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Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi, India

Chinese Fishing Nets with Blue Cloudy Sky in Background at Fort Kochi Kerala India
Chinese Fishing Nets with blue sky and white clouds in background at Fort Kochi, Kerala, India

Kochi is a group of small islands and peninsulas off the coast of the Arabian Sea that have been moulded and nourished by foreign powers such as the Dutch, British, Chinese, and Portuguese for centuries. This port city (formerly known as Cochin) is the largest city in the Indian state of Kerala and a must-see for anybody interested in colonial India’s rich history and trading prowess. Here are the must-visit attractions in Kochi, India you should not miss.

Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi, India

Chinese fishing nets

Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi, India | Chinese fishing nets

Kochi’s most popular sight is without a doubt the Chinese fishing nets. According to mythology, Chinese explorer Zheng He took the nets from the palace of Chinese emperor Kublai Khan and presented them to fisherman in Kochi in the 14th century, and they have been in use ever since.  In exchange for a little charge, local fishermen demonstrate how to utilize them. It’s a wonderful activity, and later in the day you can buy the morning catch from the fishmongers, have it cooked in one of the local shacks, and enjoy it while watching the sunset.

Mattancherry Palace

The Portuguese built the Mattancherry Palace and delivered it to the Raja of Kochi, Verra Kerala Varma, in 1555 as a gesture of their gratitude. In 1663, the Dutch completed renovations and added extensions, earning it the nickname “Dutch Palace.” The double-storeyed palace is built in the Portuguese style, yet the wooden balconies and sloping roof are reminiscent of Kerala temple architecture. The palace is now used as an art gallery, displaying some of India’s finest murals and paintings, with the murals representing scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana and other Puranic legends in great detail being the main attractions.

Santa Cruz Basilica

Santa Cruz Basilica
Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi, India

The Santa Cruz Basilica, one of India’s eight basilicas, was built by the Portuguese in 1505 and is one of the oldest and most popular tourist attractions in Kochi. The Cathedral of the Diocese of Cochin presently sits here. The church’s Gothic architecture, which dates back over 500 years, exudes grandeur thanks to its pastel-colored interior and historical artwork. Antonio Moscheni, an Italian painter, and his Bangalore pupil De Gama were the driving forces behind this. Moscheni’s copy of Da Vinci’s “Last Supper” is a must-see. People of many faiths and organizations come to the church. The woodwork and immersive altar are two unique features that you won’t find in any other church in the country.

Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach, one of Kochi’s most popular beaches, is a beautiful and quiet spot that stretches for 10 kilometers. A thin strip of land separates the water body from the backwaters, making it a great area to rest while seeing Chinese fishing nets or the Cheena Vala. Cherai Beach is a popular photo location because of the golden beach, seashells, calm waves, and fishing boats that create a picturesque scene. The neighboring shacks provide cooling coconut water and food, and are best visited around sunrise and sunset. You might even see a dolphin in the area if you’re lucky!

Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, was built by the Portuguese in 1545 as a gift to King Veera Kerala Verma of the Kochi dynasty. With four distinct wings and one patio in between, it is the best example of the convergence of colonial and Kerala style architecture. A temple dedicated to Pazhayannur Bhagavathy, the royal family’s deity, may also be found.

Kathakali performances

Kathakali is one of India’s nine classical dances, with its roots in Kerala. The dance, which is famed for its vibrant and interesting costumes, depicts themes from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and others. The Kerala Kathakali Centre in Kochi offers daily performances, as well as opportunities to watch the artists apply for their makeup and training programs in classical dances.

St Francis Church

St Francis Church | Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi, India

This church is a historic landmark because it is thought to be India’s oldest European-built church. It remained a mute observer of the colonial struggle among European nations for control of India. Built as a Roman Catholic Church by the Portuguese in 1503, it later became a Dutch Reformist Church in 1664, and then an Anglican Church in 1804. The chapel is arguably best known for being the first burial site for Vasco De Gama, the Portuguese explorer who died in 1524. His ashes were transported to Lisbon 14 years later, although his monument can still be seen in the chapel.

Princess Street

Loafer’s Corner, also known as Princess Street, is one of Kochi’s oldest neighborhoods, combining traditional and modern elements. The colonial powers’ impact is seen here, with buildings and dwellings of European architecture on both sides of the street, most notably Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. Princess Street in Kochi is the greatest spot to go for street shopping, cafés, and people watching, and it’s best to do so on foot.

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