Attractions in Kochi

Fort Kochi's streets are adorned with vibrant murals, installations, and graffiti art, many created during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale by Indian and international artists. The outdoor art has transformed the neighborhood into an open-air gallery that can be explored freely.

The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of nine basilicas in India and a monument to the Portuguese colonial legacy in Kochi. Originally built in 1505 by the Portuguese, the current Gothic-style structure was rebuilt in 1902 after the earlier church was demolished by the British.

The Pardesi Synagogue, built in 1568 in the heart of Jew Town, is one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth nations. It stands as a testament to the thriving Jewish community that once inhabited this quarter of Mattancherry.

St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India, originally constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars. It is historically renowned as the site where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried in 1524 before his remains were later transferred to Lisbon in 1539.

Willingdon Island is the largest artificial island in India, created from the material dredged during the deepening of Kochi harbour between 1920 and 1940. Named after Lord Willingdon, the then Viceroy, it sits centrally in the Kochi backwaters and hosts the naval base, port trust, and several heritage properties.

The Chinese fishing nets (Cheena Vala) are iconic cantilevered fishing installations along the northern shore of Fort Kochi, standing as one of Kochi's most photographed landmarks. Believed to have been introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century, these shore-operated lift nets are among the oldest such structures in the world still in active use.

Princess Street, also known as Bastian Street, is one of the oldest and most charming streets in Fort Kochi, lined with restored colonial-era buildings that now house boutique hotels, art studios, cafés, and craft shops. The street encapsulates the heritage character of Fort Kochi.

Bolgatty Palace is one of the oldest existing Dutch palaces outside Holland, built in 1744 on the scenic Bolgatty Island in the midst of Kochi's backwaters. Now operated as a heritage hotel by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, the palace and its lush grounds offer panoramic water views.