Top 5 Interesting Places to Visit Near Cochin Airport

Cochin International Airport (COK) is located about 35 kilometers from the city of Ernakulam and is one of India’s top-tier airports. Consistently ranked among the top five international airports in the country, it serves as a major gateway to Kerala—thanks largely to the state’s vibrant expat community, booming tourism sector, and international service industries.

Cochin Airport is India’s first airport built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the Government of Kerala holding a 50% stake. It boasts excellent connectivity to the Middle East, Far East, and offers direct flights to Europe and Australasia, making it a convenient entry point for travelers across continents.

Discovering the Wonders Near Cochin Airport

If you’re landing in Kochi and have a day or two to spare before heading to other parts of Kerala, here are five fascinating destinations located close to the airport.

1. Abhayaranyam Ecotourism Centre

Distance from airport: ~20 km

Located in Kaprikkad, Abhayaranyam is a unique forest facility managed by the Kerala Forest Department. Originally started as an elephant orphanage, it is now home to elephants that cannot return to the wild, along with spotted deer, sambar deer, and other rescued animals.

Visitors can walk along shaded forest trails and observe these animals up close in a semi-natural habitat. It’s a peaceful, educational stop—especially ideal for families and wildlife lovers. The entry fee for foreigners is INR 300 per person. The place is open from 8 AM to 5 PM and is closed on Mondays.

2. Malayattoor Church & Kurisumudy Hill

Distance from airport: ~15 km

Perched near the banks of the Periyar River, Malayattoor Church is an international Christian pilgrimage center. It is believed that St. Thomas the Apostle visited this hill during his mission in India, leaving his footprints behind. Devotees often trek up Kurisumudy Hill to visit the hilltop church, especially during the annual pilgrimage season.

At the base of the hill lies a calm lake, ideal for a quiet moment or a short boat ride. The surrounding village is serene and offers glimpses of Kerala’s spiritual fabric.

3. Paliam Palace

Distance from airport: ~30 km

Located in Chendamangalam, Paliam Palace was once the residence of the Prime Minister (Paliath Achan) of the Kochi royal family. The palace, gifted by the Dutch, showcases a rare blend of traditional Kerala and colonial Dutch architecture.

Now a well-maintained heritage museum, it houses ancient weapons, documents, and artifacts that narrate the political and cultural history of the region. Entry includes a guided tour led by trained interpreters, making it an informative visit for history enthusiasts.

4. Athirapally Waterfalls

Distance from airport: ~40 km

Known as the "Niagara of South India," Athirapally Falls is a majestic natural waterfall on the Chalakudy River, nestled at the base of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by evergreen Shola forests, this region is a biodiversity hotspot and home to the endangered Great Indian Hornbill, Kerala’s state bird.

You can also explore nearby Charpa and Vazhachal waterfalls or take short treks in the surrounding forest trails. The best time to visit is during or after the monsoon when the falls are at their most powerful and scenic.

5. Paravoor and Chendamangalam Synagogues

Distance from airport: ~30–35 km

Step back in time with a visit to the historic Jewish synagogues at Paravoor and Chendamangalam, both lovingly restored under the Muziris Heritage Project. These synagogues showcase Kerala's deep-rooted Jewish legacy, which dates back over 2,000 years, thanks to the ancient port of Muziris—a vibrant hub of maritime trade and cultural exchange.

These sites tell the story of Jewish migration, integration, and eventual departure and are part of a larger narrative that includes the arrival of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have preached in this region.

Conclusion: Start Your Kerala Journey Close to Cochin Airport

Cochin Airport isn’t just a transit point—it’s a gateway to a rich variety of experiences waiting just around the corner. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, spirituality, or culture, these five spots offer a perfect introduction to Kerala’s diversity.

So if you have time before heading for a Kerala tour to Munnar, Alleppey, or Thekkady, consider adding one or more of these nearby gems to your itinerary. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your arrival or departure day in Kerala.

These places also work if you have a whole day available close to Cochin airport to catch up for a late-night flight. Or if you are waiting close to the airport for some friends to join. Planning a longer stay? Explore our custom Kerala tour packages for immersive travel experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How far is Athirapally from Cochin Airport?

It is 40 kilometers from Cochin airport to Athirapally waterfalls.

• Is Malayattoor Church open to tourists?

The church functions like a regular church where visitors and pilgrims can visit from morning 7 to evening 7. At times, if marriages or other services are held at the new church, the old church is available for visit; both are in the same complex.