Quick weekend getaways in and around Fort Kochi you should not miss

(Written by your Fort Kochi friend at The Hosteller – with a pinch of pazham pori and a lots of love!)

We assume you’ve wandered Fort Kochi enough, clicked a hundred photos of the Chinese fishing nets, eaten Puttu with Kadala curry and maybe even tried your hand at saying “ente ponno” (oh my god) like a Malayali. But Kerala’s beauty doesn’t end here. We’ve got some weekend spots at a short distance from Kochi, that you should not miss. Namukku pokam (Let’s go!)

1. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)

This place is a time machine! Built by the Portuguese and later gifted to the Raja of Kochi, this place is a treasure of history. This place reflects Kerala’s rich art and culture. Plus, the nearby Jew Town is the cherry on top. Do not forget to bring your camera or charge your phone because every corner is Pinterest-y here. Shop, eat at one of the cosy cafes, or just wander around.

How much time should be spent?
1-2 hours (but if you love history and antiques, keep some buffer time handy.) Pair it with a stroll through Jew Town and don’t forget to ask, “Ithu evideyund?” (Where is this from?) when you spot something interesting.

Local vibe:
The air here smells like history and kattan chaya (strong black tea). Perfect for a lazy afternoon.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 10 minutes

Preety lanes of Jew Town

2. Cherai Beach

Are you a water baby? If yes, this place is for you (and if not, you will become one after being here.) It’s clean, quiet, and the perfect place to watch the sunset. Plus, you might spot a dolphin or two if you’re lucky!

How much time should be spent?
2-3 hours. Stay for the sunset and grab some karimeen pollichathu (grilled pearl spot fish) from a local shack.

Local vibe:
The sound of waves and the aroma of fresh seafood? Sheri alle? (Perfect, right?)

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 60 minutes

Chinese fishing net on Cherai beach

3. Bolghatty Palace

This Dutch-era palace on Bolghatty Island is all about relaxation. The gardens and backwaters are an escape from the city chaos. You can even try your hand at fishing or just sit back and enjoy the mazha peyyunnu (rainy) vibes.

How much time should be spent?
2 hours. If you’re feeling fancy, stay overnight and live like royalty.

Local vibe:
The island feels like a scene from a Malayalam movie, slow, peaceful, and full of affection.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 30 minutes

Beautiful Bolghatty Palace

4. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Calling all bird lovers! Thattekad is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds. The Malabar grey hornbill is the star of the show, but the greenery is just as enchanting.

How much time should be spent?
Half a day. Early mornings are the best time to visit.

Local vibe:
The forest feels like a story waiting to be told.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 2 hours 10 minutes

What do you think, is it an Owl or an Eagle?

5. Kodanad Elephant Training Center

Elephants are a big deal in Kerala, and this place lets you get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Watch them being bathed, fed, and trained—it’s a very lovable experience.

How much time should be spent?
2-3 hours. The nearby Periyar River is perfect for a quick picnic.

Local vibe:
The mahouts (elephant caretakers) will tell you stories about elephants that’ll leave you smiling.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 1 hour 50 minutes

An elephant enjoying a refreshing bath at Kodanad Elephant Training Center

6. Hill Palace Museum, Tripunithura

This was once the home of the Kochi royal family, and now it’s a museum filled with royal artefacts, weapons, and jewellery. The gardens are superb for a stroll.

How much time should be spent?
2-3 hours. Perfect for history buffs and Instagram lovers alike.

Local vibe:
The palace feels like a kavitha from Kerala’s past.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 40 minutes

Hill Palace Museum, Tripunithura

7. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

Right in the heart of Kochi, this little green haven for migratory birds. Let’s see if you can guess the name of all the birds.

How much time should be spent?
1-2 hours. It’s small but beautiful.

Local vibe:
The sanctuary is a home for birds.

Distance from The Hosteller Kochi, Ocean Edge: 35 minutes

Final Thoughts

Fort Kochi is just the beginning, my friend. These weekend getaways are another reason for you to stay in Kerala for longer. Whether you’re into history, love nature, or just someone looking for a break, these spots have something for everyone.

So pack your bags, put on your chappals (slippers), tie that lungi and prepare for an experience that’ll leave you saying, “Kochi, ente sneham!” (Kochi, my love!).

P.S. Need a place to crash after your adventures? Our The Hoateller Fort Kochi, Ocean Edge is all yours. Come here, we would love to serve you and hear your stories.