Kochi is the largest city in Kerala, India, and has been a critical port city since the 14th century with ships from around the world coming to its shores, greatly influencing the city’s current culture.
Nowadays, Kochi has come a long way from being a simple port city and is now bustling with restaurants, ►
Kochi is the largest city in Kerala, India, and has been a critical port city since the 14th century with ships from around the world coming to its shores, greatly influencing the city’s current culture.
Nowadays, Kochi has come a long way from being a simple port city and is now bustling with restaurants, cafes, and cinemas. At the same time, the streets still exude the country’s old charm with monuments at every corner, ancient mosques, and synagogues from 450 years ago.
Kochi has everything to offer those who wander amidst its streets. Start by visiting the magnificent Fort Kochi which was built by English traders, telling the story of a hundred years within its folds.
Another glorious monument in Kochi is Mattancherry Palace which was a gift from the Portuguese in 1555 to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma. Afterward, it went under renovation by the Dutch, so you can imagine the mixture of two architectural styles along with a Keralan touch.
Let’s not forget about the iconic Mattancherry synagogue which is a mixture of history and elegance with willow-pattern floor tiles that came all the way from China and Canton that are handpainted. Not only that, but the chandeliers are Belgian and the inscriptions are written in Arabic, Roman, Hebrew, and Malayam.
It’s not a good trip without a beach day, and Kochi does not disappoint with Cherai Beach. The cleanliness and serenity of the beach is the reason why people are always there. You can enjoy a swim, watersports, yoga, or meditation.
You can’t miss out on the enchanting Santa Cruz Basilica, another monument built by the Portuguese in the Gothic style and is one of the most popular places to visit in Kochi. The famous Italian Painter, Fr. Antonio Moscheni S.J. painted the church’s main altar which adds to its charm.
Another great destination in Kochi is Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple which is the most visited temple in the city. It is dedicated to the goddess Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Amman and the Keezhu Kaavu Bhadrakali Amman, dating back to 1500 years ago.
If you’re looking for a dose of nature serenity, the mesmerizing Athirapally Falls promises to take your breath away. Standing at 80 meters high, Athirapally Falls gushes its waterfalls from the Anamudi mountains and is the largest waterfall in all of Kerala.
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