This atmospheric heritage hotel has a cooling courtyard pool as its hub, with chairs dotted around to take respite in the shade. It is both elegant and old (over 200 years to be precise), having been built by the Portuguese when Cochin was their window to the spice trade, and features on many guided tours as a result.
Follow the grand wooden staircase to the guest rooms – all 9 vary in size and price but are charmingly decorated with air-conditioning and solar power. There are shutters and mosquito nets, polished antiques and surprisingly good showers. The location is terrific: step outside and you have spice shops, Chinese fishing nets, a Dutch palace and India’s oldest church on your doorstep. There are all manner of eateries, cafes, bars and shops offering takeaway snacks just a stroll away. Ayurvedic treatments are only a short walk away and there's a pool in the enclosed courtyard to cool off in. The ideal base for history buffs and those looking for historic style, peace and Keralan culture amidst the bustle of Fort Kochi.
Highs
- A charming 200-year-old building full of original decorative details, antiques and artwork
- Within ambling distance of Fort Kochi’s deservedly-famous Chinese fishing nets and other attractions
- Great value rates
- Staff were wonderful, caring and kind during our last visit
- Atmosphere is provided by sparrows fluttering and cheeping through the eaves
Lows
- No breakfast, room service, restaurant or alcohol licence, but there are plenty of eateries within walking distance
- Not for lovers of contemporary minimalism: the wooden floors creak, the steep stairs sway (gently) as you climb, this is a heritage property
- Towards the end of the season the nets, curtains, towels and walls start to look tired, but this is reflected in the prices
- Rooms are simple, so it's definitely worth booking a higher room category if you can
Best time to go
November to March is the peak time for visitors: the weather is dry rather than humid and not too hot. The much quieter monsoon season (December to February) is a good time for taking an Ayurvedic treatment course nearby, as you’re supposed to rest up between appointments anyway. October and April could offer the best of both worlds, if you’re lucky.
Our top tips
Be sure to catch the sun setting through the shapes of the famous Chinese fishing nets on the nearby northern shores - it’s a magical sight.
Location
The Old Courtyard Hotel is right in the centre of Fort Cochin (Kochi) in southern India.
By Air
Cochin (Kochi) International (42km) is the closest airport. Kerala's other international airport, Trivandrum Thiruvananthapuram, is 200km south of Cochin, though it is easily accessible by rail or car.
From the Airport
The hotel can book a taxi for you - make sure you ask for one with air-conditioning. Or you can catch a taxi at the airport rank - just be sure to agree a price before you get in.
By Train
If you're in India already, you can catch a train to Ernakulam Station (14km away) or Fort Cochin from most destinations. From there it's easy to catch a taxi to The Old Courtyard Hotel.
Getting Around
Many of Cochin's sights are within walking distance and rickshaws are a cheap and convenient way of getting around. The hotel can help when booking taxis.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Kerala and getting around
Airports:
- Cochin International 42.0 km COK
- Trivandrum Thiruvananthapuram International 200.0 km TRV
Other:
- Beach 0.1 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 3 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Beautifully decorated old villa in Fort Cochin. The room was stunning and very comfortable and a lovely quiet oasis away from the bustle outside. It is very good value for money and a perfect spot to explore old Fort Cochin for a night or two.
This is a beautiful hotel - as historic as it looks, a really charming place to stay at the heart of Fort Cochin and really good value money. The staff were friendly as well. Would definitely recommend this and wish we could've stayed longer!
An unassuming hotel with fantastic huge rooms and the most helpful staff I have ever come across. Nothing seemed too much to ask of them and more often than not help was offered before it was asked for. The little pool is an absolute bonus in hot and sticky Cochin. Homemade Indian breakfast is great if you are up for trying it!
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape