Friday, May 9, 2008

Tourist Places Of Kerala-III - Cochin (Kochi)

Kochi (Cochin) - The Gate Way to Kerala
While talking Of Indian Tourism The southern state of the country Kerala assumes much significance.Kochi (Cochin is the colonial name), One of the Most visited tourist Places of Kerala a vibrant cosmopolitan city is situated on the south-west cost of Indian peninsula in the wondrous and incomparably scenic 'God's own Country', Kerala. Kochi is referred to as the 'Gate Way of Kerala' as the landing point for all the visitors visiting this tiny state. Kochi was a major center of trade & commerce with the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British in the past.
One of the finest natural harbors in the world, famous as the 'Queen of Arabian Sea', Kochi which has a unique place in the Tourist Map Of Kerala is verged with the Western Ghats in the east and the Arabian sea in the west. Its geographical location provides an experience of a moderate equatorial climate. Majestically spread picturesque and lovely Islands, lagoons, backwaters, small rivulets and beach are some among the attractions of Kochi. During the past few decades Kochi has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala . Undoubtedly Kochi is the ideal starting point for exploring the amazing beauty of Tourist Kerala's landscape, the scenic backwaters, where the coconut palm fronds fill up the skyline moving gently and gracefully in the breeze, the boats bobbing up and down quietly, pleasantly and in perfect tune with nature and its rhythm.
How to reach
Kochi is located in Ernakulam district of Kerala, at 220km north of the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. Kochi being an important port city is well connected by aerial routes, railways and bus. The International Airport at Nedumbassery is connected to all parts of the world. Air India, Oman Air and Kuwait Airways, along with the domestic Indian Airlines operate here. If rail journeys fascinate you then Ernakulam Town and Ernakulam Junction are the nearest railway stations. If you want to hit the road to reach Kochi NH 47, NH 17 and NH 49 passes through the city.
Places of Attraction
Fort Kochi :- The wonderful architecture in Fort Kochi is a blend of the Arab, British, Portuguese and Dutch legacy. The huge Portuguese style Mansion, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the St. Francis Church- the burial site of the famous Vasco da Gama are the other attractions here.
The Chinese fishing nets:- A remnant from the rule of the majestic Kublai Khan, who founded the Yuan Dynasty of China. In Vasco de Gama square you can enjoy the nets being lowered into the sea and its catch.
Mattancherry Palace: - The beautiful Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557. The palace also known as the 'Dutch Palace' is famous for its mural paintings.
Jewish Synagogue:- This glorious specimen of Jew architecture is built in the year 1568. It is well known for its etched brass pillars and floor art.
St. Francis Church:- The first church built by the Europeans in India (1503 AD).It is the burial site of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese trader and sailor.
Bolghatty Island:- It is a long narrow island, famous for housing the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch in 1744. The only golf course of Kochi is located on this picturesque island
Willington Island:- Willington Island is an artificial island surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The city's best hotels and trading centers, the port trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command are housed here.
Cochin Museum: Cochin Museum, situated in the Hill Palace at Tripunithura is famous for its rich collections of paintings, coins and sculptures. The 19th century oil paintings, mural paintings, wooden sculptures, sculptures in stone and plaster of paris and old coins are displayed in the museum.
Broadway and M. G Road in Ernakulam and Mattancherry and Jew Street in Fort Kochi are main shopping locations of Kochi. The spices of Kochi are also coveted shopper's item