Kochi has once again earned global recognition, emerging as the only Indian city featured in Booking.com’s list of Top 10 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2026. Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi now stands alongside travel hotspots from Vietnam, Spain, Colombia, China, Brazil, Australia, Germany, and the USA.
The Amsterdam-based travel platform announced its findings as part of its Travel Predictions Research 2026, which highlights destinations that reflect travelers’ growing desire for authenticity and cultural connection. According to Booking.com, the coming year will see travelers seeking journeys that mirror their individuality, creativity, and curiosity.
Kerala’s Tourism Minister, P. A. Mohammed Riyas, celebrated the milestone, calling it a proud moment for the state. In a social media post, he said, “Kochi has been chosen among the world’s top trending destinations for 2026 — a city of rich heritage, diverse cuisine, and scenic beauty that continues to enchant visitors.”
Booking.com’s profile of Kochi paints it as a city molded by centuries of trade and cultural exchange. From the cobbled streets of Fort Kochi dotted with colonial-era mansions and cozy cafés, to the famous Chinese fishing nets stretching across the coastline, the city embodies the essence of southern India.
The platform also spotlights Kochi’s creative vibrancy, especially during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, when its historic spaces turn into hubs of global contemporary art. Its cuisine — steeped in Kerala’s spice legacy — adds yet another layer to its allure.
With this honor, Kochi joins an elite group of world cities shaping travel trends for 2026, reaffirming its place as a soulful gateway that blends culture, art, and tradition with the timeless charm of Kerala’s coast.
