Cochin

Kochi, well known as the Cochin and one of the principal seaports, is located in the Indian state of Kerala and 220 km. north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Kochi was the princely state which traces its lineage to the Kulasekhara and the seat of the kingdom of Cochin since 1102 CE. Cochin, known as the Queen of Arabian Sea, was a famous spice trade centre on the coast of Arabian Sea in the 14th century.

Successive waves of migration over the course of several millennia have made Kochi a cultural melting pot. One can explore its distinct colonial heritage and a blend of tradition and modernity and can realize the natural touch of nature, sea coast and various colors here. Due to this Kochi is also famous for its other name well known as the Gateway of Kerala.

There is a great influence of the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch and Portuguese in the development and the history of the Cochin.

Fast Facts
Population: 1.66 Million

Area: 81.34 sq. km.
Languages: Malyalam, English, Hindi
Season: September to May
Climate: Summer 36 - 20, Winter 16 - 32

How to Reach
By Air: Well connected with Air with the airport in the Kochi with all the major destinations of India.
By Rail: Perfectly connected with the nearest railhead junction in the Kochi own with all the prime cities of India.
By Road: Well connected with all the major highways covered to the city with all the major cities of India.

Places to Visit

Backwaters
Cochin is famous for its backwaters and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. To the northern extension of Vembanad Lake - the longest lake in India and the largest lake in Kerala has a stretch from Kochi Azhi to Munambam Azhi, the serene backwaters are popularly known as Veeranpuzha.

One can explore various picturesque islands there in the Vembanad Lake popularly known as the Gundu, Bolgatty, Vypeen and Vallarpadam. Cochin is famous its fascinating, diverse cultures and the blend of the distinct traditions, amazing colors and one of the best nature harbors for the nature lovers.

St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church, oldest church of the India, was built by the Portuguese in 1503 and presently it is the church placed in South India. The place has also been utilized for the burial of Vasco da Gama in 1526.

The church has a great significance like a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the sub-continent. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica:- This church was originally built by the Portuguese in 1958 and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV and was spared by the Dutch conquerors who destroyed many Catholic buildings. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is a popular tourist destination among the tourist who comes to Kochi to explore the beauty of this place. The church has beautiful paintings on the ceiling.

Mattancherry Palace
Mattancherry Palace, the Dutch Palace with features of the Kerala Murals - depicting Hindu temple art, portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi, was built by the Portuguese in 1555 A.D. and was presented to the Raja of Kochi named as Veera Kerala Varma.

The palace is built in the Nalukettu style - the traditional Kerala style of architecture and has a courtyard in the middle with a small temple there of 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati' - protective Goddess of Kochi royal family.

Fort Cochin
Fort Cochin is very popular tourist destination being the historical part of the city, which reflects the European heritage, culture and history. The Fort of the Cochin is popular for the buttresses which seem like the chief highlight of the place. It is renowned now for the Chinese fishing nets which are used for backwater fishing.

Hill Palace
Hill Palace, located near the Tripunithura, is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. It was built in 1865 and was the administrative office of the Kochi Rajas. It has the 49 buildings that is a splendor of the amazing and heart touching architecture with the traditional effect and is spread over the 54 acres, having the beautiful and popular tourist interests like as archaeological Museum, a Heritage Museum, a Deer Park, a Pre-historic Park and a Children's park.

There are other various tourists attractions found in the Cochin that attracts more tourists who love the nature, traditions, culture and historical glory. One can explore the beauty of Cochin by viewing like as Parikshith Thampuram Museum, Cochin carnival, Cherai Beach, Bolgatty Island, Willingdon Island, Jewish Synagogue, Vypeen Island etc.