What to Expect From a Visit to Cochin, India

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a tropical paradise of waving palm trees and sandy beaches. It is within the state of Kerala, which is a strip of coastal territory in Southern India that slopes down the Western Ghats, and reaches up to the Arabian sea.

Cochin is cleaner and calmer than many other Indian tourist places. Actually, you could easily mistake the look and feel of the place for a small, European city. The influence of the British, Dutch and Portuguese, who all governed there at one time or another, can still be felt in many aspects of life, not limited to social attitudes, architecture and infrastructure.

It is a deeply religious place, and people who live there have varied ethnic backgrounds. You will find Hindus, Muslims, Jews and Christians living in harmony and celebrating all festivals with enthusiasm. All places of worship are present (temples, mosques, churches and even synagogues), and there are some fantastic examples of them, dating back hundreds of years.

The most famous landmark in Cochin is a row of ancient Chinese fishing nets at the mouth of the harbor leading to the Arabian sea, which is the oldest part of the city. These fishing nets are over a hundred years old, yet they are still in full operation today. As well as watching the fishermen work, it is also possible for you to join in and help them should you wish to do so. There are, of course, lots of other worthwhile sights there too, more than enough to occupy you for a week or two.

Cochin, and coastline that extends from it, has some of the most exotic beaches in India. The coconut lined golden sands and turquoise blue sea, make for a really sensational and idyllic backdrop for you take in whilst you relax. The beaches are unspoilt too, with typically just a handful of beach huts and restaurants along the shores, so you can enjoy the surroundings just as nature made them to be.

As for where to stay, Cochin was one of the first places in India to pioneer the concept of homestays, which provide a much needed source of extra income to local people, while also giving you a chance to experience the real Cochin. With homestay accommodation, you get to stay at the home of a local family, who will show you around and help you arrange tours and activities.

If you liked this, try: Cochin Homestay

Cochin Tour on Trip to Kerala

Cochin is one of the most beautiful cites in the state of Kerala. It is endowed with amazing tourism attractions that appeals tourists from all over the world. It is the second largest city in the state. Fondly known as the queen of Arabian Sea it is one of the major sea ports since 14th century. Cochin palm fringed beaches, lovely backwaters, churches and wonderful attractions never fail to lure the heart of tourists. Come once and is sure you will love to roll down to Cochin time and again.

In this beauty city of Kerala, Europeans have left several remarkable monuments and buildings which are now the major attractions of tourists. The English, Dutch and the Portuguese have left their essence in Cochin in the form of churches, forts, monuments and colonial buildings. Some of the beautiful attractions which tourists would never love to miss on their backwater tours are

St Francis Church, Cochin: It is one of the oldest churches built by the Europeans in India. In this church the immortal soul of Vasco-Da-Gama the first Portuguese traveler to visit India was laid to rest. Later the body was moved to Lisbon in Portugal.

Matancherry Palace, Cochin: Fondly known as the Dutch Palace, this structure was built by the Portuguese and was later in 1955 was handed over to the Rajas of Cochin. It is the medieval charm situated at the Palace Road, Matancherry in Kochi. The central building of this impressive Dutch palace is one of the most impressive one where the auspicious occasions and ceremonies of the Rajas of Cochin were held.

Jewish Synagogue, Cochin: Magnificently decorated by the Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, the beauty of Jewish Synagogue never fails to grab the heart of tourists. The best part is that none of the tiles that adorn this beautiful monument are similar to each other.

Chinese Fishing Nets in Cochin Harbor: It is one of the most beautiful attraction of Kochi that you will see along the finest beach of Kochi. It is said that the Fishing net was brought from the court of Kublai Khan and is has stayed here for ever since. The view of the Chinese net in the morning sunrise and evening sun set is amazing. Simplicity in design the Chinese Fishing Net works on the principle of balance that gathers the huge tourists' attraction in the early morning and evening sunset.

Cherai Beach: It is one of the finest beaches in Kerala dotted with palm fringed beaches. If you are lucky enough you can even spot Dolphin jumping out of the water. A coir village with coconut grooves and paddy field is an additional attraction. You can enjoy the beach water activities in a delightful and memorable way along the Cherai Beach.

Beside these beautiful tourism attractions, Cochin is also famous for its colorful fairs and festivals. In this beautiful city of Kerala, festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm in a traditional way. Onam, Cochin Carnival, Indira Gandhi Boat Race, Jewish Festival, Malayatoor Perunal, etc are the major festivals celebrated in Cochin. While you come for Kerala Vacations, you should not miss to visit Cochin the most beautiful city of the state. It exhilarating beauty and heart grabbing tourists will surely offer you to enjoy vacation in a delightful and memorable way.

About Author::
Terence Lewis is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for Kerala Holiday and Tours Kerala