Fast Facts
District : Ernakulam
Old Name : Cochin
Distance : 218 kms, north of Trivandrum
Attractions : Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Ernakulam
city
Best time to visit : September to May
Location
Kochi
and Ernakulam existed as twin cities, almost inseparable. Kochi, formerly
called Cochin is a prime tourist destinations in the state of Kerala. The
place is situated on the Western Coast and abutted by Arabian Sea. The city
lies to the north west of yet another important tourist destination called
Kumarakom. With ample means of transportation the place is connected with
the rest of the country and destinations beyond. Kochi is sometimes referred
as the Gateway to Kerala and constitutes the headquarters of the Ernakulam
district.
Introducing Kochi
Kochi is essentially a port city and many a times called the Queen of
Arabian Sea. The city has been a popular commercial centre since time
immemorial. Cochin, as it was called in the past has been having well
established trade trade relations with several international countries. The
region is quite prosperous and the cosmopolitan culture is quite vivid here.
Modern Kochi comprises of the old port city called Old Cochin including
Mattancherry, Ernakulam mainland, Fort Kochi, Edapally, Kalamassery,
Thrikkakara, Kakkanad and Tripunithura.
Kochi is replete with tourist attractions. The entire place is beautifully
carved and feature incredible landscapes. The terrain in the west and the
backwaters around are some of the features of Kochi. The cosmopolitan
character is one of the best features of Kochi. Apart from cruises and
backwaters one often gets fascinated by a blend of cultures encompassing
European architecture, Dutch homes, Chinese fishing nets and the ubiquitous
South Indian culture. The place also represents the commercial and
industrial capital of Kerala. The place was featured in the '50 greatest
places of a life time' by National Geographic Traveller.
Special Feature
Backwater trips constitute the special feature for Kochi. The Kochi Boat
Cruise is the real crowd puller and provides the opportunity to explore
various parts of the city. The ferry rides for various destinations are
Ernakulam to Mattancherry, Ernakulam to Vypeen, Fort Cochin to Vypeen,
Willingdon Island to Fort Cochin, Ernakulam to Bolghatty Island, Ernakulam
to Varapuzha.
Tourist Attractions in Kochi
Mattancherry Palace: The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is a
good catch for tourists at Kochi. The place exhibits beautiful mural
paintings that depict the scenes from Ramayana. The palace was built by the
Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Cochin, Vira Keralavarma. Some
contributions were later on made by the Dutch.
Fort
Kochi: Fort Kochi is inhabited by Anglo-Indian community. The whole of
the region presents a different aura and ambience. The culture is quite
unique and represents the Eurasian culture. Dwelling places built by the
British traders and colleges established by the Dutch are worth observing.
Present in this part of the city are two art galleries with good
collections.
St Francis Church : St. Francis
Church located in the Fort Kochi region is a wonderful attraction. This
church was built by the Portuguese in the year 1503 A.D. Initially built in
timber, this church was later changed into a stone structure. It is said
that Portuguese explorer Vasco-da-Gama was originally buried here and his
remains were later brought to Lisbon. Timings of St Francis Church 6 am to 7
pm. Mass timings 6 am and 7.15 am.
Santa Cruz Basilica : Built by
the Portuguese around 500 years back, the Santa Cruz Basilica is known for
its Gothic exterior with soaring spires. Apart from imposing facade, the
interiors are equally impressive. The stained glass and life-like columns
looking over the confessional boxes add to the beauty of the church. The
Santa Cruz Basilica is open from 9 am - 1 pm and 3 pm- 5 pm. Mass timings
daily 6 am, 7 am and 6 pm (all Malayalam), Saturdays 6 pm (English), Sundays
4.30 pm (English).
Ernakulam: Ernakulam is the developed on the modern lines
and features a commercial centre in the city. Located at Ernakulam are some
museums and popular worshipping places. The region also features great
eating places in the city. the elephant procession taken out during festival
days is a wonderful event, filled with great fun and excitement.
Places Where You Can Stay
Established at Kochi are numerous star and budget hotels. The regions is an
accredited tourist destination and there are lot of tourists reaching the
place every year. The accommodation is available for almost any taste and
class. Some noted hotels in the region are:
5 star hotels : Taj Malabar, Casino Hotel, Taj Residency,
Le Meridien.
4 star hotels : Hotel Mercy, Avenue Regent, Quality Inn
Presidency.
3 star hotels : Abad Plaza, International Hotel, The
Metropolitan.
Budget Hotels : Woodlands, Hotel Sangeetha, Sun
International, Hotel Blue Diamond.
Accessibility
Kochi is connected with the rest of the country by roads, rails and
airways. There are a number of means for reaching the place and the
convenient ones head towards the Ernakulam region. The region has a direct
road link, railway head and an airport providing the services. Kochi has one
more railway terminal, located in the Old Cochin. Boat services to
Chaganacherry, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Vypeen, Fort Cochin, Mattancherry,
Willingdon island are also available. For commutation there are buses, taxis
and auto rickshaws.
