Kochi, a captivating coastal city in Kerala, India, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This is the perfect time to explore the best destinations nearby. This blog will guide you through the best places to visit near Kochi in 2023, from lush hill stations to tranquil backwaters.
Best Places to Visit Near Kochi
Discover the enchanting getaways near Kochi in 2023. From serene backwaters to misty hill stations, explore the best places to visit near Kochi that promise unforgettable experiences just a short journey away.
- Alleppey: Backwater Bliss
- Kumarakom: Lakefront Serenity
- Munnar: Tea Garden Paradise
- Guruvayur: Temple Town Charm
- Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Avian Wonderland
- Varkala: Cliffside Retreat
- Idukki: Nature’s Abode
- Thrissur: Cultural Gem
- Athirapally Falls: Nature’s Cascade
- Kollam: Backwater Beauty
Alleppey: Backwater Bliss
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey boasts enchanting backwaters and picturesque houseboat cruises. In 2023, immerse yourself in its tranquil canals, lush paddy fields, and vibrant culture. It is one of the best places to visit in Kochi for couples.
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Distance from Kochi: Approximately 53 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days.
Top Attractions: Alappuzha Beach, Backwater Cruises, Alappuzha Lighthouse.
Things to Do: Houseboat rides, visit Alleppey’s coir factories, and explore Marari Beach.
Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather.
Kumarakom: Lakefront Serenity
A serene backwater village, Kumarakom offers lush greenery and luxurious houseboat stays. Explore its bird sanctuaries and rejuvenate at lakeside resorts, making it an ideal escape and one of the places to visit near Kochi India.
Distance from Kochi: About 53 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days.
Top Attractions: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Pathiramanal Island.
Things to Do: Houseboat cruises, bird watching, visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.
Best Time to Visit: November to February for bird watching.
Munnar: Tea Garden Paradise
In 2023, Munnar’s misty tea plantations and lush landscapes beckon. This hill station is a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for trekking and wildlife encounters amidst stunning vistas. It is one of the best places to visit near Kochi in 2 days.
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Distance from Kochi: Approximately 130 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days.
Top Attractions: Tea Gardens, Anamudi Peak, Eravikulam National Park.
Things to Do: Trekking, tea estate visits, boating in Mattupetty Dam.
Best Time to Visit: October to May for pleasant weather.
Guruvayur
Known for its famous Guruvayur Temple, this town in 2023 offers spiritual solace. Visit the temple, explore its traditional charm, and savor delicious Kerala cuisine.
Distance from Kochi: Around 80 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 days.
Top Attractions: Guruvayur Temple, Mammiyoor Temple, Elephant Camp.
Things to Do: Visit the temples, witness elephant processions.
Best Time to Visit: October to February for festivals and mild weather.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Avian Wonderland
Birdwatchers, don’t miss Thattekad in 2023. This sanctuary is home to diverse avian species amidst tropical forests, making it a paradise for ornithology enthusiasts.
Distance from Kochi: Approximately 65 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 1 day.
Top Attractions: Bird watching, Salim Ali Bird Interpretation Centre.
Things to Do: Bird watching, nature walks.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for bird migration.
Varkala: Cliffside Retreat
Varkala’s cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea make it a beach paradise and one of the secret places in Kochi. Enjoy its vibrant beach culture, indulge in yoga, and witness stunning sunsets. It is one of the best places to visit near Kochi within 200 km.
Distance from Kochi: About 170 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days.
Top Attractions: Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, Varkala Cliff.
Things to Do: Beach activities, yoga, cliff-top dining.
Best Time to Visit: September to March for pleasant weather.
Idukki: Nature’s Abode
Nature enthusiasts will adore Idukki in 2023. Its lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and the Idukki Dam offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. It is one of the best places to visit in Kerala near Kochi.
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Distance from Kochi: Approximately 120 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days.
Top Attractions: Idukki Dam, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Hill Stations like Munnar and Thekkady.
Things to Do: Trekking, wildlife safaris, boat rides.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable weather.
Thrissur: Cultural Gem
Explore Kerala’s cultural heart in Thrissur. Known for its vibrant festivals and historical sites, 2023 is an excellent time to witness its rich heritage and art forms. It is one of the best places to visit near Kochi with family and friends.
Distance from Kochi: Around 80 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 days.
Top Attractions: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Zoo, Thrissur Pooram Festival.
Things to Do: Explore temples, and attend cultural festivals.
Best Time to Visit: October to February for festival season.
Athirapally Falls: Nature’s Cascade
Experience the majesty of Athirapally Falls in 2023. These cascading waters, surrounded by lush greenery, create a spectacular sight and offer opportunities for trekking and photography. It is one of the best places near Kochi to visit in Monsoon.
Distance from Kochi: Approximately 70 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 1 day.
Top Attractions: Athirapally Falls, Vazhachal Falls.
Things to Do: Sightseeing, trekking to the base of the falls.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for the monsoon when the falls are at their best.
Kollam: Backwater Beauty
Kollam’s serene backwaters and historic charm make it an enticing destination in 2023. Explore its ancient port, Ashtamudi Lake, and the soothing Ayurvedic treatments it offers.
Distance from Kochi: About 140 kilometers.
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days.
Top Attractions: Ashtamudi Lake, Thangassery Lighthouse, Munroe Island.
Things to Do: Houseboat rides, backwater exploration, Ayurvedic treatments.
Best Time to Visit: September to March for pleasant weather and festivals.
How to Reach Kochi
Kochi, a bustling city in Kerala, India, is easily accessible by air, train, and road. Here’s how to reach this vibrant destination:
By Air:
- Kochi International Airport (COK) is well-connected domestically and internationally.
- Flights from major Indian cities and several international destinations land here.
- The airport is around 29 kilometers from the city center, and you can easily hire taxis or use public transportation to reach the city.
By Train:
- Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Junction (North) are the primary railway stations in Kochi.
- They are well-connected to major Indian cities via regular train services.
- Once at the station, you can hire taxis or use local transport to reach your destination within Kochi.
By Road:
- Kochi is well-connected by road to nearby cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
- National Highways NH66 and NH544 pass through Kochi, making it accessible by car or bus.
- Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services from various cities in Kerala to Kochi.
By Sea:
- Kochi is a major port city, and cruise ships also dock at the Kochi Port.
- If you’re arriving by cruise, you can easily explore the city and its attractions.
Local Transportation:
Once in Kochi, you can use various modes of local transportation, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis, to get around the city and explore its many attractions.
All these best places to visit near Kochu await exploring, each offering a unique tapestry of experiences. Whether you seek the tranquility of backwaters, the allure of hill stations, or the cultural richness of temples and festivals, these places promise unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through the best places to visit near Kochi, where adventure and serenity await in equal measure.
