Cochin
The commercial capital of Kerala is situated in the centre of the state. Its history and culture has been influenced by the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese as Cochin was an important stopover in the trade route. The city experiences an average equatorial climate.
From the Chinese fishing nets at Fort Cochin and Vypeen, the quaint Jew Town and Mattancherry, shopping areas in town to the Marine Drive, Cochin has lots to offer to its visitors. The Hill Palace at Thripunithura houses artifacts and details of Kerala’s kings. The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry originally built by the Portuguese, and redone in the 17th century by the Dutch exhibits mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana.
There are museums and historical sites in and around Cochin. Each monument has hoards of stories to tell. There are numerous sanctuaries, national parks and wildlife reserves within three or four hours’ travel from the city. Tourist agencies and travel consultants will be able to guide you with a great package. You can go to the islands of Lakshadweep from Cochin by ship and flight.
Cochin is well-connected by rail, ship, road and air. The city is flanked by backwaters, lagoons and beaches towards the Arabian Sea side. And so, it is no wonder at the number of houseboat, boating and cruising options available here. The city is the gateway to Kerla.
