Best Places to Visit near Kochi: Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

If you are someone who loves exploring new places, Kochi should definitely be on your travel bucket list. This city is a beautiful mix of history, culture, and nature. You can see old forts and palaces, enjoy the sea breeze at the beaches, or just relax in the calm backwaters.

Whether you are a weekend explorer looking for a short getaway, a solo traveller searching for new experiences, or simply a nature lover who enjoys peaceful surroundings, Kochi has something for you.

To make your trip easier, we have put together a list of the best places to visit near Kochi. For each place, you will find the ideal duration of stay, the best way to reach, and some simple travel tips that can save you time and make your journey smoother.

So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the charm of Kochi and its nearby attractions! 

Best Places to Visit Near Kochi (Grouped by Distance)

Within 50 km: Ideal for Day Trips

Fort Kochi & Mattancherry (13 km): There are various auto/taxi from Ernakulam you can take to reach Fort Kochi, or you can also take a ferry from Marine Drive. It is ideal for history lovers, culture seekers, photographers, or solo travelers. The budget ranges from 300 to 800 INR per person. 

What to do: Colonial streets, Chinese Fishing nets, Dutch Palace, Jew town, and antique shops. 

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary (3 km): Mangalavanam is accessible by local bus, cab, or even on foot from the Marine Drive area. It is ideal for families, birders, nature lovers, and students. The budget ranges from 200 to 400 INR per person. 

What to do: Birdwatching, mangrove ecosystems walk, and a peaceful green space in the city. 

Cherai Beach (25 km): It is reachable by a short drive via Vypin Island, which will take 1 to 2 hours. Besides, there are various buses available to Vypin, and then an auto to the beach.  It is ideal for families, couples, beach lovers, and groups of friends. The budget ranges from 500 to 1,500 INR per person. 

What to do: Sandy beach, swimming zones, sunset views, and water sports. 

Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village (15 km): It is accessible by a 45-minute drive via Palluruthy or Thoppumpady by local buses or cabs. A day trip is ideal for exploring, and it is ideal for cultural travelers, families, and slow travellers. The budget ranges from 600 to 1,500 INR per person. 

What to do: Chinese fishing nets, coir making, canoe rides, local seafood, and eco-tourism walks. 

50–100 km: Quick Weekend Escapes or Long Day Trips

Athirappilly & Vazhachal Waterfalls (73 km): A day trip or night stay travel is the best way to experience Athirappilly. It is ideal for nature lovers, families, and photographers. The budget ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 INR per person. It is accessible via Angamaly (2 hours), and you can reach the destination by a private cab or local transportation. 

What to do: Waterfall, trek through forest trails, Charpa falls, and butterfly park. 

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (60 km): You can reach Thattekad Bird Sanctuary by driving via Kothamangalam, which will take almost 2 hours for you. There are various buses to Kothamangalam and then a taxi to the sanctuary. A day trip or night stay travel is suitable for birders, photographers, and eco-tourists. The budget ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Birdwatching, nature walk, and butterfly gardens. 

Alleppey (Alappuzha) (53 km): You can reach Alleppey by driving via NH66, which will take 2 hours, and you can also take regular trains and buses from Ernakulam. The budget ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 per person. It is highly recommended for couples, families, and leisure travellers. 

What to do: Houseboat rides, canoe trips, explore backwaters, and visit Alappuzha Beach. 

Kalady (47 km): You can reach Kalady by driving or taking a train to Angamaly. There are various buses and autos. The budget ranges from 500 to 1,200 per person. If you are planning to visit Kalady, then plan in the daytime. It is highly recommended for cultural tourists and senior travelers. 

What to do: Visit Adi Shankara’s birthplace, spiritual centers, and Crocodile Ghat. 

100–150 km: Weekend Getaways

Munnar (126 km): Munnar is almost 126 km from Kochi, and you can drive via NH85 through Adimali, which will take a 5-hour journey. Later, you can drive through cabs or KSRTC buses, which are available from Ernakulam. The ideal duration is 4 to 6 days (2N/3D) and is ideal for couples, families, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts. The budget ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station viewpoints, and trekking. 

Marari Beach (84 km): Marari Beach is almost 84 km from Kochi, and you can drive via NH66, which will take you almost 2 hours to reach. Further, there are various trains to Mararikulam Station or buses to Alleppey, then a local auto. A night stay, travel, or weekend is suitable to visit and is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and peace seekers. The budget ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Explore fishing villages, yoga and Ayurveda resorts, and perfect sunsets. 

 Guruvayur (93 km): Almost 93 km from Kochi, you can reach Guruvayur via train or buses, which will take almost 2 hours. A night stay, travel, or weekend is suitable for visiting Guruvayur, and it is ideal for spiritual seekers, families, and senior citizens. The budget ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Guruvayur temple, elephant sanctuary at Punnathur Kotta, and temple rituals and cultural shows. 

Vaikom (40 km): You can reach Vaikom by driving through the Ettumanoor road, which will take almost 2 hours. There are various buses from Ernakulam to Vaikom. A day trip or night stay travel is suitable for visiting Vaikom. It is ideal for culture lovers, spiritual seekers, or history enthusiasts. The budget ranges from 800 to 2,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, local markets, and Kerala cuisine. 

Offbeat or Hidden Gems Near Kochi

Let’s explore the hidden gems near Kochi, which you can explore with your friends, family, or spouse: 

Paniyeli Poru (60 km): Paniyeli Poru is approximately 60 km from Kochi, and you can drive via the Perumbavoor – Kuruppampady route, which will take around two hours. There are limited buses available; it is best if you hire a private vehicle or cab. It is ideal for a day trip if you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a group of friends. 

The budget ranges from 500 to 1500 INR per person, including entry fees, transport, and food. 

What to do: Periyar River, Scenic rocks, and rapids, and a post-monsoon visit is best for full water flow. 

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre (45 km): It is almost 45 km from Kochi, and you can drive via the Aluva-Perumbavoor Road. You get a lot of options to travel via public transport, KSRTC buses, and a short auto ride to Kodanad. A day trip is suitable with families with children, animal lovers, and casual tourists. The budget ranges from 500 to 1,000 INR per person. 

What to do: Visit the deer park, mini-zoo, local art and craft museum, and watch elephants being fed. 

Illithodu Eco Tourism Spot (57 km): It is almost 57 km from Kochi, and you can travel through Malayattoor (via bus), and then a local auto to reach the eco-point. A day trip or 1N stay is suitable for budget travelers, couples, and solo nature lovers. The budget ranges from 700 to 1,500 INR per person. 

What to do: Bamboo rafting, forest bathing, riverside picnics, and light trekking. 

Where to Stay for Weekend Trips

One challenging question every traveller faces is where to stay during the journey. Hence, let’s explore the best mid-range hotels or resorts to stay: 

Munnar: 

• Tea County: It is a government-run hill resort which is well-known among mid-range tourists. It offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options, along with great accommodation. 
• The Tall Trees: It is an eco-resort that is spread over 66 acres with cottages among tall trees, and you will witness a rustic feel with decent amenities. 

Alleppey: 

• Raheem Residency: It is a heritage-style hotel near the beach, with a pool and good guest reviews. 
• Houseboats: It is a traditional houseboat, which is a very popular option. 

Marari: 

• Xandari Pearl: It is a beach resort that is a little more than mid-range, yet a really good option when you want some comfort by the sea. 
• Marari Dreamz: It is a cozy stay with private cottages, a local feel, and a peaceful environment near the beach. 

Guruvayur: 

• Krishna Inn: This place is very close to the temple, has clean rooms, decent amenities, and vegetarian restaurants. 
• Sterling Guruvayur: It is a resort with more facilities, a good option if you want to experience more comfort. 

Weekend Itinerary Ideas

Weekend 1: Kochi – Cherai – Athirappilly – Back to Kochi

You can start your weekend with a morning drive from Kochi to Cherai Beach. It is well known for its serene shoreline and dolphin sightings. In addition to this, you can enjoy some beach time before heading to Athirappilly. Athirappilly is home to Kerala’s most iconic waterfall. The location is also surrounded by lush greenery and water. It is ideal for nature lovers, and then you can return to Kochi by evening. 

Weekend 2: Kochi – Vaikom – Alleppey – Marari 

You can head towards Vaikom to explore the ancient Shiva temple and peaceful backwaters. Then, continue to Alleppey, where you can enjoy a houseboat cruise or canoe ride through scenic canals. Lastly, you can relax at Marari Beach, with sunset views and unwinding. 

Weekend 3: Kochi – Munnar – Return via Kalady

Drive up to Munnar for a refreshing mountain escape. Then explore tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, and scenic viewpoints. On your way back, stop at Kalady, the birthplace of Adi Shankara, for a quick cultural detour. 

Tips For Planning Your Trip Near Kochi

• Early Travel: To avoid heat and traffic, you can plan your trip in the early morning. 
• Weekday Travel: Planning to travel on weekdays is better, as you will witness fewer crowds (especially at beaches and waterfalls)
• Check Climate: Always check the weather conditions in the monsoon season.
• Carry Essentials: Make sure to carry your essentials, such as sunblock, water, and local currency for rural spots. 

Comfortable Clothing: You can wear comfortable clothing such as cotton and linen during hot weather.

Conclusion Kochi is way beyond just a destination; it’s a gateway to an entire region of cultural richness, natural beauty, and peaceful escapes. If you are looking for waterfalls, temples, tea estates, or just a tranquil village day, the vicinity of Kochi is remarkably beautiful. It offers various destinations for a traveller to experience. You also get to experience its unique fusion of culture, colonial architecture, and beaches. The Eravikulam National Park, Marari Beach, and Cherai are some of the best places to visit near Kochi. If you want to explore beyond the city, then book a Kochi tour with Travel Triangle and book Kerala tour packages to discover the best-kept secrets just a drive away.

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.