Today’s blog post lists 12 must-visit places in Fort Kochi.

Before I elaborate on the list, here are the basics about Fort Kochi.

Firstly, Fort Kochi and Kochi are different. How? Kochi is a city in Kerala, and Fort Kochi is a small neighbourhood in the city of Kochi.

Secondly, Fort Kochi was originally a Fort—one of the first European forts in India— built by the Portuguese. Initially, it was known as the Fort Manuel of Kochi.

Third, the best way to explore Kochi is on foot. That’s the only way you’ll be able to appreciate the colourful parts of Fort Kochi you saw on Instagram.

So, be prepared to walk 10-11k steps minimum daily.

That being said, here are the 12 must-visit places in Fort Kochi.

• Chinese Fishing Nets
• Vasco Da Gama Square
• Beach Walkway
• Fort Kochi Beach
• St. Francis Church
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• Kathakali Centre
• Mattancherry Palace
• Paradeshi Synagogue
• Jew Town
• Spice Market
• Kerala Folklore Museum

My sister and I researched extensively as to which places to see and visit. After personally being there, I’ve compiled the above list.

CHINESE FISHING NETS

The first must-visit place in Fort Kochi is the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.

They are the landmarks of Fort Kochi and the only place in India where you can see them.

Locally known as “Cheene vala”, the fishing nets are one of the must-visit places in Fort Kochi.

In the 14th century, when Chinese travellers arrived in Fort Kochi, they introduced the local fishermen to this method of fishing.

Tourists often believe that the nets are solely near the Fort Kochi shoreline. That’s not the case. They are scattered across the neighbouring islands.

On the drive from the airport, I caught glimpses of several rows of Chinese Fishing Nets.

These traditional fishing nets make for beautiful backdrops and photos, especially at sunset.

The Chinese Fishing Nets were one of my favourite sights.

The best place to see the Chinese Fishing Nets is near the Vasco Da Gama Square, especially at sunset.

I visited the Nets at all times of the day throughout my stay. And let me tell you, every time it was a different experience.

It was on the third day that I saw the fishing nets in action. A couple of fishermen work in tandem to lower the nets into the sea.

While taking photos, the fishermen beckoned to board the platform.

I had read about the fishermen asking for money after luring innocent tourists on board. So, I simply smiled, declined, and moved on.

I did see large groups taking a close look at the action. So, if you’re interested, do it.

TIMINGS:- The Chinese Fishing Nets are open 24 hours.

VASCO DA GAMA SQUARE

Off the side of the Chinese Fishing Nets is the local social gathering area, the Vasco Da Gama Square.

During the day, the square is bustling with tourists, vendors, and a few locals.

However, in the evening, it comes alive with locals gathered for a stroll along the beach, watching the sunset, or eating their way through the various street food stalls.

The square is not much to look at, but it is still an essential landmark in Fort Kochi.

It serves as the meeting point for marvelling at the Chinese Fishing Nets, the beach walkway, or even some of the cafes.

I walked through Vasco Da Gama Square daily. Whether I was heading to the water metro station, a cafe, or a colorful street.

During the day, I’d often stop here for a reprieve from the tropical sun. I’d hydrate with a fresh coconut or lime juice while sitting on a park bench under the thick canopy.

TRAVEL TIP:- For families traveling with children, there’s a small park next to the square.

TIMINGS:- The Vasco Da Gama Square is open all day.

I would recommend visiting here in the morning and evening. It has a different vibe at different times.

BEACH WALKWAY

The third place on the list of 12 must-visit places in Fort Kochi is the Beach walkway.

The 800 m path running along the shore from Vasco Da Gama Square to Fort Kochi Beach was my favourite place to visit and unwind after a long day of exploring.

I wasn’t expecting it to become a favourite spot when I researched Fort Kochi.

On the first day, my siblings and I just wanted to get a feel of the area. We were going to take a short walk before heading to the next spot.

But we ended up staying there for two hours. Simply people-watching, taking pictures of the Chinese Fishing Nets, and getting thrilled at container-carrying ships.

I enjoyed the Beach Walkway, but it became my favourite when I saw the sky change colours after the sunset.

So, I propose that you come here daily for the duration of your trip to watch the sunset. I did.

During the day, it’s buzzing with activity— tourists clicking photos of the Chinese Fishing Nets, enjoying fresh juice or coconut water, or negotiating prices with vendors for souvenirs.

In the evening, it is mellowed down. The tourists and locals come here to spend the last few minutes of daylight and enjoy a peaceful evening.

So, how do you get here? Well, the pathway is not officially known as Beach Walkway. That’s what it reads on Google Maps when you zoom in. There are several roads and alleys that lead to different sections of the Walkway. So, follow the map.

P.S. There are four historic structures displayed along the path. I spotted two. Let’s see if you can find all four.  

TIMINGS:- The Beach Walkway is open all day.

FORT KOCHI BEACH

Next on the list of must-visit places in Fort Kochi is the Fort Kochi Beach.

On the first day, I only explored a small section of the Beach Walkway, so I didn’t get to see Fort Kochi Beach until the next day.

While walking from Vasco Da Gama Square to Fort Kochi Beach, I passed a couple of small cove beaches, but Fort Kochi Beach is the biggest one.

If you’d prefer an auto or driving, there is a small parking area near the shore.

I urge you to walk so you can see the other beaches, the Chinese Fishing Nets, indulge in street food, and go souvenir shopping.

I didn’t see anyone swimming except a couple of children splashing in the water. So I’m unsure if swimming is permitted at any of the beaches.

Seeing the carefree children, I too wanted to join them. But I wore white clothes, so I settled for dipping my toes in the water. Like all the boring adults. 😅

The reason Fort Kochi Beach is on my list of must-visit places is that from the viewpoint a few metres from the shore, you can see the Arabian Sea and backwaters merge.

Second, it is a great place to see the sunset. Do wait for the sunset. You won’t regret it.

After you’ve taken pictures, find a spot to sit and wait for the sunset, and don’t move once you’re seated.

My sister and I moved to throw some garbage, and when we returned, our spots were occupied by another family.

We found another great spot, but you might not be lucky, especially during peak season.

P.S. Don’t forget to see the art installation of angel wings made from slippers.

TIMINGS:- Open all day.

ST. FRANCIS CHURCH

When the Portuguese captured the area, they were granted permission by the Raja of Cochin to construct Fort Emmanuel.

In 1503, they built the church within the Fort limits. The old church is a major landmark in Fort Kochi because it is one of the oldest European churches in India.

Second, for 14 years, Vasco Da Gama’s body was buried here before his tomb was moved to Lisbon.

The church was a short walk from my hotel, so it was one of the first places I visited in Fort Kochi.

St. Francis Church is a simple white European church, but its simplicity is what I think makes it beautiful.

While my siblings entered the church, I had to wait outside because I was wearing a sleeveless top.

I had known I would need a scarf to cover my shoulders, but I’d left it back at my hotel. The early morning flight left me scatter-brained.

Learn from my mistakes and wear appropriate clothing when visiting religious places, or bring something to cover your shoulders and knees.

The interior of the church might not have been very interesting because my siblings were out in 5 minutes.

Upon questioning them, they replied that the interiors are simple with a few rows of pews and a plain tomb of Vasco Da Gama.

They said I hadn’t missed anything interesting, so I didn’t think much of it.

Unfortunately, my siblings hadn’t bothered to take a photo of the interiors. Typical teenage boy behaviour. 😑

TIMINGS:- St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi is open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The church is closed on Sunday.

SANTA CRUZ BASILICA

The second church you must visit in Fort Kochi is the Santa Cruz Basilica.

In 1505, the King of Cochin permitted the Portuguese to settle in Fort Kochi. The church was built two years after St. Francis Church.

Initially, it was a church, but in 1558, Pope Paul IV promoted it to a cathedral.

In the 15th century, when the Dutch invaded Kochi, they destroyed many buildings. Luckily, the Santa Cruz Basilica escaped a terrible fate.

That didn’t last long because the British tore down the cathedral in 1905. However, in 1984, a new structure was built, and Pope John Paul II promoted it to a basilica.

The Basilica is not only a historic building but a beautiful one.

Online, it said that it opens at 9 a.m. So, when I arrived around 10:15 a.m., the watchman allowed us inside the complex and said that the Basilica would open after 11 a.m.

So, we spent 10-15 minutes taking pictures of the exterior. There was still half an hour for the Basilica to open, so we decided to explore the neighbouring area in the meantime.

We were going to return later, but we didn’t make it back. The following day, the Basilica had a celebration, so it was closed.

I didn’t get to see the inside, but based on the photos online, it’s beautiful. So, do wait and see the inside. Don’t miss out.

TIMINGS:- The Santa Cruz Basilica is open daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and reopens from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

KATHAKALI SHOW

A must-do activity in Fort Kochi is the Kathakali show.

The Kathakali show was one of the highlights of my trip to Fort Kochi.

It was my first time watching a Kathakali performance. I was afraid I wouldn’t  understand and appreciate it, but the show was informational and a great way to introduce the art form to amateurs like me.

The Kathakali show is a two-hour program. During the first hour, the artists do their make-up on stage. It is extraordinary how much time and effort it takes to transform into their characters.

TRAVEL TIP:- Many people can find the makeup program boring. You can skip the first hour and come at the second hour to see the performance.

The second hour is when the performance takes place. Before the skit, an actor educated us on how actors communicate various emotions solely with facial expressions.

I really loved the play. Unfortunately, an hour is too short a time to appreciate a Kathakali performance. But, for a layman like me, it was a great introduction to the art form.

When I researched Kathakali shows, I thought there was only one centre. I was wrong. There are a couple of centres spread across Fort Kochi. You can visit the one closest to you.

• Kathakali Folklore Odeum
• Great K V Kathakali Centre
• Cochin Cultural Centre (might be closed)

Following the Kathakali show, there’s a Kalaripayattu performance. If time permits, I urge you to watch that as well.

TIMINGS:- I watched the performance at the Kathakali Folklore Odeum. The Kathakali show is from 5p.m. to 7 p.m., and the Kalaripayattu is from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m.

P.S. Tickets are Rs.500 for the Kathakali show, and Rs.400 for Kalaripayattu.

MATTANCHERRY PALACE

Mattancherry Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Fort Kochi, built by the Portuguese.

In 1555, the Portuguese had plundered a temple near the palace. To pacify the royal family, Mattancherry Palace was built and gifted to Vira Kerala Varma. It then became the royal residence and administrative seat.

In 1665, the Dutch conquered Cochin, and the palace underwent renovations. It then became known as the Dutch Palace.

The Nālukettu style structure appears simple on the outside, but is stunning on the inside.

Today, the former royal palace houses a museum that displays arms, shields, palanquins, stamps, clothes used by the royal family, and more.

My favourite part was the murals painted on the walls. Entire walls are covered with detailed and intricately painted scenes of Vishnu, Shiva, Ramayan, and more.

Another interesting display was the coins. A series of coins of varying sizes is displayed. The smallest coin was the size of a baby’s fingernail.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy the plaques about the various kings of Cochin and their achievements.

I spent around 15 minutes walking around the museum. Looking back, I should have taken more time observing the murals and other artifacts.

TIMINGS:- Mattancherry Palace is open Saturday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

P.S. A single ticket costs Rs.5

I don’t remember seeing a scanner for online payment, so carry change.

PARADESI SYNAGOGUE

When the Portuguese arrived in Cochin,the then Raja of Cochin gave them a section of land to establish their settlement.

With the blessings of the Raja, the Portuguese built churches and other religious places. The Paradesi Synagogue was built next to the Mattancherry Palace in place of a temple plundered by the Portuguese.

In 1568, Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi built the Paradesi Synagogue.

The Synagogue was built by Portuguese Jews speaking Spanish. In many Indian languages, paradesi means foreigner. Hence, the name Paradesi Synagogue.

Located at the end of Jew Town, Paradesi Synagogue is a nondescript structure that opens up into a beautiful hall.

Inside, you’ll find antiquities like the Scrolls of the Law, the raised pulpit, shining chandeliers, and a hand-woven rug gifted by the last Ethiopian emperor, Haile Selassie.

During my visit, a large group of students was visiting Paradesi Synagogue for a field trip. With students and hordes of tourists, the Synagogue became claustrophobic.

Therefore, I didn’t have time to closely admire the antiques. We had to settle for quickly snapped photos of the hall.

TIMINGS:- Paradesi Synagogue is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is closed on Saturday. They might be closed from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch.

P.S. Tickets cost Rs. 10 per person.

JEW TOWN

When the Portuguese arrived in Cochin in 1524, the then Raja of Cochin allotted them land to put down their routes.

The settlers were Jews, and their area came to be known as Jew Town.

Geographically, Jew Town is a neighborhood, but the place tourists like visiting is Jew Street.

It is a colourful lane with hotels, cafes, souvenir stalls, clothing stores, and antique shops.

It is one of the Instagrammable streets in Fort Kochi.

I arrived here by autorickshaw and spent an hour taking photos and browsing through the stores.

I thought there wouldn’t be lots of people around since it was only 10 in the morning.

No.

Apparently, everyone had the same idea to come early to avoid crowds. Which, in fact, meant lots of people.

I would recommend a leisurely stroll through Jew Street, followed by a visit to the Paradesi Synagogue at the end, and then a short coffee break at Mocha Cafe before heading to your next destination.

TIMINGS:- Jew Street is a public street, so it’s  accessible all day. However, the shops open at 10 a.m.

SPICE MARKET

The next stop on the list of must-visit places in Fort Kochi is the spice market.

Initially, the spice market was not on my list, but my aunt wanted some. And when family asks you to bring something, you do it without complaints.

There were a few shops selling spices in Jew Town, but I thought they were expensive. So, I did some quick research online.

I came across a spice market that sold loose spices, unlike the packaged ones in stores. So, I thought they might sell spices for a lower price.

No.

It was actually pricier than the stores. But, I didn’t give up and asked the auto driver to take me to a few more shops.

Soon, I realised that it’s all a tourist trap. The shopkeepers will show you the same spice in varying sizes. They’ll say that the smaller ones are of low quality while the bigger ones are the best.

I’m no expert on spices and couldn’t tell you the difference.

My aunt wanted them, so I ended up buying 5 spices, each 100 grams, for a total of Rs. 600 at a grocery store on Princess Street.

Buy spices only if you know what you’re doing. Or buy a package of mixed spices for Rs. 500. It makes for a great souvenir.

But a visit to the spice shops is worth it even if you’re not buying anything. And it makes for some great photos.

KERALA FOLKLORE MUSEUM

The last and must-visit museum in Fort Kochi is the Kerala Folklore Museum.

Unlike the other places on the list, the Kerala Folklore Museum is on the main island in Ernakulam. The only problem is that there’s nothing to explore nearby, only the museum.

The Kerala Folklore Museum is not only an architectural marvel, but also home to 1000-year-old antiques.

The museum was on my list of places to visit. I had seen photos and was eager to explore. However, I couldn’t go.

On the day of departure, I had planned to stop by here on my way to the airport. But, due to traffic, I had to skip it.

So, I would suggest that you stop here on the day you arrive. That way, you can cross it off your list as soon as you arrive.

It’s on the road to Fort Kochi, so you won’t be making any detours.

TIMINGS:- The Kerala Folklore Museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

P.S. This is the priciest ticket you’ll buy in all of Fort Kochi. A single ticket costs Rs. 200.

CONCLUSION

That concludes the list of 12 must-visit places in Fort Kochi.

Here’s a short summary of what places you don’t want to miss when travelling to Fort Kochi.

• Chinese Fishing Nets
• Vasco Da Gama Square
• Beach Walkway
• Fort Kochi Beach
• St. Francis Church
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• Kathakali show
• Mattancherry Palace
• Paradesi Synagogue
• Jew Town
• Spice market
• Kerala folklore museum

I hope this blog post was helpful and made your planning easier. If you have any queries or suggestions, let me know in the comments.

You can read my Fort Kochi travel guide for travel tips, hotel recommendations, and more. Or, find out how much I spent during my 4-day stay in Fort Kochi and how to save money.

I hope this ignites your wanderlust because,

One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it’s worth watching.

gerard day