📍 Kerala, India
Kerala · 7 destinations & hidden spots
Vypin Island, Kochi, Ernakulam district
A picturesque 10-kilometre-long golden sand beach on the northern tip of Vypin Island, uniquely bordered by the Arabian Sea on one side and tranquil palm-fringed backwaters on the other. Safe for swimming with frequent sightings of playful dolphins.
Fort Kochi, Ernakulam district
The historic maritime heart of Kochi where massive cantilevered Chinese fishing nets (Cheena Vala) frame the entrance to the harbour. Walking through the narrow streets reveals Portuguese-era St. Francis Church (Vasco da Gama's original burial place) and breezy coastal promenades.
Tripunithura, Kochi, Ernakulam district
The largest archaeological museum in Kerala and the erstwhile imperial administrative seat of the Maharaja of Kochi. Built in 1865 across 54 acres of terraced gardens, the palace complex comprises 49 buildings housing royal crowns, palanquins, weaponry, and rare stone sculptures.
Hidden Gem
Kumbalangi, Ernakulam district, Kerala
India's first designated model eco-tourism village, located on a small island ringed by backwaters and mangroves south of Kochi. Renowned for traditional Chinese fishing nets, coir weaving, crab farming, and rare nighttime bioluminescence ('Kavaru') in the brackish lagoons at dusk.
Hidden Gem
Marine Drive, Kochi, Ernakulam district, Kerala
Affectionately called the 'Green Lung of Kochi', this compact 2.74-hectare mangrove sanctuary in the heart of the city shelters a tidal lagoon, dense mangrove species, migratory waterbirds, and large colonies of Malabar flying foxes right behind the Kerala High Court building.
Shanmugham Road, Ernakulam, Kochi
A picturesque, tree-shaded waterfront promenade facing the backwaters of Kochi harbour. Featuring the iconic Rainbow Bridge and Chinese Fishing Net Bridge, it is a bustling gathering spot for evening breezes, street food, and harbor sightseeing boat rides.
Mattancherry, Kochi
A Portuguese-built palace gifted to the Raja of Kochi in 1555 and later renovated by the Dutch, renowned worldwide for its vibrant 17th-century Hindu mythological murals depicting the Ramayana. Just steps away sits historic Jew Town and the 1568 Paradesi Synagogue.
