Kochi, earlier known as Cochin, is popularly regarded as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Also the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala, Kochi is located in the district of Ernakulam, about 220 km north of the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. Kochi also houses one of the finest natural harbors in the world. The port has been very popular among foreign traders and visitors from early times. The traders as far as from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal frequented this beautiful port city since time unknown. Kochi now is a cosmopolitan city that attracts people not only for business and trading but also for its exceptional natural beauty and cultural charm.

One of the Kerala's prime tourist destinations, Kochi is beautifully spread across islands and promontories in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and Kerala Backwaters. The city comprises of two main sections; modern Ernakulam in the east and the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin in the west, both linked by a complex system of ferries.

Places to Visit
Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi or Cochin is the first fort built by the Europeans in India. Started by the Dutch and then British, all constructed numerous architectures in and around this historic fort. Chinese Fishing Nets: They are huge cantilevered fishing nets brought by the Indian traders from the court of Kublai Khan, the famous Mongol Emperor who founded the Yuan Dynasty of China. The best place to enjoy the nets being lowered into the sea and its catch is the Vasco de Gama square.

Mattancherry Palace: Built by the Portuguese in 1557, the Palace was gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi. The Palace exhibits beautiful murals, depicting scenes from the epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Puranic Hindu legends. Also on display are the Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins and coronation outwears of former maharajas of Kochi among many more.

Jewish Synagogue: Built in the year 1568, the Jewish Synagogue is probably the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. The greatest attractions of this synagogue are its amazing 18th century hand painted willow pattern floor tiles imported from China, the copper plates on which the privilege granted by the kings were recorded, a dock tower and Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs among many others. St. Francis Church (Fort Cochin): Built by the Portuguese in 1503 AD, it is the first church built by the Europeans in India. Vasco De Gama, the famous Portuguese trader and sailor, was buried here in 1524 before his remains were moved to Lisbon, Portugal.

Bolghatty Island: A beautiful narrow long island, it's famous for the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch in 1744. The only golf course in Kochi is located here. Boats are available for water cruise in the island connecting Cochin to Bolghatty Island.

Willington Island: This is a man-made island surrounded by beautiful backwaters. It houses the city's best hotels and trading centers, the port trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command.

Cochin Museum: One of the famous museums of Kerala, it has a rich collections of paintings, coins and sculptures. The museum houses 19th century oil paintings, mural paintings, old coins, wooden sculptures and sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris. Earlier the museum was situated at the Durbar Hall, now has been shifted to the Hill Palace at Tripunithura.

Other major attraction of Kochi include the Bolghatty Palace, Fort Kochi beach, Hill Palace, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Museum of Kerala History, Palliport (Pallipuram) Fort, Parikshith Thampuram Museum to name a few.

Besides, Kochi offers many recreational and leisurely activities. The backwaters separating Ernakulam from Fort Kochi and Mattancherry are dotted with many small and big islands. A boat cruising through the backwaters would be an unforgettable experience. You can also enjoy the performances of Kathakali, a fascinating traditional Kerala dance form.

How to Reach

By Air: Kochi has a domestic airport with flights to all the major cities of India. All the major airlines have their operation between Kochi and major cities of India.

By Rail: Kochi and Ernakulam are well connected to the rest of India by an extensive rail network. The city has three important railway stations namely Cochin Harbor Terminus, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town.

By Road: The city has a very good network of roads and well connected with major cities of South and West India, Three important National Highways (NH) 47, NH 17 and NH 49 pass through Kochi making the city easily accessible by road.