Cochin
Cochin proudly boasts as the Gateway to Kerala is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala. From time immemorial, the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese have left indelible marks on the history and development on the Queen of Arabian Sea. Always a tourist favourite, this city offers visitors plenty. Forts, palaces, museums, old churches, cool backwaters, palm fringed lagoons, beaches and the practicality of a contemporary metro.
Places to visit in Cochin
The Jewish Synagogue
The Jewish synagogue is live example of the ancient culture that influenced Cochin. Once you walk in, Chinese hand painted tiles greet you as you feast your eyes upon copper plates inscribed with grants from the royalty. This beautifully preserved synagogue was built in the year 1568 and was destroyed during the war of 1662, then rebuilt by the benevolent Dutch.Today, with its clock tower it stands as testimony of Cochin’s glorious past. The synagogue is open from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm, on all days except Saturday and Jewish holidays
The Dutch palace
The majestic piece of architecture was built by the Portuguese and presented to the raja of Cochin in 1555 and taken over in 1663.The palace renovated then, but neither the Portuguese nor the Dutch inhabited it.Today, the palace is a beautiful museum showcasing the beautiful clothes, intricate jewelry and well crafted weapon of the ancient rulers. Every nook and corner tells you a different story about Cochin.
The Santa Cruz Basilica
The Santa Cruz Basilica is one of the grandest churches in Kerala .The architecture is gothic and complete with beautiful frescoes and muralAs you walk in to the church, feel the serene holiness envelop you, be awe struck by the lofty spires and steal a moment for a quite player. Being pronounced as basilica has given this church international fame and regular mass isheld here every day.
Chinese Fishing Nets
The Chinese fishing nets have become symbol of Cochin over the years. These nets were first brought to Cochin during the reign of the Chinese Emperor Kublai Khan. These large nets are placed in fort Cochin and hang from long teak wood poles. A must see in Cochin, these nets symbolize an era when technology was little yet effective.
Hill Palace Museum
The hill palace museum is an archeological wonder, situated a little away from Cochin. The abode of erstwhile king and queens, Today stand of their lifestyle. The original throne crown and painting are still preserved and on display. One can see the utensils. Clothes and even the weaponry all in pristine condition .The hill palace museum is a paradise for all art and history lovers.
St. Francis Church
Built in 1510, St.Francis is first church to have been built in India by Europeans. Its gothic architecture and solidity are awe inspiring .Currently managed by the church of south India; a protestant section St.Francis is both magnificent in structure and intrinsic in nature.
Getting here
- By Air
Cochin International Airport- 35kms from City
- By Rail
Ernakulum has two train stations, Ernakulum Town and Ernakulum Junction which are well connected to the rest of India by an extensive network of rails
- By Road
The KSRTC bus stand is in Ernakulum, along the railway, halfway between the train stations.