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The Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi has been a beloved destination for all types of travellers. Rich in culture and vibrant, the city is also in fact an amazing destination if you want to start exploring Kerala. With great connectivity, it ends up being one of the first stops on the journey to more touristy destinations in the state often known as God’s own country.
It does however offer a wide variety of sightseeing marvels and experiences that you must not miss. When planning that Kerala trip, keep 2-3 days for Kochi to fully soak in the culture and history of the port city.
Here are places you must visit while visiting Kochi
1. Mattancherry Palace
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this stunning architectural marvel is one of the best places to visit in Kochi. Now a museum, the palace was built by the Portuguese and gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Verma. Not only does it house the deity of the royal family of Kochi, Pazhayannur Bhagavathy, but it is also famous for its wooden interiors and a vast variety of artefacts on display.
Where: Mattancherry, Kochi
2. Paradesi Synagogue
In the Jewish town of Fort Kochi lies this must-visit marvel. Adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace, this beautiful synagogue is adorned with rare items that make it worth the visit. The chandeliers for example were imported from Belgium, and floor tiles from China, in the 18th century.
With a dwindling Jewish population in Kochi, the synagogue barely conducts service but is open to visitors.
Where: Mattancherry, Kochi
3. Indo-Portuguese Museum
Established by the late Dr Joseph Kureethra, then bishop of Kochi, the museum is replete with artefacts signifying Indo-Portuguese Christian Art Heritage. With sculptures, vestments, and ceremonial objects from an era long gone, this small museum built in the 1506 residence of the bishop is a history lover’s delight.
Where: Bishop’s House, Fort Kochi
4. Chinese fishing nets
Lining the shoreline of Fort Kochi are tall structures of Chinese fishing nets that are believed to have been introduced by Chinese explorer Zheng He and gained prominence between 1350 and 1450 AD. Working on the principle of counterbalance, these fishing nets are beautiful to look at, and some even let tourists experience operating them.
Where: Vasco De Gama Square, Fort Kochi
5. St. Francis Church
One of the oldest churches built by the Europeans in India, St Francis Church is most famous as the church where Vasco De Gama was buried. As is the case with a lot of colonial structures in Kochi, the church was originally built by the Portuguese and taken over by the Dutch during the occupation of 1663, who then added a cemetery to the premises. In the middle of the lawn, you can also spot a cenotaph dedicated to the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the First World War.
Where: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi
6. Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple
Mythically associated with the festival of Onam, Thrikkakara temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s fifth incarnation, Lord Vamana. While Kochi, has many temples that you can visit, Thrikkakara stands out with its historical significance. The much-revered temple’s walls are engraved with depictions of Onam celebrations dating back to nearly 2500 years ago, making it worth a visit.
Where: Edappally - Pukkattupady Rd, Vidya Nagar Colony, Thrikkakara, Edappally, Kochi
7. Kuzhupilly Beach
A pristine beach on Vypin Island easily accessible from Kochi, Kuzhupilly Beach is a delight you must not miss when visiting Kochi. The beach is famous for its white sand and is a favourite among swimmers. The route to the beach, lined with coconut groves and backwaters is just as beautiful.
Where: Vypin, Kochi
Photo: Shutterstock