From antiquity, Kochi has been a port of call, for foreign traders. A perfect natural harbour on the Arabian Sea, it is the commercial hub of kerala. History and its topography of a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas, inspired ancient mariners from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal to visit the place . After Vasco Da Gama’s landing, a long line of Dutch, French and finally British Visitor followed. No wonder, the culture is a sort of mix and match, with variety being the spice.

Cherai Beach :

Mattanchherry Palace :

Built by the Portuguese in 1557, renovated by the Dutch, it is also known as the Dutch palace. Famed for exquisite murals, depicting scenes from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Wellingtone Island

It takes its name after lord Wellington, a British victory to India. This man-made island in the backwaters has planned intersections and quaint buildings as well as some of the city’s best hotels. The port trust and the headquarters of the southern navel command are here.

ST. Francis Church :

At fort Cochin, the St. Francis Church is India’s oldest European church, built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars. Restored in 1779 by the protestant Dutch, it was converted to an Anglican church, by the British in 1795. Vasco Da Gama’s remains buried here in 1524 was later moved to Lisbon in Portugal, though his tombstone can still be seen.

Chottanikkara Temple :

Located near Ernakulam, devoted to the mother goddess Deity, it is one of the most sacred temples in Kerala.

Santa Cruz Basilica :

This Monumental, historic church was built by the Portuguese in 1558. Pope Paul IV elevated the Santa Cruz Basilica to a Cathedral in 1558 AD. In 1795 AD it was demolished by the British. A century later it was renovated and Pope John Paul II proclaimed the church is Basilica in 1984.

Bolghatty Palace :

On a tiny island in the Arabian Sea off Cochin, it was once the Governors’ palace for the Dutch and later the British. Built by the Dutch in 1774 AD, the palace interiors are lined with historical Portraits. To add to the charm there is a mini golf course too.

Chinese Fishing Nets :

Introduced by Chinese Traders from the court of Kublai Khan these cantilevered fishing nets are mainly used at high tide. These nets are also seen lining the cost all along the backwaters.

Hill Palace Museum :

10 km from Kochi, hill palace, the official residence of Kochi Royal family, was built in 1865 AD. Consisting of 49 building spread over 52 acres of terraced land; the palace is built in the traditional architecture style of Kerala.

Jewish Synagogue :

Built in 1568, this is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth. Destroyed in a Portuguese raid in 1662, it was rebuilt two years later by the Dutch.

Pareekshith Thampuran Museum :

This majestic, traditional style palace, previously called The Durbar Hall, houses 19th century Oil paintings, Sculptures and Mughal paintings. The museum is open on all week except Monday. Activities: Village tours, Island tours, Cultural Programmes, Sunset cruises and Baywatch.