Discover Kochi’s graceful coastline
Flights to Kochi provide a perfect passage to south-western India and the marvels of the Keralan coastline.
The city is overflowing with treasures from distant lands – you will find fishing nets from China, basilicas from Spain and synagogues from Holland.
Explore the incredible architecture, see a traditional parade and then get to the heart of local culture by trying fragrant Keralan coconut curries.
This city has a selection of great beaches, so you can spend some time relaxing beneath the tropical sun, or strolling along the sand at sunset.
Hop onto a traditional houseboat to cruise through the backwater jungles, find secluded coves or take in the landscapes of tea country.
Whether you love waterfalls, wildlife or the sea, the lands surrounding Kochi offer many delights. Begin your Indian adventure by booking your Kochi flights with Etihad.
Reasons to visit Kochi
Passionate Keralan culture
Kochi has a laid-back atmosphere which makes it the perfect place to soak up the vibrant local culture. Each Indian state has its own soul – and Kerala is known for its expressive range of performing arts including Kathakali, a dance combining opera, ballet and pantomime that dates back three centuries.
An annual New Year Cochin Carnival brings traditional dance into the streets in late December. There are also opportunities to visit local places of worship, such as the Ettumanoor Mahadeva and Jain temples.
Blissful beaches
Kerala is the rising star of beach holidays in India. Your plane tickets to Kochi provide pathways to some of the finest shores around – lush, golden stretches of paradise beneath the Indian sunshine.
There are plenty of options in Kochi. Try the quaint cultural views of Fort Kochi Beach or escape from the city on the powder-soft sands of Cherai Beach.
Journey along the Keralan coastline to discover paradise coves – Alappuzha is the home of the state’s famous houseboat cruises and has a beach set beside tranquil lagoons.
Intriguing international influences
The city’s coastline is famous for its iconic Chinese fishing nets – a legacy of its historic trading links with China. These traditional rope nets are fixed in place with 30-foot-high bamboo sticks. If you’re lucky, you may glimpse a local perched on these structures as the tides ebb and flow beneath.
Examples of European architecture – such as Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica – also add to the contrast of styles across the city. At the Kerala Folklore Museum you can learn about how these influences shaped indigenous traditions.
Flying to Kochi: FAQs
Where should I stay in Kochi?
Fort Kochi is the ideal area to stay in if you’re visiting the city as a tourist. This waterfront area is renowned for its Dutch, British and Portuguese architecture, with plenty of places to dine and shop.
How many days should I spend in Kochi?
If time is tight, you should be able to cover the key attractions in Kochi in 3-4 days. However, Kochi is a great base for those travellers looking for a longer adventure and exploring the wider region of Kerala, where blissful beaches and national parks await.
What food is Kochi known for?
Kochi offers a rich array of food. Mashed kappa with Kerala fish curry, a slice of Dutch-influence breudher, appam pancakes, breakfast puttu, banana fritters and deep fried unnakya are all on the menu in this city.