Stop scrolling. If Kochi hasn’t yet made it to your travel list, it’s time to rethink your plans.
We are Touracle, your travel buddy, and we are about to take you on a quick but totally unforgettable 48-hour journey into the heart of Kerala’s most spirited seaside city — Kochi. Two days might not seem like a lot, but trust me, it’s long enough to soak in its culture, eat like royalty, and fall in love with its backwaters vibes. This travel guide is your insider scoop to make every hour count.
Best Time to Visit Kochi for a Short Trip
Let’s get this right before we dive in. The ideal time to visit Kochi is between October and March. The weather is cooler, the sea breeze is friendly, and it’s perfect for sightseeing. Avoid the monsoon months (June to September) unless you’re fond of heavy rain and wet shoes.
Day 1 Morning: Start with the historic Fort Kochi
Begin your 48 hours in Kochi by heading straight to Fort Kochi. It’s where time stands still, and history lives on.
- Explore the Chinese Fishing Nets: These massive cantilevered nets are more than just fishing equipment. They are Kochi’s most photographed icons. Try your hand at pulling them with fishermen—it’s surprisingly fun!
- Walk along Fort Kochi Beach: The sea breeze, the sound of waves, and view of docked ships make your walk simply serene.
- St. Francis Church: Visit India’s oldest European church, where Vasco da Gama was once buried.
Pro-tip: Stop by a street-side tea stall, sip on “chaya,” and watch the slow rhythm of life unfold.
Taste Authentic Kerala Breakfast in Kochi
You can’t explore on an empty stomach. For breakfast, try the local favorites:
- Appam with stew: Soft rice pancakes served with coconut milk-based veggie or meat stew.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed cylinders of ground rice with spicy black chickpea curry.
- Idiyappam: String hoppers with sweet coconut milk or egg curry.
Head to local cafés in Fort Kochi or check out Kayees Rahmathulla Hotel for local flavors.
Midday Magic: Visit Mattancherry Palace & Jew Town
After breakfast, take a short auto ride over to Mattancherry—a neighborhood rich with cultural treasures and street charm.
- Mattancherry or Dutch Palace: It features Kerala murals depicting temple art and Cochin Raja history.
- Paradesi Synagogue: One of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth. Admire its Belgian chandeliers and ancient scrolls.
- Jew Town Streets: Shop for antiques, spices, handmade jewelry, and quirky souvenirs.
There’s no rush here. Go slow. Smell the fresh spices. Talk to locals. You might come away with a story or two.
Indulge in a Traditional Kerala Lunch
Kochi doesn’t joke when it comes to flavors. For lunch:
- Try a Sadhya: A complete vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf—it’s especially available in traditional restaurants.
- Seafood platter: Kochi is a coastal city, so don’t skip tiger prawns, pearl spot, and crab in Malabari spices from restaurants like “The Rice Boat.”
Don’t forget to round off your meal with a sweet dessert like Palada Payasam.
Evening Plan: Sunset Cruise on the Kochi Backwaters
No 2-day Kochi itinerary is complete without a sunset backwater cruise. Book a traditional yet comfy boat from Marine Drive or Fort Kochi pier for a 2-hour ride through Kochi’s shimmering waters.
- Watch the sun dip as fishermen haul in their catch.
- Spot coconut trees, birds, and serene village scenes.
A backwater cruise is easily one of the best things to do in Kochi in 48 hours.
Dinner and Nightlife: Where the City Lights Up
Kochi’s nightlife is calm but charismatic. For a laid-back dinner:
- Kashi Art Café: Experience great continental dishes in a peaceful art-gallery setting.
- SkyGrill Lounge at Crowne Plaza: They serve coastal-inspired grills and have a stunning rooftop view.
If you’re a couple on a honeymoon, this is your perfect date night setting—warm lights reflecting off the waters and soothing jazz in the background.
Day 2 Morning: Kerala Folklore Museum and Local Temples
Kickstart Day 2 with local heritage at Kerala Folklore Museum. One of Kochi’s most underrated gems, it houses over 4,000 artifacts from Kerala’s deep-rooted traditions.
Spare an hour later for spiritual calm at:
- Ernakulam Shiva Temple
- Vamanamoorthy Temple, Thrikkakara
These peaceful temples are ideal for cultural reflection and are worth a visit for both families and couples.
Have a Spa Break: Indulge in a Kerala Ayurvedic Experience
Traveling can get tiring, even on short trips. That’s why you must try a traditional Ayurvedic massage in Kochi. It’s not just relaxing—it’s healing!
- Look for certified Ayurvedic centers like Ayurville or Santhigiri for authentic therapies.
- Choose from Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (forehead oil drip), or foot massages.
This is especially popular among luxury travelers wanting to unwind.
Lunch with a View: Where to Eat on Day 2
By now, you might want something light but scenic. Here are a few lovely places:
- Brunton Boatyard Restaurant: Overlooks the sea with heritage cuisine.
- Seagull Restaurant: Beachfront with fusion and local dishes.
The views alone are worth the visit, and it’s the perfect place for family travelers to take vibrant pictures.
Afternoon Shopping and Last-Minute Sightseeing
Before heading out, shop a little and explore what’s left:
- Lulu Mall Kochi: It’s India’s largest shopping mall — perfect for branded shopping, food courts, and some air-conditioned comfort.
- Broadway Market: Ideal for budget shopping — from spices to textiles and perfumes.
If time permits, check out the Hill Palace Museum or stroll down MG Road for a taste of local city life.
How to Get Around Kochi Efficiently
Getting around Kochi is part of the experience:
- Uber & Auto Rickshaws: Best for quick point-to-point travel.
- Ferries: Use local water ferries for inter-island travel. They’re cheap and scenic!
- Private tourist cabs: Great if you’re traveling with family or looking for convenience.
We at Touracle recommend mixing it up. Ride like a local one minute, glide in comfort the next.
Bonus Experiences if You Have Extra Time
- Kathakali Show: Watch a traditional theatre show with stunning makeup and expressive dance in Fort Kochi.
- Kumbalangi Village Tour: Get up-close with rural Kerala life, traditional fishing, and mud crab catching.
- Visit Cherai Beach: A bit outside Kochi, but great if you’re a beach lover looking for less crowd and calm waves.
And just like that, your 48 hours in Kochi come to a beautiful end. Whether you came with family, your better half, or simply your sense of curiosity—this city has a way of giving you more than you expected.
Of course, planning can be overwhelming, especially when you want to make every moment count. At Touracle, we make it easy. From customized Kochi travel packages to romantic backwater cruises and family-friendly stays, we take care of the details while you soak in the magic.
Looking for help planning your next 48 (or 480) hours in Kochi? Contact us and let’s chat travel dreams.