Cochin, a coastal city in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is one of the most vibrant cities in the country. Sitting on the south-west coast of the peninsula, this lovely seaside paradise is an attractive melange of heritage, culture and traditions and is famed for its stunning beaches, colonial architecture, heritage sites, temples, synagogues and churches. The prominent pilgrimage town of Kanyakumari is quite close to Cochin. Packed with numerous engagements and unlimited indulgences, a holiday in this stunning coastal city is certainly going to be an experience of a lifetime.
Attractions in CochinShanghumugham, Papanasam and Cherai are the best known beaches in the city. Apart from the beaches, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Kerala Folklore Museum, Hill Palace, Indo-Portuguese Museum, Ernakulam Mahadeva Temple, Shiva Temple, St Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica are some of the city's most famous tourist attractions. If wildlife excites you make way to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary or Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Shopping in CochinBe it a thing for handicrafts, colourful bead jewellery, bangles, brass and ivory items or sandalwood valuables, shopping enthusiasts will love Cochin. The city is teeming with markets and malls spread all over it. MG Road, Jewel Junction, Niraamaya, Marine Drive and Ernakulam Market are the spots to hit if you prefer a shopping expedition that's more to do with local, street flavour and less with glamorous high-end brands.
Eating Out in CochinWith generous use of coconut and spices, food in Cochin and rest of India's coastal Kerala state is big hit with travellers who are coming in from all over the world. Dosa (type of a pancake), idli (cakes made by steaming a batter consisting of fermented black lentils), vada (fried snack), Malabar prawn curry, kingfish steak, Karimeen Pollichathu (fried pear spot fish) and puttu (rice flour and coconut usually served with kadala curry) are some of the dishes you can try in the city.
Best Time to Visit CochinOne of the best things about Cochin is its weather, which is pleasant for almost the entire year. The winter months from October to February are the busiest ones with maximum tourist influx. However, this is the time when tourists are unable to find cheap fares on flights to Cochin. March to June is the low season, with high temperatures and humid weather. Expectedly, the cheap flights are easily available if booked in advance.
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