Weekend getaways are not just about taking a trip to one destination. They are about unwinding, about getting away from the chaos, about how one can find the purpose of life, which is definitely not the 9-5 job. Be it a sudden escape or a fully planned holiday, that mini-vacation to the nearby tourist spots certainly works its magic, making one gain all the energy needed to face the upcoming challenges.
South India is a destination that has ample of refreshing nooks sitting in its lap. All the major spots of this region of the country offer a myriad of experiences that make the weekend getaways serve their purpose. Kochi is the heart and soul of southern India, and for all the right reasons.
With an ample of weekend getaways from Kochi just waiting to be explored by travel enthusiasts, this destination never fails to impress. This town is located in the proximity of all the rejuvenating escapes that have all been mentioned below. Read on to know what all is hidden for you!
Top 10 Weekend Getaways From Kochi
The major port city of God’s Own Country, Kochi is a destination that is surrounded by some of the most fascinating destinations that one can consider taking a trip to. Here is a list of all the weekend getaways around Kochi that are certainly worth a visit.
- Alappuzha – Home To Alluring Backwaters
- Mararikulam – The Traditional Village Lifestyle
- Malankara Dam – Perfect For Family Fun
- Thrissur – One Of The Oldest
- Munnar – Fifty Shades Of Green
- Varkala – A Hidden Jewel
- Thekkady – Home To The Wild
- Vagamon – Myriad Of Natural Marvels
- Kuttanad – Rice Bowl Of Kerala
- Idukki – Spice Garden Of Kerala
1. Alappuzha – Home To Alluring Backwaters
Image Credits: Nandhu Kumar for Pexels
Known by the name of ‘Alleppey’ by many, Alappuzha is one of the most weekend getaways from Kochi by car. This destination is famed for being home to the pristine backwaters and gives one a chance to enjoy residing in a houseboat. Allepey or Alappuzha boast about the modest canals, charming lush greens, quaint villages, and the paddy fields spread as far as the eye can see. This destination is perfect owing to the fact that it offers one of the most relaxing and refreshing experiences to tourists.
Distance From Kochi: 53 kilometers
Places To Visit: Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad Lake, Marari Beach, Pathiramanal Island
Things To Do: Go for sightseeing, relax around the beaches, and pay homage to Gods in temples
Must Read: 10 Best Hotels In Kochi For A Perfect Holiday
2. Mararikulam – The Traditional Village Lifestyle
Image Credits: Mahendra M for Wikimedia
For those who wish to get an insight into the village life of the South can surely consider Mararikulam for their short weekend getaways from Kochi. Sitting on the floors of Alleppey, Mararikulam gained its fame because of the yellow sandy beach that oozes of tranquility from every corner. With its one leg still stuck in history, one can witness the traditional lifestyles that used to be adopted by locals around a hundred years back. The serene surroundings, fertile lands, and the calm blue ocean make it a perfect spot to unwind.
Distance From Kochi: 43 kilometers
Places To Visit: Marari Beach, Internation Coir Museum, St Andrews Basilica Church, Kanchichukulangara Devi Temple
Things To Do: Take part in various water sports, witness snake boat races, and indulge in sightseeing
Suggested Read: Kochi Honeymoon: Top Places To Visit And Enjoy A Romantic Time With Your Partner!
3. Malankara Dam – Perfect For Family Fun
Image Credits: Jeevan Jose for Wikimedia
For short and fun-filled weekend getaways from Kochi, the Malankara Dam might turn out to the ideal spot. Sitting in Idukki, Malankara is a gravity dam that has been built across the Thodupuzha River. This dam has slowly emerged as a popular escape for locals who wish to spend some quality time with families. Open to the public throughout the year, the dam is just right to indulge in fishing or take a ride on a boat. Many tourists visit this place with families and spend the entire day enjoying a picnic or just playing around the lake.
Distance From Kochi: 70 kilometers
Places To Visit Nearby: Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Poonchira, Keezharkuthu Falls, Valara Waterfalls
Things To Do: Enjoy a family picnic, take part in nature walk, and try out the photography skills
Suggested Read: 12 Homestays In Kochi Which Promise To Make Your Stay Worth The While
4. Thrissur – One Of The Oldest
Image Credits: Mujeebcpy for Wikimedia
One of the oldest cities in God’s Own Country, Thrissur offers one of the best weekend getaways from Kochi. It is believed that Thrissur was created by an incarnation of Lord Vishnu named Lord Parasurama. The destination is home to a massive Shiva temple that acts as a magnet for numerous pilgrims throughout the year. Originally named Thir-Shiva-Perur, this city is entirely constructed around Vadakumnathan Temple which is that same Shiva temple that was created by the Lord. This town is majorly known because of celebrations of the most lively and colorful Thrissur Pooram festival that is the largest temple festival in the country.
Distance From Kochi: 89 kilometers
Places To Visit: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Sakthan Thamuran Palace, Thrissur Zoom Basilica Of Our Lady Of Dolours
Things To Do: Stroll around the beaches, get an insight into the history in museums, and trek till the waterfalls
Suggested Read: 18 Hill Stations Near Kochi For An Escape To Nature’s Lap
5. Munnar – Fifty Shades Of Green
Image Credits: Bimal K C for Wikimedia
One of the perfect weekend getaways from Kochi, Munnar is popular for its magnificent emerald-colored tea plantations that have been trimmed, contoured, and well-sculpted, thus maintaining the beauty of the Southern region of the country. This town is one of the most soul-steering places giving one a chance to witness fifty shades of green that is nothing less than a feast for the eyes. You can also indulge in several things to do in Munnar like visiting the gorgeous waterfalls, beautiful gardens and more. The mountains peeking through the mist, the pleasant weather throughout the year and the tranquility that encircles this destination is what makes Munnar one of its kind.
Distance From Kochi: 127 kilometers
Places To Visit: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, Pothamedu View Point
Things To Do: Stay at tree houses, take a tour of tea plantations, and take part in adventure activities like camping, trekking, etc.
Suggested Read: 5 Waterfalls In Kochi That Reflect ‘Go With The Flow’ In The Best Way
6. Varkala – A Hidden Jewel
Image Credits: Devender Goyal for Wikimedia
A hidden gem of Kerala, Varkala is one of the most serene long weekend getaways from Kochi that one tends to cherish forever. Sitting along the edge of high cliffs, Varkala is a world on its own. From majestic backwaters to the lush green jungles, there are a number of places to visit in Varkala. When in this gem of a town in God’s Own Country, one can observe some classy restaurants that play soul-soothing music, quaint shops selling boho-themed apparel, silver accessories, and beautiful bags. A destination for those who seek to get away from beaten tracks, Varkala offers the perfect break from the fast-moving days.
Distance From Kochi: 170 kilometers
Places To Visit: Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, Varkala Beach, Sivagiri
Things To Do: Enjoy the views of the Arabian Sea, pay a visit to the forts, and take part in yoga classes
Suggested Read: 26 Enchanting Places To Visit Near Kochi To Cover Every Nook Of God’s Own Country!
7. Thekkady – Home To The Wild
Image Credits: Ben3john for Wikimedia
Famed for its exotic wildlife sanctuaries that are home to some great flora and fauna, Thekkady is one of the best weekend getaways from Kochi. This destination is home to a vast variety of bird species that give bird watchers some amazing experiences to cherish. Oozing of serenity, Thekkady is beautifully nestled amidst the luxuriant foliage and fragrant spice plantations. A destination that seems right out of a fairytale, Thekkady can turn out to be an idyllic respite for many with several things to do and places to visit in Thekkady.
Distance From Kochi: 158 kilometers
Places To Visit: Elephant Junction, Rose Park, Elephant Camp, Angadipetty Ayurveda Museum
Things To Do: Take a boat tour, try bamboo rafting, and go for nature walks
Suggested Read: 10 Ideal Road Trips From Kochi To Drive Through Amazing Landscapes Of Nature!
8. Vagamon – Myriad Of Natural Marvels
Image Credits: Anand for Wikimedia
The southern part of the country is known for the abundant greenery and Vagamon happens to be a major contributor to this. Sitting on the borders of Idukki and Kottayam, Vagamon is one of the most serene weekend getaways from Kochi that is perfect to spend some time away from the world. Home to a myriad of natural wonders including magical waterfalls, towering trees with fifty shades of green, and trails passing through the pine forests, the magnificence of this destination never fails to inspire awe.
Distance From Kochi: 102 kilometers
Places To Visit: Kurisumala Ashram, Murugan Hill, VAgamon Kurishumala Church, Vagamon Lake
Things To Do: Try various adventure sports like paragliding, trekking, and camping, stroll around the Pine forest, and visit the waterfalls
Suggested Read: 19 Amazing Cafes In Kochi To Experience The Best Traditional And Continental Food
9. Kuttanad – Rice Bowl Of Kerala
Image Credits: Sourav for Wikimedia
If you are looking for an offbeat weekend trips from Kochi, Kuttanad is a great option. Located 75 kms from Kochi in Alappuzha district, it is famous for its green paddy fields. Watch the farmers practicing ancient method of farming and lots of other activities such as ploughing of fields. All of it takes places mostly during the monsoon making it one of the best time to visit this place. If you happen to travel via houseboat, the lush green beauty of the region will leave you captivated.
Distance From Kochi: 75 kilometers
Places To Visit: Chavara Bhawan, Bhagavathi temple, Karumadi Kuttan
Things To Do: Houseboat cruise, enjoy the beautiful view of the paddy fields
Suggested Read: 6 Adventure Sports In Kochi That Will Let You Challenge Your Fears
10. Idukki – Spice Garden Of Kerala
Image Credits: Shaji for Wikimedia
With almost half of the area covered with forest, Idukki is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala. From diverse wildlife sanctuaries to spice plantations, tea factories to beautiful bungalows, Idukki has it all. Located around 100 kms from Kochi, it is one of the perfect weekend trips from Kochi to relax your mind and soul. When in Idukki, visit the famous dam to enjoy the boat rides in the backwaters.
Distance From Kochi: 100 kilometers
Places To Visit: Idukki dam, Kalvari Mount, Anchuruli Waterfalls, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Hill View Park
Things To Do: Trekking, Boat rides
Further Read: 32 Things To Do In Kochi On A Holiday In This Kerala
All the above mentioned weekend getaways from Kochi are quite similar yet different from one another, and that is what the beauty of this country is. Offering unmatchable experiences, these destinations have something for every kind of traveler, irrespective of their age groups. So, whenever you plan your next vacation to Kerala , keep these escapes in mind to enjoy an absolute experience!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Weekend Getaways From Kochi
What are the top weekend getaways from Kochi?
Kochi is a destination that is surrounded by some of the most serene and refreshing getaways for a weekend. The top ones in this list include Vagamon, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Mararikulam, and Varkala.
How far is Kochi from Thrissur?
Kochi is located around 89 kilometers away from Thrissur. It takes just a couple of hours to cover the distance between these two destinations by road.
What can one do in Thekkady?
Thekkady is heaven on earth for both nature and wildlife lovers out there. Some amazing things that one can do in Thekkady include nature walks, trekking, bamboo rafting, boating, and more.
What are the top tourist attractions in Munnar?
Munnar is the greenest destination that one has ever seen, famous for its emerald tea plantations. There are ample tourist attractions that this destination has to offer including Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, and Pothamedu View Point.
What is the best time to visit Kochi?
The best time to pay a visit to Kochi is during the winter season. The months from October to March are considered the best as the weather during this time is cool and pleasant.
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A pastry-chef turned writer, Srishti has a knack for traveling to various corners of the country and penning them down in the most justifiable manner possible. When she’s not writing you can find her petting mountain dogs and not eating cottage cheese!
