A Perfect Day in Cochin in July 2023

1. 9:00AM: Mattancherry Palace
   15 minutes (3.5 km) from Fort Kochi Beach

   Also known as the Dutch Palace, it showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala with its impressive collection of murals, paintings, and antique furniture. Closed on Fridays.

2. 10:30AM: St. Francis Church
   5 minutes (1 km) from Mattancherry Palace

   This centuries-old church is famous for being the final resting place of the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama. It’s a simple yet beautiful structure with a serene ambiance. Open from 7 AM to 6:30 PM.

3. 12:00PM: Lunch at Malabar Junction
   10 minutes (2.5 km) from St. Francis Church

   Situated in a cozy courtyard, this restaurant is a gem for food lovers. They serve authentic Keralan cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their signature dish "Karimeen Pollichathu" (Pearl Spot Fish). Open from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and from 7 PM to 10:30 PM.

4. 2:00PM: Chinese Fishing Nets
   5 minutes (1.5 km) from Malabar Junction

   A trip to Cochin would be incomplete without experiencing the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. These cantilevered fishing nets are a legacy of Chinese traders who visited the city in ancient times. You can even try your luck at fishing with the locals. Open all day.

5. 4:00PM: Hill Palace Museum
   30 minutes (10 km) from Chinese Fishing Nets

   Located in Tripunithura, this museum is the largest archeological palace in South India. It has over 49 buildings showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala including weapons, paintings, and sculptures. Closed on Mondays.

6. 6:00PM: Sunset at Cherai Beach
   30 minutes (14 km) from Hill Palace Museum

   One of the most picturesque beaches in Kerala, Cherai Beach is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sunset. Take a dip in the warm waters or simply stroll along the shore. Open all day.

Recommendations

Make sure to visit the Jewish Synagogue and the spice markets in Mattancherry if time permits. You can take a day trip to Athirappilly Waterfalls or Munnar, the tea country. To maximize your fun, consider taking a guided tour of the city or hire a cycle rickshaw to explore the narrow streets of Fort Kochi.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mattancherry Palace (1 hour, INR 5)
• St. Francis Church (30 minutes, Free)
• Lunch at Malabar Junction (1.5 hours, INR 800)
• Chinese Fishing Nets (1 hour, INR 100)
• Hill Palace Museum (2 hours, INR 30)
• Sunset at Cherai Beach (1 hour, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 935

Check hotel and flight prices here.