Cochin International Airport, the world's first entirely solar-powered airport, serves Kochi, the main city of Kerala, approximately 30 km from the city centre.
It is the access point to Kerala, renowned for its lagoons (backwaters), spice plantations, and traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
How to get to Kochi International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to COK
Parking near Kochi International Airport
Authorized parking is located in front of the terminal building.
Video surveillance is active, with moderate rates.
How to get to Kochi from COK
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Kochi International Airport
Car rental companies of reference have a desk in the arrivals area.
Required documents: driver's license, passport, credit card and, normally, an International Driving Permit.
Hotels near Kochi International Airport
Nedumbassery
The Taj is right across from the airport, a few minutes on foot or by shuttle; the Port Muziris is about 300 metres from the terminal.
Best for: Short layovers and early-morning flights, when you want the shortest possible transfer from the terminal.
- Two international-standard hotels right next to the checkpoints, unusual for an Indian airport this size
- Free shuttle to the terminal, useful for anyone arriving or leaving late at night
- Nothing around but the Nedumbassery airport area: in the evening you stay at the hotel
- Marine Drive or Fort Kochi still need 45 minutes or more by taxi
Recommended hotels
- Taj Cochin International Airport, Kerala Right across from the airport terminal, 111 rooms blending contemporary design with Kerala craftsmanship; outdoor pool and two in-house restaurants. View availability
- Port Muziris, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott, Kochi Airport About 300 metres from the terminal, South Asia's first Tribute Portfolio hotel: 54 rooms inspired by Kochi's historic residences, with a free airport shuttle. View availability
Marine Drive and Bolgatty
About 28-30 km from the airport, 45-60 minutes by taxi; from Marine Drive, Bolgatty Island is linked by a short bridge, 18 minutes on foot or a few minutes by tuk-tuk.
Best for: Anyone who wants Ernakulam's waterfront, downtown restaurants and a hotel with more amenities, without staying right at the airport.
- Marine Drive and its restaurants are reachable on foot or with a short ride
- Urban resort-style hotel, with more pools and green space than downtown
- Bolgatty Island is a bit removed from the pedestrian bustle of the actual centre
- Same Aluva traffic to cross again when heading back to the airport
Fort Kochi and Willingdon Island
About 36-37 km from the airport, 45-60 minutes by taxi (800-1,200 rupees); a low-cost alternative with the KSRTC bus and the Pavan Doot Feeder, about an hour with a change.
Best for: Anyone who wants the Chinese fishing nets, the art galleries and the colonial atmosphere of Fort Kochi, staying more than one night.
- The Chinese fishing nets, the art galleries and the historic cafés of Fort Kochi are within walking distance of the district's centre
- The Taj Malabar has a direct view of the port of Cochin from Willingdon Island, one of the few waterfront locations in the city
- It is the zone furthest from the airport among those in this guide
- The real Fort Kochi is separated from Willingdon Island: you need a taxi or a ferry to move from one district to the other
Recommended hotels
- Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin On Willingdon Island since 1935, with views of the port of Cochin; 82 rooms and 11 suites, three restaurants and a spa, including the Rice Boat specialising in seafood. View availability
- The Old Courtyard Hotel A restored 200-year-old colonial house on Princess Street in Fort Kochi, once belonging to socialite Lily Koder; only 10 rooms, a small pool in the courtyard, a few steps from the Chinese fishing nets. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal, renowned as the world's first airport entirely powered by solar energy, is appropriately sized for its role as Kerala's main hub.
Those departing on international flights should arrive 3 hours in advance.
Map of Kochi International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is it true that Kochi Airport runs entirely on solar power?
Yes, since 2015 it's been the first airport in the world fully powered by solar energy, a pioneering project often cited as an international model.
Q. What are Kerala's backwaters?
A system of lagoons, canals and rivers along the Kerala coast, navigable by traditional houseboats, among the region's most distinctive experiences.
Q. Is Fort Kochi a good place to stay?
Yes, the colonial old town, with Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, is among the most charming and touristy areas of the city.
Q. Is it worth buying an eSIM before arriving in Kochi?
It's a convenient option for having connectivity right away, although physical SIM cards from the main Indian carriers, requiring passport registration, are also easy to find at the airport and in the city's shopping centers.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
