What to Do in Kochi for an Unforgettable Family Adventure

For families looking for adventure on a budget, knowing what to do in Kochi is key. We spent three weeks exploring the mainland, away from the tourist hotspots, and discovered affordable accommodations, delicious food, and easy ways to get around.

Kochi is a great city to explore with kids—not only because of its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural diversity, but also because it’s easy to get around. You can hop on the metro, take an Uber, or even ride the Metro Water Taxi to escape the bustling streets and enjoy the city from a different perspective. It’s one of those places where you can experience Indian, Portuguese, and British influences all in one city, making it a truly unique destination.

Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do in Kochi with kids, plus our personal tips on making the most of your family trip.

Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi for Families

Kochi has plenty of attractions that are great for families, from historical landmarks to modern entertainment. Since we spent three weeks in Kochi, we had the chance to explore different areas, and we focused on spots that were kid-friendly, easy to reach, and worth the time. Here’s what we discovered:

Lulu Mall – More Than Just a Mall

Amusement Park in Lulu Mall

Lulu Mall was a frequent stop for us because it has everything in one place—an amusement park for the kids, a grocery store for essentials, and plenty of dining options. Our kids kept asking to go back to the amusement park inside, which had small rides and games that kept them entertained. If you need to shop for clothes or other essentials, you’ll find a huge variety here.

What makes it great for families?

• Indoor amusement park with rides and arcade games

• Food court with both local and international options, making it easy for picky eaters

• Grocery store inside the mall, which was helpful for stocking up on snacks and essentials

• Metro stop right next to the mall, making it easy to get there without worrying about traffic

Tips for visiting Lulu Mall:

• Go on weekdays if you want to avoid large crowds.

• Set a spending limit if your kids love arcades, because it’s easy to keep swiping for more game tokens.

Hill Palace Museum – History & Playtime in One Spot (see featured picture)

The Hill Palace Museum is a mix of history and outdoor space, making it a great place to explore with kids. The grounds are huge, with gardens, walking paths, and a playground. Inside, you’ll find old royal artifacts, including jewelry, paintings, and historical items from the Kochi royal family.

One thing to be aware of is the entrance fee. Foreigners pay significantly more than locals (we paid 500 INR per person, while locals pay around 50 INR). It’s common at historical sites in India, but it’s something to keep in mind when planning costs.

Why it’s worth visiting with kids:

• Big open space for them to walk and play

• Interesting artifacts that older kids might find fascinating

• Playground inside the premises, making it easy to balance sightseeing with fun

Tips for visiting the Hill Palace Museum:

• Shoes must be removed before entering the palace, so wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

• Bring water, we use the Osprey 3L Water Reservoir for our family, especially on hot days, because there’s a lot of walking.

Subhash Bose Park – A Relaxing Break in the City

Playground in Subhash Bose Park

This park is a nice green space in the middle of the city, perfect for when you just need a break from sightseeing. We liked it because it was an easy place for our kids to run around, and it had plenty of shade and seating areas. The park is right by Marine Drive, so you get nice views of the backwaters.

Why it’s great for families:

• Wide open spaces for kids to run and play

• Peaceful environment away from the noise of the city

• Scenic views of the water, making it a great place to relax

Tips for visiting:

• Visit in the evening when it’s cooler and more lively with families.

• Bring snacks or water because vendors are limited inside.

Children’s Park, Kochi – Simple but Fun

Children’s Park

This park isn’t the most modern or updated, but if you’re looking for a simple place for your kids to play and interact with local children, it’s a good stop. There’s a small play area with swings and slides, and on weekends, you’ll find more families there.

What to expect:

• Basic play structures—not super fancy, but enough for kids to have fun

• Small water show, this happens in the evening time around 7 pm

• More locals than tourists, making it a nice cultural experience and meeting others from the area

Tips for visiting:

• Go in the evening if you want to see more families around.

• The park isn’t always well-maintained, so keep an eye on younger kids using the equipment.

Additional Family-Friendly Attractions

If you’re in Kochi longer than a few days, here are a few more places to check out:

• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary – A peaceful escape in the city where kids can spot basically bats and walk short nature trails.

• Fort Kochi’s Chinese Fishing Nets – A hands-on experience where you can see the famous fishing nets in action (and even try pulling them yourself for a small tip).

Exploring Fort Kochi with Kids

No trip to Kochi is complete without visiting Fort Kochi, the city’s historic quarter.

• Chinese Fishing Nets – A must-see in Kochi! You can even participate in pulling the nets (for a small tip).

• St. Francis Church – The oldest European church in India, with fascinating history and architecture.

• Kathakali Performance – We went to Great KV Kathakali Centre, where our kids enjoyed watching the traditional dance and makeup application process.

Best Outdoor Spaces & Nature Walks in Kochi

One of the things we really enjoyed about staying in Kochi for three weeks was that there were plenty of outdoor spaces where we could slow down, walk around, and let the kids play. While Kochi is a bustling city, there are several peaceful spots where you can take a break from the crowds and enjoy some fresh air.

We often sought out places where the kids could run freely, and we could soak in the views or just take a quiet walk. Here are some of the best family-friendly outdoor spaces and nature walks we found in Kochi.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary – A Quiet Escape in the Middle of the City

If you need a break from the noise and traffic of Kochi, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the place to go. It’s a small, green area right in the middle of the city, and it felt like stepping into a completely different environment.

The sanctuary is best known for bird watching, and while our kids aren’t huge bird watchers, they did enjoy walking along the trails and spotting the mangroves in the area and so many bats up in the trees. It’s a nice, easy walk with lots of shade, which makes it a great stop if you need a cooler place to explore during the day. The park is much smaller than you think in terms of what you can access, but our children enjoyed hanging out here anyways for a small nominal fee it was worth it. Be aware of many mosquitoes though.

What makes it great for families?

• Short, flat walking trails that are easy for young kids.

• Shady and cooler than other parts of the city.

• A chance to see small wildlife.

Tips for visiting Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary:

• Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to see more birds.

• There aren’t any food stalls inside, so bring your own snacks and water.

• It’s a small sanctuary, so don’t expect a long hike—this is more of a short nature walk.

Subhash Bose Park – A Green Space for Kids to Run Around

Located near Marine Drive, Subhash Bose Park is a small but nice open space in the middle of the city. It has a few benches, plenty of trees, and open areas for kids to play.

We liked stopping here when we were in the area because it was a good spot for a break, and the kids could run around without worrying about traffic or crowds. The views of the backwaters from here are nice, and you’ll see locals relaxing, walking, or sitting by the water.

What makes it great for families?

• A central location—easy to stop by when you’re exploring other parts of the city.

• A peaceful atmosphere compared to the busy streets of Kochi.

• Space for kids to run and play freely.

Tips for visiting Subhash Bose Park:

• There’s not much to do here beyond relaxing for adults, but there are playgrounds for the kids. There are gate attendants who you will let you in. It is free to enter.

• Street food vendors sometimes set up nearby outside the park, so you can grab snacks.

Tips for Enjoying Outdoor Spaces in Kochi with Kids

• Go early in the morning or late in the evening – Kochi gets hot during the day, and many outdoor spaces don’t have much shade.

• Pack water and snacks – Most parks and walkways don’t have food stalls nearby.

• Wear comfortable shoes – Even short walks can feel tiring in the heat. Our kids enjoy Keens sandals.

• Watch out for mosquitoes – If you’re visiting green areas like Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, bring bug spray to avoid mosquito bites.

• Keep an eye on kids near water – Most waterfront in the area do not have have railings, so stay close to younger kids.

Fort Kochi Beach

Family-Friendly Beaches Near Kochi

If you’re looking for a beach day, here’s what to expect:

• Fort Kochi Beach – You can’t swim here, but it’s a great spot to dip your feet in and enjoy the view.

Beach Tips for Families

• Expect strong sun! Pack hats, sunscreen, and water.

• Beaches in Kochi aren’t always swimmable, so check conditions beforehand. You can read more about the beach at Fort Kochi in this post.

Shopping in Kochi: Best Souvenirs & Family-Friendly Markets

Looking for souvenirs? Mattancherry in Fort Kochi is the best place for unique, handmade gifts.

• Jew Town, Mattancherry – Antique shops, spice markets, and souvenirs.

• Lulu Mall – If you want a hassle-free shopping experience with AC and international brands.

Shopping Tips

• Bargain at markets – Prices aren’t always fixed!

• Avoid tourist traps – Stick to local markets for authentic finds.

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants & Where to Eat in Kochi

One of the biggest challenges of traveling with kids is finding food they will actually eat—especially when trying local dishes in a new country. During our three weeks in Kochi, we relied heavily on Swiggy (a local food delivery app) for most of our meals. It was easier, cheaper, and way more convenient than dragging the kids out to restaurants every day, especially when they were tired from sightseeing.

While we made sure to try a variety of local foods, we quickly realized that our kids stuck to just a few favorites. They loved the chicken shawarma from Al Taza and burgers from The Burger Junction—everything else was a bit of a struggle. We did hit Pizza Hut at Lulu Mall a few times when we needed an easy, familiar meal.

If you’re traveling with kids in Kochi, here’s what we found to be the best kid-friendly food options, along with tips for making mealtime easier.

Using Swiggy for Family Dining in Kochi

Swiggy was an absolute lifesaver for us. Instead of searching for restaurants, waiting for food, and dealing with tired kids in public, we just ordered food straight to our vacation rental.

Why Swiggy Worked for Us:

• Variety – We could mix local dishes with more familiar foods to keep everyone happy.

• Cost-Effective – Delivery was often cheaper than eating out, plus there were regular discounts.

• Less Stress – No waiting for food in a crowded restaurant with hungry, restless kids.

Tip: Double-check your accommodation address in the app to make sure deliveries arrive smoothly—some drivers struggle with navigation in certain areas.

Top Family-Friendly Food Spots in Kochi

Al Taza – Our Kids’ Favorite Shawarma Spot

If there’s one thing our kids happily ate again and again, it was the chicken shawarma from Al Taza.

Why we loved it:

• Mild flavors – Not too spicy for kids.

• Soft pita bread – Easy for little hands to hold.

• Good portion size – One shawarma was often enough for a meal.

• Tip: If ordering on Swiggy, request “no spicy sauce” to keep it mild for kids.

The Burger Junction – When You Just Need a Burger

After several days of trying South Indian food, the kids were begging for something familiar—so we ordered from The Burger Junction. It ended up being one of their favorite places.

What makes it great for families:

• Good quality burgers – Similar to what you’d get back home. (no cow meat)

• Simple flavors – No heavy spices or unusual ingredients.

• Fries and sides – A solid backup option when kids refuse to eat anything else.

This was one of those “reset meals” that helped keep everyone happy when they weren’t in the mood for local food.

Pizza Hut – The Ultimate Backup Plan

We hit Pizza Hut at Lulu Mall more times than I’d like to admit—but when traveling with kids, sometimes you just need something predictable.

Why it worked for us:

• It’s pizza—enough said.

• Fast service – Great for a quick meal while at the mall.

• Safe option – If all else fails, the kids will eat pizza.

Even though we wanted to explore local food, having Pizza Hut as an easy option made meal planning a lot less stressful.

Paragon – A Must-Try for Kerala Biryani

While our kids weren’t big on rice dishes, we really enjoyed Paragon for its Kerala-style biryani. If you have kids who like rice, this is a good place to introduce them to mild South Indian flavors.

What we liked:

• Fragrant biryani that wasn’t overly spicy.

• Decent portion sizes that were easy to share.

• A well-known spot with consistently good food.

If you want to try authentic Kerala food but need something on the milder side, this is a good choice.

Other Food Spots We Tried:

While our kids didn’t love everything, we did explore other restaurants through Swiggy to try a variety of dishes.

• Bindhaven Vegetarian – Great if you’re looking for mild, South Indian vegetarian food.

Metro Station

Best Ways to Get Around Kochi with Kids

1. Kochi Metro – Clean, Reliable, and Kid-Friendly

We used the Kochi Metro more than any other mode of transportation. It was cheap, efficient, and well-maintained, making it one of the easiest ways to get around the city.

Why We Loved the Metro:

• Super affordable – Ticket prices are very low compared to taxis and rickshaws.

• Clean and air-conditioned – A huge bonus when traveling with kids in Kochi’s heat.

• Elevators at most stations – use if needed otherwise there are escalators and stairs.

• Less traffic stress – Unlike road transport, there’s no traffic to deal with.

The JLN Stadium station was right near our stay, making it super convenient for daily trips. We could easily get to Lulu Mall, MG Road, or even Marine Drive without any hassle.

2. Uber – Easy, Safe, and Reliable

When we weren’t using the metro, Uber was our top choice for getting around. It was much easier than dealing with auto rickshaw drivers, especially when traveling longer distances or needing a comfortable ride.

Why Uber Worked for Us:

• Fixed pricing – No need to negotiate fares like with rickshaws.

• Air-conditioned rides – A huge relief after being out in the heat.

• Easier with kids – The cars were cleaner and safer than most rickshaws.

• No middle seat belt – More times than not the middle back seat of the cars we rode in did not have a seat belt. You have been warned.

We mainly used Uber when we were heading to places outside the metro’s coverage area or when we just wanted a more relaxing ride home.

3. Auto Rickshaws – Fun but Tricky for Tourists

Auto rickshaws are everywhere in Kochi, and while they’re fun, they aren’t always the easiest option with kids. We used them a few times, but always had to negotiate fares since most rickshaws don’t use meters.

Pros of Taking an Auto Rickshaw:

• They’re everywhere – You can flag one down almost anywhere.

• Great for short trips – Ideal for quick rides when the metro or Uber wasn’t available.

• Fun experience for kids – Our kids enjoyed the open-air ride, but we had to hold onto them tightly!

Cons of Taking an Auto Rickshaw:

• No set prices – You’ll need to bargain hard to avoid being overcharged.

• No seatbelts – Not the safest option for young kids.

• Traffic exposure – Being in the middle of Kochi’s traffic in an open rickshaw isn’t the most relaxing experience.

Family Tips for Taking Rickshaws:

• Negotiate the fare BEFORE getting in – Otherwise, you might get a surprise price at the end.

• Use Uber Auto if possible – It books rickshaws with pre-set pricing, which is way easier than haggling.

• Hold onto kids tightly – The ride can be bumpy, and there are no seatbelts.

Where to Stay in Kochi with Kids

Choosing the right place to stay made a huge difference in our time in Kochi. Instead of staying in the more touristy parts of the city like Fort Kochi, we booked a vacation rental near JLN Stadium. This area was more affordable, quieter, and better suited to our style of slow travel.

Since we were staying for three weeks, we wanted a place that felt more like a home rather than just a hotel room. Staying outside the main tourist areas allowed us to live more like locals, and we found it much easier to access transportation, food, and everyday essentials without dealing with large crowds.

If you’re visiting Kochi with kids, where you stay matters. Here’s what we learned from our experience and what to consider when booking accommodation for your family.

Tips for Choosing Family-Friendly Accommodation in Kochi

After staying in Kochi with kids, these are the key things I’d recommend checking before booking a place.

1. Check for Mosquito Nets or Screens

Why? Kochi’s tropical climate means mosquitoes can be a problem, especially in the evenings.

Our Experience:Our vacation rental had mosquito screens at the windows, but we had to buy bug lotions and chase the mosquitoes at night as many of the windows stayed open all day and night and had breaks in the screens.

What to do:

• Look for mosquito nets over the beds or window screens to keep bugs out.

• If your accommodation doesn’t have nets, bring a travel mosquito net or buy repellent when you arrive and be prepared to wear it inside too.

2. Make Sure There’s Air Conditioning

Why? Even in winter, Kochi is hot. Daytime temperatures were in the 80s and 90s (Fahrenheit), and it stayed warm at night.

Our Experience:Luckily, our vacation rental had air conditioning in the bedrooms. You do not want to book without AC at least in your bedroom unless you are very used to the heat.

What to do:

• Always confirm that AC is available before booking, especially if traveling with kids.

• If you’re staying somewhere without AC, check if the place has ceiling fans.

3. Stay Near a Metro Station for Easy Travel

Why? Kochi’s traffic can be overwhelming, and auto rickshaws aren’t always the best option with young kids.

Our Experience:Staying near the JLN Stadium metro station made it so much easier to get around. We could walk to the station and get anywhere in the city without needing a car or dealing with traffic.

What to do:

• If you’re visiting for a short time, pick a place near a metro station for easier travel.

• Check the Kochi Metro map before booking to see which station is closest.

Final Thoughts: Is Kochi Worth Visiting with Kids?

Absolutely! Whether you’re looking for history, culture, outdoor fun, or delicious food, Kochi is a fantastic destination for families. It offers a blend of modern conveniences and old-world charm, making it an unforgettable place to explore with kids.

If you’re planning a trip to Kochi, take your time, travel slow, and enjoy the unique experiences this city has to offer.

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