Kochi, or Cochin, is a small city located along the tranquil coast of Kerala, India, and is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty woven together. This city is a feast for the senses — with its serene backwaters, colonial architecture, and mouth-watering aroma of spices in the air. Soak in its culture, whether it’s meandering through the crowded markets of Fort Kochi, relaxing aboard a house boat amidst the backwaters or just enjoying a sunset. Kochi is an experience that touches the heart and soul. But first, how to get to this magical place.
How to Reach Kochi
By Air
For the jet-setters travelling from the major Indian cities, the best option to arrive at the shores of Kochi is by air. Cochin International Airport, COK, has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and even Kolkata.
— Delhi: Get your flight time to about 3 hours Frequent services are provided by airlines like Indigo and Air India.
– Mumbai: This route is around 1.5 hours long, and there are domestic and budget-based airlines you could use.
– Hyderabad: A short 1.5 hour hop and you land in this tropical paradise.
– Bangalore: A little more than an hour of flying, and with plenty of airlines servicing this route.
– Chennai: This is probably the shortest distance of about 1 hour flight. It’s a breeze!
– Kolkata: A bit longer at around 2.5 hours for those traveling from the eastern part of the country.
– Trivandrum: Only a 1 hour drive away from Trivandrum International Airport, convenient for those who are flying from the capital of the state of Kerala.
– Bhubaneswar: Approximately 2 hours of airtime; a handful of connecting flights.
Booking your tickets is super easy! For the best rates and offers, websites like MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, and EaseMyTrip can assist you.
By Train
If you’re the type of traveler who loves to sedately absorb the scenery, the theater of arriving in Kochi by train is magical. Ernakulam Junction is the main railway station, connected to multiple trains from the prominent cities.
– From Delhi: You will get to experience scenic travel for nearly 36 hours. For a more comfortable travel option, consider the Kerala Express.
– Mumbai: About 27 hours by train. A popular option is the Netravati Express.
– Hyderabad: About 24 hours of travel time. One of the best option is Kacheguda-Kochuveli Express.
– From Bangalore: Approximately 14 hours. One of the most popular choices among travelers is the Yesvantpur-Kochuveli Express.
– Chennai: Expect a brisk 8-10 hour trip. The Chennai-Eranakulam Express would be a decent choice.
– Kolkata: The journey from here to Kochi takes about 36 hours, but it’s all picturesque views.
– Other city(town) other State to Kochi: A 4 hour train journey from Trivandrum makes it an easy option.
– Bhubaneswar : The trains take about 28 hours with multiple options.
IRCTC is a user-friendly, efficient platform for train schedules and bookings.
By Road
Kochi is also an incredible destination for an adventure at heart and love for driving on open road, if you are one then driving to Kochi or taking a bus could be very rewarding. Xiamen is very well connected by a network of highways.
- From Trivandrum: A short 4-hour drive via the NH66 takes you to Kochi. Greens and Landscapes all along the route.
– Bangalore to Chikmagalur: The distance is about 250 – 275 distance depending on your route along the beautiful western ghats. The drive should take you around 10 -12 hours in full. You can halt at several local joints for some delicious Kerala cuisine. - Coming from Chennai: Around 10-12 hours by road, through beautiful countryside.
From Coimbatore: About 6-hour drive via NH544, passing through several scenic spots en route.
– From Mysore: This route will take around 7 hours, passing through the picturesque rural countryside of Karnataka and Kerala.
There are also long-distance buses from major cities, with services available from state-run to private luxury coaches, so it is a comfortable option as well.
How to Make Your Kochi Trip
- Chart Your Itinerary: The town is blessed with a number of sites, including the ancient Chinese fishing nets and the tranquil backwaters. Every stop you make, layout your plan to maximize the time you do have.
- Taste Local Flavors: Appam, Fish Curry, Payasam are some of the most must try foods of Kerala. Sometimes the best food is at local establishments.
- Stroll Around Fort Kochi: The colorful, colonial area is a mix of cultures, and the slow pace is ideal for aimless wandering.
- Book Ahead: If you’re flying, taking the train or choosing to ride a bus, book ahead.
- Like this Consult Travel Resources: More tips on Kochi and other insights on sites like TripAdvisor, and Thrillophilia
So, what are you waiting for? So pack your bags and get ready to explore the magical city of Kochi, because there is magic in every corner here, and every moment is an adventure to embark on!
For more Travel Guides, Stay Updated with Pathbeat.in
To explore audio tour guides and stories, visit the Pathbeat app
