Kochi Named Among World’s Top 10 Travel Destinations for 2026 by Booking.com

Thiruvananthapuram: Kochi has been featured in Booking.com’s list of the top 10 trending travel destinations in the world to visit in 2026. Kochi secured a place among globally acclaimed destinations, and it is the only destination from India to be included in the list.

Showcasing the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of South India helped Kochi to earn its place in the list. According to Booking.com, Kochi is a destination defined by centuries of global trade and cultural exchange. From colourful mansions to modern art cafes, the city also offers an array of historical attractions to international tourists.

Chinese fishing nets, and heritage filled markets offer international tourists a distinctive glimpse into the city’s charm. World-class events such as the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, where historic buildings are transformed into contemporary art spaces, further enhance Kochi’s global appeal.

The website also highlights that Kochi’s culinary traditions exemplify the region’s cultural diversity.

Beyond Kochi, Kerala’s natural splendor — from houseboat cruises in Alappuzha, to trekking through Munnar’s mist-covered hills and tea plantations, and relaxing on the golden sands of Marari Beach — is described as “beyond words.”

With excellent international connectivity through the Cochin International Airport, Booking.com notes that Kochi serves as the gateway to Kerala’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness.

'This is a global recognition for Kerala Tourism', said Tourism Minister P A Muhammad Riyas. He hailed the recognition as a major milestone that firmly places Kerala on the world tourism map.

The minister added that this international acknowledgement will give a significant boost to tourism growth in the state.