Sightseeing Kochi

Exploring Kochi: A Guide to Sightseeing

Welcome to Kochi (also known as Cochin), a vibrant city nestled on the southwest coast of India! This coastal city in Kerala offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that will leave you spellbound. Here are some must-visit attractions for your sightseeing adventure.

  1. Fort Kochi: Stroll through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, where you can find colonial architecture, picturesque beaches, and historical landmarks such as Saint Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Dutch Palace. Don’t forget to visit the Chinese fishing nets, a unique coastal engineering feats introduced by Chinese traders around 1350-1450 AD.

  2. Jew Town: Adjacent to Fort Kochi, Jew Town is home to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. The synagogue’s intricate wooden carvings and scrolls of the Old Testament are sights to behold.

  3. Mattancherry Palace: Explore this Portuguese-style palace, built by the Portuguese in 1557 AD and presented to the Raja of Kochi as a goodwill gesture. The palace displays murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits of Rajas, and a collection of royal paraphernalia.

  4. Vallarpadam Church: Located on Vallarpadam Island, this beautiful church is dedicated to Saint Mary and offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle-bustle. The annual feast of St. Mary, held in August/September, attracts thousands of devotees.

  5. Athirapally Falls: Just a short drive away from Kochi lies the breathtaking Athirapally Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala. Surrounded by dense forests and lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

  6. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Nestled along the banks of the Vembanad Lake, this sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 500 species of birds, including Siberian storks, egret, heron, and kingfishers, it’s an ornithologist’s dream come true.

  7. Backwaters of Kerala: Take a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Kerala for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the scenic beauty, indulge in traditional Keralan cuisine, and spot local wildlife as you glide smoothly along the waterways.