Begin your city experience in Kerala by visiting Fort Kochi, a historic neighbourhood famous for its mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture. Explore the charming streets and alleys by foot or by renting a bicycle. Don’t miss the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi Beach and the Santa Cruz Basilica, a stunning church known for its Gothic and Portuguese architectural styles.
Head south to the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, and discover its rich cultural and historical heritage. Start your visit at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an impressive Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Next, visit the Kerala State Museum, which has an extensive collection of art and artefacts from across the state. Wrap up your city experience in Thiruvananthapuram by taking a stroll through the beautiful Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, known for its traditional Kerala architecture.
Return to Kochi and discover the modern side of the city by visiting Lulu Mall, one of the largest malls in India. Indulge in some shopping or catch a movie at one of the mall’s cinema halls. Afterwards, head to the nearby Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, an urban nature reserve that’s home to a wide variety of bird species. End your city experience in Kerala by having dinner at the famous Ginger House Restaurant, a unique dining experience set in a restored 17th-century Dutch mansion.
If you have more time, consider visiting the nearby city of Kollam for its pristine beaches and backwaters. Alternatively, if you have less time, you can skip Thiruvananthapuram and spend an extra day exploring Kochi’s many museums and landmarks. Don’t forget to try some of Kerala’s signature dishes such as appam, biryani, and fish curry during your visit!