Tourism In Kochin/Cochin
Queen of the Arabian Sea
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.
END OF TOUR
|
