Kochi (formerly Cochin) is a cosmopolitan city in Kerala with a bustling commercial port. Kochi is the financial capital of Kerala and, with a population of more than 2 million, the biggest urban agglomeration in the state. It is one of the major tourist destinations in India.

Kochi (formerly Cochin) is a cosmopolitan city in Kerala with a bustling commercial port. Kochi is the financial capital of Kerala and, with a population of more than 2 million, the biggest urban agglomeration in the state. It is one of the major tourist destinations in India.

Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is the historic part of town and the best place to visit in Kochi. It is a small village along the Arabian coastline and is famous for the Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Cemetery, Synagogue, and Churches. There are many specimens of the bygone era which interest the history lovers. The Chinese fishing nets adorning the beach are one of the unmissable delights. The view at sunset is simply charming, visitors are left spellbound.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive in Kochi is one of the best places to spend time in the city and provides an amazing view of the sea. It is a picturesque promenade and is built facing the backwaters. It is a popular hangout place for the local people. It is a picturesque promenade with a walkway of about three kilometers and is an amazing place to spend some time leisurely, either in the company of loved ones or even some alone time. The walkway of Marine Drive is filled with people during the evening who visit the place to have a view of the sun setting over the calm sea.

Bolgatty Palace

Bolgatty Palace is one of the oldest existing Dutch Palaces outside Holland. It was built by the Dutch in 1744 serving as the Dutch Governor’s residence and later leased to the British Government. Today it is a luxurious heritage resort. The Dutch mansion is set amid Bolgatty Island, overlooking the backwaters of the Laccadive Sea surrounded by landscaped greenery. The deluxe property has a swimming pool, a 9-hole golf course, an Ayurvedic centre, etc. The palatial rooms offer a relaxing stay. Guests can indulge in the lavish amenities, daily Kathakali performances, and the pampering Ayurvedic therapies.

Jew Synagogue, Jew Town

Amongst the 7 synagogues located in this area, this Jewish synagogue is the only one which is in operation today. It was built in 1568 and is also called the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or Mattencherry Synagogue. The Jew town in Kochi is one of the intriguing aspects of the charm of the coastal city. Mattancherry town’s older historic region is named the Jew Town. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kochi. Centuries back, the Jews landed on the shores of Kerala. The community engaged in the spice trade and settled down here. Though most have returned to their homeland Israel, they have left back their cultural imprint.

Cherai Beach

The Cherai beach is one of the famous attractions of Kochi. Tucked in the north-end of Vypin Island, the beach is known for the blessed sight of backwaters merging with the sea. The beach can be reached only by boat. Cherai beach is pleasurable place to go with family and friends ideal for swimming. The tides are usually low here, offering a wonderful opportunity for swimming for beginners as well. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. Thick coconut groves and Chinese fishing nets on the waterside are added attractions. Revel in the bliss of the beach, multi-hued shells are strewn on the sands. It is a change from crowded seashores of Kerala.

Things to do in Cochin

Take a Boat ride - A boat ride from Marine Drive to Fort Kochi is an ideal activity

Mall visit - Large western-style shopping malls are now common in Kochi.

Aluva Manappuram - The famous Aluva Sivarathri is celebrated at the temple.

How to reach Cochin

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport.

By Rail: Ernakulam Junction Station is a major Indian railway station.

By Road: Kochi is well connected by road from all parts of the state as well as other major cities. Three major national highways connect Kochi with other parts of the country.