5 Best Places In Kochi City To Feel Completely Alone

Although Kochi is a famous tourist destination for its lively markets, cafes, and other activities, as a resident, you know how this city has managed to blend its rich history with modern lifestyle seamlessly. In all this chaos, there are times we would simply like to do nothing but take a deep breath and enjoy our own company without disturbances. Thankfully, Kochi has it to offer for those moments you want to indulge in some peace of quiet. If you are trying to find an old colonial building, a serene nature spot, or a calm beach, then look no further than the following places that offer the best experience of having peaceful solitude in all of Kochi.

 

1. Kumbalangi Backwaters

For unmatched privacy, Kumbalangi backwaters is the place to go to. This splendid village, located a couple of drives from the highway is a dream of still waters, coconut trees flapping with the breeze and the sporadic view of fishermen casting their nets.

 The best way to take in the stillness is by renting a canoe and paddling through the narrow waterways.

Here the silence is broken only by the occasional splash of water or a distant bird call. You may even be fortunate enough to discover an undisturbed quiet place to sit and watch the sunset on the horizon.

  • Kumbalangi is India’s first eco-tourism village.
  • Best time to visit:Early mornings or late evenings to avoid the harshness of the sun.
  • Less crowded than Alleppey, making it deemed suitable for solitude seekers.

2.Paniyeli Poru

Slight 35 kilometers away from Kochi lies Paniyeli Poru, an untouched blend of river landscapes, rocky formations, and greenery. The site is not well known and serves as a great location for some solitude. The sound of the water cascading down the rocks alongside the cool breeze blowing in from the forest is enough to calm the mind.

A judgmental hike through the forest reveals insane views of the mighty Periyar River. But be careful, romanticizing the scenery can be difficult as undercurrents in some places are extremely strong. 

  • In Ernakulam district which is around an hour drive from Kochi.
  • Best time to visit:  post-monsoon from October to February when the water levels are perfect.
  • There are no swimming chances due to the strong water current.

3.Kashi Art Café 

I know a cafe isn’t the first setting I would think of when trying to find a place where one can enjoy solitude all by themselves, but hear me out. If you visit the Kashi Art Cafe at dawn or a little before it closes, you can have an entire corner to yourself while you sip a sorely needed cup of coffee and read a soothing novel. 

The wooden interiors combined with the slow, calming environment makes it a surprisingly nice getaway from the crowded Fort Kochi.

It is also a nice location to reflect or write as well as enjoy your own company without the feeling of isolation. 

  • It is situated in the artsy center of Fort Kochi. 
  • Opens at 8 AM and closes by 10 PM.
  • Best time to visit: Avoid the rush and try going there best before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
  • Must-try: You really must try the chocolate cake and the french press coffee.

4.Thattekad Bird Sanctuary 

Located a little beyond the city, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is perfect for those who want an escape from the commonplace. If you visit on a weekday, you will find endless forest pathways where you are quite literally the only person for miles around for several hours. The backdrop of ultra exotic birds singing along with the rustling leaves sets the scene for some great self-reflection. 

Make sure to take along a pair of Binoculars. You can then rest under a tree and partake in some “people” watching, but with a twist. The tranquility refreshes the soul.

  • It houses over 300 types of birds, one of them being the Malabar Grey Hornbill which is quite rare. 
  • Best time to visit: November to March.
  • Avoid weekends if you truly want to be alone.

5. Kuzhupilly Beach

While many prefer the proximity of Cherai Beach, Kuzhupilly beach flaunts her beauty in silence. Sprinkled with palm trees, the golden sands of Kuzhupilly provide a peaceful retreat. This beach boasts of low commercial activities which helps people relax in solitude by just watching waves.

Most importantly, if you decide to take a walk, the beach is barren enough for you to roam freely without seeing anyone. The place is perfect for letting the waves wash over your mind and for getting lost in your thoughts.

  • It is about 4 km away from Cherai Beach, so people can enjoy some solitude.
  • Best time to visit:Sunset, when hues of the sky are simply stunning.
  • No major eateries nearby, so carry your own snacks and water.
  • You can lose yourself in the thoughts while going on long walks in Kuzhupilly beach.

Finding Your Own Solitude in Kochi

People might largely associate Kochi with culture, but there is plenty of silence waiting to be discovered. Solitude can be easily found on a deserted beach, near the backwaters, or in the midst of the trees; all you need is to look in the right places. So, the next time you feel the need to switch off and escape the cacophony, look for a combination of the sites above and enjoy some much needed silence.

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