Solo Exploring in Old Kochi
I tend to solo explore Old Kochi when the Kochi-Muziris Biennale isn’t on. Don’t get me wrong, as a fellow artist, I love how the place transforms into a vibrant community of beautiful things and people but I prefer my picture frames without chaos, the noise of it all. July marks the beginning of monsoon in Kerala, if you don’t mind a little drizzle now and then, it’s so wonderfully calm and changes the way you see Old Kochi. From popular eateries and stores to renovated buildings brimming with history, let’s get you up to speed on what you can do, especially if you’re solo exploring in Old Kochi. Views of the Arabian Are you that person who has to run and see the waters when at a coastal destination? If yes, drop your bags and head to have a meal at: Old Bristow Lighthouse Hotel - for lunch hour to beat the heat Ginger House - for a relaxed atmosphere while in Jew Town The Waterfront Granary - for sunsets and dining on the dock Colony Clubhouse and Grill - located in Grand Hyatt, Bolgatty
Catching the Art Scene Some places that have a year-long, non-seasonal art vibe to them and you can throw a couple of these into your day based on which area you’re exploring Pandhal Cafe & Deli - earlier known as David Hall Art Cafe, now with a fresh cafe look The Kerala Folklore Museum - good to cross off when driving in or out of Fort Kochi Kashi Art Cafe - the OG cafe on Burger Street, a must visit Mocha Art Cafe- pretty pit-stop when in Jew Town Lila Art Cafe - underrated and for a pocket of peace
Landmarks of Old Kochi for History There's so much for the eyes to feast on, even when on a simple morning walk. Probably the influences of Dutch, British, and Portuguese architecture that plays into any little shop or a house tucked away in lanes. Don't miss out on these touristy places while you're there, plan around the rush and check timings of the below places before heading out: Chinese Fishing Nets - iconic setting of chinese-style fishing methods against the sea Paradesi Synagogue - one of the 7 synagogues still in operation, in Jew Town Mattancherry Palace - also known as Dutch palace and under the UNESCO Heritage Marine Drive - beautiful stretch by the harbor, seen for its lights at light St. George Forane Church - Asia’s largest Shrine dedicated to St George and can be fit in when driving in or out of For Kochi Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica - set within Fort Kochi, for Gothic and European Architecture
A few more places to pause at I’d recommend exploring Old Kochi on foot; it's a great way to stumble on new spots and pause to quench your thirst at pretty cafes. While there are always competing cafes with decent fare in most places, some favorites to include are: Loafer’s cafe - quaint cafe on a corner to watch the world go by Trouvaille Cafe - for coffee aficionados looking for tranquility Tea House Cafe- quirky cafe for tea time with fresh bakes and inviting atmosphere Oissa Cafe - peaceful cafe with nostalgic elements like typewriters and antiques Teapot Cafe - sadly, this is permanently closed. But if you see an ivy covered cafe in Jew Town, do step in for some nostalgia Anokhi - for the softest, pure-cotton fabrics to sport while on holiday Crafters Louis Hall - for shopping knickknacks and enamel cookware in the old markets
Beaches to rest up your soul
I’ve been beach hopping everywhere I go to the point that this section required some hunting from my Gmaps history. Take in the Arabian when the sun’s not too hot at:
Puthenthode Beach - cleanest, quietest beach with a good shoreline for walks / runs
Puthuvype Beach - on Vypin Island and often with lesser crowds for scenic pictures
Fort Kochi Beach - soft sand beach accessible via a beach walkway as well
Kuzhupilly beach - serene and isolated beach to check out near Cherai on Vypin Island
Mahatma Gandhi Beach - this one is also in commercial use with fisherfolk, so you can browse on by to see the Chinese Fishing Nets
A little ways off, but still good Old Kochi
If you’ve managed transport or don’t mind waving down an auto to head out of the main areas in Old Kochi, then you can cover and understand the destination a bit more at these spots
Wellington Island - largest artificial island in India housing many national organizations. Head there for a post-sunset stroll / early morning jog
Vypin Lighthouse - a quick ferry ride across from Fort Kochi for stunning views of the Arabian. You can cross off this place as you head to the beaches along the coast
Cherai Beach - ideal for a quick dip in the ocean and to view some chinese fishing nets
Athirapally Waterfalls - 70km away to the largest waterfall in Kerala and the scenic backdrop to many Indian movies.
Head on over to my travel diary of this location where hotels and places feature along with their wholesome vibe. Stay tuned!
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