race, one of the best boat races in Kerala on the Punnamada Lake which happens every year in August on the second Saturday.
| Location | Alappuzha District, Kerala |
| Timings | 12:00 pm to 9:00 am (Night Stays) 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (Day Tour) |
| Distance from Kochi | 52 km |
| Best time to Visit | October to February |
4. Fort Kochi – First European Township in India
A must-visit place near Kochi, Fort Kochi used to be a hub of trade in ancient times. After this port town was washed away by the Tsunami including a fort built by the Portuguese, what remained is today’s Fort Kochi. This spot is special for tourists as it holds the heritage of the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British, who all left a part of their legacy here. It is a popular tourist attraction as it reminds us of a part of our history and culture. This is undoubtedly one of the most historical and cultural tourist destinations near Kochi for any traveler exploring Kerala.
The manifold attractions of Fort Kochi include the Dutch Palace, the Indo-Portuguese Museum, the Jewish Synagogue, the cafes, art centers, and libraries but the major attraction is the colonial styles Chinese fishing nets located near the beach which work on the age-old concept of a cantilever used for fishing. These fishing nets attract thousands of tourists, especially during sunset.
| Location | Kochi, Ernakulam District, Kerala |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 7:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | No entry Fee |
| Distance from Kochi | 6 km |
| Best time to Visit | October to February |
5. Vagamon – One of the Smallest Hill Stations in Kerala
Vagamon is a hill station located 1100 meters above sea level and gives a scenic view of the tea estates and waterfalls of Kerala. A major tourist attraction of Vagamon is the Paragliding Festival hosted during Jan-Feb. Perfect for a short getaway, it’s also ideal for those seeking unique picnic spots near Kochi amidst serene landscapes and a cool climate.
| Location | Kottayam, Idukki District, Kerala |
| Distance from Kochi | 100 km |
| Best time to visit | October to March |
6. Hill Palace Museum – largest Archeological Museum in Kerala
If you want to explore the history of Kerala, do visit the Hill Palace Museum. There is a mini-zoo here and a park here for children. The Museum is located within the city and is open around the year. This is one of the most underrated places of interest near Cochin for history lovers and families looking to engage with Kerala’s regal past.
| Location | Kochi, Kerala |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, 2:00 to 4:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | Rs 30 for adults and Rs 10 for kids |
| Distance from Kochi | 13 km |
7. Kochi Backwaters – Most Visited Backwaters of Kerala
No matter when you visit Kerala, the backwaters are a must-visit. The Kochi backwaters provide a chance for tourists to experience of Houseboats, see migratory birds, and the giant Chinese fishing nets, and explore the local villages of the region.
Apart from the above, here are a few other places around Kochi that can be visited for a day-long trip.
| Location | Ernakulam District, Kerala |
| Distance from Kochi | 9 km |
| Best time to Visit | November to February |
8. Wonderla Amusement Park – Best Entertainment Park in Asia
Located at a distance of 15 km from the city, Wonderla is a fun experience where a lot of adventure and fun can be packed through adventurous and fun rides. The park also has water rides that can be an enjoyable experience.
| Location | Kochi, Kerala |
| Timings | 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (Mon-Fri) 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (Sat-Sun) |
| Entry Fee | Weekdays: Adult Regular: Rs. 1249/- + 18% GST Child Regular: Rs. 999/- + 18% GST Weekends / Holidays: Adult Regular: Rs. 1299/- + 18% GST Child Regular: Rs. 1039/- + 18% GST |
| Distance from Kochi | 25 km |
9. Silver Storm Water Theme Park – Most Popular Theme Parks in Kerala
This popular theme park is located 60 km from Kochi. It offers a variety of fun and adventurous rides and games for the entire family. Never miss this place during your trip.
| Location | Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Timings | 10:00 am to 6:30 pm |
| Entry Fee | Adult: Rs. 1349/- Child: Rs. 1199/- |
| Distance from Kochi | 62 km |
10. Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort – Oldest Dutch Palace Outside Holland
A calm island in the midst of the city, this is a spot that meets the natural beauty and the calm heritage of the city. The resort I surrounded by lush greenery and a golf course and is a wonderful spot to relax with family.
| Location | Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala |
| Price | Start from 3,700/- |
| Distance from Kochi | 11 km |
| Contact Number | 0484 275 0500 |
11. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary:
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is one of the popular places near Kochi which has myriads of bird species. More than 500 species of birds also live there, in addition to elephants, leopards, sloths, and other animals that are native to the area. This is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala as well as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kochi.
| Location | Thattekad, Kerala |
| Timings | 7:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | Rs. 20 for Indians and Rs. 200 per person for foreigners |
| Distance from Kochi | 66 km |
| Best time to Visit | October to March |
12. Vazhachal Falls:
Vazhachal Falls is one of the most famous tourist attractions near Cochin. This city is situated at a distance of 75 km from the main city of Kochi. There are multiple attractions for tourists in the state of Kerala, but Vazhachal Falls is one of the most popular. The surrounding dense forests around these waterfalls were also known to be home to several endangered species.
| Location | Pariyaram, Kerala |
| Timings | 8:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | No entry Fee |
| Distance from Kochi | 78 km |
| Best time to Visit | September to March |
13. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary was previously known as Baker’s Estate, and today it lies close to Lake Vembanad in Kerala. Alfred George Baker planted mangroves in 1847, without interfering with the land, so birds could make it their home. Currently, it is recognized as a bird sanctuary with 14 acres, housing more than 180 species of birds. This makes it ideal for birds, whether they live around the area or migrate to it.
| Location | Kottayam District, Kerala |
| Distance from Kochi | 37 km |
| Best time to visit | October to March |
14. Vaikom:
Kottayam district’s Vaikom is a stunning village, notable for its tranquility, lovely backwaters, strong culture, and rural customs. This region is popular among responsible travelers, as they can participate in weaving, pottery, and making coir. The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is famous, and the Vaikom Satyagraha gave the place an important historical legacy. People on a holiday trip to Kerala often taste the local food, try sweet toddy, and experience cultural arts such as Kalamezhuthu.
| Location | Guruvayur, Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Timings | 3:00 am to 12:30 pm, 4:30 pm to 9:15 pm |
| Distance from Kochi | 94 km |
| Best time to visit | October to February |
15. Guruvayur Temple:
The Guruvayur Temple in Thrissur, Kerala, is regarded as one of India’s top and oldest temples and is referred to as the Dwarka of the South. Temple devotees celebrate Lord Krishna and visitors come for its impressive Kerala design, brilliant murals, sacred lands and peaceful ambiance. Visitors to the temple will find the Deepasthambham, golden Dwajasthambam and the ancient Nalambalam to be the most interesting attractions. You can see evidence of tradition and faith in every part of the temple.
| Location | Guruvayur, Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Timings | 3:00 am to 12:30 pm, 4:30 pm to 9:15 pm |
| Distance from Kochi | 94 km |
| Best time to visit | October to February |
16. Marari Beach:
Marari Beach near Kerala is a tranquil and lovely spot located near Mararikulam’s fishing village. Near coconut trees and sand, this place is excellent for taking it easy. People may choose to stroll and enjoy the scenery, have Ayurvedic massages, and watch the daily lives of the regional fishermen. It is also within easy reach of Alappuzha backwaters and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
| Location | Alappuzha District, Kerala |
| Distance from Kochi | 41 km |
| Best time to visit | December and March |
17. Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is an attractive forest area situated in Kerala’s Thrissur district, near the Nelliyampathy Hills. The park, covering 85 square kilometers, holds a population of elephants, gaurs, tigers, and various beautiful birds and butterflies. Hiking and bird-watching are popular activities at the park, especially when it’s cool outside.
| Location | Thrissur District, Kerala |
| Timings | 8:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Entry Fee | Rs. 20 for Indians and Rs. 15 for Students |
| Distance from Kochi | 90 km |
| Best time to visit | September to March |
18. Poonjar Palace:
Poonjar Palace, in the district of Kottayam, Kerala, is a wonderful remnant of how royalty lived in ancient times. The palace is designed mainly with wood, resembling traditional Kerala style and features lots of rare wooden boats, chandeliers, lamps and sculptures. In its early days, this palace belonged to the Poonjar Rajas who hailed from Madurai. Presently, it is recognized as a site full of history and culture.
| Location | Kottayam District, Kerala |
| Distance from Kochi | 79 km |
| Best time to visit | October to March |
Time To Pack:
This was all about the best places to visit near Kochi. Summers are approaching and it would be best to spend your summer holidays in Kerala. Direct flights and train connectivity are available from all the major airports and railway stations in India. Why are you waiting? Pack your bags now for this unforgettable journey.
FAQ’s about Kochi:
The best time to visit Kochi is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. For waterfalls like Athirappilly, monsoon season is the best. Alleppey is best during pre-monsoon.
Yes, you can go to Cherai Beach which is only 1.5 hours from Kochi Airport. It is great for swimming, enjoying seafood, and relaxing.
Yes, Vagamon is a small hill station just 3 hours from Kochi. It has tea gardens, waterfalls, and paragliding in Jan-Feb.
Yes, visit Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over 500 bird species. You can also spot animals like elephants and leopards in the nearby forests.
Yes, Wonderla Amusement Park and Silver Storm Water Park have many rides and water games. Both are great for a fun family outing.
Kochi has direct flights and trains from most big cities in India. It is easy to reach and well-connected by road too.
