Kochi Fort, or Fort Immanuel, is located in the heart of Kochi and is a popular attraction for history buffs. Built in the early 1500s by the Portuguese, the fort has served as a stronghold for various colonial powers over the centuries. Visitors can see the remains of the fort's once-mighty ramparts and the unique blend of European and Indian architecture that characterizes the fort's many buildings, including the commanding Officer's House, which today serves as a museum. The fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
Located in the lush Western Ghats, Periyar National Park is a beautiful and unique wildlife sanctuary. Visitors can take a boat ride through the park's many waterways, which are home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and many species of birds. The park also offers various hiking trails, including the popular nature trail, where visitors can see many different species of flora and fauna up close. The park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and visitors should plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
If you have more time to spend in Kerala, consider adding a trip to the backwaters, a network of canals and lagoons that winds through the region's picturesque countryside. You may consider subtracting Kochi Fort if history isn't your thing, and replacing it with a visit to the beautiful Athirappilly Falls, which is a 1.5-hour drive from Kochi Fort.