Cochin- a city in the Indian state of Kerala, major port Arabian Sea. Cochin International Airport is located 30 km from the city center. Population - 564 589 people (2001).
Cochin stretches for almost 50 km along the coast. The city lies on the shores of a convenient closed harbor called Vembanad Lake. This lagoon belongs to the famous " inland waters»Kerala, formed by streams flowing from the western slopes of the Western Ghats.
Ernakulam is located on the mainland coast of Vembanad - the largest and fastest growing part of Kochi.
The island of Willingdon (Willingdon, named at the beginning of the 19th century in honor of the Duke of Wellington) lies 2 km to the west, and even further - at the very exit from the harbor - are the oldest districts of the city. This is Fort Kochi and the adjacent Mattancheri from the south. To the north of the peninsula, which these areas occupy, lies a group of islands - Bolgatty, Gundu and the largest Vypeen.
Most of the city's attractions are located in the Fort Kochi and Mattancheri districts, while the bus and train stations are located in Ernakulam.
History
Since 1102 - the capital of a small coastal principality. In 1500 Cabral founded here the first European settlement in India, in 1502 Vasco da Gama established the first trading post in India (where he died), in 1503 Albuquerque built a Portuguese fort in Cochin. Portuguese rule lasted until 1663, when the city passed into the hands of the Dutch. In 1795, Holland ceded Cochin to Britain in exchange for the island of Bangka.
Last changes: 21.02.2010sights
Fort Kochi- a cozy area of narrow streets, built up with old colonial bungalows. Worth seeing here:
Chinese fishing nets(rank-shaft) - huge (up to 20 m long) structures in the form of a net with a counterweight. They stand on the shore, to the left of the ferry crossing to Vaipin Island. At high tide, the nets are lowered into the water, and at low tide they are raised together with the sea reptiles that managed to climb there. It is believed that this device was introduced in Kerala by the Chinese who arrived in the XIV century. This is the first thing you see when you get to the Fort from the Customs Pier.
Church of St. Francis- the oldest Catholic church in India, built in 1503 In 1524 Vasco da Gama was buried in the church. The navigator's gravestone can still be seen in the central nave, on the right side. The ashes were transported to Lisbon in 1539. There are many old Dutch tombs. The church stands in beautiful garden... From the Chinese networks, go south along Princess Street and turn right onto Bastion Street - you will see a church at the end of the street.
Old Dutch cemetery- exists since 1724, Dutch and English burials of the colonial era. From St. Francis Church, walk south along Post Office Rd. To the Parade Ground Rd junction. There are several hotels here - any one will tell you the way.
Indo-Portuguese Museum- located in the former palace of the bishop. Beautiful garden. From the cemetery you can walk along Beach Rd. and Elphinstone St., from Chinese chains - straight to Post Office Rd. A large collection of temple sculpture and church utensils, interesting materials on the history of Portuguese India. Closed on Monday, open from 9 am to 6 pm, break from 1 pm to 2 pm.
Basilica of Santa Cruz- a beautiful temple built in 1902. From the Chinese nets you can walk along Princess St. and Peter Celli St.
Kerala Kathakali Center... Kathakali is a traditional theatrical performance based on a plot from the Puranas, Ramayana or Mahabharata. It has existed in Kerala since the 16th century. and is the main cultural phenomenon of the state. The center is at the River Rd junction. and Princess St., opposite the Chinese chains.
Mattancheri- here it is worth seeing the Mattanchery Palace, built in 1555 by the Portuguese for the Maharaja of Kochi.
Not far from the palace there is the Jewish quarter and the old synagogue Pardesi Synagogue (open from 10 to 17, except Saturday, a break from 12 to 15).
Outskirts of Cochin
To the north of the city is the Pallipuram Fort (5 km, across the island of Weipin).
4 km from Parur is the town of Chennamangalam. Here is the oldest synagogue in Kerala (dilapidated), a 16th century Jesuit church and college, a Hindu temple on the banks of the Periyar River, a 16th century mosque, Muslim and Jewish cemeteries. Buses to Parur leave from KSRTC station (every 10 minutes, 1 hour on the way).
Last changes: 21.02.2010Climate
Cochin has a very mild climate as it is located right on the coast. In June-August there are heavy rains brought by the southwestern monsoon. Winter starts in December and lasts until February. In summer, the temperature rises to + 35 *, and in winter it is + 25 *.
Last changes: 21.02.2010Transport
Kochi is located almost in the center of the state and all buses running between north and south of Kerala follow through this city.
The main state bus station - KSRTC bus stand - is located in the eastern part of Ernakulam, between the railway and the mosque. The nearest street is Ammankovil Rd. There are flights to Bangalore and even Chennai. The main private bus station - Kaloor bus stand - is located in the northeastern part of the city, half a kilometer from the Ernakulam Town Station along NH Rd.
There are many train stations in Kochi, but the main stations are Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town Station. Both are on the same line - the first in the south, the second in the north of Ernakulam. The distance between the stations is about 3 km. Office pre-sale tickets are located at Ernakulam Junction. Most often, trains leave from Kochi to Trissur (13 trains per day), Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram, 8 trains per day) and Calicut (4 per day).
The international airport is located 30 km northeast of Ernakulam. From here, both internal and international flights... There are flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Trivandrum, Hyderabad, Bangalore, to Agatti Island (Lakshadweep Islands), as well as to Sri Lanka and Bahrain.
Kochi is the main base for visiting the Lakshadweep Islands (Lakkadive Islands). Ships sail from Kochi to the islands about once every two weeks. Schedules can be found at the Lakshadweep Tourist Office in Kochi (www.lakshadweeptourism.com).
The water area of the Kochin harbor is lined with countless scheduled boats and car ferries. Both public and private boats operate.
Kerala is synonymous with beaches, but it is also known for its spice production. In Cochin, you can buy a variety of spices for the preparation of culinary delights.
Cochin has gained international fame for the production and export of its spices to several countries. Today the city occupies important place in the global spice market.
The history of spice production in the city begins approximately 600 years ago. Merchants traded spices with Arabs, Jews, Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese. Spices are an essential part of most Indian recipes. They are also used in the preparation of perfumes and medicines. Most Indian spices have medicinal properties and are still used by the people as a remedy for a number of diseases.
The most famous spices on the market are black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, turmeric, ginger and chili.
Synagogue of Cochin
The Jewish synagogue was built in 1568. Its existence testifies to the general harmony in the state, which has been preserved for many centuries.
The first synagogue building was destroyed during the Portuguese persecution of Jews. The second synagogue, which has survived to this day, was built under the protection of Rajah Cochin. It is called "Paradesi" ("Foreign Synagogue").
Like regular synagogues, this one also has separate sections for men and women. Inside the temple are scrolls of the law, Belgian chandeliers, glass, pulpit railings, copper plates, Chinese painted porcelain tiles, oriental rugs and other treasures. A notable detail of the synagogue is the clock tower from the 18th century.
In 1968 the synagogue celebrated its 400th anniversary. The ceremony was attended by Indira Gandhi - Indian Prime Minister.
What sights of Cochin did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate this or that place.
Church of st. Francis
The Church of St. Francis is the first, and now the most old church which was built by the Portuguese in India. At the time of the Portuguese, it was Catholic (XVI-XVII centuries), from the XVII to the XVIII century - Dutch reformist, from the XIX to XX centuries - Anglican. It is now in the possession of the Church of South India.
The temple was originally made of wood, but later replaced with stone (1516). The building was built by Franciscan monks in 1503. After its construction, Christianity began to actively spread in India. In the temple was buried Vasco da Gama, who died in Cochin, but 14 years later, his remains were transported to Portugal.
The temple was listed as a protected monument in 1923. It is also under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple holds services on Sundays and memorable days, and for tourists it is open on weekdays.
The Dutch palace is also known as the Mattancherry Palace. It is interesting for its interior decoration, luxurious halls and ancient frescoes.
The building of the palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 for Raja Vir Kerala Varma Koti. It is a typical two-story upper class mansion with four wings that overlook the central courtyard.
The most beautiful in the palace is the coronation hall, which was previously used by the rulers of Cochin. The walls of the rooms are decorated with 17th century frescoes. They are devoted to religious and mythological themes, partly erotic. The mythological paintings depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Other relics that are kept in the palace are royal costumes, turbans, weapons and other valuable antiques of the royal family.
On both sides of the palace there are temples dedicated to Krishna and Shiva.
The most popular sights of Cochin with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose best places for visiting famous places Cochin on our website.
Cochin, also known as Kochi or Kochi, includes part of the peninsula, a group of small islands connected by rivers and lagoons, and mainland... Thanks to its convenient geographical location, the city of Cochin has long been transformed into a prestigious commercial port that serves all the world's trade routes. The port received everyone - from Arabs to Chinese, from Portuguese to Dutch and British. This multiculturalism has played an important role in the development of this city, giving it a unique look. Each culture has left its mark on this city. This is true not only for Cochin, but for the entire state of Kerala. Since 2000, economic growth has allowed Cochin to become a leading shipping center, international trade and tourism. As the largest city in Kerala, Cochin has a unique cosmopolitan character and the atmosphere is simply stunning. This city is like a bouquet, which contains all the flowers of the world.
The very name "Cochin" in the Malayalam language means "small sea". The first colonial settlement in India was located near the port of Cochin. From the beginning of the 16th to the middle of the 17th century, the port of Cochin belonged to Portugal, after which it passed to the Dutch, and then was captured by Haider Ali, the ruler of the Mysore principality during the conquest of the Malabar region, which subjugated Cochin.
Cochin - photo
Cochin landmarks
Jewish street- the most famous in the city. On both sides of the street you can see a huge number of antique shops selling unique items, each of which has its own interesting story... Jewish street is real paradise for shopaholics. The abundance of the finest antiques in the shop windows is simply amazing. It has everything from clothing to handmade jewelry and art. Most of The shops belong to the descendants of Jews who settled in Cochin as early as 52 AD.
An important landmark of Cochin is a unique example of Dutch and Portuguese architecture - Mattancheri Palace. It was built by the Portuguese, but then in the 17th century it was rebuilt by the Danes and presented to the maharaja of the city. This place is also called - "Dutch Palace". This is just a wonderful place where you can walk through the portrait gallery of the Maharajas of Cochin, as well as see the best frescoes in India.
Another attraction of Cochin is church of St. Francis. The history of the temple reflects 500 years of the colonial struggle of the European powers for dominance in India. The oldest European settlement in India was located in Cochin, which is why the first European temple of India is located here. The church contains the gravestone of Vasco da Gama, who is buried here. He died in Cochin in 1524, and 14 years later, his remains were transported to Portugal, but the tombstone is still here. During its long history, the Church of St. Francis has changed more than once. This simple building has a vaulted wood ceiling, an old cable car ventilation system, and tropical landscapes all around. Since April 1923, the church has been under state protection.
It is not surprising that in the city of Cochin there is a square named after the great navigator. Long ago, Chinese fishermen brought their nets to Kerala. Locals adopted the technology and are still using Chinese "spider webs". There are few places like this, so if you come to Cochin and want to immerse yourself in the life of the city, then you should go to Vasco da Gama Square, where you can watch this amazing sight. The peculiarity of these nets is that they are fixed and are in a horizontal position, and their width can reach 20 meters. The technology is quite simple - first, the net is lowered into the water for several minutes, and after that it is lifted by a team of 6 people. Vasco da Gama Square is a few meters from the fishing beach. There are a lot of stalls in the square where you can drink cold coconut juice or taste seafood, which is abundant here, as well as buy freshly caught fish.
Cherai beach. Walking along the beach, you can simply relax, listening to the sound of the surf and enjoying nature. Surrounded by water, you can forget about everyday worries and enjoy the sea and the sun. Cherai is perfect for this. The beach is located 30 kilometers from Cochin. Its length is about 10 kilometers and it is practically deserted. He is often called "the prince of the Arabian Sea", as well as "the golden coast of Kerala". Coconut trees grow all over the coast, and tourists look content and happy. It is a very quiet and clean place with a lot of vegetation and coconut trees which makes it even more attractive.
1. If you are going to visit the Mattancheri Palace, then you should know that it is open to visitors every day (except Friday) from 10:00 to 17:00. While in the palace, the nearby market is also worth a visit.
2. The markets sell handicrafts, accessories, souvenirs and traditional Indian bags. The markets in Cochin are a special place.
They sell goods of unearthly beauty here, because the inhabitants of Kerala are very talented craftsmen. Here you can find metal products, carvings from camel bone or wood, products from coconut shells, bamboo and reeds. Here you can also find dozens of types of embroidered rugs and other exclusive handmade products. In addition, here you can buy antiques, unique jewelry, clothing and traditional handmade textiles.
3. In addition to the usual souvenirs, jewelry and clothing, you can buy more interesting things here. This region is famous for its perfume shops, which sell exclusively natural products. You should definitely buy something from perfumery - jasmine, rose, sandalwood and an endless variety of natural scents for every taste.
4. The city of Cochin is famous for its seafood restaurants, where you can taste real delicacies.
Kochin on the map, panorama
Kochi is enough Big City in Kerala. He was known as Trading port on the Malabar coast of South India to the ancient Greeks. Its strategic location was also appreciated by the British and Portuguese during their expansion to India. It was from here that they went to Old world ships with Indian spices, silks and, of course, tea. The modern port was built in 1937 year at the initiative of Winston Churchill, then Governor of Madras. Today it is Kerala's second largest city after, with a population of 1.5 million human.
How to get to Kochi
By plane
As I said, in Kochi there is international Airport(v 30 km from the city), so you can fly here quite cheaply from nearby countries, Malaysia or Singapore.
A few examples:
- Singapore-Kochi ticket - from 4875 rbl;
- UAE-Kochi ticket - from 5611 rbl;
- Thailand-Kochi ticket - from 6061 rbl.
Naturally, local flights across India are also made through Kochi:
- ticket Chennai-Kochi - from 2350 rbl;
- Bangalore-Kochi ticket - from 3098 rbl;
- Mumbai-Kochi ticket - from 4072 rbl;
- Delhi-Kochi ticket - from 3492 rbl.
Prices are taken from the Aviasales website and are relevant at the time of this writing. To find out the current cost of a flight to Kochi, use the special calendar that is posted below. Just enter the desired departure city and go ahead:
By train
Important when looking for train tickets you need to drive not Kochi, but Ernakul ( Ernakulam). I will give approximate prices and travel time for the main directions according to data from the Cleartrip website (by the way, they have very comfortable mobile app , with which you can track the movement of your train and, of course, buy tickets):
- New Delhi to Ernakulam - 45 hours tickets from 900 INR;
- Goa (Madgaon) to Ernakulam - 13 hours tickets from 450 INR;
- from Trivandrum to Ernakulam - 3.5 hours tickets from 160 INR;
- from Varkala to Ernakulam - 3 hours tickets from 160 INR.
WITH railway station the easiest way to get away is by taxi or tuk-tuk. A strange prepaid taxi system operates here: you need to go to a special booth with the inscription PrePaid Taxi where for 1 INR(one rupee) a piece of paper will be issued for you, indicating where you are going and how much it costs, you will pay with the taxi driver, but within the specified tariff. For example, it costs 25 INR.
By the way, in Kochi one of the cheapest tuk-tuk (motor rickshaws) that we have met anywhere, it is not in vain that the ruling communist party in Kerala, here it is, defeated communism in action.
By bus
You arrive at the bus station Vyttila and from there you will be sent in any direction within the state and beyond.
To automate the process, you can try to use the TicketGoose service, it seems to even give some bonuses for the first purchase, but, as we already said, somehow it didn't work out for us.
Houseboat
We have already talked about what a houseboat is in the past. This is perhaps the coolest option.
In Kochi, you can rent a houseboat and go on it along Lake Vembanad, through Alleppey (Alapuja) towards Kotoyama, or in the opposite direction. Worth so much pleasure 5000 INR per night. Such a journey will take 3-4 days, so this is more likely not a way to get there, but a small cruise for the appropriate money.
What to see in Kochi
There are three main parts (districts) in Kochi: Ernakulam ( Ernakulam), named after the ancient and highly revered temple of Shiva - Ernakulathappan, Mattancheri ( Mattanchery) and, directly, Fort Kochi ( Fort kochi), as well as many islands in Kochi: Willingdon ( Willingdon), named after the Duke of Wellington, Bolgatti ( Bolgatty), Gundu ( Gundu) and the Vaypin Island of the same name to the lake ( Vypeen).
Attractions of Fort Kochi
By and large, the entire fort is one big attraction under open air... Just have time to turn your head looking at the house, braided with ivy, old churches and boats scurrying along the lake. But there are also well-known sights, the so-called must see.
It is believed that they were invented by Chinese settlers back in XIV century and since then they have existed. Chinese fishing nets resemble giant nets on a long-long (about 20 meters) a stick, with a counterweight of stones and people ☺.
The nets are lowered into the water at high tide, and at low tide they are raised along with fish, crabs and other seafood. This is a very unusual sight, but their productivity is currently in serious doubt. We saw how they were raised, something significant from seafood was not observed there.
Although there is a fish market and street restaurants nearby, where you can cook fish, crabs and other reptiles, which were allegedly caught with these net-nets. It's better to watch at sunset, but in principle, any time will do.
Church of St. Francis
It is famous for two reasons: firstly, there is a grave here Vasco da Gama... Now, however, his ashes are not there, since in 1539 year his remains were transported and reburied in Lisbon.
But the place of his original burial can still be seen in the central nave on the right side of the Church of St. Francis in Kochi.
Secondly, the Church of St. Francis is the oldest Catholic church in India. It is better to visit in the afternoon, in the morning there are crowds of tourists.
Basilica of Santa Cruz
A very beautiful and relatively modern temple - 1902 year the buildings. It seems that all the roads in Kochi somehow lead to him.
Indo-Portuguese Museum
The museum is located next to the old bishop's house. It contains a collection of church utensils, many old maps, paintings and other materials on the history of India, the times of the Portuguese colony.
I will not say that the museum is super interesting, but you can visit it if you have the time and desire. Mode of operation: with 9:00 before 18:00 , break from 13:00 before 14:00 ... Monday is a day off. Taking pictures inside is prohibited.
Entry tickets we have cost 50 INR for two, we cannot say the exact price, since the tickets themselves were not given to us, and we did not see information on prices. It is better to visit either early in the morning or in the afternoon to avoid the crowds of tourists.
Kerala kathakali dance
Kerala kathakali dance- not quite a tourist attraction, but rather an event. There are many different places in Kochi where you can see Kathakali, prices are different. We visited him in Kerala Kathakali Center .
Kathakali is a traditional South Indian dance based on a plot from the Mahabharata, Ramayana or Puranas. The presentation is somewhat similar, but even more ambiguous.
Ticket price for Kathakali in Kerala Kathakali Center in Kochi - 350 INR... The show takes place daily. The show itself begins at 18:00 and goes up 19:30 , but preparation for the performance, which can also be watched, begins at 17:00 .
For those who go to Kerala kathakali dance we highly recommend bringing earplugs with you, as the sound is so loud that it is already deafening. I repeat once again that Kerala kathakali dance a very controversial event, interesting - yes, I liked it - I don't know. Perhaps it is worth talking about Kathakali in Kochi separately, since you need to be prepared mentally and physically for it ☺.
In principle, if you have little time, then you can completely stop at the sights of Fort Kochi, but if you have time and desire, you can also see the sights of Mattancheri, since you don't need to go or swim anywhere - everything is nearby:
Attractions Mattancheri
Mattanchery Palace
Mattancheri Palace was built in 1555 year for Maharaja Kochi. Now there is a museum, where you can see portraits of the governors of Kochi, paintings from Indian epics, maps, etc.
Mode of operation: with 10:00 before 17:00 , break from 13:00 before 14:00 ... Friday is a day off. Taking pictures inside is prohibited. Entry tickets - 5 INR(I say, communism ☺).
It is better to visit either early in the morning with the opening, or in the afternoon to avoid the crowds of tourists. The Mattancheri Palace is located in the Jewish Quarter. An old synagogue is located nearby:
Pardesi (Jewish) Synagogue
You should not expect any beauty from her, but if you have never been to a synagogue, it is very curious to see how everything works there.
Mode of operation: with 10:00 before 17:00 , break from 12:00 before 15:00 ... Friday is a day off (Shabbat is coming soon ☺).
The Jewish quarter itself is a series of shops with spices, dyes, capes, souvenirs and other junk. We have probably never seen such wild traders anywhere. Seeing a tourist, they rush to you shouting over each other.
As soon as you slow down a little, the owner of the shops materializes nearby and immediately starts to sell something to you. It's very difficult to be there for a long time, you start to shy away from people and quietly go crazy from their shouts and hubbub.
In the Mattancheri area there is a pier, from where you can take a ferry to, for example, other islands or Ernakulam. Prices for ferry crossing we were also pleasantly surprised 7-10 INR per person, depending on where you need to sail.
Where to eat in Kochi
When preparing for the trip to Kochi, I read many reviews that everything in Kochi is unreasonably expensive, the portions are small, the food is not tasty. Strange, but it seemed to us that everything is exactly the opposite.
Important: for dinner it is advisable to go go before 19:00 to have time to choose an institution and place an order before tourists leave the Kathakali show. If you are late, there is a risk of waiting for your order for a very, very long time.
Talk of the town
A very pleasant family run establishment. The wife works in the hall, the grandmother sits at the checkout, and the husband is the cook. The little daughter is also harnessed to simple errands.
The food here is delicious, the prices are reasonable, but the wait for food is long, one might even say, very long. We foolishly came here after the Kathakali show ended and almost all the tables were already occupied. We made an order and received the food in almost 2 hours.
Of course, the hall was full and we waited for everyone who came before us to be prepared. But also, foolishly, they ordered "Curry with mango and seafood" - a dish for which you need to prepare the ingredients for 45 minutes, and then cook it for 35 minutes! But, I repeat once again, they cook very tasty, you just need to come first ☺.
Krishna Kripa Seafoods
A modest and completely inconspicuous restaurant at first sight. The prices are average. We ordered here a mix of seafood prepared in traditional Kerala ways.
We came first, taught by the previous bitter experience, and received our order in less than 30 minutes. By the way, when we asked about the portion size, we were told that it was small, but in fact it was enough for us to eat from the belly.
And here they also accept cards for calculation, we have already told you more than once how we like to pay with a Tinkoff AllAirlines card, and so this is relevant for us.
Pizza italia
There is not even one place, but a whole street ( Tower road). You choose the place that you like best and go ahead!
We stopped at a place Pizza italia... First, we had breakfast here, we really liked it, so we decided to have dinner here as well.
Pizza on a thin crust, cooks almost instantly. The portions are large. And coffee - mmmm, though no one could compare with coffee in Varkala so far.
Tibetan Chef's Restaurant
And of course, it wasn't without a little culinary bummer. Near the Kathakali Center there is an institution with a pretentious name Tibetan Chef's Restaurant.
This institution is even marked with a quality mark. Tripadvisor, but for what - it remained a mystery to us. The worst mo-mo we have never tasted, and I hope we won't. And tomato soup ... Tell me, how can you spoil tomato soup ?! But the Tibetan Chef did it.
In general, the food here, to put it mildly, is not tasty and, frankly, inedible. Nothing can justify this gastronomic failure.
Where to stay in Kochi
Most of the sights, as you already understood, are located in Fort Kochi, a couple are in Mattancheri and Ernakulam, but Ernakulam, nevertheless, is a business and transport center, rather than a cultural and historical one. Therefore, it is better to live in the Fort Kochi area - all the attractions are nearby, the area is much nicer than Mattancheri, and housing prices are significantly lower than in Ernakulam.
We stayed in and we had only positive impressions about it. Clean rooms, quiet area, walking distance to all major attractions, good signal Wi-Fi(although after buying a router from Jio this question has ceased to be relevant for us, since we have it all over India).
Basic moments
Kochi is one of the most beautiful cities in India, where Christians, Jews, Muslims and Hindus live in much more harmony than in the rest of the world, Kochi serves as a wonderful gateway to Malabar coast and a pass to the balanced life of Kerala.
The old part of the city, known as Fort Cochin, where Pedro Alvaris Cabral founded the first Portuguese trading post in 1500, is located on a peninsula separated from the mainland by a group of small islands. In the early 1500s, during the campaign against the Calicut zamorin (zamorin - title of the rulers of Calicut) in these places, but further to the north, Vasco da Gama also visited. He is buried in the Church of St. Francis, the only surviving Portuguese building here. Subsequently, the Dutch converted it into a Protestant one. The remains of the great navigator were returned to Portugal in 1538, but his tomb here - set in the floor and surrounded by a copper fence - can still be seen on the south side of the church.
At the water's edge at the very tip of the peninsula, you can watch how they fish with the help of beautiful Chinese nets. This design has long been used in Chinese seas, from where it was borrowed. The net is pulled on four poles, converging in a pyramid, and thrown into the water, and raised using a system of stone weights and pulleys.
Mattancheri in the south of the fort is the Jewish Quarter, or "Jewish City" ("Jew Town")... Narrow streets are packed with benches and sewing workshops, stars of David, menorahs are everywhere (seven-branched candlesticks) and Jewish names, which today evoke much more sympathy than the Jews themselves. During the period of the struggle for independence, several thousand of them lived here, but when the state of Israel was formed, only a few dozen remained after the mass emigration. In 1568, a synagogue was built with a red tent and Chinese-style tiled roof. The copper plates hanging here bear the rights to land on the coast, granted to the Jewish community as early as 379 AD. NS.
On Bolghatti Island in Kochi Lagoon, visitors can enjoy tea at the Dutch Governor's elegant mansion, now a hotel.
At the beginning of the XII century. in Kochi, the stronghold of the kingdom of Kochin was located - a principality whose history goes back to the empire of Kula Sekhara. In the XIV century. a large center for the trade of spices and herbs growing on the fertile soils of the region was formed here. In 1503 the Portuguese occupied the area and Kochi became the first European settlement in India. And then until 1530 it was the capital of the Portuguese colony. Then the city was captured by the Dutch, the rulers of Mysore, and the British. The area became the first principality to voluntarily join the Indian Union after independence in 1947.
Kochi is famous for its many cultural treasures and historical buildings. Vasco House on Rose Street - House famous traveler... Today it is one of the oldest Portuguese mansions in the country. The Cathedral of the Holy Cross with extraordinary paintings on the ceiling was built by the Portuguese in 1505, in 1795 it was destroyed by the British invaders and only in 1905 was restored.
The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1555 as a gift to the Raja of Cochin Veera Kerala Varma, partly as compensation for the destroyed temple and partly as a bribe. The Dutch took over the palace in 1663 when they captured Kochi from the Portuguese, and it was they who gave the city its present appearance. The austere appearance of the palace contrasts with the luxurious interior. The central hall of the first floor was the coronation hall of the rajas, here you can see their robes, turbans and palanquins.
Where to stay
Fort Cochin is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, calm and romantic, with some great accommodation options. It could have been the capital of India's homestays, hundreds of nearly identical accommodations in large, clean, inexpensive rooms.
Ernakulam is much cheaper and more convenient for onward travel, but the furnishings and accommodation options are less inspiring. No matter where you decide to stay, book in advance between December and January.
Holidays and events
Eight-day Ernakulathappan Utsavam holiday (Ernakulathappan Utsavam), in January / February it reaches its climax when a procession of 15 decorated elephants comes out, enthusiastic music sounds and fireworks are lit.
Shopping
Broadway in Ernakulam is suitable for shopping for local goods, spices and clothing, and nearby, on Convent Road and Market Road, there is a cluster of tailor shops. On Ju Town Road in Mattancherry, Gujarat-run shops abound, selling authentic antiques mixed with copies and counterfeits. Several shops near the synagogue sell the finest lace. Most of the stores in Fort Cochin are outwardly indistinguishable from each other. Kashmiri shops sell a variety of North Indian products. Many stores in Fort Cochin and Mattancheri use lucrative commission racket, auto rickshaw drivers receive significant kickbacks (included in the price you pay) for dropping off tourists at the right doors.
Information
Internet
- Net park (Convent Road, Erna-kulam; hour 15 rupees; 9.00-20.00).
- Sify iWay (hour 40; 9.00-22.00) Fast computers in the spacious internet cafe upstairs.
Medical service
- Lakeshore hospital (2701032; NH Bypass, Maruda) 8 km southeast of the center of Ernakulam. Medical Trust (2358001; www.medicaltrusthospital.com; MJ Road)
Money
- UAE Exchange (9.30-18.00 Mon-Fri, until 16.00 Sat);
- Ernakulam (2383317; Perumpillil Bldg, MJ Road);
- Ernakulam (3067008; Chettupuzha Towers, RT Usha Rd Junction);
- Fort Cochin (2216231; Amravathi Road) Currency and traveller's checks.
College Post Office (College post office; 2369302; Convent Road, Ernakulam; 9.00-17.00 Mon-Sat)
Ernakulam Post Offices (2355467; Hospital Road; 9.00-20.00 Mon-Sat, 10.00-17.00 Sun)
Also branches on M-G Road and Broadway.
Main post office (Post Office Road, Fort Cochin; 9.00-17.00 Mon-Fri, until 15.00 Sat)
Information for tourists
There is a rack with tourist information in the airoport. In many places you can get a free brochure with a great map and walking route. historical places in Fort Cochin " (Historical Places in Fort Cochin).
KTDC Tourist Service Center (2353234; Shanmugham Road, Ernakulam; 8.00-19.00) Also organizes excursions.
Ernakulam tourist information (2371761; [email protected] net.in; 8.00-18.00); Fort Cochin (2216129) A private travel agency extremely well informed and helpful in regards to Kochi and the surrounding area. He manages several popular and recommended excursions, and the Ernaku Lama office has a board showing the recommended cultural events in the city that day, there is an exchange of second-hand books, and also publishes a free monthly newsletter of cultural events in Kerala "Village Astrologer".
Ernakulam Tourist Police (2353234; Shanmugham Road, Ernakulam; 8.00-18.00); Fort Cochin (2215055; 24 hours).
Transport in Kochi
To / from airport
Kochi International Airport (610125; http://cocnirairport.com) located in Nedumbasseri (Nedumbassery), 30 km northeast of Ernakulam. A taxi to / from Ernakulam will cost about Rs 500, and to Fort Cochin about Rs 650; a shaking autorickshaw ride from Ernakulam will cost Rs 350. The crazy traffic in Ernakulam means a day trip will take about 1.5 hours and usually less than an hour in the evening.
Ferry
Ferries are the fastest mode of transport between Fort Cochin and the mainland. The pier on the east side of Willingdon Island (Willingdon Island) called Embarkation (Embarkation); western, opposite Mattancherry, called Terminus (Terminus); and the main stop at Fort Cochin is Custom (Customs), with a stop at Mattancherry Jetty Pier (Mattancherry Jetty) near the synagogue. One way cost Rs 2.50 (3.50 between Ernakulam and Mattancherry).
Delivery services to both marinas of Fort Cochin (Custom and Matancherry) every 25-50 minutes (5.55 to 21.30) from the main pier of Ernakulam.
Ferries run every 20 minutes or so to Willingdon and Vipin Islands (from 6.00 to 22.00).
Ferries leave from Custom Pier in Ernakulam from 6.20 to 21.50. They also run between Customs Pier and Willingdon Island 18 times a day, from 6.40 to 21.30 (Monday through Saturday).
Car and passenger ferries go to Vipin Island from Fort Cochin almost non-stop from 6.00 to 22.00.
Local transport
No acting bus route between Fort Cochin and Mattancherry Palace, but it's a fun half-hour walk through the bustling warehouse district along Bazar Road. Autoshaw will cost about 20-30 rupees. Most autorickshaw rides around Ernakulam shouldn't cost more than Rs 25.
To get to Fort Cochin after the ferries stop operating, take a bus to Ernakulam on MG Road (8 rupees, 45 minutes), south of Durbar Hall (Durbar Hall) Road. From Fort Cochin, buses leave for Ernakulam on the opposite side of the ferry pier to Vipin Island. Taxis charge for delivery to the islands as a round trip, even if you are traveling in only one direction - from Ernakulam Town railway station to Fort Cochin, the trip will cost about 200 rupees.
Scooters / Enfields can be rented per day for Rs 250 / 350-600 from Vasco Tourist Information Center (2216267; vascoinformat [email protected]; Bastion Street, Fort Cochin).
The road to Kochi and back
Air
The following airlines have offices in Kochi:
- Air India (2351295; MG Road)
- Jet airways (2358582; MG Road)
- Kingfisher airlines (1800 2093030; Spencer travels, 3rd Floor, Sreekandath)
Bus
Bus station KSRTC (2372033; booking 6.00-22.00) in Ernakulam next to the railway in the middle between two railway stations. Many buses pass through Ernakulam from other cities - you can try to take a seat in it, making your way through the crowd. It is possible to book up to 20 days (30 for Tamil Nadu) on buses departing from here. There is a separate window for booking in Tamil Nadu.
Several private bus companies have deluxe suites with air conditioning and video, buses to Bengaluru, Chennai, Mangalore and Coimbatore; prices are about 75% higher than government buses. There are counters selling tickets all over Ernakulam. Kalur Bus Station (Kaloor)- the main private bus station; located 1 km north of the city.
Train
There are two railway stations in Ernakulam, Ernakulam Town (Ernakulam Town) and Ernakulam Junction (Ernakulam Junction)... Reservations for both stations can be made at the Ernakulam Junction booking office (132; 8.00-20.00 Mon-Sat, 8.00-14.00 Sun).
There are trains to Trivandrum (2nd class / chair with air conditioner 70/255 rupees, 4.5 hours), via Alleppey (Rs 39/165, 1.5 hours) or via Callum (60/210 rupees, 3.5 hours), or via Kottayam (40/165 rupees, 1.5 hours)... Trains also run to Trissur (43/165 rupees, 1.5 hours), Calicut (Rs 67/237 4.5 hours) and Kannur (85/300 rupees, 6.5 hours).
Outskirts of Kochi
Tripunithura
0484-2781113;
entrance 20; 10.00-12.30 and 14.00-16.30 Tue-Sun
This museum is located in Tripunithur, 16 km southeast of Ernakulam, on the way to Kottayam. This is the former residence of the royal family of Kochi, an impressive complex of 49 buildings. It now houses collections of royal families, 19th century oil paintings, old coins, sculptures and paintings, and models of temples. From Ernakulam, take the bus to Tripunighura from MJ Road or from Shanmugham Road behind the Tourist Service Center (5-10.45 minutes); an auto-rickshaw will cost approximately Rs 300 round-trip with an hour's waiting at the palace.
Cherai beach
On Vipin Island, 25 km from Fort Cochin, there is Cherai Beach, which could be Kochi's best secret. A delightful strip of pristine white sand, with many kilometers of dams just a few hundred meters from the coast. It is best to come here for a day from Kochi.
(per person 2 rupees) (about 300 rupees) (14 rupees, one hour).
To get here from Fort Cochin, take the car ferry from Vipin Island (per person 2 rupees), you can also hire an autorickshaw from the pier (about 300 rupees) or take one of the frequent buses (14 rupees, one hour).
Parur and Chennamangalam
Nowhere else in India will you find such explicit, tightly tailored religious clothing as in Parura, 35 km north of Kochi. One of the oldest synagogues is located here (entrance 9.00-17.00 Tue-Sun) in Kerala, in Chennamangalam, 8 km from Parur, which has been carefully restored. Inside you can see a door and a wooden ceiling in bright colors, while outside there is one of the oldest gravestones in India - written in Hebrew and dating back to 1269. The Jesuits first came to Chennamangalam in 1577, and there is a Jesuit church and the ruins of a Jesuit college next door. Nearby is a Hindu temple on a hill overlooking the Periyar River, a 16th century mosque, Muslim and Jewish burials.
In the city of Parur you will find agraharam (place of the brahmins)- a small street of crowded and brightly colored houses, originally inhabited by Tamil Brahmins.
Parur is a compact city, Chennamangalam is best visited with a guide.
Buses to Parur depart from KSRTC Bus Station in Kochi (16 rupees, one hour, every 10 minutes)... You can get from Parur by bus or auto rickshaw (60 rupees) in Chennamangalam.
Best time to arrive
March to October.
Do not miss
- Mattancherry Palace - here you can see Kerala paintings on religious themes and exhibits from the collection of Rajah Cochin.
- The Church of St. Francis is the first European temple in India, built in 1516. Vasco da Gama was originally buried here, and then his body was transported to Portugal.
- Synagogue Paradesi - Built in 1568. This beautiful building is named after the "foreigners" or "white Jews". The floor is adorned with hundreds of hand-painted tiles.
- The Adi Shankaracharya Shrine is an 8-tiered brightly colored memorial guarded by statues of elephants and dedicated to one of India's foremost thinkers.
