Start your first day in Kochi by exploring the historic neighborhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Begin at the Fort Kochi Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy views of the Arabian Sea. From there, walk to the Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique fishing method introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. Next, visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Afterwards, head to the Dutch Palace, also known as the Mattancherry Palace, to marvel at the well-preserved murals and artifacts. End the day with a stroll through Jew Town, where you can browse antiques, spices, and souvenirs.
On your second day, immerse yourself in Kerala's rich culture and cuisine. Start at the Kerala Folklore Museum, which showcases artifacts and art from the state's diverse communities. From there, take a cooking class at the Namaste Cooking Class, where you'll learn to make traditional dishes like appam and stew. After lunch, visit the Hill Palace Museum, a former royal residence that now houses a collection of art, artifacts, and antiques. End the day with a visit to the Kathakali Centre, where you can watch traditional dance performances and learn about the elaborate makeup and costumes.
Spend your final day exploring modern Kochi. Begin at the Lulu Mall, one of India's largest shopping centers, where you can shop for clothes, electronics, and souvenirs. From there, visit the Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort, a luxurious hotel and spa located on an island in Kochi's backwaters. Take a boat ride through the backwaters to enjoy the scenery and spot local wildlife. Afterwards, head to Mattancherry Bar, a popular spot for drinks and live music.