
Cochin a vibrant city situated on the south West Coast of Indian peninsula is the city of history and color. Founded in 1341 it was one of the key spots on the ancient spice route from China to Rome. The lovely sea side city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the East and Arabian Sea on the West. From time immortal the city has witnessed several invasions from Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch and Portugeses that have left indelible marks on the history and development of Cochin. Over the years the city has emerged as one of the commercial and industrial hub of Kerala and becomes the second most important city on the west coast of India. Its great diversity and beauty make it one of the most sought after tourist destination of Kerala. Referred as the gateway to Kerala, Kochin has all-weather harbor, an international airport, and replete with serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons, magnificent seascapes, Cochin is truly a Queen of Arabian Sea. There is so much to see and explore in Cochin. Some of the major attractions of Cochin includes:-
Major Tourist Attractions
Backwaters of Kochi:- Backwaters of Kochi is one of the major attractions of Kochi. It is a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to Arabian Sea known as Malabar Coast. The stretch from Kochi Azhi to Munambam Azhi , the serene backwaters of Kochi is popularly known as Veeranpuzha is among the most scenic spots of Kochi..
Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi:- The Chinese Fishing Nets is distinctly unique in Cochin. It is believed that traders from the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan had introduced these nets over here. These nets are found only in Kochi outside China. These fishing nets are the livelihood of various fishermen in the town. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these fishing nets.
St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi:- St. Francis Church is among the oldest churches in India built by Europeans. On his third visit to India famous Portuguese explorer Vasco De Gamma fell ill over here and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later on his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that, his burial spot inside the Church has been clearly marked out.
Hill Palace, Tripunithura:- Built in the 19th century by the Raja of Kochi
this place served as the seat of Raja of Kochi province. The place is located at a distance of 16 km east of Cochin in Tripunithura a satellite town of Cochin. Now the place has been converted into a museum displaying the finest collection of that era. The museum has the collection of artifacts showing the wealth and splendors of Rajas of Kochi, large collections of archaeological findings etc.
Bolghatty Palace, Bolghatty Island:- This Dutch palace situated on Bolghatty Island is located at a very small distance from the mainland. Now the palace has been converted to a hotel run by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. The island has a tiny golf course and offers the panoramic views of the port and the harbor makes it an attractive picnic spot. Frequent boat services are available from the mainland.
How to reach
By Air:-Kochi has International Airport at Nedumbassery which is about 20 km from Kochi. The airport is well connected to major national an international destinations.
By Rail:-Cochin has three important railheads namely Harbor Terminus on Willingdon Island, Ernakulam Town and Ernakulam Junction which is well connected to other major parts of the country.
By Road:- Cochin is one of the major international cities of Kerala which is connected to other major cities of Kerala through a good network of roads and highways. There are three major national highways which pass through or start from Kochi. They are NH-47, NH-17, NH-49. Various state run buses help the visitors to commute from one place to another.
The Kerala Vacation provides its visitors ample of opportunities to explore the major scenic spots in and around Kerala. To know more such scenic spots just fill the form below or contact us.