Kochi, the capital of Kerala is located between the Arabian Sea and Backwaters. Acclaimed as the finest natural harbour in the world, Kochi, earlier known as Cochin is a bustling port and a fascinating city. Built along saltwater lagoon, the view of the vast stretch ofthe blue waters along with the Chinese nets is a sight worth beholding. This, once an camouflaged fishing village has today become an important trade centre for India. An interesting mix of the Hindu, Muslim and British architecture can be seen on the beaches of Kochi. Travel to Kochi and enjoy a splendid stay among the emerald backwaters. Visit during the months of September to May when the downpour of the rain floods the river thus making it a very romantic experience.
Tourist Places in Kochi
Kochi is full pf heritage as well as cultural centers where tourists can also enjoy beaches and indulge in water sports. Kerala tourism promotes exclusive tours for Kochi that is bedecked with various monumental attractions that reveal the Dutch and British influence on Kerala.
Forts And Palaces in Kochi
The first and foremost name that comes when talking about the forts of Kochi is inevitable Fort Kochi, that leaves a strong legacy of the Europeans. The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is also an exquisite palace where the wall murals have been done using the tempera process of painting.
Religious places in Kochi
Christianity is very dominant in Kochi, and this fact is evident by the >presence of numerous churches. Pay visit to Santa Cruz Basilica which >dates back to 1558 and has beautiful paintings on its ceiling. Another >famous church is of St. Francis and is India's oldest church. The >tombstone of Vasco Dagama here is also a popular attraction.
Beaches in Kochi
Walking on the beaches of Kochi is the most pleasurable and peaceful >experience one can enjoy. Enjoy some idyllic time on Cherai beach which >is ideal for swimming. Dolphins too are an added highlight of this beach.
Other Attractions of Kochi
Hill Palace museum, 10 kms from Kochi is a must visit place. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings built in the Traditional Architectural Style of Kerala and is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a Deer Park and facilities for horse riding. Paintings, murals, manuscripts and sculptures the museum. Beside this the Chinese fishing nets (that can be seen on the harbour), man made island of Willingdon and Jewish synagogues are other popular places to visit in Kochi.
Excursions from Kochi
Kochi allows the tourists to excur to various far flung places. Travel to the Alpuzzha beach (70 kms) and spend a night on the houseboat. The Periyar wildlife sanctuary (190 kms) is the hub of animals while the backwater destination of Kumarakom (88 kms) is a favorite haunt for the migratory birds. The hill station of Munnar is 130 kms away.
Getting There to Kochi
The strategic location as well as commercial importance has led to an extensive networking of transport in Cochin. It has a international airport where international flights ply regularly. Kochi has three main railway stations, namely, Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town and Harbour Terminus on Willingdon Island. An extensive network of national/state highways and local roads link Kochi to rest of the country. Moreover, NH 47 from Kanyakumari to Salem pass right through the heart of the city while NH 17 to Mumbai and NH 49 to Madurai (in Tamil Nadu) starts from Kochi itself.
Festival in Kochi
The festival of Ernakulathappan, the deity of Shiva temple is an annual festival lasting for eight days. Seeveli procession with nine tuskers and Panchavadyam are highpoints of the festival. Kathakali, Ottanthullal, music concerts are presented by renowned artists. The festival concludes with the Arattu.
The Valanjambalam Devi Temple located in the heart of Ernakulam celebrates an annual festival for two days known as Thalapoli Utsavam. Decorated elephants accompanied by temple musical ensembles known, as Ezhunnallippu is an important event of the festival.
