Kochi 2-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Exploring Historic Kochi

Start your trip by delving into the rich history of Kochi. In the morning, visit the iconic Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese palace showcasing beautiful murals and artifacts. Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant Jew Town, known for its antique shops and the 16th-century Paradesi Synagogue. Dive into the local culture by savoring a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant.

• Mattancherry Palace: Entrance fee: ₹10 (~$0.14), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Jew Town: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Local restaurant: Cost estimate: ₹500 (~$7) per person, Time spent: 1 hour

In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Fort Kochi area. Admire the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets and stroll along the picturesque Fort Kochi Beach. Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum to learn about the region's colonial history. As the evening sets in, head to Princess Street, a charming street filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants.

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Fort Kochi Beach: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Indo-Portuguese Museum: Entrance fee: ₹25 (~$0.35), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Princess Street: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Seafood restaurant: Cost estimate: ₹800-1000 (~$11-14) per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Backwaters and Cultural Delights

On your second day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the backwaters surrounding Kochi. Start your morning by taking a scenic boat ride through the serene Kerala backwaters. Experience the tranquility and marvel at the lush green landscapes and traditional houseboats.

• Backwater boat ride: Cost estimate: ₹1000-1500 (~$14-21) per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day at Kayees Rahmathullah Hotel, known for its traditional Kerala breakfast dishes like puttu and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Dhe Puttu, a popular restaurant that specializes in different varieties of puttu, a steamed rice cake. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner at Fusion Bay, a fine dining restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Coffee Day, a popular chain known for its delicious coffees and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Dhe Puttu, a local restaurant specializing in authentic Kerala cuisine. Enjoy their signature dish, Puttu, a steamed rice cake served with a variety of curries. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Malabar Junction, a fine dining restaurant that offers a fusion of Kerala and international flavors. Try their Malabar Fish Curry, a traditional delicacy. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

In the afternoon, visit the Hill Palace Museum, located in Tripunithura. Explore the extensive art and archaeological collections housed in the palace. Indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage to relax and rejuvenate.

• Hill Palace Museum: Entrance fee: ₹30 (~$0.42), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ayurvedic massage: Cost estimate: ₹2000-3000 (~$28-42) per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama of Kerala. Marvel at the intricate costumes and expressive storytelling. Conclude your trip with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kerala cuisine.

• Kathakali performance: Cost estimate: ₹300-500 (~$4-7) per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Local restaurant: Cost estimate: ₹500 (~$7) per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kochi, don't miss the lesser-known attractions loved by locals. Pay a visit to the Kashi Art Gallery, an art space showcasing contemporary works. If you're into street art, wander around the streets of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi to discover colorful murals and graffiti. For a unique shopping experience, explore the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a contemporary art festival held every two years. It features exhibitions and installations by renowned artists from around the world. Lastly, indulge in the local street food scene, especially trying out the delicious Kerala-style seafood delicacies like Karimeen Pollichathu (spicy grilled fish) and Meen Curry (fish curry).

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices here.