Kochi: Coastal treasures and beyond
Kochi, also called Cochin, is renowned for its chronicle significance and traditional diversity. Being an ancient port city, it has welcomed traders and settlers for centuries, resulting in a unique fusion of Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Chinese influences in the modern livelihood of the locals. There is a concoction of cultural depictions ranging from the Mattancherry Palace temple of the Portuguese to the Bolgatty Palace of the Dutch, large fishing nets of the Chinese and various crumbling remains of the British. Besides, the historic Fort Kochi, the western part of Kochi city, attracts the attention of tourists worldwide.
Kochi's food culture is a fantastic fusion of all the traditional Kerala dishes. Enriched by coastal influences, the cuisine offers a plethora of seafood delights like meen pollichathu and Kerala fish curry. While Kochi’s past significance as a trading port brings a mix of global flavours, the essence of the local flavours, spices and diversity in the street food is also clearly evident here. Some famous dishes served in the streets and fine diners of Kochi include payasam and idiyappam. The markets here are also a delight for shopping enthusiasts. If you wish to buy the most authentic and antique items and take them as souvenirs, you can visit the Marine Drive or the Jew Town.
Places to visit in Kochi
Kochi has emerged as one of the top destinations to visit in India. Let’s make a wholesome itinerary that covers a few of the best places in the city.
- Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is the first European township located in the heart of Kochi, which falls under the district of Ernakulam. The place is known for its quaint streets, historic buildings, and a unique blend of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Visitors can walk along the picturesque Chinese fishing nets on the coastline, explore the centuries-old St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), and admire the beautiful murals and street art that adorn the area.
- Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is an elegant castle that showcases a blend of European and traditional Kerala architecture. It houses a remarkable collection of wall art, ancient items, and carvings that provide insights into the region's past and tradition. The Portuguese initially built this landmark in the 16th century and was later renovated by the Dutch on their arrival. The palace has intricate Hindu temple art, including detailed murals depicting scenes from the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. These art pieces offer valuable insights into the region's artistic heritage, making the palace a noteworthy landmark.
- Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town: The Jewish Synagogue is a tribute to Kochi's distinctive heritage. Its interiors are adorned with intricate Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles. The narrow lanes of Jew Town offer a glimpse into the city's Jewish history and are dotted with antique shops and curio stores. The synagogue was built in 1568. It is one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations. The Jew Town area surrounding the temple is an example of the multicultural trade history of Kochi, where different communities thrived. The synagogue's architecture blends influences from various cultures, like Dutch, Portuguese, and local styles.
- Hill Palace Museum: The Hill Palace Museum is Kerala's most significant archaeological museum. Initially the residence of the Cochin Maharaja, the palace complex showcases a great collection of artworks and heirlooms that offer insights into the royal heritage of the region. The museum's diverse exhibits include paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, coins and decorative items spanning various periods. It serves as a window into the opulent past of the Cochin dynasty and contributes to preserving and sharing the legacy of Kerala.
- Santa Cruz Basilica: An architectural marvel, Santa Cruz Basilica church is one of the eight Basilicas in India. It has beautiful interiors with intricate woodwork, murals, and stained glass windows. The striking blend of Indo-European architecture showcases stunning visuals of the inside. The basilica's religious significance, reflected in its joyous services and spiritual gatherings, makes it a cherished place of worship for locals and visitors. The Santa Cruz Basilica represents a prosperous legacy and is a place of reverence and inspiration.
- Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum: Established in the late 1990s, Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum is an institution conceived as a tribute to the traditional arts, crafts, and folklore of the region. The museum aims to showcase the facets of Kerala's legacy, encompassing art forms, rituals, music, dance, and ancient traditions. Its inception was driven by a desire to create a platform for local artists and performers to showcase their talents and ensure the survival of Kerala's unique expressions. Over the years, the Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum has evolved into a cultural exchange centre.
- Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. It is a protected area home to a distinctive range of migratory and resident bird species, making it perfect for birdwatchers. The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary has a fascinating history that reflects its transformation from a neglected urban wasteland to a thriving ecological haven.
Kochi Airport (COK)
Cochin International Airport (COK), or Kochi Airport, is located in Nedumbassery, around 25 km northeast of Kochi city centre. One of the prominent aviation hubs in the country, the airport has three terminals - domestic, international, and executive - catering to all domestic and international traffic, including flights to Kochi from London. Kochi Airport offers convenient connectivity options with the city, including buses, trains, cabs or rickshaws, commonly known as tuk-tuk. The facilities provided at the airport include restaurants, duty-free shops and lounges.
