REVIEWS

Ten things to do in Kochi
By Siddharth Premkumar 1 Dec, 2016

Ten things do in Kochi
Of Kochi, it was said by an
Italian visitor in the Middle Ages: If China is where you make your money; then
Kochi surely is the place to spend it.
Situated on the coast facing the Arabian Sea, Kochi is one of the world’s best natural harbour hubs. Kerala’s most cosmopolitan city and commercial capital, Kochi has always been a major centre of trade with the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British all leaving their mark here. The huge ‘Chinese fishing nets’ brought here by traders from Kublai Khan’s empire are just one reminder of this history.
Fort Kochi
There
is no better way to explore the historic town of Fort Kochi than on foot. It is
a time-capsule, wearing with pride the traces of bygone eras. If you enjoy trips
to the past, there is little better than walking through these streets with the
cool sea breeze at your back.
From
colonial structures to centuries old churches – including the St. Francis
Church, the oldest European church in India. Built in 1503, Vasco da Gama was buried
here and his tombstone can still be seen. The Portuguese explorer also has a
town square to his name nearby – dotted with stalls serving up delicious
seafood and tender coconuts
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica in Fort Kochi is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin. The reproduction of the Last Supper is a visual feast.
Jew Synagogue and Jew Town
The Paradesi Synagogue, built in
1568 when Kochi had a thriving migrant Jewish population, is one of the oldest
active synagogues. Located in the old
part of Mattenchery Town close to Fort Kochi known as Jew Town, it remains a
popular stop and pilgrimage point for observant Jews.
Near
Jew Town is the Dutch Palace or Mattenchery Palace. It was built in 1555 A.D by
the Portuguese and presented to Veera Kerala Varma, Raja of Kochi. It has a
huge collection of Kerala Temple murals, portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of
Kochi.
Museum of Kerala History
This
museum in the bustling Edappally area is a must visit destination for those who
want to know about the history of Kerala. There is a lovely reproduction of
Parasurama, the mythic founder of Kerala and an avatar of Vishnu as well as
depictions of historical episodes, including commentaries and life-size
tableaux. The museum also houses over 200 original works by famous Indian
artists.
Backwaters
Just
as alluring as its history, Kochi’s network of inland waterways – popularly
known as backwaters – take visitors on a slow cruise in the city’s cultural
history in one of the many ‘Kettuvalloms’ or houseboats that ply on these
waters.
Hill Palace, Thripunithura
The Hill Palace was the official
residence of Maharaja of Kochi. Built in 1865, the palace is today a museum
harbouring 18 main galleries. The crown worn by the erstwhile kings of the
Kochi dynasty is displayed in the Cabinet Hall. There is also a gallery
displaying contemporary art and it showcases works by the artist king Raja Ravi
Varma among others.
Megalithic
remains, 14th century wood carvings, porcelain, manuscripts and
epigraphs, all kinds of horse carts from the 10th to 18th century in the museum,
ancient weapons, musical instruments, bronze and silver items are also
displayed here.
Marine drive
A popular meeting haunt for
locals, this scenic pathway is built facing the Vembanad lake and offers
panoramic views of the sunset and is a great spot for runners to work up a
sweat
The Broadway stretch of road that
lines up next to Marine Drive is the spot to buy souvenirs and other trinkets
with great deals to be made with the hawkers and small stalls on the walkway.
Willingdon Island
Willingdon
Island is a man-made island created in 1933. There are beautiful walkways and
boat ferry points on this island. A great
place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or take in the sunset
Vypeen Island
This
is where Arabian Sea merges with Vembanad Lake. It is believed that the island
zone was formed as a result of a heavy flood during 1341. Vypeen is connected
by boat and jetty services offered to Fort Kochi island and to Kochi through the
other-worldly Goshree bridge. This makes it perfect for a day trip.
Wonderla Amusement Park
The
leading amusement park in Kochi, Wonderla Amusement Park is a must visit for
people travelling with kids. Plenty of the rides here are water based to help
get out from under the sun.
Kodanad Elephant Training Center
Kodanad,
a rural village near Kochi, is famous for an elephant training centre
established in 1950. Kodanad is today a
rescue training centre for wounded elephants and lost calves.
