An Insight :
Cochin (Kochi) is the commercial capital of Kerala, and is sometimes referred to as
the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. Cochin proudly boasts a rich
cultural heritage, but is one of the most fast-paced and modern cities in
India. It is also one of the finest natural harbours of the world and a
major Indian port.
Always a tourist favourite, this city offers visitors plenty. Forts,
palaces, museums, old churches, cool backwaters, palm fringed lagoons,
beaches and the practicality of a contemporary metro.
Lets Explore Cochin :
» The Chinese fishing nets - These huge
cantilevered fishing nets along the backwaters are the legacy of the traders
from the court of Kublai Khan. Built of teakwood and bamboo poles, they are
fascinating to see.
» St. Francis Church - This Protestant church was
originally built by the Portuguese in 1510 A.D. It is considered to be
India's oldest European church. Vasco Da Gama was buried here before his
remains were taken back to Portugal 14 years later.
» Mattancherry (Dutch Palace) - Also known as the
Mattancherry Palace, it was built by the Portuguese and presented to the
Kochi Raja in 1555 AD. A fine blend of Indo-European architecture, it
acquired the present name after it was renovated by the Dutch in 1663. In
the center of the building is the hall where the Cochin Rajas held their
coronations. This central courtyard also enshrines the deity of the royal
family. Adjacent rooms contain 17th and 18th century murals illustrating
scenes from Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. There are two
temples on either side of the main palace, dedicated to Lord Krishna and
Lord Shiva.
» Jewish Synagogue - Situated close to the
Mattancherry boat jetty, the Synagogue and the ancient Jew town built in
1568 A.D. is of great historical importance. The most distinctive features
are its white willow-pattern tiles of which no two are alike.
Where is Cochin?
» By Air - There are daily flights from Mumbai,
Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kozhikode and Trivandrum. Kochi also
serves as the only airport connecting Lakshadweep by air. Cochin is also
served by a few International airlines like Silk Air, Air India, Emirates,
Qatar Airways and Air Lanka.
» By Rail - Various super fast trains connect
Ernakulam (twin city for Cochin) with the rest of the country.
» By Road - Cochin is well connected to the rest of
Southern India and serves as the gateway city for other North Kerala tourist
destinations like Kumarakom (85 kms), Munnar (160 kms), Periyar (200 kms)
etc.
