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Cochin also known as 'Kochi' is a major port city on the west coast of India by the Arabian Sea. It is Kerala’s most cosmopolitan city and often reffered as 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Cochin was an important spice and seafoods trading centre from the 14th century and occupied by Portuguese Empire under Vasco da Gama in 1503 . Cochin is in fact a collection of narrow islands and peninsulas. It is built around a saltwater lagoon of the Arabian Sea. Over the years, Cochin has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. The sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate. Kochi is the arguably the ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala, rated in the top three tourist destinations.
Also known as Mattancherry Palace, the Dutch Palace is large two storeyed structure of 16th century building and was originally built by the Portuguese. It was given to the ruler of Cochin as a token of goodwill in exchange for trading rights. Later, in 17th century, it was renovated by the Dutch and so gained to be known as Dutch Palace. The palace is tiday a museum with fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. In the central Durbar Hall, where coronation ceremonies were once held, is the portrait gallery of the Cochin rulers.
The synagogue was built in 1568 and is set in a corner of Jew Town and rather hemmed in by the other buildings, with only the 18th century clock tower visible from outside. The first Jewish settlers are said to have reached Kodungallur in the 1st century AD. The present synagogue with its tiled roof and clock tower was rebuilt in 1664 with Dutch help, after Protuguese destroyed it in 1662. It is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. The narrow lanes around the synagogue are crammed with Dutch-style residences and most of these house antique shops.
It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. It was established in the early 1500s by the Portuguese. The church was originally constructed in wood, but was replaced by a stone-structure in 1546. The church was taken over by Dutch and then by the British. Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader burial spot is inside the church and has been clearly marked out.
The Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin and said to have been introduced by traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan. These are set up on teak and bamboo poles and are physical remnants of Fort Cochin’s ancient trade with the Far East. Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets.
Cochin,India
Situated on Willingdon Island with a magnificent view of Cochin harbour, Vivanta by Taj - Malabar is a unique mix of chic and classic. The heritage wing, built in 1935, has graceful Victorian interiors that aptly reflect the inherent beauty of Cochin. And the tower wing houses newly renovated guestroom suites, each a delic...
Cochin,India
Situated at the water's edge on the site of a bustling boatyard, this is considered by many to be Fort Cochin's most elegant hotel. A smart whitewashed colonial warehouse-style building with sloping tiled roofs, deep verandas, and terra-cotta floors set around a large open grassy courtyard, Brunton captures the graciou...
Cochin,India
At the heart of ancient Fort Cochin, Kerala, a place that exudes history and culture, is the 'Old Harbour Hotel'. A 300 year-old building that has for long been a heritage monument of this town, now reopened as a boutique hotel. Built in the Dutch style of architecture with hints of Portuguese influences, it was the fi...
Population: 6,01,574
Average Climate:
Summer: 25°C – 35°C
Winter: 22°C - 30°C
Best time to visit: October to March