Welcome to Day 2 of my Kerala mini vacay, which I spent in the city of Kochi. Day 2 was all about exploring the streets of Fort Kochi mostly and about diving into the city’s rich past and enjoying some of its modern conveniences.

Fort Kochi felt like stepping back into time, minus the bustling of a few streets, and the tourist attraction. The colonial architecture, with influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras, is stunning there. Each building tells some story of the city’s history as a trading hub.

Fort Kochi also has lots of cafes and antique stores, making it a perfect blend of old-world charm and a modern, creative vibe. Of course, one cannot forget to indulge in the spices there.  Known as the “Spice Capital of India”, Kochi has been exporting spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and so many more for centuries. I myself couldn’t resist visiting a local spice market to pick up some fragrant “Kerala spices” to bring home. The aroma in the shop was so intoxicating and overwhelming, and a dream come true for those who loves to cook. It is must visit in the list if you are ever visiting Kochi.

The best way to travel in Fort Kochi is by walk, but you can also take an Auto Rickshaw if you want to cover everything quickly. The Auto drivers there provide a 1-hour tour of Fort Kochi, taking you to the main spots and enlightening you about the history of that place. The auto drivers know the city’s nooks and crannies, and their friendly chatter adds to the experience. Also, autos are incredibly convenient for short trips within the city. They’re affordable, fun, and give you a feel of local life in Kochi.

Another one of the most exciting experiences of my day was hopping onto the Water Metro from Fort Kochi. Kochi’s waterways are an integral part of the city’s transport system, and the scenic route just adds to the experience. The water metro offers a comfortable, scenic ride across the backwaters, giving a chance to soak in the views of the Arabian Sea. To experience Kochi in a laid-back way, the water metro is one of the excellent choices.

Kochi has so much to offer, from its rich history and spice markets to modern conveniences like the water metro. Whether you’re wandering through the infamous Fort Kochi, shopping for spices, or roaming the streets, this city has a special way of weaving the old and new together.