How to get to Kochi

Located on the picturesque Malabar Coast, Kochi is a vibrant port city in the state of Kerala, often referred to as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea." This unique metropolis harmoniously combines colonial-era heritage, ancient traditions, and the dynamic rhythm of modern India. When planning how to get to Kochi, you will discover excellent transport accessibility: the city is a major hub, welcoming guests by plane, train, bus, and car.

The fastest way to reach the region is by flying via Cochin International Airport (COK). This modern aviation hub, renowned for its eco-friendliness, is well-connected to the city and receives regular flights from many countries and major Indian cities.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider routes via neighboring cities: Coimbatore (142 km), Kozhikode (156 km), or Trivandrum (172 km). However, arriving directly at Kochi airport remains the most comfortable option, sparing you from long transfers.

Contrary to outdated notions, reaching the city by rail is very easy and convenient. Although the stations do not bear the name "Kochi," the city is served by two major railway hubs: Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North), located in the very center of the metropolitan area.

These stations connect the region with almost every corner of India, including long-distance routes from Delhi and Mumbai. Traveling by train is not only a budget-friendly way to move around but also an opportunity to witness the authentic life of the country and the picturesque landscapes of Kerala from the carriage window.

Bus service is a popular and affordable way to reach the coast from neighboring cities in South India. One of the fastest routes is the trip from the city of Trivandrum: covering 187 km will take about 4.8 hours, allowing you to enjoy views of the tropical nature.

Regular services also run from the city of Coimbatore (about 170 km), with a travel time of approximately 5.4 hours. If you are departing from the city of Kozhikode, expect to spend about 5.6 hours on the road to cover the 181 km to your destination.

Traveling by car or taxi gives you the freedom to choose your route and the opportunity to make stops at picturesque places along the way. The trip from the city of Coimbatore, spanning about 193 km, will take approximately 4.5 hours, which is one of the fastest options.

The road from the city of Kozhikode (205 km) will require about 4.9 hours of driving. Travelers departing from the city of Trivandrum will have to cover 210 km, which usually takes around 5.4 hours depending on traffic density.

To ensure your experience with the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations. Considering these nuances will help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy your holiday:

1. Clothing and Climate. Given the high humidity and heat, loose-fitting clothing made from natural cotton or linen is the ideal choice. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for long walks and a head covering for protection against the strong sun.
2. Water Transport. Do not miss the opportunity to use ferries to move between the areas of Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and Ernakulam. This is the cheapest, fastest, and most scenic way to avoid city traffic jams.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Cards are accepted in major hotels, but always carry small denomination cash for paying auto-rickshaws, shopping at markets, and in small cafes.
4. Health and Protection. Insects are active in the tropical climate, so having a high-quality repellent is mandatory, especially in the evenings. It is also recommended to drink only bottled water.
5. Language. Locals speak Malayalam, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, so communication problems usually do not arise.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to remove shoes when visiting temples and private homes. Please dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.
7. Food. Local cuisine is famous for spices and can be very spicy. When ordering dishes in restaurants, do not hesitate to ask for "non-spicy" or "medium spicy" if you are not used to hot peppers.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to adapt faster to the local rhythm of life and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient streets, Chinese fishing nets, and the aromas of spices.