Kochi

Kochi (Cochin) is a city of historic importance in India. Kochi’s proximity to the sea coast made it the gateway to India for the Western world. For this reason it has continuously been a hub of trade and commerce from all over the world since ancient times. Therefore, the merchant travellers from the middle east and the European countries came to access the world of spices. As a result, their influence is quite enormous on the architecture, religion and the food of Kerala. Let us explore some of the popular places that you can visit in Kochi. If you have enough time at hand you may explore Kochi, otherwise, skip it to go to Munnar.

Kochi Airport

This is a very unlikely listing here. But, it would be very disregarding to not mention Kochi airport as a tourist spot. It holds a distinct status of being the first airport to fully operate on solar power. Its interior as well as exterior architecture reflect essence of Kerala. The wooden panels, railings and even seats at the boarding gates all provided a unique appearance. It is stunning and unlike any other airport in India. The wonderful architecture is a sight to behold.

Fort Kochi

We visualised Fort Kochi to be one of the forts like those found in Goa or Jaipur. But to our amazement Fort Kochi is a seaside locality popular for its architecture. It has the Dutch, Portugese and English colonial architecture influence. This area is populated with multiple café and parks. There are plenty of things to do in this area alone. Most of the tourist spots of Kochi are in Fort Kochi.

Chinese Fishing Nets at Vasco Da Gama Square

Vasco Da Gama square is a popular place in Fort Kochi. There is a beach here. The beach has huge bamboo fishing nets called the Chinese fishing nets. Once these nets were used for fishing. Presently, they are only on display as a tourist attraction.

Indian Naval Maritime Museum

Located in the Fort Kochi area, this museum houses the history of Indian Navy ever since it was formed in 1950. It has on display the equipment and the helicopters, missiles and ships that were used by the Indian Navy. Do not miss this museum during your exploration of Fort Kochi.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

Santa Cruz church is one of the main attractions in Fort Kochi. This church has a beautiful architecture originally built by the Portugese and later reconstructed. It is a huge cathedral with a beautiful European architecture.

Mattancherry Palace

This is a Kerala style museum cum palace that houses artefacts relevant to the history of Kerala. Built by the Portugese it houses many pictures and facts about Kerala. Hence, a gem for history buffs. If you want to explore about the prehistoric Kerala, this is a must visit.