Cochin-Kochi means different things to different people. To some, it is a world-famous port,
while to others it is a business center and a glamorous mirror to Kerala's vivid multifaceted personality. To many travelers, however,
this natural harbor is synonymous with its famous geographical hallmark-the underwater mud banks of Malabar.
Cochin (also Kochi) has been an important trading port since ancient times. Today, the land of spices that attracted the European traders is a quaint blend of the old and the new, the Indian and the Western. Popularly referred to as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin is today the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala.
Cochin-Kochi has a moderate climate with heavy rains during the monsoon period from June to August. A visit to Cochin enriches one about the historical and cultural past of Kerala.
Being a major harbor from the times of the British and Portuguese, Cochin has a rich heritage of forts, churches and temples. A visit to these ancient marvels gives you an overview of the political, religious and commercial developments of the city. The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is renowned for
its wall murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Fort Kochi, though now in ruins, contains many remains of Indo-European architecture. The Jewish Synagogue at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town is a fascinating mixture of shops, warehouses and spice auction rooms. The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, stands as the pride of Fort Cochin. The Santa Cruz Basilica, originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese, was used as a warehouse by the British in the 18th century. The Chinese fishing nets
are huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have brought to Kochi by Chinese traders. The Hill Palace Museum at Tripunithura houses the collections of the Cochin and Travancore royal families. Finally, the Willingdon Island, named after Lord Willingdon, is the headquarters of the Southern Naval Command of India.
Planning a trip to Cochin-Kochi? Enjoy the best of tour packages. For many tourists, Cochin-Kochi itself is a great place to see with Cochin Fort, Museums, Churches and much more. Go through our tour offers for Cochin-Kochi and decide which one is the best for you. If you are not looking for the one given here, call us. We will create the best package according to your needs and interest. 123indiatravel.com also offers all inclusive tour packages for Cochin-Kochi and other places in India. Please contact us for the same.
