The state of Kerala is full of natural beauty and offers numerous places that one can visit. Kochi is one of the most beautiful cities of Kerala that is filled with the most attractive places which catch the attention of tourists from the entire world. You will find many hill stations, waterfalls, temples, dams and many more such places to visit near Kochi.
The culture of Kerala is well-presented in Kochi with their scrumptious foods and Kathakali dance performances. It can be rightly be said that Kochi breathes the essence of the culture of Kerala in its truest form. Take a look at this list of all the best places that you should not miss out on when thinking of quick getaways from Kochi!
28 Best Places To Visit Near Kochi
Kochi is one of the most fun-filled destinations in God’s Own Country. To add, this destination is surrounded by beautiful spots that one should definitely not miss out on. This list of the best places to visit near Cochin includes hill stations, backwater destinations, temples, towns and wildlife sanctuaries. So, here is a snapshot and details about some of the places around Kochi:
1. Alleppey – For A Romantic Houseboat Cruise
Alleppey is one of the top places around Kochi situated at a distance of around 65 km from the city. It is one of the magnificent destinations of Kochi and Kerala as well which attracts a huge number of tourists as it is a mixture of both backwaters and beaches.
It is also popular with its other name which is Alappuzha because this place is situated on the bank of the Vembanad Lake which is close to the Arabian Sea. You can enjoy the houseboat cruise in Alleppey and since it is located almost in the middle of the water, it is called the Venice of the East. Alleppey is surrounded by the greenery from paddy fields and coconut trees.
Places to Stay: Ramada By Wyndham Alleppey, Tharavadu Heritage, Bamboo Lagoon, Treebo Tryst Palmyra Grand Suite, Raheem Residency
Things To Do: Kayaking, Spa, Shopping, Elephant Parade
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 65 km
How to reach: It is located at a distance of 65 km from Kochi so you can take a bus or you can hire a taxi or cabs to reach Alleppey. The nearest Railway Station is Alappuzha Railway Station which is very close to Alleppey.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions In Alleppey: Alleppey Beach, Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple, Vembanad Lake, and Kerala Backwaters
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2. Kumarakom – An Ideal Weekend Getaway
The place Kumarakom is one of the most attractive places near Kochi and is also the most visited tourist place in the state of Kerala. Kumarakom is situated 16 km away from Kottayam and 56 km away from Kochi. This place is a cluster of some small islands by the side of the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. It is also known as the Queen of Vembanad.
Kumarakom is also the most famous backwater destination of Kochi where you can enjoy the traditional houseboat ride. Kumarakom is considered an ideal weekend getaway near Kochi that attracts a large number of tourists towards itself.
Places to Stay: Hotel Green Fields, Hotel The Club, Royal Riviera Hotel And Resort, Lakshmi Hotel And Resort, Hotel Dubai
Things To Do: Houseboat Ride, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Maya Spa, Kathakali Performance
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 48 km
How to reach: The Kottayam bus stand is 13 km away from Kumarakom and it is 56 km away from Kochi so you can take a bus or can hire a cab or taxi to reach there. Kottayam is the nearest Railway which is around 13 km away.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions In Kumarakom: Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, and Pathiramanal Island
3. Athirapally Falls – A Serene Place
Athirapally Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. It is located at a distance of 73 km from Kochi and 32 km from Chalakudy. It is among the best weekend getaway in Kerala that attracts a lot of tourists because of its beauty and its alluring environment. The waterfalls from a height of 80 feet in many parallel streams add to the beauty of the Athirapally Falls and make it more attractive.
During the monsoon season, it resembles Niagara Falls as all the streams unite together to give a more attractive scenic beauty like Niagara Falls. You can also go swimming in the bottom streams of the Athirapally Falls.
Places to Stay: Hotel Munnar Inn, Hotel Dhanyasree, Camelot Hotel, Citrus Hotel, Old Harbor Hotel
Things To Do: Photography, enjoy the scenic views
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 72 km
How to reach: You can take both buses as well as a cab or taxi to cover a distance of 73 km from Kochi to reach Athirapally Falls. The nearest Railway Station that is Chalakudy is 30 km away.
Best time to visit: September to January
Major Attractions: Vazhachal Waterfalls and Sholayar Dam
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4. Kottayam – Surrounded By Ghats
The distance between Kochi and Kottayam is 63 km. Kottayam is located in the middle of Kerala, and it is the alternative capital of the Kottayam district. This place is not only a well-known holiday destination that is very popular among all the people in the world but it is also known as a center of spices and many more commercial crops like rubber.
It is surrounded by the Western Ghats on its eastern side and by the Vembanad Lake from the west, dotted by some of the best hotels in Kottayam. This place is famous for its scenic beauty of the backwaters and landscapes. This is also a getaway to the famous Sabrimala temple and many more such places.
Places to Stay: Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Amritara Ameya, White Gate Residency, Hotel Cochin Legacy, Hotel Imperial Regency
Things To Do: Enjoy picnic time at Nadukani, explore the serenity of Kottathavalam, witness the ancient treasures at Poonjar Palace
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 62 km
How to reach: The distance of 63 km from Kochi to Kottayam can be traveled both by bus as well. As by taxi. The nearest Railway Station is the Kottayam Railway Station itself
Best time to visit: September to April
Major Attractions In Kottayam: Nadukani, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, and Nadukani
5. Thrissur – A Pilgrimage Center
Kochi is at a distance of 81 km from Thrissur. Thrissur is situated in the center of the state of Kerala and it is also one of the most famous tourist places near Kochi. Also, it is among the most popular site of pilgrimage in Kerala. Thrissur is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi. The name Thrissur stands for the Big town of Hindu God Shiva.
And as the name suggests the city features one of the most famous temples of Shiva known as Vadakkunnathan Temple where Lord Shiva is worshiped. The place Thrissur is also famous for its historical rise and fall in the rule of various kings and is to date famous for the Thrissur Pooram Festival which is celebrated in April and May.
Places to Stay: KTDC Tamarind Hotel, Kadappuram Beach Resort, Casino Hotel, Lulu International Convention Centre, Joys Palace
Things To Do: Seek blessings at Vadakkunnathan Temple, indulge in bach activities at Snehatheeram Beach
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Distance from Kochi: 86 km
How to reach: You can take both buses as well as a taxi from Kochi to reach Thrissur by covering a distance of 81 km. The nearest Railway Station is Thrissur Railway Station itself.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions In Thrissur: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Basilica Of Our Lady of Dolours, and Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
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6. Vazhachal Waterfalls – Greenery All Around
Vazhachal falls is among the most famous places to visit near Cochin. It is located at a distance of 75 km away from the main city of Kochi. The beauty of the Vazhachal falls is breathtaking and admiring so it is one of the major attractions for tourists in the state of Kerala. In the closer vicinity of the Applause forest range, the Vazhachal waterfall is formed by the Chalakudy River in the lower stream of the Athirapally waterfall. The water in this waterfall falls from a height of 300 feet which is very unique and beautiful, therefore, it never fails to catch the attention of people.
Places to stay: NA
Things to do: Photography, watch scenic views
Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
Distance from Kochi: 78 km
How to reach: To cover a distance of 75 km from Kochi to reach the Vazhachal waterfall you can hire a taxi or cab. You can also take a bus from the Chalakudy bus stand which is only 30 km away. The nearest Railway Station Chalakudy is 30 km away.
Best time to visit: September to February
Major Attractions: Sholayar Dam
7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – With Exemplary Beauty
The famous Mahadeva temple is located at a distance of 11 km from Kottayam Railway Station and it is situated at a distance of 74 km from Kochi city. The Mahadeva Temple is situated in the Ettumanoor city near Kochi. It is one of the most famous temples in South India of Lord Shiva and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit around Kochi.
The most attractive part of the most attractive feature of the temple is its unique woodcarving and murals which is not a new piece of art rather it is a 16th-century architect with exemplary beauty. The temple has an oil lamp that is lighter every day near the entrance of the Mahadeva Temple is said to have an existence that is 140 years old.
Places to stay: NA
Things to do: Seek blessings at the temple
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Distance from Kochi: 57 km
How to reach: You can take a bus or you can also book your private cab or taxi to cover the distance of 74 km to the Mahadeva Temple from Kochi. The nearest Railway Station is Kottayam which is 11 km away.
Best time to visit: February to March
Major Attractions: The temple itself
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8. Kuttanad – Spend Some Beautiful Time
The distance between Kuttanad and Kochi is 76 km and the distance between Kuttanad and Alappuzha Railway Station is almost 13 km. So if you are thinking of visiting places near Cochin to spend some beautiful time in the surrounding of nature a distance enjoy the scenic beauty of lake and backwaters then Kuttanad is one of the best choices as the place is very pretty and full of greenery because of the vast paddy cultivation.
Due to the tremendous paddy growth in the place, it is commonly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala. 7 rivers flow through Kuttanad and this adds to the natural beauty of the place. The place is also famous for its backwater houseboat tour.
Places to stay: Hotel Panchavady, The Green Palace Health Resort
Things to do: Photography, houseboat tour, boating
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Distance from Kochi: 76 km
How to reach: You can hire a taxi or cab ride on the bus to reach Kuttanad from Kochi, covering a distance of 76 km. The nearest Railway Station is 13 km away that is Alappuzha Railway Station.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Basilica of St. Mary, Mannarasala Temple, and Karumadikuttan (Buddha Statue)
9. Peechi Dam – A Beauitful Attraction
The Peechi Dam is located at a distance of almost 98 km away from Kochi and it is 22 km away from the Thrissur Railway Station. The Peechi Dam is also one of the most popular places to visit near Kochi that has till date never failed to attract the eyes of tourists from all over the world.
The dam is spread in a large area of 3200 acres and there is a beautiful botanical garden by the side of it which has a fountain. The existence of the botanical garden adds to the beauty of the dam and its atmosphere. The dam is functioning as an irrational dam for the nearby village area of Thrissur.
Places to stay: NA
Things to do: Marvel at the beauty of the dam, photography
Ideal duration: 1-2 hours
Distance from Kochi: 97 km
How to reach: To cover a distance of 98 km from Kochi to reach the Peechi Dam you can make use of both buses as well as taxi. The nearest Railway Station is Thrissur Railway Station which is 22 km away.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions: The dam itself
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10. Munnar – A Year-Round Destination
Well, definitely, Munnar has to make it to the list of top tourist places near Kochi, for a number of reasons. It is one of the best hill stations in Kerala and can be visited anytime of the year. The pleasant climate makes it one of the coolest places in Kerala making it one of the top honeymoon places in South India. Situated above 1,532 m above sea level, Munnar impresses you with its range of hills, scenic views, mesmerizing lush greens and acres of tea gardens. You can enjoy a favourable climate throughout the year and hence it is a year-round destination.
Places to Stay: Chandy’s Windy Woods, Pallivasal, The Panoramic Getaway, Forest Glade, The Fog Resort & Spa, Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel
Things To Do: Enjoy tea estate tours at Kolukkumalai, try camping and trekking at Echo Point – Camping And Trekking
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Distance from Kochi: 124 km
How to reach: Being a prominent hill station, Munnar is connected via roads pretty well. A bus from Kochi takes around 5 hours to reach, while a taxi or car takes 2 and half hours to reach Munnar.
Best time to visit: September to November and January to March
Major Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, The Blossom International Park, and Attukad Waterfalls
11. Vagamon – A Glorious Landscape Awaits
Another hill station that makes it to the list of top places near Kochi is due to the glory of the place. Discover true mysticism, a unique set of landscape, grassy hills, and lush greenery that overwhelm your trip to Kerala. In a quaint yet unexplored region, you can enjoy multiple activities including paragliding, trekking and rock climbing. One of the best places to visit in Vagamon is the chain of three hills: Kurismala, Murugan and Thangal.
Places to Stay: Honeycomb By Astral Inn, Chillax, Falcon Crest, Holiday Vagamon, Winter Vale Green Stay
Things To Do: Trekkeing, boat riding, off roading
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Kochi: 104 km
How to reach: Roadways connectivity between Kochi and Vagamon is just great, and you can easily take a local bus or hire a taxi. In fact, Kochi Airport is the closest airport to Vagamon, 150 km away.
Best time to visit: June to September
Major Attractions: Vagamon Lake, Thangalpara, Vagamon Pine Forest, and Marmala Waterfalls
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12. Guruvayur – A Holy Site
Welcome Guruvayur, a holy town that makes it to our list of the top places near Kochi that you can visit for a fulfilling holiday. While you are there, praying at the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Guruvayur, is an absolute must. A small town that hides in itself stories of legends really glorifies the mysticism of Guruvayur. Don’t hold back and visit this sacred and pilgrim town today.
Places to Stay: Srivar Hotels, Kunnathur Mana Ayurveda Heritage And Luxurious Resort, Sterling Guruvayur, Sopanam Heritage, Krishna Inn
Things to do: Tea plantation tour, temple visit
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 93 km
How to reach: Guruvayur is very well connected to Kochi by road. Buses take around 4 hours to reach, from terminals while a taxi ride is going to be a little costly yet complete in 2 and half hours.
Best time to visit: October to February
Major Attractions In Guruvayur: Mammiyoor Temple, Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Camp, and Devaswom Museum
13. Thommankuthu Falls – An Eco-Tourism Center
Why won’t this mesmerizing waterfall make it to our list of the top tourist places around Kochi? It is a beautiful tourist spot that is one of the major eco-tourism centres in Kerala. With awe-inspiring views and situated between hills and green valleys, the waterfalls are one of the best-kept secrets of Kerala. What’s even better is that you get a series of 12 waterfalls over a span of 5 km to enjoy this destination.
Places to stay: NA
Things to do: Marvel at the beauty of the falls, photography
Ideal duration:1-2 hours
Distance from Kochi: 75 km
How to reach: It takes around 2 and half hours to drive down from Kochi to the falls. On your way, you can stop for a perfect picture with hills as your backdrop.
Best time to visit: September to May
Major Attractions: Kattadi Kadavu Viewpoint, Meenuliyan Para, and Kottapara Hilltop
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14. Marari Beach – For Ultimate Leisure
The biggest reason Marari beach makes it to the top of our list is due to its romantic appeal and the setting it offers. It is, by far, the most romantic and one of the top tourist places around Kochi for couples. You can enjoy leisure time and relax at this beach while the surroundings set a great tone for your romance. Considered to be one of the most romantic Kerala beaches, visiting here with your partner must be a part of your itinerary. If you are looking for places to visit in Kochi near the airport, plan a visit to Marari Beach.
Places to Stay: Private Pool Villa Near Marari Beach, Marari Nest Beach Homestay, Flamingo Boutique Villa, Marari Phoenix Beach Homestay, Marai Art Village
Things to do: Water activities, sunset viewing, photography
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Kochi: 60 km
How to reach: Either hire a car to drive, or a taxi to reach approximately an hour from the Kochi International Airport.
Best time to visit: September to May
Major Attractions: Mararikulam Shiva Temple, Arthunkal, Thiruvizha, St. Francis Church, and Alappuzha
15. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary – A Nature-Rich Region
If you want to explore a nature-rich region with plenty of flora and lots of fauna, especially, birds, then the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is the place for you. The first ever bird sanctuary in Kerala, and one of the best places to see near Kochi, visit here for true leisure time. While you are there, catch pictures of beautiful birds like the Sri Lankan Frogmouth, Bronzed Drongo, Malabar Parakeet, Rufous Babbler and many more. Now, isn’t this a time you’d want to go ahead with while on your trip to Kochi?
Places to Stay: NA
Things to do: Flora and fauna spotting, safari, photography
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Kochi: 65 km
How to reach: It takes approximately an hour to drive from Kochi to the bird sanctuary.
Best time to visit: November to February
Major Attractions: Periyar River, Bird Watching, Bhoothathankettu Dam
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16. Idukki – Plenty Of Serenity
Lying in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Idukki is your ideal and one of the best places to see near Kochi for a fulfilling vacation. Sparse villages, the river Periyar and multiple peaks are just some of the highlights of Idukki, apart from the vast expanse of tea gardens. You can enjoy a safari, bathe at the waterfalls, and visit the lakes and temples. Add this to your itinerary today if you don’t want to miss a truly heavenly place.
Places to Stay: Green Berg Resort, Misty Mountain Plantation Resort, Palette Hill View Resort, Palette Hill View Resort, Winter Vale
Things To Do: Trekking, camping, paragliding
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 107 km
How to reach: The nearest railway station and airport are at Kochi. Regular buses ply from there or you can take a slightly costlier option of taxis.
Best time to visit: All year round
Major Attractions In Idukki: Anamudi, Lakkom Falls, Echo Point, Tea Museum
17. Kollam – A Quick Getaway To Backwaters
Set on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is an urban metropolis that is very well-known for its trade history. It makes it to the list of top tourist places near Kochi due to a variety of factors including being a gateway to the Kerala backwaters, the beach hotspots for a relaxing time and the various resorts spread around. And yes, you get the authentic experience of the houseboats here.
Places to Stay: Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa, Hotel All Seasons, The Raviz Resort and Spa, Ashtamudi Villas, All Season’s D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort
Things To Do: Canoeing, paddlesport activities, ATV rides & bike tour, Houseboat ride
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 138 km
How to reach: A bus takes 4 hours to reach Kochi while a train takes 2 and a half hours. However, the convenient option for you is to hire a taxi or cab.
Best time to visit: All year round
Major Attractions In Kollam: Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thevally Palace, Tangasseri Lighthouse, Paravur Lake
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18. Palakkad – An Offbeat Destination
One of the best, if not the best places to visit near Kochi and definitely getting a mention is Palakkad. Set along the serpentine hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala, the place is often considered as the gateway to Kerala. Another reason for its popularity is its vast housing in rural Kerala and the beautiful fields of paddy. For you, there are vast palm trees, dense forests, green landscapes, and rippled hills. Sounds like a place to be on your next vacation to Kerala, isn’t it?
Places to Stay: Four N Square Residency, Noor Jehan’s Grand Noor, Hotel Ammbadi, KPM Regency, Hotel Chanakya
Things to do: Adventurous activities, photography, witness the awe-inspiring landscapes
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Kochi: 145 km
How to reach: By bus, trains and taxis. There are a range of options for you to travel from Kochi to Palakkad. The choice is yours to select whichever mode suits you the best.
Best time to visit: December to February
Major Attractions In Palakkad: Malampuzha Dam, Palakkad Fort, Yakshi Statue, and Rock Garden
19. Pathanamthitta – For Art And Craft
Well, Pathanamthitta is a famous destination, across Kerala and India due to the vibrancy it offers. A small district in God’s Own Country, the destination is often regarded as the ‘Pilgrim Capital of Kerala’. You can be a part of the boat races, and visit the religious shrines and cultural training centres. The place also has a rich tradition of art and culture including the 10-day dance called Padayani. Some popular art forms found here include Vasthuvidya Gurukulam, and Aranmula Kannadi.
Places to stay: Shanthi Residency, Hotel Heyday, Hotel Amala
Things to do: Temple visit, with traditional performances, explore hilly sites
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Kochi: 118 km
How to reach: There are a number of local buses connecting Kochi and Pathanamthitta. You can opt for that or a slightly costlier option of booking a cab. Both are well connected.
Best time to visit: November to March
Major Attractions: Malayalapuzha Devi Temple, Chuttippara, Kottappara Hills Top View Point, St. George Orthodox Church, and Pandalam Palace
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20. Varkala – For The Ultimate Cliffs
Varkala is a beach town located on the shores of Arabian Sea in Kerala. We have added it to the list of top places to visit near Kochi due to its extremely awesome appeal for a beach holiday. Despite being a beach town, the high number of temples also flock to Varkala. Once done with praying, stay at the sea-facing Varkala resorts with a backdrop of palm-covered red cliffs. Do not forget to taste scrumptious Kerala cuisine at the beach restaurants.
Places to Stay: Bamboo Village, Clafouti Beach Resort, Woodhouse Beach Resort, Deshadan Cliff & Beach Resort, Palm Tree Resort
Things To Do: Beach hopping, tour the temples, visit Anchuthengu Fort, spectacle Kathakali dance
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Kochi: 169 km
How to reach: The most efficient way of travel between Kochi and Varkala is via train which takes just 2 hours and costs less than INR 500.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, Kappil Beach, Varkala Beach, Odayam Beach
21. Periyar National Park – Nature’s Home
You must definitely plan a visit to the Periyar National Park for the immense natural splendor and to explore the rich wildlife. The park is a protected area located within the mountainous western ghats of Kerala in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts. Out of all the national parks in India, Periyar has a comparatively higher number of tigers, Asian elephants, sambar deer, leopards, and rare lion-tailed macaques. It is definitely one of the finest tourist places near Kochi to spend one whole day.
Places to Stay Nearby: The Elephant Court, Lake Palace (KTDC), Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Aranya Nivas
Things To Do: Jungle jeep safari, day and night trekking, Thekkady lake boat safari, bamboo rafting
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Kochi: 130 km
How to reach: The best way from Kochi to Periyar National park is by hiring a taxi which takes about 2 and half hours of travel time and costs about INR 2,000.
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major Attractions: Periyar Lake, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Connemara Tea Factory
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22. Keezharkuthu Falls – For The Uniqueness
The gorgeous Keezharkuthu Waterfalls is a unique and one of the best waterfalls in Kerala. Would you like to see a rainbow against the water any time of the year? Yes, the natural phenomenon is visible throughout the year and while you can click some amazing shots, don’t miss taking a bath at the waterfall. One of the top tourist places near Kochi, the scintillating water falls from a height of 200 feet while the vivid surroundings rejuvenate the body.
Places to stay: NA
Things To Do: Adventure activities like camping, trekking, rock climbing, capturing great shots
Ideal Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance from Kochi: 96 km
How to reach: The falls come on the driving route from NH966B and NH85 in the Muvattupuzha-Pothanicad Road.
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major attractions: NA
23. Gavi – The Offbeat Place You Deserve
If you are wondering about something different, something unique and one of the best offbeat places in Kerala, then Gavi is your place. Gavi is a village in the Pathanamthitta district filled with the natural splendour of lakes, wildlife, and mostly birds. It is a very amazing place for birdwatchers with plenty of rare birds flying through including woodpeckers, great pied hornbill and kingfishers. If you are looking for the most splendid places to visit near Kochi, then Gavi, hands-down wins the bet.
Places to Stay: KFDC Gavi Hotel, L&G Riverview Haven, Wildernest, Amaana Plantation Resort, Cardamom County
Things To Do: Boating, trekking, bird-watching, camping
Ideal Duration: 3 days
Distance from Kochi: 170 km
How to reach: Since there is no direct route, we recommend taking a taxi which might cost you more but will make your travel easier and faster.
Best time to visit: September to February
Major Attractions: Gavi Reservoir, Neer Veezhcha Water Falls
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24. Vaikom – A Serene Place
Vaikom is one of the most serene and quiet places to visit near Kochi located in the northwest part of Kottayam. Vaikom has a lot of backwaters, of what Kerala is famous for. Another reason for Vaikom’s famousness is the presence of temples. Bordered by Lake Vembanad, and crossed by various estuaries of the Muvattupuzha river, there are plenty of opportunities for boating.
Places to Stay: Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, White Gate Residency, KTDC Kumarakom Gateway, Vembanad Lake Villas, Lovedale Lakeside Homestay
Things To Do: Religious tour, village tours, beach visit, houseboat riding
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Kochi: 40 km
How to reach: Since Vaikom is very close to Kochi, a simple drive via public transportation would suffice.
Best time to visit: November to February
Major Attractions: Fish World, Vaikom Lake, Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park, Vaikom Beach, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
25. Thenmala – An Ecotourism Site
Do you know about the first planned destination for ecotourism in India? Well, yes! Thenmala is your answer. One of the quite beautiful places around Kochi, Thenmala presents itself as home to many hills, forests, lakes and wildlife. The terrain is dotted with plenty of awesome landscapes for trekking, hiking, adventure sports, boating and camping. If you are planning to explore places to visit near Kochi within 200 km, Thenmala is the place to be.
Places to Stay: Kandamath Heritage Resort, Thenmala Heritage, Kumar Palace Leisure Hotel, Palaruvi Resort, Denner’s Villa
Things To Do: Boating around lakes, enjoy the musical fountains, adventure activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, etc., jungle camping
Ideal Duration: 4 days
Distance from Kochi: 170 km
How to reach: The best and budget-friendly way to travel to Thenmala from Kochi is via bus which takes about 4 hours. There are other ways like trains and taxis (costly).
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major Attractions: Thenmala Dam, Butterfly Park, Deer Park, Thenmala Hanging Bridge, Ambanad Hills
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26. Cheeyappara Waterfalls – A Wonderful Trek Spot
The Cheeyappara Waterfalls are the most adventurous tourist places near Kochi for trekkers as the landscape is filled with rocks and mountains. The water falls down into seven tiers which is a spectacular sight. It has been readily declared as an ecotourism destination with a rich growth of trees and forests around. If you visit the waterfall during the morning, then a rainbow against the water is clearly visible. Summers might be a great time to visit and let the water spray cool you down.
Places to stay: NA
Things To Do: Trekking, nature photography, camping
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance from Kochi: 84 km
How to reach: Located between Adimali and Neriamangalam, NH49 on the Kochi–Madurai Highway, the falls is only a 2-hour drive from Kochi so hiring a cab or taxi would be great.
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major Attractions: NA
27. Valar Falls
Located at the intersection of Neriamangalam and Adimali, Valara is popular for a chain of waterfalls situated around 40 kilometres from Munnar inside a thick tropical forest. The water cascades down from the height of 1,000 feet and you can also learn about the Thottiyar Hydroelectric Project of the Kerala Electricity Board which is just around the corner from this place.
Places to stay: NA
Things To Do: Sightseeing, photography
Ideal Duration: 3-4 hours
Distance from Kochi: 84 km
How to reach: This location is easily accessible when you are near Adimali on Munnar to Kochi Highway.
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major attractions: NA
Kochi In November: Encounter The Best Of The Queen Of Arabian Sea
28. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Situated around 73.5 km from Munnar, this safe haven is certainly a gem for vacationers coming to leisurely travel around southern India. The region has around 270 species of birds, such as the incredible Indian hornbill and Nilgiri wood pigeon along with different animal categories that you can learn about here.
Places to stay: NA
Things To Do: Birdwatching, photography
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Distance from Kochi: 63 km
How to reach: Located on the Malayinkeezhu Kozhipally Bypass Jct onto Kothamangalam – Perumbankuthu Road, this place can be accessed via cab/taxi on the Inchathotty Thattekad Road.
Best time to visit: All throughout the year
Major attractions: NA
There are many places that you can visit in the nearby areas of Kochi but the above-mentioned places are among the most suitable and famous places to visit near Kochi. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your holiday to Kerala to witness some of the most alluring spots that await with arms wide open!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Kochi
Which are the best places to visit near Kochi?
Some of the top-rated tourist sites near Kochi include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Athirapally Falls, Kottayam, Thrissur, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kuttanad, Munnar, Thommankuthu Falls, Periyar National Park, and Cheeyappara Waterfalls.
What are the best things to do in Kochi other than sightseeing?
Apart from sightseeing, there are numerous things you can enjoy in Kochi. Some of these include:
1. Enjoy with elephants at Elephant Center
2. Take a Ferry Ride in Kochi
3. Go on a culinary ride at the best restaurants
4. Try skiing, kayaking, banana ride, and other water activities
5. Attend Kathakali Performance and several cultural arts
What is Kottayam famous for?
Kottayam is famous for its scenic beauty, landscapes, backwater houseboat rides that make it a perfect holiday destination. Apart from this, it is also famous as a spice center and for rubber cultivation.
Are all the nearby places in Kochi have good rail and road transportation and connectivity?
Yes, all the places in the vicinity of Kochi city have a good rail as well as road network connectivity and the transportation facilities are also very well managed and safe.
What can I buy from Kochi and nearby places?
You can buy handicraft items from Kochi and its nearby places. The handloom materials are also very good along with the beverages, especially coffee.
Is it good to visit Kochi and nearby places in the summer season?
No, it is not recommended to visit Kochi and the nearby locations in the summer seasons as the places witness very hot and sunny days during summer.
Which place near Kochi is also called the Rice Bowl of Kerala?
Due to the heavy growth of the paddy, Kuttanad is popularly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala. The place is full of greenery due to paddy cultivation and coconut trees.
What kind of jewellery is famous in Kochi?
Kochi is known for its silver and Gold jewellery so it is recommended to buy the silver and gold jewellery from Kochi whenever you visit there.
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Exploring new places and trying out new food cuisines are two things that bring Seema all the happiness. Travel freak and a die-hard foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Popular on social media by the name of ‘PandaReviewz’, lazing around the beaches, exploiting the sunset points, visiting the farthermost villages, exploring the renowned cities, trying out new food cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Seema occupied, and happy!
