Cochin - One of the finest backwaters and beach destinations of Kerala

Geographical coordinates: 9.977 degrees North 76.27 degrees East
Time Zone: IST (UTC +5:30)
Area: 94.88 Km square
Coastline: 48 kms
Precipitation: 2743 mm
District: Ernaculam

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is one of the important port towns of Kerela. It is serving as a trade port since centuries from the Roman times and as a main trade center for Europe and China. The Town of Cochin is basically divided into 3 main parts. First is the Fort Cochin which is built on seaward side and perhaps Fortified to safeguard the city. Second is the Wilingdon Island which was a man made creation to increase the depth of the entrance to the harbour. The third part is Ernaculam where one can reach by road.

According to Hindu Mythology King Vishravana’s daughter Bala asked Parshurama that she needed a land with her own name for her home. Lord Parshurama fulfilled her wish created a land from sea and called it Kochi (which later became Cochin). Lord Parshurama promoted this land and invited people of all religions, castes and creeds to settle here. This story can be considered a continuation of the old folk tale in which Parshurama created Kerela out of the sea and built temples – The God’s own country.

It was from 1795until India’s independence , the outer part of the island and beach was under the British Colonial rule or political control, while the inner part was under the Kochi State and Raja of Travancore.

Most of the historical buildings are in Fort Cochin. The Portuguese fort founded in 1503 is now in ruins. The Mattancheri Palace is also one of the interesting places to visit. It now houses the Museum which has exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi, such as Gowns, Palanquins, Weapons and Royal furniture.

Some other places of tourist interest:

• Jewish Synagogure near Mattancheri Palace
• St. Francis Church , Santa Cruz and other Churches
• The Dutch Cemetry
• Cochin Harbour and the island
• Boat Club
• The Bishop’s Palace
• Alleppy