Princess Street (Bastian Street)

Overview

Princess Street, also known as Bastian Street, is one of the oldest and most charming streets in Fort Kochi, lined with restored colonial-era buildings that now house boutique hotels, art studios, cafés, and craft shops. The street encapsulates the heritage character of Fort Kochi.

Highlights

• Heritage architecture: A continuous row of Portuguese and Dutch colonial buildings with colorful facades and wooden balconies.
• Boutique stays: Several buildings have been converted into heritage guest houses, offering an atmospheric colonial-era lodging experience.
• Street ambiance: The gentle pace, mature trees, and lack of heavy traffic make it one of the most photogenic streets in Kerala.

History

Princess Street was one of the original roads laid out during the Portuguese colonial period in the 16th century. It was named after a local princess and served as a residential street for the Portuguese and later Dutch settlers. Many buildings date to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Visitor Tips

• Walking: Best explored on foot; the street is about 500 meters long.
• Early morning: Visit early for quieter photography and before café crowds arrive.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.