Kochi, the vibrant heart of Kerala, breathes in and out the history, culture, and captivating natural beauty. But the magic extends beyond the city limits. Within a comfortable 50 km radius lies a treasure trove of destinations, each offering a unique experience. Dive into serene backwaters, unwind on pristine beaches, or be captivated by cascading waterfalls. The options for places to visit near Kochi within 50 kms are diverse and some of them are less explored. Here’s a curated list of 10 such gems waiting to be discovered that you must add to your itinerary the next time you are in Kochi.
Places To See Near Kochi Within 50 Kms
Kochi, by itself, is stunning. So, when you plan your visit, there’s so much more left to explore and unwind around. Be it the relaxing beaches or the pilgrimage sites, there’s something to appease every tourist’s desires.
Following are the top places to visit within a 50 km radius of Kochi:
1. Cherai Beach
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Nestled near Vypeen Island, Cherai Beach is one of the most popular sightseeing spots around Kochi. Besides swimming in the gushing waves, the highlight of this beach lies in the “Cheena Vala,” or the Chinese fishing nets. Also, it is one of the few beaches in Kerala where backwaters and the sea can be witnessed together. If you don’t want to visit somewhere with the crowd and want to spend time with nature and your loved ones, Cherai Beach is the perfect place. In some instances, there are dolphin sightings too. The beach is lined with shacks selling snacks that you can try while taking a stroll at the beach.
Distance from Kochi: 33.9 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Also Read: Adventure Sports In Kochi
2. Kumbalangi
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When exploring places to visit in Kochi in one day, Kumbalangi is a must-visit spot. It is an island village that’s quite remote and often untapped by the crowds. Situated in the backwaters, there’s something special about the village that can only be felt when visited. It is one of the few villages where people witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence in the backwaters. Also, it is one of the first eco-tourism villages in the country and is heavily promoted and backed by the Indian government.
Distance from Kochi: 8 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
3. Fort Kochi
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Next on the list of popular places to visit near Kochi within 50 kms is Fort Kochi. The place holds a lot of historical and cultural significance. The highlight of this place lies in its historical monuments like St. Francis Church, the Dutch Seminary, China Vela, etc. There are other key elements like the Indian Navy ships as well. Once you finish exploring the perimeter of the fort, you can check out the local shops selling cotton clothing and cafes selling delectable local cuisine. A perfect getaway when looking for a laid-back ambience.
Distance from Kochi: 6.3 km
Best time to visit: November to February
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4. Vypin Island
Image Credit: Ranjithsiji for Wikipedia Commons
Located 28 km away from Kochi, Vypin Island is one of the biggest Goshree islands in Kerala. The island stretches across 27 km and is well connected to different parts of Kochi via bridges. The combination of a serene atmosphere with palm trees and lush greenery adds to the beauty of this island. You can either travel via the Goshree bridge from Kochi or take a ferry to reach the south of Vypin island and explore what it has to offer. The crowd is lesser so you will get time to explore the place at your own pace.
Distance from Kochi: 27.3 km
Best time to visit: October to March
5. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
When talking about the places to travel near Kochi within 50 kms, don’t forget to add Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary to your itinerary. It is roughly 10 km from the main city of Kochi and is home to a wide variety of native and migratory birds and a dense mangrove forest. The sanctuary is spread across 2.74 hectares and is located just behind Kerala High Court. There are vibrantly coloured kingfishers to majestic migratory birds, making it a haven for bird watchers.
Distance from Kochi: 9.6 km
Best time to visit: November to February
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6. Mattancherry Palace
Image Credit: Ranjith Siji for Wikimedia Commons
Often known as the Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace is another one of the places to visit near Kochi within 50 kms. Given the Dutch influence in its design and architecture, the insides of the palace feature long and spacious halls, which adds to the royal look and feel. In the middle of the palace lies the shrine of Pazhayannur Bhagavathy (the deity of Pazhayannur). It is a two-storeyed palace with intricate architecture, carvings and murals covering the walls., which will satisfy your history cravings.
Distance from Kochi: 3.4 km
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
7. Hill Palace Museum
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Sometimes, the idea of visiting a place less crowded and more unique can turn out to be great. The Hill Palace Museum is one of those spots. It is an archaeological museum and the biggest in the country and it is high time it gets its due recognition. The highlight of this palace lies in the fact that there have been multiple movies shot inside the palace, including Manichitra Thazhu, and Manathe Kottaram. It was built back in 1865 and while it was initially the possession of the Cochin Royal family, they have not given its care under the Kerala government.
Distance from Kochi: 12.2 km
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
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8. Wonderla Amusement Park
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This might come off as a surprise to many but when exploring the best places to visit near Kochi in one day within 50 kms for friends, the Wonderla Amusement Park is the perfect choice. Unleash your inner child at Wonderla, an exhilarating amusement park. This vibrant playground boasts thrilling water rides, adventurous roller coasters, and exciting entertainment shows, perfect for a fun-filled family day trip. There are different rides to explore, water parks and so much more.
Distance from Kochi: 24.6 km
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
9. Bolgatty Palace and Island
Image Credit: Augustus Binu for Wikimedia Commons
Indulge in a touch of luxury at Bolgatty Palace, Kerala’s oldest Dutch Palace. Today, this magnificent structure has been transformed into a charming island resort, offering a serene getaway amidst lush greenery and serene backwaters. It’s a great place to splurge, enjoy the amenities and delve into the local Kerala cuisine at the restaurants. Also, the resort is located where the oldest Dutch palace resides, adding to its historical significance. A perfect place to spend if you want to feed on your intellectual mind.
Distance from Kochi: 10.6 km
Best time to visit: October to March
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10. Malayattoor
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Malayattoor is another one of the places to travel near Kochi within 50 kms. This quaint village is termed as the “Christian pilgrim centre,” because of the number of churches around. The village is on top of the Malayattoor Hill and the majority of the tourists visit here to seek the blessings of apostle St Thomas. Once you finish exploring the major sightseeing spots, relax inside the church hall or check out the area around.
Distance from Kochi: 47 km
Best time to visit: October to March
11. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
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Located on the banks of Vembanak Lake in the Kottayam district, Kumarakoram Bird Sanctuary is nothing short of paradise for bird lovers. The entire sanctuary is spread over 14 acres and is known for its rich avian diversity and serene natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lush greenery, meandering through designated paths to spot a wide variety of birds and learn their calls. You can even opt for houseboat or motorboat rides on the Vembanad Lake which provides an intimate view of the sanctuary’s wildlife.
Distance From Kochi: 39 Km
Timings: 06:30 AM – 05:00 PM
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12. Museum Of Kerala History
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Located in Edappally, the Museum of Kerala History is a fascinating destination for tourists looking to delve into Kerala’s history and rich culture. Perfect for history lovers, this museum is a treasure trove of artefacts, sculptures, paintings, and exhibits that chronicle the state’s illustrious past. The museum also features a gallery for contemporary art, where works of various Indian artists are displayed. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts, students, and travellers seeking to understand Kerala’s legacy.
Distance From Kochi: 13 Km
Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM
13. Arthunkal Church
Image Credit: Challiyil Eswaramangalath Vipin for Wikimedia Commons
Arthunkal Church or St. Andrew’s Forane Church is a prominent Christian pilgrimage spot that is located in the coastal town of Arthunkal. Built by Portuguese missionaries in a typical European style, this church is renowned for its annual feast of St. Sebastian. The main festival, known as Arthunkal Perunnal, witnesses a massive influx of devotees. The church is also noted for its impressive altar, intricate carvings, and the miraculous statue of St. Sebastian pierced with arrows.
Distance From Kochi: 31 Km
Timings: 05:00 AM – 06:30 PM
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14. Marine Drive
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Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade in Kochi that is quite famed for its stunning views of the Kochi Harbour. Marine Drive in Kochi extends for about 3 km and is full of bustling activities that attract tourists and locals alike. The walkway is lined with various eateries and shopping complexes that make it a perfect place to sit with some friends and enjoy a charming sunset. Another notable feature is the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge, which is often frequented by photo enthusiasts. High-speed boat rides are available, offering tourists an adrenaline rush along with a scenic view of the Kochi coastline.
Distance From Kochi: 17 Km
Timings: Open 24 Hours
15. Bolgatty Palace And Island
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The Bolgatty Palace and Island is located in Kochi and is renowned as a historical and leisure destination. The picturesque island is situated off the coast of Kochi and is accessible by boat or ferry. The palace was originally built by Dutch traders in 1744 and stood as a prominent example of the colonial era. Eventually, it was leased to the British in 1909 and post Indian independence, it was converted into a luxury heritage hotel. The island offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life of Kochi and is covered with lush tropical vegetation. Guests can enjoy the panoramic views of the port and the city’s skyline.
Distance From Kochi: 5 Km
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
You May Also Like To Read: Nightlife In Cochin
Kochi’s surroundings offer a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches and serene backwaters to majestic waterfalls and historical sites, there’s something for everyone within a 50 km radius. If you have been whipping up your itinerary for your trip to Kochi, including these places to visit near Kochi within 50 kms is a must.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Kochi Within 50 Kms
Where to visit in Kochi with friends?
Some of the best places to visit in Kochi within 50 kms with friends are amusement parks, churches, beaches and Bird Sanctuaries.
What is the best time to visit Kochi and its surrounding areas?
October to March offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and ideally is the best time to visit Kochi.
Are there any specific festivals or events I should plan my trip around?
Some of the options include the Kochi Biennale (December - March), Thrissur Pooram (April/May) or the Bharani Festival at Chottanikkara Temple (March/April).
Does one need to speak Malayalam to enjoy these places?
While Malayalam is the local language, English is widely understood in tourist areas. Also, the people are extremely hospitable.
What are some options for getting around to these destinations?
You can rent a car for convenience or there are public transportation and local transport options to take you from one place to the other.
How one can spend a day in Cochin?
There are various tourist Places in Kochi for a Day Trip. One can visit to the following places:
- Fort Kochi
- Thrikkakara Temple
- Marine Drive
- St. Francis CSI Church
- Paradesi Synagogue
- Bolgatty Palace, Greenix Museum.
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With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
