Kerala’s vibrant port city, Kochi, has been named one of the world’s top 10 trending travel destinations to visit in 2026, according to the globally renowned travel platform Booking.com.
Standing proudly alongside destinations like Vietnam, Spain, Colombia, China, Brazil, Australia, Germany, and the United States, Kochi is the only Indian city to feature on the prestigious list.
Ranked ninth, Booking.com describes Kochi as a historic gem shaped by centuries of global trade and rich cultural heritage. The city’s charm lies in the colonial-era streets of Fort Kochi, the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and the fusion of heritage and modern art showcased through the world-famous Kochi-Muziris Biennale. The platform also highlights Kochi as a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from freshly caught seafood to coconut-flavored traditional curries.
Sharing the excitement, Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas hailed the recognition as a proud moment for the state. “Kochi — the pride of Kerala — has won the world’s heart,” he said, adding that the city’s cultural richness, culinary diversity, and stunning coastal beauty have placed it firmly on the global tourism map.
“With nations like Vietnam, Spain, and the USA on the list, Kerala stands tall as India’s lone representative,” Riyas added. “This is the magic of Kochi — where culture, flavor, and the sea meet in perfect harmony.”
