Kochi – ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’
This city in God’s own country, Kerala, has been a port since the ancient times ever since Vasco da Gama stepped foot on its shores. With a land area of 95 sq. km and a population of 2 million, Kochi has been open for tourism and trade for centuries.
Tourist attractions in Kochi
The prime tourist spot is Fort Kochi and its houseboats. Some of the other tourist attractions in Kochi include Mattancherry Palace, Bolgatty Palace, Cherai Beach, Kuzhupilly Beach and Vypin. If you have time, you can visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, Kodanad Elephant Training Centre and Paradesi synagogue.
It will be an enticing experience if you can make it to Willingdon Island. Thiruvankulam is a place in Kochi where you can go snorkelling too. You can also see the local residents use cantilevered Chinese fishing nets to capture humongous loads of live fish for export and sale in markets.
Places to shop in Kochi
The roads connecting to Fort Kochi is packed with stalls and market places where tourists can get themselves a lot of reasonably priced, exquisite commodities. Some of the famous market places include Jew Town, Princess Street and Bazaar Road. Tourists buy Banana chips, Aroma oils, Spices, Nuts, Tea, Bamboo handicrafts and ethnic wear like Kasavu Mundu.
Modes of transport
The residents and tourists usually commute through boats, buses and auto-rickshaws. This is a better way to not miss out on places between your expeditions. It has access to roads, railway and flights, making it a well-connected city.
Weather in Kochi
The weather in Kochi is generally humid. It is hottest during April when temperatures shot up to 30degrees Celsius. There are heavy rains between May and October.
Airport in Kochi
Cochin International Airport (IATA: COK)is located in Nedumbassery. It is just one and a half hours away from Fort Kochi.