Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city located in the southwestern state of Kerala in India. As a business traveler, you may not have a lot of free time to explore the city, but there are still plenty of things you can do and try while you're in town.
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Here are some facts about Kochi, which may come in handy:
- Located in the southwestern state of Kerala in India, Kochi is a major port city and the commercial capital of the state.
- The city has a population of approximately 2.1 million people.
- Kochi is known for its mix of cultures, with influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British who have all had a presence in the city at various times in its history.
- The city is home to a number of landmarks and tourist attractions, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi, the Hill Palace Museum, and the Santa Cruz Basilica.
- Kochi is an important center for business and trade, with a number of large companies and industries based in the city.
- The city is also known for its shopping, with a variety of markets and stores offering a range of products, including traditional handicrafts and modern clothing and accessories.
- Kochi is known for its delicious cuisine, with a number of local dishes such as appam, fish curry, and idli that are popular with tourists and locals alike.
- The city has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.
You don't always have the capacity in the suitcase/luggage while travelling on a business trip but when packing for a trip to Kochi, here are some items you may want to consider bringing:
- Comfortable clothing: Kochi has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. Bring a mix of long and short-sleeved shirts, as well as pants or skirts and skirts.
- Sun protection: The sun can be strong in Kochi, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must for sightseeing, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Sandals or sneakers are a good choice.
- Rain gear: Kochi can experience heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September), so it's a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in Kochi, especially during the rainy season, so it's a good idea to bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
- Medicine: If you take any prescription medications, be sure to bring enough to last for your entire trip. It's also a good idea to bring over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as headaches and allergies.
- Travel documents: Don't forget to bring your passport, visas, and any other necessary travel documents.
- Electrical adapter: If you're bringing any electronic devices, be sure to bring an adapter to fit the local outlets.
- Camera: Kochi is a photogenic city, so don't forget to bring your camera to capture all of your memories.
By packing these items, you'll be well-prepared for your trip to Kochi and ready to enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Here are some suggestions for your business trip to Kochi:
- Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets: These unique fishing nets, believed to have been brought to Kochi by Chinese traders in the 14th century, are a must-see for any visitor to the city. You can find them along the coast near the Fort Kochi beach, and watching the fishermen at work is a great way to relax after a long day of meetings.
- Explore Fort Kochi: This historic neighborhood is home to a number of interesting landmarks, including the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch Cemetery, and the Mattancherry Palace. Take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere of this charming area.
- Visit the Hill Palace Museum: Located just outside of Kochi, the Hill Palace Museum is the largest archeological museum in Kerala. It houses a collection of antiques, paintings, and sculptures, and is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
- Go shopping: Kochi is known for its shopping, and you'll find a wide range of products available, from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing and accessories. The Broadway market and the Marine Drive area are popular shopping destinations.
- Try the local cuisine: Kerala is home to some of the best food in India, and Kochi is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as appam (a type of rice pancake), fish curry, and idli (a type of steamed rice cake).
Here is a suggested itinerary for a 4 week trip to Kochi:
Week 1:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kochi and check into your hotel. Take some time to rest and get settled in.
- Day 2: Explore Fort Kochi and visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch Cemetery, and the Mattancherry Palace.
- Day 3: Go shopping in the Broadway market and the Marine Drive area.
- Day 4: Visit the Hill Palace Museum and learn about the history and culture of the region.
- Day 5: Spend the day at the beach, and watch the fishermen at work with the Chinese Fishing Nets.
- Day 6: Take a boat tour of the backwaters, and see the scenic waterways and villages of Kerala.
- Day 7: Relax and unwind at a local spa or wellness center.
Week 2:
- Day 8: Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum and see the collection of art and artifacts from the state.
- Day 9: Go on a spice tour and learn about the various spices that are grown in the region.
- Day 10: Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Kerala dishes.
- Day 11: Explore the city's temples and churches, including the Paradesi Synagogue and the Cochin Jewish Community Center.
- Day 12: Go birdwatching at the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, and see a variety of species in their natural habitat.
- Day 13: Visit the Fort Kochi Beach and take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
- Day 14: Relax and unwind at a local coffee shop or cafe.
Week 3:
- Day 15: Take a trip to the Athirappilly Falls and see the beautiful waterfall and surrounding scenery.
- Day 16: Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum and learn about the Portuguese influence on the city.
- Day 17: Go on a cycling tour of the city and see the sights in a different way.
- Day 18: Visit the Bolgatty Palace and Gardens, and take a leisurely stroll through the grounds.
- Day 19: Go on a heritage walk and learn about the history and culture of the city.
- Day 20: Take a trip to the Ernakulam Shiva Temple and see the beautiful temple and surrounding gardens.
- Day 21: Relax and unwind at a local restaurant or bar.
Week 4:
- Day 22: Visit the Kerala Museum and see the collection of art and artifacts from the state.
- Day 23: Go on a boat tour of the Vembanad Lake and see the beautiful waterways and villages.
- Day 24: Take a trip to the Mattancherry Palace and see the beautiful architecture and artworks.
- Day 25: Go on a nature walk and see the flora and fauna of the region.
- Day 26: Visit the Ernakulam Art Gallery and see the collection of artworks from the region.
- Day 27: Take a trip to the Cherai Beach and relax on the sandy shores.
- Day 28: Spend the day at your leisure, and do anything you haven't had a chance to do yet.
This is just a suggestion, and you can certainly adjust the itinerary to suit your own interests and preferences. There is plenty to see and do in Kochi, so you'll be able to fill your 4 week trip with a wide range of activities and experiences.
Overall, Kochi is a fascinating city with a lot to offer business travellers. Whether you have a few hours to spare between meetings or a full day to explore, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your trip.
