Kochi

Quick Facts
Location : Kerala, Southwest India
State : Kerala
Area : 83.52 sq.kms
Trip Highlights : Back waters, Forts, Palaces and Museums
Ideal time to visit : September - December
Languages : Malayalam, English and Hindi
STD Code : 0484

The breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, dubbed 'God's Own Country'. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala.

This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate.

Strictly speaking, Cochin is a small town. But, Cochin has outgrown its original bounds and is now the general name given to much of the region adjoining the original town, which now includes Cochin, Fort Kochi, Mattanchery, Ernakulam and many other nearby towns and villages.

Tourist Attractions in Kochi
Fort Kochi beach and Mattancherry
A lazy walk along the beach at sunset with the sailing ships in the background and one of its own kind, the Chinese nets is a matchless experience. The beauty of beach is totted by numerous European style bungalows which can be seen along the edges.

Santa Cruz Basilica
A 500 old Portugese built Church has truly impressing interiors with stained glasses and interiors of Basilica are worth watching especially the exquisite stained glass. It is located on Rampart road.

St Francis Church
Built during 16th century, this is said to be the actual burial ground of Vasco Da Gama. It is the oldest European church constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars.

Bolghatty Palace
Located off the coast of Cochin, it is a massive monument which has presently been converted into heritage hotel. You can reach there in an adventurous manner by hiring ferry services.

Chinese Fishing Nets
The Chinese fishing nets found here are the only ones of its kind in India. It is said that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here.

Cochin Air/Rail/Road Links
Airport : Cochin Airport has a direct link with all major major airports in India. There re regular flights to all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Goa and Bangalore.

Railway Station : Cochin is connected to rail by all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Bus Station : Cochin has a wide network of roads that connect all major as well all remote areas. NH 47 runs through South west coast of Kerala.