Global spotlight on Kerala: Kochi ranked among world's must-visit cities for 2026

Kochi: Kerala’s tourism sector has received a major double boost, with Kochi being named among the world’s top travel destinations for 2026 and the serene island village of Kadamakudy attracting international attention following a prominent global endorsement.

According to a new report by Booking.com, Kochi has been ranked among the top 10 trending destinations worldwide for 2026, the only Indian city to feature on the list. The ranking includes popular destinations across Vietnam, Spain, Colombia, China, Brazil, Australia, Germany, and the United States, marking a proud moment for Kerala’s tourism industry.

Reacting to the announcement, Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas described the recognition as a “landmark achievement” that firmly positions Kerala on the global tourism map. He added that the international spotlight would significantly boost the state’s tourism sector and attract more visitors in the years ahead.

Set along Kerala’s picturesque southwestern coast, Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, has long been a crossroads of global trade and culture. Booking.com highlighted Fort Kochi’s distinctive blend of colonial-era architecture, vibrant art cafés, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets that line the Arabian Sea as defining features of the city’s charm.

The travel platform also noted that Kochi comes especially alive during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, held every two years, when historic spice warehouses transform into world-class art spaces. Kochi’s rich culinary heritage, from traditional toddy shops serving fiery seafood to elegant dishes such as fish molee, along with its lush landscapes, proximity to Alappuzha’s backwaters, Munnar’s misty hills, and Marari Beach’s golden sands, make it an irresistible destination.

With its excellent connectivity through Cochin International Airport, Kochi continues to capture the imagination of global travellers.

Minister Riyas said the recognition not only celebrates Kochi’s global appeal but also reinforces Kerala’s growing status as a premier international travel destination. “This achievement will help drive further growth and innovation in Kerala’s tourism sector,” he added.