Exploring Kochi, Kerala: A Journey from Kannur & Unique Toddy Experience

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. In this travel series, we take you on a journey from Kannur to Kochi, exploring its vibrant streets, savoring delicious food, and experiencing the traditional Toddy by the backwaters. If you're planning a trip to Kerala, this blog will be your ultimate guide to Kochi, covering must-visit spots, local delicacies, and travel tips!

Journey from Kannur to Kochi: A Scenic Drive

Our journey began in Kannur, a coastal town known for its rich history and beautiful beaches. The drive from Kannur to Kochi is around 275 km and takes approximately 6-7 hours by road. We encountered breathtaking coastal views and made a pit stop at Thalassery, famous for its legendary food scene.

Food Stop at Thalassery: A Must-Try Culinary Experience

No road trip in Kerala is complete without indulging in its authentic cuisine. We visited a remote yet highly recommended restaurant in Thalassery, known for its biryani. However, we decided to try something different:

• Banana Fry – A unique and delightful Kerala snack.

• Upma – A simple yet flavorful dish that took us by surprise.

After this fulfilling meal, we continued our journey to Kochi, excited for the experiences ahead.

Best Way to Reach Kochi & Ideal Time to Visit

How to Reach Kochi

• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), well-connected to major cities in India and abroad.

• By Train: Kochi has multiple railway stations, with Ernakulam Junction (ERS) being the main one.

• By Road: If you're traveling from Kannur, you can either take a private taxi, a comfortable KSRTC bus, or drive along the scenic NH66 highway.

Best Time to Visit Kochi

The ideal time to visit Kochi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rains, making it a great time for nature lovers but challenging for travel.

Best Things to Do in Kochi

1. Explore Fort Kochi & Mattancherry

Walk through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, where colonial history meets vibrant street art. Key highlights include:

• Chinese Fishing Nets – An iconic symbol of Kochi’s rich maritime history.

• Mattancherry Palace – Showcasing Kerala’s regal heritage.

• Jew Town & Paradesi Synagogue – A charming street lined with antique shops and Jewish history.

2. Discover the Hidden Gem: Vypin Island

One of the most underrated yet stunning locations near Kochi is Vypin Island. This hidden gem offers breathtaking views, serene backwaters, and an escape from the city’s hustle. We captured some incredible drone shots here, truly showcasing its beauty.

If you're visiting Kochi, a short ferry ride to Vypin is highly recommended!

3. Experience the Kerala Kathakali Centre

Witness the mesmerizing Kathakali dance performances and Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstrations, an unmissable cultural experience in Kochi.

4. Take a Sunset Cruise in the Backwaters

Enjoy a tranquil boat ride through the backwaters of Kochi, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.

5. Visit the Spice Markets

Explore the local spice markets and bring home some authentic Kerala spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cloves.

6. Visit Munambam Beach – A Secluded Coastal Escape

Located near Vypin, Munambam Beach is a pristine and peaceful beach, perfect for an evening stroll. Unlike the crowded tourist spots, this beach offers a serene environment with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

7. Try Local Street Food at Broadway Market

Broadway Market is one of Kochi’s best-kept secrets, offering authentic Kerala street food, including Kappa (tapioca), fish curry, and Kozhi Porichathu (Kerala-style fried chicken).

8. Explore Kumbalangi – Kerala’s First Model Tourism Village

Kumbalangi is an eco-tourism village that offers a glimpse into Kerala’s traditional fishing community. You can experience prawn farming, Chinese fishing nets, and houseboat rides in this offbeat destination.

9. Watch a Secret Handloom Weaving Process in Chendamangalam

Just outside Kochi, Chendamangalam is home to Kerala’s famous handloom industry. Here, you can watch weavers create stunning fabrics using centuries-old techniques, making it a must-visit for those interested in Kerala’s textile heritage.

Toddy Experience in Kochi: Kerala’s Traditional Drink

Our trip wouldn’t have been complete without trying Toddy, Kerala’s famous local drink. We visited a Toddy shop nestled by the backwaters, where we enjoyed:

• Fresh Toddy – A naturally fermented coconut palm drink.

• Traditional Kerala Cuisine – Spicy seafood, tapioca, and other delicacies.

• Relaxing Sunset Views – Watching birds and boats as the sun dipped over the horizon.

Final Thoughts & What’s Next?

Our time in Kochi was filled with amazing experiences, from scenic drives and delicious food to discovering hidden gems like Vypin Island and indulging in the Toddy culture. But this was just the beginning!

📍 Next Stop: Stay tuned as we head to Munnar, where we chase the sunrise at Kolukkumalai Peak, the world’s highest tea plantation!

🚗 Planning your own Kerala trip? Don’t forget to book your stay at OYO Hotels for a hassle-free and comfortable experience: Book Now

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Stay tuned for the next adventure! 🚀