Book cheap flights to Cochin

Cochin experiences a tropical climate, with very high levels of rainfall during the summer months (May to August). Winter (October to February) is considered the best time to visit, due to cooler temperatures. You will often see honeymooners, beach bums and adventure-seekers out and about during these months. If you can handle the heat, the blazing months between March and June, sees crowds disperse and hotel rates drop. You can also enjoy great low-season deals between July and September, when monsoon rains set in (always carry an umbrella). Cochin is brimming with festivals towards the end of the year – catch the Cochin Carnival to ring in the New Year or the month-long Onam Festival in August.

South African passport holders require a visa for Cochin, and the rest of India, for stays of up to 180 days (6 months). South African tourists are issued India Travel Visas free of charge. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has 3 blank pages for entry stamps.

The High Commission of India is based in Pretoria.

Address: 852 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, 0083

Phone: ( 27) 12 342 5392/93/94/95

Cochin is one of India’s safest cities, with its prosperous economic industry resulting in less poverty-related crime compared to other major cities in the country. Although visitors can walk around freely and enjoy the city streets, remain vigilant of personal belongings and don’t carry around large sums of cash or valuables. Avoid walking around at night, especially if you are unfamiliar with the neighbourhood.

Another safety consideration is its susceptibility to typhoons and tropical storms. Familiarise yourself with weather reports before going, and if you happen to experience bad weather, make sure you are aware of safety procedures and evacuation routes.

Cochin is infamous for mosquitoes, so be sure to use mosquito nets and anti-mosquito creams or lemongrass oil to avoid being bitten. Malaria is not a concern, but be aware of dengue fever. Medical care in Cochin is rated one of the best in India – there are many private and public hospitals and 24-hour pharmacies at your disposal. Tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure you have enough bottled water to stay hydrated.

With the city’s cosmopolitan flair, Cochin has a medley of accommodation spots to offer for any style or budget.

Fort Kochi is a popular area sought after by expats and tourists, where many of the European-style hotels are nestled in a quiet, scenic area, close to the beach and trendy cafés. This area suits both business and tourist travellers, where you can find more budget hotels and hostels close to the railway stations.

The central district, Ernakulam City, is more suited to local and eastern travellers. It is here where you can find old temples, churches and marketplaces frequented by the local Malayali ethnic groups.

If you’re after a more upscale experience, Willingdon Island is home to many premier hotels and office blocks.

For the more cultural traveller, home-stays are becoming a popular choice. Visitors are welcomed by local Kerala families and are treated to an authentic experience of local cuisine and lifestyle. Keep in mind that home-stays typically charge higher rates during peak tourist season.

Navigating your way around the city is very easy and convenient with many public transport options at your fingertips. The only setback you may experience is traffic congestion during peak hours.

Bus services in the city run between 6am and 10pm. The Green bus is the cheapest, linking all suburbs to the city centre. Red buses (also known as ‘line’ buses) operate along major routes and most bus drivers speak basic English. For a more comfortable journey, ride in an air-conditioned Orange bus. The driver will stop anywhere you like, although waiting time can take up to 30 minutes.

Radio taxis are commonly available, though these do need to be booked in advance, through mobile apps. Regular taxis are available at designated taxi stands and charge standard rates. Be aware that taxi fares increase at night.

Cochin has an excellent ferry system, but be sure to check schedules and stops before boarding.

Cochin is not a pedestrian-friendly city; however, the streets along Fort Kochi are perfect for cycling and walking between main attractions.