THE BEST GUIDE TO 48 HOURS IN FORT KOCHI: BEAUTIFUL HERITAGE & HIDDEN GEMS

Fort Kochi (Cochin) will most probably be any travellers first point of entry into Kerala, India. Many will arrive as they disembark their international flight at Cochin Airport and start their itinerary to visit various popular destinations the state has to offer. It is certainly worth spending at least 48 hours in the historical Fort Kochi to discover this small fishing village’s heritage, culture and hidden gems. For you history buffs, Fort Kochi actually became the first European township in India and it’s very easy to see why when you spend some time there.

Fort Kochi is quite the amalgamation of colourful colonial heritage, which can be seen from it’s past invasions by the Dutch, Portuguese and British. It’s a pretty fishing village but a little rough around the corners with noticeable peeling walls of colour, crumbling stone work, bougainvillea lined garden walls and market stalls.

For completeness, if like us you’re wondering where the Fort is in Fort Kochi, well there isn’t one anymore. We spent ages trying to walk around and find one! There is a canon remnant near the beach and bits of crumbled down wall there to, but armed with this 48 hours in Fort Kochi guide, you will not be short of things to fill your days with and if you are lucky enough to be able to extend your stay, then even better!

This guide highlights how you can best spend 48 hours in Fort Kochi, take in all the heritage, culture as well as some hidden gems. Also included are hotel options, dining recommendations and if you’re short of time, tours that you can book to maximise your time here.

Related Article: How to Plan a 10 Day Itinerary to Kerala

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Where is Fort Kochi Located

Fort Kochi is a small fishing village neighborhood  located in Cochin, on the coast of Kerala in South India. It’s located around 36 km from Cochin International Airport, which takes around 60-90 minutes drive (mainly due to the heavy traffic). 

Most travellers will already have arranged private cars which will accompany them on their trip of Kerala but for those on a bit of a tight budget, it is possible to get on a bus to Fort Kochi directly from the airport. Times can vary and are not always accurate so it is best to ask the information desk at Cochin Airport.

Map of Fort Kochi

This map is perfect to accompany this guide for spending 48 hours in Fort Kochi,

How to use map: Click on image for an interactive version of the map with a legend of hotel, things to do and dining recommendations.

** Please note: hidden gems have not been included as these are local locations which you can work together with your private guides on. They are individual to the knowledge of guides.

When is the Best Time to Visit Fort Kochi

Kerala is blessed with a tropical climate and corresponding temperatures throughout the year but there are some times you may want to avoid.  Peak season and school holidays in the state alone or the rest of India can cause prices of hotels and attractions to sky rocket. Crowds will also be at a maximum as will flight prices so plan accordingly.

• October – March: Peak Season. Be aware that the monsoon rains around October can bring a level of humidity that may feel a little uncomfortable. 
• December – January: Peak Season at it’s highest! It will be lovely and cool but very busy and very expensive. Infact, many hotels will have to be booked over six months in advance and the prices will be double what you’d pay at any  other time of year.
• April – June: Day time temperatures can hit around 37 degrees celsius but the good news is there will be little to no crowds and hotels will have a lot of availability as well as favourable rates.
• July – September: The heavy rains of the monsoon are in full swing. It doesn’t rain the whole time but it’s a pretty substantial amount when it does. Cochin’s nature and surroundings do look a whole lot prettier and greener of course.

48 Hours in Fort Kochi: Day 1

The first day of your 48 hours in Fort Kochi, should involve getting your bearings as well as seeing everything that has played  apart in the city’s colonial heritage. It is possible to walk to all of these main locations as many of them will only be a few minutes from each other. Many of them have plaques so the  history is self-explanatory and allows you to explore at your own pace. You can always take a TukTuk or book a private guide as we did (details for this are towards the end of Day 2).

Visit St Francis’ Church

Vasco De Gama, a merchant Portuguese sailor who rediscovered the old spice route from Portugal sailed to India and entered on the long stretch of golden shores in 1501.

Our guide explained the story to us that Vasco de Gama met with King Rajah of Kochi and formed an alliance that if he fought and defeated King Zamorin of Calicut, Vasco de Gama then he could start trading and start construction work in the area.

This is why so many Portuguese churches and historical architecture is present in Fort Kochi, with Church St. Francis being a beautiful colonial example of a Portugues structure. 

The church was originally built from timber but during its reconstruction, stone masonry was used. It was restored in the 18th century by the Dutch and later converted into an Anglican church by the British. The tomb of Vasco de Gama is still there even though his remains were taken back to Lisbon, Portugal.

Visitors can go in and see a little memorial in honour of his memory here. The man who created Fort Kochi as it is today. The oldest Christian Church in India today.

• Location: Church Road. Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001.
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Hours: (Mon-Fri) 10:00-17:00.( Sat) 12:00-17:00, (Sun): closed for services.
• Entrance Fee: Free to visit.

Admire The Santa Cruz Basilica

This is another example of a church the Portuguese left in Fort Kochi. It’s truly one of the finest and most striking examples of a Roman Catholic church in Kerala let alone Fort Kochi. Many visitors from the country say it could be the best example of a Roman Catholic church  in India. 

The Cathedral Basilica was originally built in 1505 but given Cathedral status in 1558 by Pope Paul IV. It went on to be  proclaimed a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.

Due to it’s unique style, it’s quite a busy attraction and often there will be queues as everyone is wanting a glimpse of its beauty both inside and out! The interior art works are beautiful so do spend some time walking around inside.

During the night the bright white exterior is lit up in bright blue so you most definitely won’t miss it if you’re staying in the town. Mass at the Santa Cruz Basilica takes place in English everyday. They don’t allow visitors in during mass as well as not allowing photography which is understandable. When we first arrived there was a service going on so we did wait a while but we could hear the service from outside as they had speakers set up. We initially thought this was due to the festive celebrations but the speakers are there all the time.

• Location: Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Hours: Daily 09:00-17:00 for visitors. Mass times: Mon-Fri 06:00, 07:00, 18:00. Sundays 05:30, 06:45, 08:00, 09:15. 16:30 (English).
• Entrance Fee: Free.

Head to the Chinese Fishing Nets

Ok so there’s no denying, every one will tell you this is the top attraction that should be on your 48 hours in Fort Kochi list, after all everyone knows this fishing village for them and the ancient methods of catching fish.

Our guide explained, The Fishing Nets were brought to Fort Kochi by a Chinese fisherman called Zhang in the 15th century and have been used ever. Although many of the nets have most probably been rebuilt since their original arrival when they were used to  attract visitors to the Malabar Coast. However they are still used, especially in the Monsoon season. The techniques however have remained the same.

Although, for many years now, the nets have become a popular tourist attraction and you can even partake in how to use them. However be aware this is a bit of tourity thing to do and you will e asked for money!!

Be-lavie Tip: You can climb the nets and have a go at reeling in but beware these fishermen don’t make much money and demand a tip. Usually there are five fishermen and they will insiste on being individually.

However, if you’d like to get some great shots of the fishing nets (as advised by our guide) then the best time is at sunset when the sky is very pretty. The best place to see the nets is in Vasco de Gama square, It’s a narrow promenade running along Fort Kochi beach, where you often see street performers and children playing with kites.

Photo Location: Vasco de Gama Square

Peek Int0 The Dutch Cemetery 

Passing by St Francis’ Church, close to the beach, you would be walking by The Dutch Cemetery, the gates will almost always beclosed.. 

Built in 1724, the cemetry is recorded as being one of the oldest cemeteries in India and it houses 104 tombs and tombstones of the Europeans settlers who came to India to lay down their colonial empire. The last burial happened in 1913.

During the dutch rule, only Dutch people were allowed to be  buried in the cemetery but later British citizens were also given permission to be laid here. 

The cemetery is closed to visitors, you” notice the gates are permanently locked but you can have a peek from outside.

• Location: Dutch Cemetery Road. Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location

Walk by the Remains of Fort Emmanuel

Located along Fort Kochi beach, there are only a few remaining ruins of Fort Immanuel, which was what Fort Kochi was named after. It was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese but was destroyed later by the Dutch and British.

• Location: Fort Kochi Beach. Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location

Watch A Traditional Kathakali Show

A must do experience in Kerala is to watch a Kathakali show, the most iconic and classical dance originating from the state.

Kathakali performances can be seen all over Kerala, we actually watched a perfomance in Thekkady too but Fort Kochi has quite a few heritage and cultural centres due to its diverse community and history.

Most of the cultural centres tend to have shows during the day as well as each evening starting from 17:00-19:00. Some will allow you to arrive a little early so you can watch as the artists applying their make-up. This feels like a real privilege and is really fascination to watch.

Kathakali is known as a classical, religious ancient Indian dance which is inspired and depicts scenes from the Ramayan, a literary Hindu epic and often read at religious ceremonies bu Hindus. As a Hindu myself, it was really interesting to learn how the story is played out through detailed dance.

Kathakali dancers train for more than six years before they are officially allowed on stage and like many dancers around the world, are completely dedicated and disciplined to this art form.

Kathakali is truly unique in the sense that the dancers all apply their own make up on stage and we were shocked to realised that this can take up to three hours. Their make-up is as bright and vivid as their costumes.

The show we saw was spilt into a few parts and lasted an hour. The first portion concentrated on the aesthetics and application of make up and interesting facts such as making their eyes appear red by placing Chundapoo flower seeds (solanum anguivi) beneath the lower eyelids. We were assured this is not harmful.

The interim period focussed more on the dance form and the Ramayan (which is explained if visitors aren’t familiar). There was a quick 10 minute demonstration on what some of the small facial dance movements mean based upon expressions so the audience could decipher what is going on. Oh and there also did pick a couple of volunteers!!

The last part is the dance itself dance and contains no speaking but the story is told through intricate eye, brow, finger  and foot movements. It is fascinating to see how the dancers communicate through these movements. The audience learns how a slight change in stroke can mean something completely different. The expressions on their faces are very precisely executed and portrayed. It is mind boggling to consider the length of time that it would take to master Kathakali.

• Location: Kerala Kathakali Centre. KB Jacob Road, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Further Info: Website
• Hours: 09:00-21:00 (Kathakali shows generally 17:00-19:00).
• Entrance Fee: 500 INR (make-up artistry – 1hr + Kathakali – 1hr).

Some Hand Picked Kathakali Show Options in Fort Kochi

These Kathakali show options are great value for money as they can inlcude a Fort Kochi tour or dinner which makes a lovely round off to a day in Fort Kochi, Transfers can also be included.

Stroll Around Bolagatty Palace

Located on Bolgatty Island, the palace  is named as being one the largest Dutch palaces outside The Netherlands which was actually constructed by the Dutch. Our guide explained a few British governors resided here but after Kerala got it’s Independence the island was turned into a heritage resort. If you have the time to spare. Bolgatty Palace is perfect to mooch around for a leisurely afternoon.

• Location: Mulavukad, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682504 
• Find it Here: Map Location

Check Out the Street Art Scene

Street Art lovers will be in awe of what Fort Kochi has to offer in terms of colourful murals. Many of them can be discovered just by walking around. However some great spots to keep an eye out is Calvathy Road, Santa Cruz Basilica, Bazaar Road Vasco de Gama Square. There are many abandoned style buildings that have those brightly-coloured decaying walls. If you love your instagram shots, they also make wonderful backdrops.

Every other year, Fort Kochi hosts the Kochi – Muziris Biennale festival, this international event was founded in 2012 and is hailed as the largest in the India. International contemporary artists are invited to display their art on the streets, galleries and as stage installations. The festival was said to draw in 250,000 visitors the last time it was on.Art works are extended to short films, performances, workshops and music events. The event is said to have a very boho vibe. The Muziris Biennale centre is temporarily closed

Look at the Colonial Buildings Turned Shops on Princess Street

Princess Street is one of the oldest streets in Fort Kochi and houses many European Style houses which have been restored to retain their original charm and colonial flair. Many of these are now cool cafes as well as hotels and food outlets. If you love people watching then don’t miss out on Loafer’s Corner (Map Location), they do great sandwiches, snacks and drinks. We didn’t make it here but we saw lots of tourists and locals hanging out here.There is also the beautiful bright yellow painted exterior of Forte Hotel Kochi (Map Location), stunning colonial style hotel from the inside. If you are on a guided tour or ask nicely, the guards will let you in to go and see the courtyard with the pool or have some food.

Mooch Around Vasco de Gama Square

Named after the man who founded modern Cochin, This square on the waterfront is covered in Kerala’s famous rain trees, a traditional remedy for colds, diarrhoea, headache, intestinal ailments and stomachache. 

Around the same area you will also find the Canon Ball Tree. Hindus believe the flowers look like Nagas (snake-like water protectors) and are therefore grown at Shiva temples.

The square is a meeting point and in the evenings, families and couples gather here at the restaurants, children fly kites in the changing seasons, you’ll see couples walking hand in had and they even have musicians such a flue players as well as other street entertainers. This is a great spot to watch the promenade fill up with locals and the fishing nets are perfect to photograph at sunset too.

Find it Here: Map Location.

Take A Cooking Class

Foodies will absolutely adore this activity. A good way to learn more about a place is through the food and a cooking class is perfect. Kerala’s rich culture and cooking traditions are fascinating. Cooking classes are great fun as they’re very hands on and interactive allowing everyone to get involved as much or as little as they wish. 

From traditional stuffed fish cooked in banana leaves to vegetable curry made with traditional spices and coconuts plus all the trimming including chapatis/rotis, rice, pickles, poppadoms and many other small plates. You’ll experience how to cook a great Keralan feast.

We’d highly recommend a cooking class at Sheeba’s Homestay, which is located down a small side street in the heart of Fort Kochi.

Sheeba is a very patient cook and teacher and you are treated to a lovely lunch which you’ve helped to cook too. 

• Location: House No.1, Pulickal House, 687-A, Njaliparambu Jct, near Santa Cruz Ground, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Further Info: Contact via telephone to book
• Reviews: See what other visitors are saying
• To book & check for availability: +919037890621

Visit the Dhobi Khana – Public Laundry

The Dhobi Khana is the Public laundry adn started out as one of the Dutch colonial site.

When Fort Kochi was under Dutch rule, this was where the local Keralans would wash, iron and make any adjustments to the uniforms of the Dutch army.

It has now been turned into a place where the community can come and wash, dry and iron clothing. It’s a fantastic place to visit and provides a lot of opportunities for jobs for locals to launder anything they need to from clothing to household linens.

Infact, many of the local businesses (homestays and hotels) use the Dhobi Khana as their laundry service provider, helping to keep things local. There is a very high chance that the linens and bedsheets from the hotels and homestays you may be staging in, will most probably have been laundered here.

Beyond the usual tourist colonial sites, the Dhobi Khana is worth a visit, it’s a very authentic side of local life in Fort Kochi.

Be-lavie Tip: If you do visit, a small donation is always welcome to support this local business. If you are taking photos and walking around, please do give something as a little goes a long way here.

• Location: Veli, Kochi, Kerala 682001
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Entrance Fees: Free to visit but donations very welcome.

48 Hours in Fort Kochi: Day 2

With your last 24 hours in Fort Kochi, head to the area of Mattancherry and discover a different side of the town. Still with some colonial architecture, explore the history of the large Jewish population that once lived here. Partake in some shopping, visit a palace and maybe hire a private tour guide. A local who can show you some real hidden gems which from their perspective. End your last day with a sunset cruise if you enjoy views from the water.

Visit Mattancherry Palace/Dutch Palace

Mattancherry Palace was built in the 16th century and was initially gifted to the Raja of Kochi in 1555. Following this it was subsequently renovated by the Dutch a hundred years later.

Today the palace is home to a regal collection of portraits of the great Maharajas as well as a handful of the most valuable mythological murals in India. There are also a few old Dutch maps, period furniture and royal palanquins used by the Maharajas court.

Visitors can also see a number of paintings depicting the 16h century Ramayan and The Mahabharat. You’ll be able to see deities of the Hindu faith like Lord Krishna of Guruvayur Temple. The great works of Sanskrit poet Kalidasa have also been depicted.

The Royal family of Kochi live pretty close to the palace and is referred to one of the oldest Royal families in the whole of India.

Be-lavie Tip: Photography is not permitted inside the palace of the artefacts and artworks. You WILL be shouted at so if you are unsure, it’s best to ask the guards to avoid an embarrassing  telling-off!

• Location: Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002 
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00-17:00, Closed on Fridays
• Entrane Fee: 5 INR (adults) 

Wander Around  Jew Town 

Jew Town is located in Mattancherry and it was home to a pretty large community of Jews. They are known widely as being the oldest community of Jewish people in India and living in the Mattancherry area as far back as 900BC.

If you pop into some of the local shops, the owners can explain that during the 1950s, there were only around 250 Cochin-Jews who were living in Kochi Many jews went back to Israel but Sarah Cohen choose to stay in Kochi. She was the last remaining Jew here but passed in 2019. You can see her house which is close to the synagogue and This article which our guide pointed out in BBC Travel explains more if you’d like to delve into.

The Jewish population was referred to as Paradesi, which literally translates to ‘foreigner’.

Jew Town is a long narrow street which is located between the Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue. The street has many hebrew words as well as Stars of David but are now occupied and run by non Jewish Kochi residents. The street is great if you fancy a spot of shopping and is one of the oldest antiques markets in India. We loved how this street has retained it’s heritage.

Be-lavie Tip: Don’t pay the asking price for anything you buy, bartering is a thing so make sure you do.

At Jew Town you’ll also find spices, clothing and accessories like scarves, traditional Keralan woven sarees, souvenirs, perfumes, brass ornaments and more. You’ll also see lots of hip cafes art galleries and of course antique dealers.

Discover Jewish Heritage at The Paradesi Synagogue

The Paradeso Synagogue is an informative place to learn about Jewish culture in Kochi. Built in 1568 and located next to the Mattacncherry Palace, on land that the Raja of Kochi gave the Jewish community. The synagogue is recorded to be the oldest in the Commonwealth.

The interior of the synagogue is architecturally beautiful and well worth a visit to learn a little more about the Jewish community who settled in Kochi. Also look down at the beautiful blue and white tiles of the synagogue.

On the 400th anniversary of refuge in 1968, the synagogue was given a Mazeltov, a little like a congratulations by the then Indira Gandhi, who was Prime Minister of India at that time.

We were told its very difficult to organise a prayer service here as ten men are required for the group to pray together. There are not enough Jewish men remaining within the Kochi community and for this reason sometimes Jewish visitors are asked to join to make up a service. We did not have to join in though!!! We weren’t sure of this was a joke they told tourists or actually true!

• Location: Synagogue Lane, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
• Find it Here: Map Location .
• Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-18L00, Closed on Saturday.
• Entrance Fees: 5 INR.

Experience Hindu Prayers at The Thirumala Devaswom Temple

This is one of the most important temples in Mattancherry and is dedicated to Lord Venkatachalapathy.

The temple sees many worshippers as well as visitors, especially as they host a lot of festivals during November and April. 

 The temple yard houses statues of Swami Vijayendra Theertha, a philosopher and a king of Vijayanagara. There is a holy tank as well. Of particular note is a huge bronze bell that is about four feet in diameter and six feet high. The temple was constructed in 1559. There is also a pretty pond outside.

Unfortunately the temple was closed at the time of our visit, so we didn’t get a chance to go inside but it looks pretty impressive from the outside.

• Location: TD North Sannidhi Rd, Cherlai, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
• Find it Here: Map Location .
• Hours: 06:30-12:30 and 18:00-21:00.
• Entrance Fee: Free to enter but donations welcome.

Enjoy A Relaxing Sunset Cruise

A great way to end your 48 hours in Kerala is to experience a sunset cruise in Fort Kochi. Of course, you will see the beautiful sunset of the area from a boat but also you’ll have the chance to see the fishing nets from a different perspective, on the water itself.. The cruise includes seeing some of the surrounding backwaters at a slow relaxing pace and if you’re lucky you may catch the odd glimpse of dolphins. We didn’t!

The sunset cruise gives some great opportunities to sail by Balgatty Island, the Kochi Lagoon, looking out towards the Arabian Sea and also Marine Drive. More thank anything, it’s a great chance to just sit back, relax and watch the sun set over Fort Kochi especially if it is your last evening here, as it was for us.

Be-lavie Tip: Sunset cruises generally only run outside of the Monsoon season and last around 90-120 minutes depending upon which company you opt to go with.

Hidden Gems in Fort Kochi (Private Guide)

During your 48 hours in Fort Kochi, you may prefer to delve a little deeper and behind the picturesque scenes of the tourist area. The following are examples of real, authentic experiences we quizzed our guide about to get a better understanding of the lives of local people in Fort Kochi, 

If you have hired a private or local certified guide, we would urge you to tailor make your itinerary for Fort Kochi, rather than only stick to the colonial hotspots.

Fort Kochi is a melting pot of so much culture and heritage but behind all the colonial splendour is the real Kochi. The locals, who work effortlessly just to survive is a different side to the fancy hotels and clubs that many see on first sight of walking around Fort Kochi. Travelling and taking in a well balanced view of a destination is a great way to experience authentic life.  We asked our private guide, Lalan who is a Kochi local to show us real, local everyday life. 

We stumbled upon a small spice market factory where he translated for us as we spoke to an elderly lady who was sorting through peppercorns as well as men who were transporting sacks full of peppercorns to be distributed. It was a rare moment to mix with the locals and see their work which they did with a smile.

Stopping by some local shops, such as a poppadom shop which is a family business. This particular shop was small and had the owners wife diligently sat outside rolling out poppadoms.

A couple of Jewish hidden gems we were shown by Lalan were the Jewish ladies bathing well, located in the Forte hotel in the centre of Forte Kochi as well as a Jewish site down a small street which we would never have found amongst the maze and crowds of Fort Kochi’s hustle and bustle.

Private Guide Details

Guide Name: Lalan – Certified private guide by Kerala Tourism. Contact Details: Email lalmonca207@yahoo.com I Tel. +91 999 535 6191

Museums in Fort Kochi

Kochi has its fare share of museums if you’d like a bit more of a culture fix. These are a few that our guide highlighted for us, which we’d like to explore in greater depth on our next visit.

• Mattancherry Museum, also called the Ginger House Museum.
• Museum of Kerala Arts & History.
• Kerala Folklore Museum.
• Marine Biodiversity Museum.
• Kochin Port Maritime Heritage Museum. 
• Indo Portugese Museum.

More Than Than 48 Hours In Fort Kochi or Short of Time

If you have an extended amount of time in Fort Kochi, you can take the pace a little slower and explore the town at complete leisure or choose to venture off for the day.  There are some great day trips that can be arranged within the surrounding areas. It is also possible to spend a day in Alleppey sightseeing, discovering waterfalls or discovering the backwaters around Cochin overnight with your base in Fort Kochi. 

Some day trip options from Fort Kochi as well as multi day trips if you have more than 48 hours to spare. These tour options are perfect f you are short of time and guides can provide you with great local knowledge.

Port Excursion if Arriving by Cruise

This is a great taster for first time visitors to Fort Kochi. It includes Port pick up and drop off and lasts around four hours. It’s also a great option if you are only in Fort Kochi for the day from the city of Cochin.

How to Get to Fort Kochi

Cochin International airport is where the majority of visitors to Kerala would enter the state. This includes people traveling within India as well as internationally via flights. We search for all our flight options with Skyscanner as its great for comparing flights.

Cochin International Airport is located just over an hour’s drive from Fort Kochi. Be prepared as this time can often be doubled when there is crawling traffic. 

We would recommend not skirting around for a taxi but rather pre arranging a transfer or if you have booked your itinerary via an agent, as we did, there will be a driver waiting for you beyond the arrivals gate with a name card.

Related Post: How to best plan a 10 day Kerala Itinerary. 

Pre-booking a transfer is the most hassle free way to your accommodation – you have an air conditioned car waiting, you know how much it will cost and at approximate time of arrival. Plus there will be plenty of room for your luggage.

How to Get Around During Your 48 Hours in Fort Kochi

• Walking – Fort Kochi is very easily walkable and the best way to explore this fishing village. It is even possible to walk to Mattancherry, only around 35 minutes from the Old harbour and fishing nets at the most.
• Richshaw/TukTuk – As we walked, we didn’t really use these but if you do, ensure you enter into a negotiating a price before you get in. Fix the price too. To be fair, they are not very expensive and the auto rickshaws are quite a fun way to travel. But hold on!!!
• The Public Ferry – It is possible to island hop from Fort Kochi, then the public ferry is a great way to do this. The ferries also carry cars/cargo but a number of passengers are allowed on for 3 INR. You can travel between Fort Kochi and Bolgatty and also Vypeen. 
• Railway Station – Fort Kochi doesn’t have its own railway station, however you can get to Fort Kochi via Ernakalum Station in Cochin. The first ferry leaves around 06:00 and last leaves at 21:00. A one way ticket costs around 10INR with the route crossing the Cochin Backwaters, passing through a busy shipping channel and then onto the harbours. This felt a little complicated so if you do want to go further  afar, it’s best to opt for a taxi, private driver or Uber.

Where To Eat In Fort Kochi

As you can imagine Fort Kochi is not short of restaurants, it caters for those looking for small local eateries with traditional Keralan food, high-end hotels offering set menus and small buffets as well as our personal favourite of independent art cafes. Your 48 hours in Fort Kochi will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in the area.

The Armoury Cafe at The Brunton Boatyard  Hotel

This small boutique style hotels oozes history in terms of its architecture but also with its food. They have three must try culinary experiences, including Appam, a pancake made from fermented rice, coconut milk and sweet toddy and cooked in a clay oven. Made popular by the Syrian Christian community. Railway Mutton Curry, a favourite of the Anglo Indian community, and Chuttulee Meen, a dish common to the Jewish community of Fort Kochi. This was recommended to us as being a rather fancy spot being located at the Brunton Boatyard Hotel.

• Location: 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel +91 7594012555
• Find it Here: Map Location

• Dining style: Fine Dining.

Rasoi, Fort Kochi

Specialising in North Indian cuisine, Rasoi is located next to St Francis Church. They cook up north Indian delights with a great range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Think paneer dishes, hearty curries, buttery soft naans, thick spicy sauces, biryanis, kebabs and lots of sides to choose from. Rasoi also has roof top seating if you want to eat al fresco.

• Location: 1, 341, Rose St, next to St. Francis Church, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001i Tel +91 9539935055
• Find it Here: Map Location .
• Dining Style: Casual and laid back.

Coriander Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant 

A pure vegetarian North Indian restaurant, focussing on a variety of daal, beans, lentils and fresh vegetables. They also have a few Indo Chinese dishes such as vegetable manchurian and noodles. The curries are very authentic. The menu is pretty small but portions are large and plentiful and great to share. The paneer Makhani is superb as are the chappatis. This is simple food done brilliantly. They also do a few seasonal juices which are freshly squeezed. It is also very good value for money – one of the best we experienced. 

• Location: 1/754A, Napier Street, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel. +91 9207379505
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Dining Style: Casual, great value for money.

Kashi Art cafe

Also an art gallery, this cafe is known for its hip crowd snacking on sandwiches, soups, salads and more. The atmosphere is laid back and relaxed with delicious fresh food. This is a place that is pretty touristy but for good reason. The food is good and the artwork is worth a look.

• Location: Burger St, near Police Station, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel. +914842215769
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Dining Style: Casual and relaxed.

TeaPot Cafe

Located in the heart of Old Town Kochi, Teapot cafe is a lovely foliage fronted colonial property over two floors. The bright yellow peeling walls and plants and brass teapots inside give it an old era vibe. 

The cafe serves a big selection of teas, fresh juices, coffee, flavoured teas, breakfast bowls, omelettes, chaats, samosas, pastries as well as pancakes, savoury and sweet sandwiches. Theres really is a great choice.  

We can recommend the peanut butter and banana sandwich on toasted brown bread with a masala chai. The samosas are pretty nice too.

• Location: Peter Celli St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel. +91 4842218035
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Dining Style: Casual and relaxed

Where To Stay In Fort Kochi

There are some wonderful hotel and homestay options for a stay of 48 hours in Fort Kochi to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of our recommendations based on research we did for our trip.  There are so many options based on budget, the kind of experience you’re looking for as well as your hotel style. 

In keeping with the heritage of Fort Kochi we were very much looking for a colonial style  hotel, in the heart of the fishing village which allowed us to walk to all the points of interest. 

We also looked at eco-friendly hotel options and tried our best to stay in as many eco-friendly focussed places as possible, which was relatively easy in Kerala. 

Related Article: Eco-friendly Hotels in Kerala & Their Sustainability Practices

Forte Kochi Hotel

This heritage 26 room boutique hotel exudes colonial India. The architecture is a fine blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British influences with each of the 26 rooms being lovingly restored to look as similar as possible to their original state. Forte Kochi Hotel is beautifully decorated in rich colours, the rooms are immaculately dressed as are the communal spaces including the gardens, restaurant, rooms and Ayurveda space,

The decor includes bright floor tiles with occasional wooden floors, tinted windows and shutters. Rooms include four poster beds, wicker sofas and chairs just like in the colonial times. 

There are gardens and a pool to the rear, a restaurant that serves delicious food as well as Ayurvedic wellness services.

Forte Kochi Hotel is a lovely luxury option for your 48 hours in Fort Kochi,

• Location: 1/373, Princess St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel. +914842704800
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hotel Rating: 5 Star
• Details: Check-in time: 14:00 Check – out time: 12:00.
• Booking Packages Includes: Breakfast is included in room rates.
• Perfect For: Couples, Honeymoons, Small families, solo travellers.
• Hotel Style: Luxury 

Abad Dutch Bungalow

This colonial hotel design is one of many in Kerala by the Abad group who specialise in acquiring heritage properties and transforming them into hotels. With a fantastic location, only five minutes to the coast, the building was constructed in 1668 by the Dutch East Indian Company. 

Today you’ll see high ceilings, white washed walls, dark wooden furniture, ceiling fans and spacious en suite rooms with stunning balconies. There is a pool at the rear of the hotel and a wonderful restaurant, The Mill that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as snacks throughout the day. The hotel has many communal spaces with comfortable seating to relax from the heat and ceiling swings, just like in the bygone days.  

Stays are comfortable with excellent service. The Dutch Bungalow is a very good location and makes the perfect base to explore Fort Kochi from. Abad Dutch Bungalow is a great mid range option for a stay of 48 hours in Fort Kochi for solo travellers, couples as well as families.

• Location: Napier Street, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I Tel. +91 4844144000
• Find it Here: Map Location
• Hotel Rating: 4 Star.

• Details: Check-in time: 14:00 Check – out time: 11:00.
• Booking Packages Includes: Breakfast is included in room rates.

• Perfect For: Couples, Honeymoons, Small families, solo travellers.
• Hotel Style: A miid range, colonial heritage hotel. 

Sheeba’s Homestay

Sheeba’s Homestay apartments are made up of four separate bedrooms with bathrooms, a seating area and a living room. Guests enjoy the views of the gardens and surrounding area from the balcony, complete with outdoor furniture. The homestay has  a private entrance and is an inviting and friendly home where the host Sheeba and her family live. Sheeba’s guest house gives a wonderful insight into local family life. Sheeba’s Honestay is a really good budget friendly option for your 48 hours in Fort Kochi, if you’re saving the pennies or hoping to cover more ground in Kerala.

Sheeba also runs cookery classes and is a wonderful cook. We’d recommend booking one which will allow you to learn to create traditional Keralan dishes and side dishes which you will eat for lunch.

The homestay is located down a quiet street in the heart of Fort Kochi and only 500 meteres from the beach, 

Breakfast is included in the booking price and includes vegetarian continental items.

• Location: House No.1, Pulickal House, 687-A, Njaliparambu Jct, near Santa Cruz Ground, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 I +91 90378 90621
• Find it Here: Map Location.
• Hotel Rating: Highly-rated homestay option. 
• Details: Check-in time: 14:00 Check – out time: 11:00.
• Booking Packages Includes: Continental and vegetarian breakfast options. 
• Perfect For: Families, budget travellers, solo travellers.
• Booking Packages Includes: Breakfast is included in room rates.

• Hotel Style: Good Value for Money.

How To Spend 48 Hours In Fort Kochi FAQS