Here’s our definitive walking guide to the city we call home. The only way to make friends with a city is to walk its lanes, while you watch and observe the locals, pet its strays and tuck into local roadside favourites in the streets as you stroll.
So here’s our list of lanes to walk by, if you’re visiting Fort Kochi.
-
The road along the Dronacharya base: This is next to a military base, but despite the intimidating security set up along this road, you will find that the road is pleasant, really wide and relatively quiet and peaceful. And the bonus? When you reach the SBI building at the end of it, turn left for the Beach. You can sit and rest for a while after that walk.
-
The Chinese Nets: Yes, this is a very touristy thing to do. But the thing about cliches is that they exist for a reason. Wait and observe the fishermen lined up around the nets to grab the fresh catch of the day.
3. The lane along St Francis church: Arguably the most touristy thing to do - But it enjoys the status of being one of the oldest European churches in India. Vasco da Gama was buried within the church compound although his remains have been moved to Europe now. Prepare to jostle crowds when you visit, unless you get here in the early morning hours (which we would highly recommend)
4. The streets of Mattancherry: No lane in Mattancherry can be accused of being boring or uneventful. Given how old the neighbourhood is, and how bustling, there’s always lots of architectural details to take in, spice stalls to gawk at, locals to nod at, and stray cats and dogs to pet, not to mention some of the best hole in the wall restaurants that only the insiders are familiar with. Take your time to walk around Mattancherry and discover your own gems.
-
KB Jacob Road: The primary road that connects much of the touristy parts of Fort Kochi to each other. Walk along the early morning hours or late evenings after sunset for a cool breezy walk.
Visiting Fort Kochi? Drop in to our new Fort Kochi retail outlet, we would love to meet you. Located on Petercelli Street, below Bunk House Hotel. Find us on Google Maps here.