Going to kerala in monsoons? lol
1.stay near Padmanabha Swamy temple/king's palace(only 1.5km from TVS main side exit..auto=50 rs......u may take alternate side exit from TVC..then its almost walkable) ....walking distance big bus station/depot near temple..u can get regular direct AC/regular local buses for museum(+adjacent zoo)..or kovalam/shanghum beaches
2. if u want real relaxation and masti...go directly to kovalam ,stay there ..as good as cochin beaches .