Kochi is a port city located by the southwest coast of the Indian Sub Continent. Known for its vibrant culture and scenic nature, Kochi is a must-visit destination for a wanderer. Flanked by the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on the east, Kochi has a rich tropical climate.
Kochi has been the gateway for many foreign traders, explorers, etc who have anchored their ships and ventured further into Kerala. The Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama is the first explorer to set sail to India. His final resting place was in Kochi St Francis church until his remains were relocated to Lisbon. Many foreign traders like the Dutch, British, Chinese, Portuguese, and the Arabs have ventured to India through Kochi and have left their marks on its history and development.
Kochi was and is the financial, commercial, and industrial capital of Kerala. Slowly with the boom in the IT sector, Kochi will eventually become the Silicon Valley of Kerala. Kochi is a balance between modernity and heritage. Kochi is a must visit the place on every itinerary in Kerala tour packages because the land is decorated with breathtaking nature, sprawling colonial bungalows(Palaces), the pristine islands, century-old churches, serene beaches, heritage museums, etc.
Sprawling Colonial Bungalows
Located on the most enchanting properties, the colonial bungalows are a sight that mesmerizes your eyes. The rich Dutch architecture intertwined with the rich Kerala culture are masterpieces to see. The Dutch Palace, popularly called as the Mattancherry Palace was renovated by the Dutch traders in 1555 as a gift to the king of Kochi. The palace is home to portraits of Kochi Rajas, temple art and mythological murals of Hinduism. Dutch architecture can be observed in the intricate designs of the cambers and pillars. Bolgatty Palace is located in the pristine islands of Bolgatty. Once the official headquarters of the British Raj, the palace was constructed by the Dutch traders in 1744. The palace was constructed by imbibing the scenic nature around the property. Now the Bolgatty Palace is a heritage hotel open tourist.
The Centuries-Old Churches
Kochi has imprints of culture and tradition marked by the explorers who landed and stayed in the port city. They built houses of their faith and left behind the amazing monuments filled with history for the current generation to learn from. The St Francis church one of the oldest churches built by the Europeans in India. The Portuguese explorer, Vasco Da Gama, the man who first set sail to India from Europe breathed his last breath in this church. He was buried here until relocated to Lisbon in the 14th century. You can still see his gravestone here.
Santa Cruz Basilica was originally built by the Portuguese and raised it to the glory of a cathedral. Later the British commissioned the demolishing of the church and reconstructing it. The Basilica is one of the eight Basilicas existing in Kerala. The church is well-known for its architectural magnificence and beauty.
Jew synagogue or Paradesi synagogue was constructed in 1568. This is the only practicing synagogue among the seven existing in Kerala. Located in the heart of old Kochi known as the Jews Town, the synagogue holds a lot of architectural wonders. The property holds amazing porcelain Chinese tiles, Belgian Glass chandeliers, priceless crowns, and copper plates all that cry outs history and pride.
Pristine Islands
Kochi owns few islands which are pristine, beautiful, and breathtaking. The islands are the ideal spot for quiet holidays and cruising on the backwaters. The main islands of Kochi are spread on the Vembanad Kayal- Vypeen, Vallarpadam, Wellington Island, Bolgatty Islands, and Dundu. Enjoy your holidays away from the rush and stress of your busy life. Detox your mind, body, and soul while you get to be more close with nature.
Heritage Museums
Museums are huge treasures hold of age-old art, precious metals, weaponry, etc that reflect the culture and heritage of a land. The Hill Palace Museum houses portraits of Kochi Rajas, golden crowns, royal carriages, etc. A monument of exquisite architecture. The palace grounds hold other palace buildings, a deer park, and a children's park. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, hill palace is worth your time and money. The folklore museum is a treasure trove of ancient art, portraits, and exhibits that speak of Kerala heritage and culture. Kochi is very famous for its Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the largest international contemporary art exhibition in India. Also the biggest art festival in Asia.
Beaches In Kochi
Kochi is famous for its white sandy beaches along the Arabian Sea. Kochi is known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. True to its pet name, the sunset and sunrise from its beaches are heart-melting views to behold. Go to the seashores and learn the use of Chinese Fish Nets famous for its build and usage. A Chinese explorer taught the local fisherman how to build the fishing nets and catch fish. You may visit the fishing nets in the evening, catch some yummy fish and prepare them in the nearby shack and have a sumptuous dinner.
So book your Kerala tour packages covering Kochi with Funday Holidays and have a blast in the amazing city.
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