Alluring Attractions of Cochin
Cochin’s proximity to the backwaters in Alleppey & Kumarakom, its traditional Ayurveda spas, quirky cafes & restaurants in Fort Kochi and the allure of the fresh catch on the beach, has garnered a top-spot on global travelers’ itineraries. Come along for a quick sneak –peek at the many attractions of this little town of Kerala.
Fort Kochi
Once a tiny fishing village with a Portuguese trading post, Fort Kochi soon became the hub of foreign travelers during the age of the spice trade. Its cobbled streets, frequented by Dutch, Arabs, Jews, English & Chinese travelers, were soon infused with a cultural mix. The gorgeous Dutch palace, the relics of the Jew Town, and the colonial churches; all stand together in narrow alleyways, regaling us with the tales of the colorful past of Fort Kochi.
Mattancherry Palace
A gorgeous blend of colonial & Kerala architecture, Mattancherry Palace is renowned for the exquisite murals & frescos depicting stories from Indian mythology. Built by Portuguese in the 16th century and later taken over by the Dutch, the palace is popularly known as the Dutch Palace. This palace-turned-museum is home to a collection of royal wardrobe, arms, coins, stamps, and portraits of the Kochi royalty.
St. Francis’ Church, Fort Kochi
The chief landmark of Fort Kochi, this Portuguese-built church, is believed to be the oldest European Church in India. The famous explorer, Vasco De Gama, was interred here in 1524 before his remains were transferred to Lisbon.
Jewish Synagogue
The white façade and the imposing clock tower of this 16th-century synagogue stand tall on the Jew Street in Fort Kochi. Embellished with Chinese willow-patterned tiles, Belgian chandeliers, oriental rugs, and several gold crowns, this synagogue reflects the timeless history of Fort Kochi.
Chinese Fishing Nets
Locally known as Cheenvala, these Chinese Fishing Nets are believed to be introduced to Kerala by Chinese travelers in around the 13th century AD. Catch them in action at dawn and dusk as they move dreamily up & down.
Spice Market
The Jew Town of Fort Kochi is not only a place to indulge in the lost culture but also a perfect place to soak in the aroma of spices. Spice warehouses lining the street, busy workers carrying loads warehouses to shops, and the aroma of the finest ginger, cloves, cardamom & pepper- it’s a heady experience!
Ayurveda in Cochin
Cochin promises you a host of Ayurveda therapies in its many Ayurveda Spas & resorts. Check-in at an Ayurveda resort and rejuvenate your body & soul with a range of therapeutic massages, detoxification therapies, and the five-fold healing therapy.
Other Attractions of Cochin
- Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum- Watch a riveting Kathakali performance
- Indian Naval Maritime Museum- Showcasing the rich naval history of Kerala
- Cherai Beach- A perfect beach experience in Kochi
Extension Tours from Cochin
Alleppey (54kms), Kumakom (49kms) - The celebrated backwater destinations of Kerala
Munnar (126kms)- The gorgeous hill-station of Kerala
Fairs and Festivals of Cochin
- Onam- Welcoming King Mahabali, Snake Boat Race
- Indira Gandhi Boat Race
- Kochi Carnival- A Tourism Festival celebrating the heritage & culture of Kochi
- Christmas- Don’t miss the lip smacking plum cake
Shopping in Kochi
Miniature snake boats & ornamental boxes carved in wood, coconut & coir handicrafts, traditional silk sarees, aromatic spices, cashews, and Ayurveda oils are some of the best buys in Kochi.
Food in Kochi
Delicious Puttu & Kadala curry, Appam (hoppers) & Stew, Idiyappam (string hoppers), Chicken fry, Prawn Curry, Beef Fry, and Malabar Parota are some of the culinary delights of Cochin.
Best Time to Visit
Winter months from September to March form the peak tourist season in Kochi. However, if you don’t mind the rains, then visit this gorgeous city in June & July to when it turns a thousand shades of green.
How to Reach
By Air- Kochi International Airport connects the city with most of the cities across the globe.
By Rail- The two major railheads, Ernakulam Town Station and Ernakulam Junction Station, connect Kochi to all major cities in the country.
By Road- Kochi is easily accessible from the rest of the country by a well –developed network of roads & highways.
Book your Kerala Tour Package and join us as we explore the timeless heritage & incredible attractions of Kochi. Please fill the form, and we shall be happy to offer you personalized tour packages for a heartwarming experience in God’s Own Country.
