St. Francis Church
This is the oldest church built by the Europeans in India. The church is the burial ground of the Great Vasco Da Gama, who fell ill and died here on his third visit in India. Later on the remains were transferred to Lisbon after 14 years.
Museum of Kerela History
The wonderful museum in Kochi presents the cultural evolution and history of Kerela through a brilliant light and sound show in English and Malayalam.
Willingdon Island
Created by Sir Robert Bristow, a visionary harbour engineer, the island is significant as it is the habitat for the Port of Kochi, the Kochi Naval Base of the Indian Navy and Central Institute of Fisheries Technology. Apart from the commercial purposes, the island has become a weekend getaway spot. Away from the bustling city life, one finds shear peace and belongingness at this 82 years old island. One must visit this place to experience serenity and rare natural beauty.
Marine Drive
The Marine drive in Kochi is one of the best places to spend quality time in the city and provides an amazing view of the sea. Many important structures and landmarks are lined along the boulevard of Marine Drive, which itself stretches from Jankar Jetty in the north to the Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south. Important landmarks nearby include The Marine Walkway, The Rainbow Bridge, The Houseboat Bridge, The China Net Bridge and GCDA Shopping Complex, so if you are looking to discover the very essence of what Kochi is all about, This is the place.
Bolgatty Palace
Nestled in the charming beauty of Kochi, the Bolgatty Palace is situated on an island that is best known by the name of the palace itself. It is one of the oldest existing Dutch palaces that is situated outside Holland and is an exquisite example of the Kochi style of architecture. It was built in 1744 by Dutch traders and was later extended and gardens were landscaped around it. Green gardens, azure skies and the virgin charms of Kerela are aplenty at the Bolgatty Palace.
Vasco da Gama Square
Many stalls serving various edibles such as coconuts, nuts, sea-food, ice-creams and local fares scatter the narrow esplanade along the Kochi beach which is the Vasco da Gama Square. One can even watch local fisherman fishing along the shoreline
Athirapally Falls
The 'Niagara of India' is one of the best places to catch the Kerala monsoon. The 80ft-high waterfall on the Chalakudy River is considered the entrance to the Sholayar range and is surrounded by lush forest, home to Asiatic elephant, sambar and the lion-tailed macaque, among other animals. You will recognise the falls from Dil Se, Raavan and a host of other films that have been shot here. More recently, it has acquired the nickname 'Bahubali Falls' after it featured in the blockbuster. You'll also recognise the stunning falls from our June-July cover.
Wayanad
If you want the perfect romantic weekend getaway from Kochi, Wayanad is just right for you. Peppered with tea, coffee and spice plantations, the heavily forested district offers several activities during the rains. Neelimala, Meenmutty, Chethalayam and Pakshipathlama are some of the most popular treks, perfect for beginners. If you're not up for an adventure, take long walks along the tea gardens or plan a picnic near Banasura Sagar Dam. Stay at one of the treehouses that the region is famous to enjoy the sound of the falling rain on a wooden roof. Watch out for the monkeys though!
Munnar
Located 1,600m above the sea, Munnar has great weather all year round making it a popular weekend getaway from Kochi. Famous for its tea gardens, it is also home to the Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India which makes it a trekker's paradise. There are lots to do if you're travelling in a group. Visit Eravikulam National Park during the monsoons when the Neelakurjini blooms once every 12 years covering the hills in an ethereal blue carpet of flowers (start preparing for 2018 already). There's a Tea Museum in the Nallathanni Estate for a quick introduction to India's favourite monsoon drink
Alappuzha
Home of the famous snake boat race that takes place every August, Alappuzha is a must-visit for all aquaphiles. Cruise down the backwaters past sleepy villages in one of the traditional kettuvallams. Spend time on the boat enjoying fresh local delicacies with a hot tumbler of south Indian filter coffee. On land, head to the beautiful temples of the area or check out the quirky International Coir Museum.
Ashtamudi
Considered the gateway to the backwaters, Ashtamundi is named so because of its eight channels. Spread over 16km, it's the second largest lake in Kerala and offers one of the longest backwater cruises. Take the 8-km cruise between Kollam and Alappuzha to enjoy the lush scenery on both sides of the estuary. But do check in advance as some houseboats don't operate in the very heavy rain.
