Kochi

Also known as Cochin, the historical capital of Kerala, best known for the Chinese fishing nets which line the harbour and interesting Portuguese architecture.
Kochi is a city of cultural diversity – winding streets, shady trees, Kathakali dance, modern Indian art, 500 year old Portuguese houses, mosques, a tiny Jewish community with ancient roots – and ferry boats scuttling backwards and forwards.

Highlights

Chinese Fishing Nets

One of Kochi’s highlights are the ancient tradition of Chinese fishing nets which line the Fort Cochin promenade

Dutch Palace

The Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace, in Mattancherry near Kochi, and features Keralan murals depicting portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi

Jewish Synagogue

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Cochin is also home to what must be one of the world’s most far-flung Jewish communities. While the date of their arrival here is debated, they came to trade spices and stayed. Today, only a handful remain, since most left India in the 1950’s after being given free passage to Israel. But the Paradesi Synagogue, with its elaborate glass chandeliers and 17th century blue ceramic floor tiles, is a charming testament to their once powerful presence in the city.

Kathakali Dance

This is a traditional Keralan dance characterised by elaborate make up and emotions expressed though hand and eye movements

Local Markets

The local markets are always facinating where ever you go in India and Kochi is no exception.

Parade Ground

This large square is all that remains of a British fort. It is now used extensively by locals for playing a range of sports.

Santa Cruz Basillica

We would recommend visiting this Portuguese Basilica situated near the famous St. Francis Church

Vasco House

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Believed to have been the residence of Vasco de Gama, this is one of the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Cochin. Built in the early sixteenth century, Vasco House sports the typical European glass paned windows and balcony cum verandahs characteristic of the times.

St. Frances Church

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This church built in 1503, is the oldest in India. The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama died in Kochi in 1524 when he was on his third visit to India. His body was originally buried in this church, but after fourteen years his remains were removed to Lisbon.

Hotels

Discover the wonderful variety of places to stay in India; including some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, intimate boutique hotels bursting with local character, charming homestays where you’ll have a chance to interact with local families, converted forts & palaces, fabulous lodges and heritage havelis.

Brunton Boatyard

Chittoor Kottaram - Near Kochi

Courtyard Marriott - Kochi Airport

Eighth Bastion

forte Kochi

Fragrant Nature

Francis Residence

Malabar House

Tours

Below are a selection of our favourite sample itineraries that we have created based on our experiences of travelling extensively throughout India. As with all our tours, every aspect can be tailor-made to your individual requirements.