Cochin Must Visit Places
Bolgatty Island can be reached by crossing the Goshree Bridge and offers wonderful sights from the eponymous Palace which is right on the shore. It has been converted into a heritage hotel and retains its past elegance and royal aura. Willingdon Island is a man-made wonder and is a good place to spot porpoises. It houses the most exclusive hotels and offers a great view of the harbour. Visit Vypeen island and laze on the Cherai Beach and if you are lucky, you might spot dolphins. Perhaps the most amazing place to see is Fort Kochi and the great view of sunset it offers. A walking tour of the whole fishing settlement is highly recommended, especially the famed Chinese Fishing Nets which are uniquely arranged on the water. St Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, is on the Fort and contains the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Close by is Santa Cruz Basilica which has graceful interiors. One can also visit the Maritime Museum which is a one of its kind homage to the naval history of India. Finally, Princess Street invites you for a great experience with its old world buildings and hang-out crowd. Next, one can head to Mattancherry, where the peaceful Jewish Synagogue provides some respite. Also of interest is the Mattancherry Palace which abounds in rare paintings, maps and antiques.
Cochin's Famous Cuisines
Kochi has a variety of sumptuous options to fill your travelling stomach. From traditional fish items to more exotic seafood concoctions and delicious biriyanis, you will get it all here. Some of the best places to eat are the restaurant at the Grand Hotel, Krishna Inn, and Nalukettu. The biriyani at Kaikka’s is just awesome.
Cochin Markets
Mattancherry and Fort Kochi offer great shopping options. Pick up local spices, coffee, tea and antiques in Mattancherry. Jew Street in the Fort has a famed spice market in addition to local collectibles. For more classy options, head to MG road in Ernakulam.
How To Reach Cochin
Kochi is accessible from both Bangalore and Chennai by rail and road. Regular bus and train services are available from both cities. Kochi also has its own airport.