Kochi: A City with Waterfront Promenades!
Welcome to Kochi, a charming city on the beautiful Malabar coast. Its ancient landmarks, like Mattancherry Palace and Fort Kochi, show the city's rich past. At the same time, the scenic views of the Arabian Sea and tranquil backwaters provide a calming and relaxing atmosphere. The city is a hub for various art forms, and visitors can witness captivating performances like Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama, and Theyyam, a unique ritualistic art form native to Kerala. Kochi hosts the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition held every two years. It attracts artists, enthusiasts, and tourists worldwide.
Kochi's lively markets, friendly locals, and delicious coastal cuisine make it a delightful destination. Its cuisine is marked by aromatic spices and seafood, with specialities like Malabar biryani and appam with stew. Explore markets, such as Jew Town and the spice markets, during your time in the city. Visit antique shops and spice emporiums and pick up handcrafted souvenirs. Book your Manchester to Kochi flight ticket with IndiGo to start your unforgettable vacation.
Places to visit in Kochi
Kochi's rich heritage and natural wonders make it a fascinating destination for people worldwide. Here are some spectacular places to visit in Kochi:
- Paradesi Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in Kochi is named Paradesi Synagogue. It was built in the year 1568. At first, it was made as a special place for Jewish people, specifically for the Sephardic Jews who had to leave Spain and Portugal. Inside this synagogue, you can see many ancient artefacts like a wooden box, a unique carpet, and precious gold and silver crowns. One of the biggest attractions is the Scrolls of Torah, which has the first five books of the Old Testament. The synagogue has a tall clock tower with numbers written in Hebrew, Roman, Malayalam, and Arabic styles. All of this makes it a must-visit for tourists.
- Veegaland: Veegaland or Wonder La Amusement Park is another popular attraction in Kochi, filled with exciting rides and games. Explore exhilarating rides like jumping cars, flying ammu, and water coasters. With more than 50 rides and several convenient facilities like lockers, you can remain carefree and have fun with friends and family during your trip to Veegaland. Book your tickets in advance, options for which are available on the official website of Veegaland.
- Veeranpuzha Lake: While Kerala is known for its backwaters and coasts, Veeranpuzha Lake is a top attraction in Kochi. It's located in northern Vembanad Lake and offers a peaceful evening. It's especially great to visit during the monsoon season in June or July when water festivals occur. There are other lagoons and lakes beside Veeranpuzha, making it one of the most extensive water areas in the city. It is an excellent spot for photographers to capture nature's beauty, with paddy fields around.
- Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a popular destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in history, culture, and the picturesque coastal ambience. It holds a rich blend of influences, reflecting its colonial past and trading heritage. The area is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and narrow streets. Notable attractions in Fort Kochi include the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and the Jewish Synagogue.
- Vasco House: Vasco House is a historic building considered one of the oldest Portuguese houses in the area, dating back to the 16th century. The house is named after the famous explorer Vasco da Gama, who lived here while visiting Kochi. The architecture of Vasco House showcases a blend of European and Indian styles, with intricately carved woodwork and charming balconies. It is a living testament to the colonial history and cultural fusion characterising Fort Kochi. Today, Vasco House is a prominent landmark and a reminder of the area's rich maritime heritage.
- Santa Cruz Basilica: Santa Cruz Basilica is a significant church in Fort Kochi, India. It is another iconic symbol of the area's colonial history and architectural beauty. The basilica was originally built by the Portuguese in the late 19th century and later elevated to the position of a basilica by Pope John Paul II. The stunning architecture of Santa Cruz Basilica features a mix of European and Indian styles, with intricate detailing, elegant arches, and stained glass windows. Visitors can admire the grandeur of the interiors and the religious artworks that adorn the walls.
Kochi Airport (COK)
Kochi International Airport, also known as Cochin International Airport (COK), is the busiest airport in Kerala, expecting flights to Kochi worldwide. It is located at Nedumbassery, which is about 25 km. The airport serves as a primary gateway for both domestic and international travellers. The airport has earned recognition as the world's first fully solar-powered airport, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable facility.
Kochi Airport offers a wide range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of passengers. It has three passenger terminals: T1 for domestic flights, T2 for international flights, and T3 for low-cost carriers. The airport has lounges, restaurants, duty-free shops, and currency exchange counters. Taxis, autos, buses, and ride-sharing services seamlessly connect the airport to the rest of the city.