Places to visit in Cochin
Kochi, earlier known as Cochin is the most-popular places to visit in Kerala. Titled the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, this city has a number of charms. It is the commercial capital of the Southern Indian State of Kerala. Additionally, being one of the finest natural harbours of the world, it is a major Indian port. Cochin tours come with many surprise and experience that you cherish for a lifetime. Amazing modern and yet historic and cultural at the same time, every nook and corner has excitements that are absolutely unmissable! Besides, Cochin is the gateway to Kerala owing to its international airport as well as train connections.
Always a tourist favourite, this city offers visitors plenty. Cochin is blessed by nature. The shores are breath-taking. The Chinese fishing nets dipping in the water enhance the beauty. Especially at sunset and sunrise, people come to relax on the beaches and watch the marvellous changing colours of the sky and sea. The famous backwaters of Kerala find its place in this port city too. These unexplored backwaters makes you forget the chaos of the cities and pampers you with natural bliss.
Cochin’s cultural legacy is a fascinating mix. The native along with the footprints of the colonials-Dutch, Portuguese, British are amazing to explore. The city sightseeing include forts, palaces, museums, old churches, and more. The interesting places to visit in Cochin include the Mattancherry Palace also known as the Dutch Palace. Built by the Portuguese while some parts by Dutch, the 16th century palace was presented to the then ruler of Cochin Raja. Marvel at the fine blend of Indo-European architecture in the St. Francis Church, where Vasco Da Gama was buried before his remains were taken back to his homeland Portugal 14 years later. The Jewish Synagogue in the ancient Jew town built in 1568 A.D. is of great historical importance. The Chinese fishing nets too are a gift of the foreigner who made the city their home. A new addition, Kumbalangi Village is an eco-village that has many ideas of sustainable-tourism.
The tourist attractions in Cochin are not just its beauty and history, there is more. The taste of the dishes of Kerala are best enjoyed here. From scrumptious fares served at the streets to fine-dining restaurants there are many choices. Shopping is also a thrill as you can find treasures of handicrafts and indigenous treasures. Also, Cochin is a hub of spectacular cultural performances; from Kathakali dance performance to a display of the skills of Kalariyapattu and Carnatic music.
Besides its own tourist attractions, Cochin is the getaway to Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Thrissur and other popular places in Kerala.
Dutch Palace
Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace): The Portuguese constructed The Mattancherry Palace in 1557, and presented to the Maharaja of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma (1537-61) as sign of goodwill. After 1663, the Dutch carried out some constructions and renovations in the palace, and from that day it was widely called as the ‘Dutch Palace’. The most significant thing about this palace is the amazing paintings in the bedrooms and other rooms. The paintings portray scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranic legends connected with Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara and Durga. These paintings are certainly the most extensive and attractive paintings to be seen anywhere in India
The Jewish Synagogue
The Jewish Synagogue The Jewish Synagogue: The Jewish Synagogue is located near the Dutch Palace. This synagogue was constructed in 1568 and was brilliantly decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. The Synagogue has a giant scroll of the Old Testament
Cochin Harbor
The very popular tourist attraction in Cochin Harbor is the Chinese Fishing nets. These fishing nets are one of its kind and are found only in India. The fishing nets were popularized in Cochin Harbor by the traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan
St Francis Church
St. Francis church was constructed by the Europeans in 1503. St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India. The Portuguese trader, Vasco da Gama died in Kochi, during his third visit to Kerala. Initially, his body was buried in this church, but after a few years his remains were moved to Portugal. In spite of all this the place where he was buried has been marked out inside the church
Fort Kochi Beach
Fort Kochi beach is an ideal location to saunter in a peaceful and relaxing way. This beach happens to be one of the favorite tourist spots in Kerala. The view of the sunset with the Chinese fishing net and the sailing ships in the background is a fine experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen alongside the shoreline.
Kathakali Dance Performance
Kathakali Dance Performance at a local theatre. Kathakali is a classical dance form, portraying Indian epics (Ramayana and Mahabharata). The costumes of the dancers are very colorful and elaborate. Dancers with painted faces depict the various characters of the ancient epics. The Kathakali dancers portray a lot of facial expressions and articulate body movements
