Kochi, also famous as Cochin, is one of the most favorite Backwater destinations in Kerala. Famous as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea' Kochi's backwaters and beaches attract thousands of tourists all round the year. Kochi is one of the finest natural harbors in the world and so, has been a popular trading center for many centuries. It is also regarded as the industrial and commercial capital of Kerala.
A string of picturesque and lovely islands, lagoons, small rivulets and swaying coconut palm trees make Kochi a perfect backwaters destination. Besides, what really attracts the tourists visiting Kochi is the colorful culture and hospitality of the local people.
Kochi also has a very rich history. There are many beautiful and amazing monuments worth visiting here. Prominent among them are:
Willington Island: This is a man-made island surrounded by beautiful backwaters. It houses the city's best hotels and trading centers, the port trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command.
Bolghatty Island: A narrow long island, it's famous for the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch in 1744. The only golf course in Kochi is located here. Boats are available for water cruise in the island connecting Cochin to Bolghatty Island. This island is famous for its palace of the same name.
Fort Kochi: Starting as a fishing village, it became the first fort built by the Europeans in India. Firstly, the Dutch and then British all constructed numerous architectures in and around this historic fort.
Chinese Fishing Nets: Indian traders brought these huge cantilevered fishing nets here from the court of Kublai Khan. The best place to enjoy the nets being lowered into the sea and its catch is the Vasco de Gama square.
Mattancherry Palace: It was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi. Some of the beautiful arts on display here are murals depicting scenes from the epics, Ramayana, Mahabharata and from other Puranic Hindu legends. Here you can also see the Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins, coronation outwears of former maharajas of Kochi.
Jewish Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in the commonwealth, it was built in the year 1568. The synagogue is famous for its amazing 18th century hand painted willow pattern floor tiles imported from China, the copper plates on which the privilege granted by the kings were recorded, a dock tower and Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs.
It's said that many backwaters cruises begin or end in Kochi. Welcome to Kerala and explore and enjoy the exotic and beautiful backwaters of Kochi. Kerala backwater tours will surely provide you a unique and refreshing travel experience.
Tours to Kerala offers you Kochi Backwaters Tours. Visit and explore Kerala backwaters with us to make your Kerala tour a momentous one. For more information or to book a Kerala Beach Tour please enter your query in the form below.
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