Kochi is a beautiful city with magnificent places of interest. The natural views and the historical architecture overwhelms the tourists all points of time. The IT City of India, Bangalore has different aspects to explore. So, if coming from the tech city, book Bangalore to Kochi flights at least a few months prior to get the lowest fares. Also, air travel will save time and let you enjoy your weekend to the fullest.
Things to Pack
If you are going to spend a weekend in Kochi, then compact luggage is the ideal option. A small trolley bag or a backpack can be carried with a handful things to pack. A pair of shoes is sufficient for the weekend which is comfortable and sturdy. By checking the weather in advance, packing the necessary things will be a good choice. It’s advisable to carry the passport and an Identity proof at all times with multiple copies. A good camera with additional batteries or full charging is must to capture all the memories of your weekend trip.
Places of Interest
There are so many things to explore in the Southern city. The essence of the crowd on the streets, its culture, stores, green spaces and restaurants are all the part of the unwinding getaway. There are many places which are free of cost to visit and paying is undoubtedly unnecessary unless there is an event or exhibition.
Day 1
Start your day by visiting the Ernakulam Shiva Temple, one of the ancient temples in Central Kerala. The temple is located in proximity to the backwaters of the Vembanad Lake. Cochin Jewish Synagogue can be visited next located in the Jew Town in Mattancherry area of the city. It is the oldest synagogue of the Commonwealth of the Nations and is also known as Paradesi Synagogue. Thirdly, the Dutch Palace, at a distance of about 10 kilometres from the Ernakulam Railway Station, was built by the Portuguese and presented to the king of Kochi in 1555AD. It is a portrait gallery of the kings of Kochi. Santa Cruz Basilica and The Indo Portuguese Museum are the two places which are situated in the Kochi Fort depicting the Christian Art heritage and artistic grandeur of the place. Towards the end of the day, Fort Kochi Beach and Chinese Fishing Nets can be seen. Locally, the nets are known as Cheenavala and are on the Fort Kochi Beach itself.
Day 2
Kochi Sightseeing can be continued on the second day too, and many prominent places of interest can be seen. First of all, Gallery of Contemporary Art can be seen which is situated in the Durbar Hall near the Shiva Temple. Secondly, bird watching can be done at Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary can be done. It is home to a variety of rare and exotic migratory birds. The place is basically a mangrove area connected with the Vembanad Lake. After this, visit the St. George Ferona Church in Edapally which was built in 594 AD and Museum of Kerala History built and maintained by Madavan Nayar Foundation. The entrance of the museum has a statue of Parasurama that greets the visitors. At last, St Mary’s Church and the Cherai Beach can be explored. The church is a major centre for the Christian pilgrims while the beach is one of the most popular tourist places near Kochi.
Although it is challenging to explore Kochi in two days, still some of the handpicked places of interest can be explored. If you plan to visit some particular places, then it’s better to plan an itinerary before travelling so as to make the travel more comfortable and less tiring. If coming from Bangalore, book Bangalore to Kochi flights in advance whenever planning the itinerary.