Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a vibrant port city located in the southwestern state of Kerala, India. This coastal gem is a captivating blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. The city's rich history is reflected in its colonial architecture, with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras, adding a unique character to its streets.
One of Cochin's most iconic attractions is Fort Kochi, where you can stroll through its narrow lanes lined with colonial-era buildings, art galleries, and charming cafes. The Chinese fishing nets along the coast are a striking sight, offering a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage. Cochin is also a cultural melting pot, with a rich tradition of art, dance, and music. The city hosts festivals, including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, which showcases contemporary art and creativity.
One of Cochin's most iconic attractions is Fort Kochi, where you can stroll through its narrow lanes lined with colonial-era buildings, art galleries, and charming cafes. The Chinese fishing nets along the coast are a striking sight, offering a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage. Cochin is also a cultural melting pot, with a rich tradition of art, dance, and music. The city hosts festivals, including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, which showcases contemporary art and creativity.
The Chinese fishing nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here. Oddly, these nets are found only in Kochi, outside China! Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along with Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets. This cruise will take you around three Islands namely Vypin, Gundu & Bolgathy.
The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portuguese. Later, in the 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented it to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi was held here. The palace has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. The palace is located in Mattancherry. IMP: It remains closed on Fridays. Timings for the visit: 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs.
The synagogue, built-in 1568, is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry.
IMP: It remains closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Timings for the visit: 0900 hrs to 1200 hrs and from 1500 hrs to 1700 hrs.
Kathakali, often hailed as one of India's most magnificent classical dance-drama forms, is a captivating art that has its roots in the southern state of Kerala. This article delves into the world of Kathakali, exploring its history, distinctive features, elaborate costumes and makeup, and its enduring significance in the realm of performing arts.
A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with the Chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a memorable experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline. The coastal stretch has loads of small stalls, which make on demand mouth-watering traditional cuisines using freshly caught fish.
It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who Make on-demand mouth-watering traditional cuisines using freshly caught fish. St. Francis Church - It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that, his burial spot inside the church has been clearly marked out.
Vasco house, located on Rose Street, is believed to be one of the oldest Portuguese houses in India. Vasco da Gama is believed to have lived here. This house features European glass paned windows and verandahs.
The original church, situated in Fort Kochi, was built by the Portuguese in 1505 and named as a cathedral in 1558. The British colonists destroyed the cathedral in 1795. The current structure was built in 1905 and raised to the status of a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.
This Dutch palace is situated on Boighatty island which is just a short boat ride away from the mainland. The palace has been converted to a hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). The island has a tiny golf course and the panoramic views of the port and the harbor make it an attractive picnic spot. Frequent boat service is available from the mainland.
Mangalavanam is a protected bird sanctuary situated right in the heart of Kochi city. It is the home of many exotic and rare varieties of migratory and resident birds. Mangalavanam is located right next to the High Court of Kerala.
This Rajas of Cochin used to conduct their durbars in this impressive building located within the Durbar Hall grounds. It was later converted to a museum that has a treasure trove of archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings, and murals. The building has been taken over by the Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy and now houses the Gallery of Contemporary Art. All the exhibits of the museum have been moved to the Hill Palace museum.
This lovely beach ideal for swimming is located on the north end of Vypeen island, one of the many small islands just off the mainland. The beach is lined by gorgeous coconut groves and paddy fields. Vypeen can be reached by land or by boat.