Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, is a well-known port and is the Indian state of Kerala’s most cosmopolitan city. It’s part of a collection of narrow islands and peninsulas up the coast of Goa, surrounded by towering palm groves, green fields, and backwaters. This port city’s commercial prowess is impressive – Kochi is one of southern India’s leading trading centres for seafood and spices. Moreover, its rich cultural history, dating back to the 12th century, is fascinating to explore. Although Kochi’s natural beauty, history and trade have charmed visitors for centuries, the locals have no fewer avenues for enjoying their home city. A staycation is one of the best ways to enjoy some time off and relax. If you’re up for a much-needed break, read on and find the best staycations in Kochi, India.
1. Le Méridien Kochi (from USD 88)
Savour the realxing ambience at Le Méridien Kochi. Their 5-star guest accommodations include rooms and suites, some of which boast incredible views of Kochi’s backwaters. Pets are also allowed in this establishment.
You can unwind at their sprawling outdoor swimming pool, try one of the brilliant therapies at the on-site Ayurveda spa and play a game of pool with tour buddies. Once you have worked up an appetite, consider stepping into one of the two restaurants and relish a range of seafood, Indian and continental delicacies.
2. Holiday Inn Cochin, an IHG Hotel (from USD 210)
Fair pricing with excellent facilities
Great pool, spa, and room service
Perfect location with easy access to attractions
Fabulous breakfast and dinner at Masala restaurant
Holiday Inn Cochin, an IHG Hotel, is located some 5 km (3 mi) from the city centre, an easily accessible staycation option for locals. There are 212 neatly appointed guest accommodations, including rooms for differently abled guests.
While staying here, you can start your day at the hotel’s award-winning Senses & Elements spa for superb treatments such as neck and foot reflexology. Consider following that up with some in-room dining or step down into one of the three on-site restaurants, namely Masala, Deli KC and Roma. You can even pop into Stadia, the hotel’s sports-themed bar, to catch televised matches.
Holiday Inn Cochin, an IHG Hotel
Address: NH Bypass, Chakkarparambu Junction, Vennala
3. Forte Kochi (from USD 180)
Step back into a bygone age at the traditionally designed Forte Kochi, boasting an elegant medley of Dutch, Portuguese and British influences. This boutique hotel offers 27 colonial-style guest accommodations, featuring tinted windows, colourful floor tiling, large four-poster beds and cushioned wicker sofas.
You can jump into the outdoor swimming pool in the central courtyard and re-energize. You can also take yoga classes offered at the hotel or indulge in a soothing dip in the hot tub.
Head to the on-site restaurant, Jetty, to diminish your hunger pangs. It’s reputed for whipping up some delicious local flavours and international cuisines, which will leave you with a happy tummy.
Forte Kochi
Address: 1/373. Princes Street Fort Kochi
4. Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin (from USD 57)
Affordable rates with complimentary amenities
Evening tea/coffee, complimentary backwater cruise, cultural dance
Great ambience with balcony and backwater view
Exceptional seafood restaurant, good breakfast spread
The 5-star Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin, boasts a brilliant location at the tip of Willingdon Island, overlooking the sprawling harbour. They offer 95 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, some of which allow exquisite sea views. You can even treat your pets to a staycation with you.
While you can take advantage of the in-room facilities, consider heading to Jiva Spa, the infinity pool, or the hot tub for a wholly relaxing experience. A kids’ activity area is also available for guests staying with their little ones. Once you’ve enjoyed these perks, head to one of the four on-site restaurants, Dolphin’s Point, The Pavilion, Pepper or Rice Boat, for a lip-smacking meal.
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
Address: Willingdon Island, Wellington Island, Kochi, India, 682009
5. Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty (from USD 168)
The Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty is a 5-star hotel nestled on Bolgatty Island, overlooking the backwaters of Vembanad Lake. This luxurious waterfront establishment offers 260 opulently furnished guest rooms and suites, as well as 4 private villas. Choose one of their waterfront accommodations, and you can start your day relishing your morning tea with exquisite views.
The 24-hour fitness centre, yoga studio, and spa are the perfect spots to release some tension. Else, you can head to one of the two swimming pools to work on your strokes or float around and enjoy the sunshine. If you’re staying here with kids, you can take them to the children’s play zone for some fun. Tennis enthusiasts can pack in a competitive game at the on-site court.
6. Kochi Marriott Hotel (from USD 162)
Reasonably priced hotel with great value for money.
Comfortable rooms and an executive lounge.
Conveniently located in Cochin with friendly staff.
Varied breakfast options with international dishes.
Kochi Marriott Hotel is a great option for staycationers who’d love a spa weekend. The on-site Quan Spa is renowned, offering several rejuvenating therapies and treatments for your indulgence. Those who are into working out won’t need to break their exercise routine as the hotel’s 24-hour fitness centre features top-notch equipment. You can also take a swim before heading out to explore the area.
The 5-star Kochi Marriott Hotel sits just three minutes from the famous LuLu International Shopping Mall. Guests can take complimentary buggy rides to the mall once they get their fill of the hotel’s on-site amenities.
Kochi Marriott Hotel
Address: Lulu International Shopping Mall
7. Brunton Boatyard - CGH Earth (from USD 270)
Brunton Boatyard - CGH Earth sits along the shores of the scenic Cochin Harbour. It’s an excellent heritage property for a staycation, with a quaint amalgamation of Portuguese, Dutch and British styles reflected in the charming decor of the hotel’s 22 guest rooms. Some of these accommodations overlook the sea, so you can sip on your morning coffee while savouring stunning views.
Step out of your room and jump into the large outdoor swimming pool for a refreshing start to the day. You can also head to the spa for some amazing Ayurvedic massages and therapies. After these activities, the semi-open lounge, with its lofty ceiling and old-fashioned punkhas or fans, is an excellent spot to grab afternoon tea.
What’s better? You can bring your four-legged companion along. Well-behaved pets weighing less than 6 kg (13 lbs) are welcome at an additional charge. However, they must remain restricted to the designated pet-friendly areas and leashed in other parts. Pet beddings and one meal a day will be offered to your furry friends on the house.
Brunton Boatyard - CGH Earth
Address: Calwati Road, Fort Cochin
8. Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi (from USD 105)
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi is a convenient 10 km (6.2 mi) drive away from the city centre. A 5-star luxury retreat, it has 58 guest accommodations, including a presidential suite, pool villas, lake-facing cottages and deluxe rooms. Select units feature a private balcony, too.
You can head to the hotel’s Ayurvedic Centre for relaxing therapies to relieve some stress. In addition, the lagoon-shaped pool is the perfect spot to splash off exhaustion. For your meals, you can head to one of the two specialty restaurants on site.
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi
Address: P V Sreedharan Road, Kumbalam South, Kumbalam, Kochi
9. Trident Cochin (from USD 63)
Experience a world-class staycation at Trident Cochin. While here, you will wake up to beautiful sights as the hotel’s 77 guest rooms and 8 suites offer terrific views of the landscaped gardens and the central courtyard. Trident Spa is an ideal spot to rejuvenate for its rejuvenating therapies and Ayurvedic treatments. You can follow this with a few laps in the outdoor swimming pool.
Once you feel your tummy rumbling, try some flavourful local fare at the on-site restaurant, Travancore. International cuisine is also available here. The Seafood Grill, open seasonally from November to March, is a must for seafood lovers. After, you can head to The Cochin Trader Bar for some zingy cocktails.
Trident Cochin
Address: Bristow Road, Willingdon Island
10. Fragrant Nature Kochi (from USD 240)
Here’s a 5-star resort set up in a building that once served as an office of the East India Company. Fragrant Nature Kochi’s elegant guest accommodations, with state-of-the-art fittings and plush furniture, are the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort.
Some of the accommodations in this landmark property feature in-room hot tubs, so you can draw a relaxing bath in utter privacy. A select few have access to a private balcony, where you can soak in the glorious sunshine. If you want to venture to the common areas, head to the pool to enjoy refreshing laps. One of Prana Wellness Spa’s carefully curated Ayurvedic therapies may also be a relaxing experience.
Fragrant Nature Kochi
Address: Near SBI Calvathy, Calvathy Bazar Road, Fort Cochin
Enjoy the ultimate staycation in Kochi
If travelling to a different destination isn’t possible, a simple change of scenery in your city will do the trick. Staycations are a fun, convenient way to step back from the humdrum of daily life. You can book a hotel at a time that suits you best and get your chill time sorted. Consider our list above, and you’ll be guaranteed a great staycation in Kochi, India.
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