Fort Kochi is a historical attraction in Kerala and a symbol of the alliance between Cochin and Portugal. The Portuguese constructed the ruined fort in 1503, and it is part of the water-bounded islands of the town. Also, Vasco da Gama died in 1524 upon his third visit to Kochi, and his burial spot is in the premises of the fort. Being a beacon of significant historical events, Fort Kochi is one of the most popular attractions today. If you are planning a trip here and pondering over the things to do in Fort Kochi, we have got you covered.
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The blog acts as a mini tour guide to help you navigate through different parts of the fort. We will help you decide what you can do, the best time to visit, and how to reach.
6 Places to Visit Within Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi has a rich history that goes back to the 14th century. Earlier, this town used to be a prominent spice trading centre, attracting thousands of merchants from across the globe. Today, it is a well-known tourist destination, lined with happening streets, historical attractions, and a cultural scene.
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1. Saint Francis Church
The Portuguese built the church in 1503, marking it as one of the first European churches in the country. This is where the renowned explorer, Vasco de Gama, was buried before his remains were moved back to Portugal.
Travellers can learn about the rich history of this church and see the tombstone.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
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2. Indo-Portuguese Museum
The museum is inside the Bishop’s House and houses five sections: Civil Life, Altar, Cathedral, Procession, and Treasure. Every section showcases ancient statues, altarpieces, and vestments. They are a symbol of the Portuguese culture’s influence on the local traditions. Visitors can learn a lot about the ties between the two nations and how they led to such a strong historical foundation.
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
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3. Fort Kochi Beach
The fort is not only about what history entails. It’s also a perfect spot to relax, as the beach is where the action is. Walk along the shoreline and bask in the rising sun.
Fort Kochi Beach is the perfect place to let go of your stress.That’s not all. The calming waves and coconut palms serve as a beautiful backdrop for photographs.
Timings: 24/7
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4. Chinese Fishing Nets
No, we are not talking about a fishing adventure here, but a historical landmark. Chinese fishing nets are large, cantilevered nets used by the traders. These 14th-century functional tools have turned into an admirable tourist attraction. They especially turn into a picturesque attraction at sunset. Every day, a team of fishermen open the nets and showcases the traditional fishing methods which are still in practice.
Timings: 24/7
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5. The Grey Book Museum
A hidden gem near Fort Kochi, the Grey Book Museum preserves the rich heritage and history of the place. Its collection of manuscripts, ancient documents, and artefacts gives a peek into the colonial history of Kochi. You can go through cultural remains and administrative records, a key to Kochi’s development, at the museum.
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
6. Lawton Exhibition Hall
Lawton Exhibition Hall is where you will find a rich collection of exhibits and artefacts. They showcase the area’s cultural history and heritage. As you begin exploring the museum, you will find several photographs, documents, and traditional arts and crafts.
Timings: 11 am to 6 pm
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5 Meaningful Things to Do in Fort Kochi
Yes, there are many places to explore in Fort Kochi. However, that’s just half of your tour. There are plenty of things you can do here with your travel buddies:
1. Healthy Lunch at Loving Earth Café
Fort Kochi is surrounded by scenic, low-profile cafes. However, one of the favourites of every traveller is Loving Earth Café. The place with a plant-based menu, tropical interior, and homely atmosphere instantly attracts you.
Start by trying their yum-hum toasts and Mint My Day smoothie. A fudgy chocolate chunk brownie is the perfect end to your delicious main course.
Bonus? There’s a yoga studio upstairs that conducts a hatha yoga session every afternoon.
2. Open Mic Poetry at David Hall
David Hall is an old building with new experiences for the audience. The 17th-century bungalow has been turned into an art gallery for local and international artists. Every day, open mic performances happen for the poets and musicians. This is a place worth ditching a thousand clubs for.
Bonus? The melt-in-your-mouth cashew cheese pizza is a must-try.
3. Shopping in Local Markets
Enjoy the vibrant scene of markets in Fort Kochi, where you will find a mix of boutiques and shops. There are endless options from which you can purchase handicrafts, antique goods, and art pieces.
Even if you don’t want to shop, but catch a glimpse of the local life, the shopping spot serves as just the right spot.
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4. Brunton Boatyard
When you first explore Brunton Boatyard, you might feel as if it’s a 100-year-old building. To everyone’s surprise, the Fort Kochi attraction was built approximately 20 years ago by a Swiss architect. The place showcases intricate wooden ceilings and pankhas that keep the place cool. This structure of the architect was specifically designed to flaunt the glory of the bygone era.
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5. Cycling Under Moonlight
Cycle past the boutique shops and tiny cafes, making you feel alive. The empty beaches under the moonlight feel like you can ride here all your life. You can easily borrow bicycles from your hotel and ride through the ancient rain trees. This would be a magical experience, especially for those who like solitude.
Best Time to Visit Fort Kochi
Kochi, Kerala, is quite humid during the summer. That’s why the preferred time to visit and experience the best things to do in Fort Kochi is winter. You will be welcomed by a pleasant atmosphere and low temperatures. Also, the famous Kochi-Muziris Biennale festival occurs during the cold weather, enhancing your travel itinerary for the year.
So, visit Fort Kochi between October and February for an enjoyable journey.
How to Reach Fort Kochi
- By Flight: Cochin International Airport is the closest to Fort Kochi, approximately 45 km away. You can board a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach the location.
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction is the nearest railway station to the fort. It is approximately 13 km away and can be reached via a bus or a ferry from there.
- By Bus/Car: There is extensive road connectivity to Fort Kochi from various cities of Kerala. You can book a private bus or drive yourself to the destination.
- By Ferry: A ferry operates from Ernakulam to Fort Kochi, which takes around 25 minutes. It departs every 30 minutes and charges INR 40.