Previously known as Cochin, Kochi is a beautiful place that boasts of captivating beaches and glowing backwaters. It is renowned as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in central Kerala, it is the most cosmopolitan city of the state. Kochi also serves as the Commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. The town is an interesting eclectic mix of many exotic cultures like the Portuguese, Jewish, English, French, Dutch and Chinese. Kochi promises a relaxing and memorable experience to all who visit.

Best time to fly from Manila to Kochi

Due to its location, Kochi's climate is tropical. Therefore it remains hot and humid all year round. The best time to visit Kochi is when the weather is a little cool and pleasant, which is usually from October to March. However, these months are also considered as peak tourist season. The temperature hovers around 37°C during the summer season, which can be a little extreme to those not used to the heat. The weather remains dry and humid throughout summer, so for many, it is not considered as an ideal time to explore the attractions of Kochi. On the other hand, this season is an off-peak season so that travellers can enjoy the best of the city in peace and serenity. Tourist places are less crowded and even the hotel rates are at its affordable best during this season in Kochi. Travellers are advised to pack more cotton and airy clothes and use sunscreen regularly.

Main airports available in Manila and Kochi

Ninoy Aquino International Airport - The Ninoy Aquino International Airport is an international airport serving the Manila and surrounding city. It is also known as NAIA by locals. The airport is located along the border between the cities of Pasay and Parañaque. The nearest town to the airport, which is in the south of Manila and southwest of Makati, is located around 7 kilometres. The airlines that operate in this airport is AirAsia Philippines, Cebgo, Cebu Pacific, PAL Express, and Philippine Airlines. There are four different terminals at this airport, and it houses many interesting shops and eateries within the airport so you can shop or dine in while waiting for the plane to arrive or depart. It is easy to reach the airport as there are many types of transportation available in Ninoy Aquino International Airport for visitors.

Cochin International Airport - Servicing the city of Kochi in Kerala is Cochin International Airport. Located at Nedumbassery, around 25 kilometres upper east of the city, Cochin International Airport is the main air terminal in India created under an open private association (PPP) model and was given the support of almost 10,000 non-inhabitant Indians from 30 countries. Due to its size and service connections, Cochin International aeroplane terminal is the busiest airport in the territory of Kerala. Cochin International Airport is also one of the busiest airports in India and is connected well to the city by car rental services and taxis.

Climate pattern in Manvila and Kochi

The average temperature in Kochi goes typically from 25°C to 32°C. However, temperatures during the summer in Kochi can rise from 27°C to 33°C. Kochi also experiences the monsoon. Monsoons in Kerala are beautiful whereby the city of Kochi will transform with greenery during this season. You can experience and enjoy the cool breeze while enjoying the scenic view of the city. At this time, travellers should always be prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat.

Highlights in Kochi

• Chinese Fishing Nets - Popularly known as Cheenavala, the Chinese Fishing Nets is one of the most iconic and popular attractions in Kochi. The nets are easy to spot as it is located next to Fort Kochi. It is one of the significant cultural symbols of Kerala and one of the most photographed places in all of the town, attracting hordes of tourists and photographers on an everyday basis According to legend, the nets were brought from the court of Chinese head Kublai Khan and were introduced to anglers in Kochi by Chinese adventurer Zheng He in the fourteenth century. The nets are still in use by local fishers to this very day. Travellers should not miss the opportunity to capture the view of these nets amidst the sunset. It is one of the most breathtaking views that you will see in Kochi.
• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary – Nature enthusiasts will enjoy visiting this reserve which serves as a natural habitat to many endangered and common species of local and migratory birds, as well as mangrove vegetation. Located in Central Kochi, the sanctuary surrounds a tidal lake that is connected to the backwaters and one of the must-see places for sightseeing in Kochi. It is also home to several species of fishes. Birdwatchers should make it a point to try and spot the redshank, greenshank, brahmin kite, white-breasted water hen and marsh sandpiper as they are indigenous to this part of the world. The beautiful landscape of the sanctuary has certainly earned it a spot on the list of best tourist places in Kochi.
• Hill Palace – For those with interest in history should make it a point to visit Hill Palace. Previously the residence of the Maharaja of Kochi, it now serves as a heritage museum and houses many archaeological relics and imperial belonging to the Maharaja. Along with modern-day art galleries, other popular objects worth seeing are Kudakkallu (tombstone), Thoppikkallu (hood stone), granite and laterite memorials, rock-cut armaments of the Stone Age, wooden temple replicas, and plaster cast prototypes of objects of Mohenjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Constructed in 1865, the palace comprises 49 buildings. Apart from the fascinating information on the history of Kochi and the various artefacts in the building, the beautiful gardens and refreshing outer facade of the museum are also not to be missed. The palace is open every Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 12 noon, and 2 pm to 4.30 pm. There is an entrance fee of INR 30 (PHP 22) per visitor.