For holidaymakers and travellers who are keen to venture to more exotic locations, Fort Kochi or Cochin is a superb gateway to start exploring amazing India.
Situated in the state of Kerala on the very southern tip of the Indian sub-continent, Fort Kochi has Dutch, Portuguese and British influences, amongst others. A popular destination for Indian tourists as well as foreigners, Kochi is relaxed and less frenetic than other parts of India.
There’s plenty to see in Kochi. Walk along the sea front and watch the fishermen using the traditional Chinese nets to collect their catch. Nearby are stalls and tea stands where you can buy small souvenirs, colourful scarves, wooden carvings, fruit or cups of sweet aromatic chai. The small Jewish area (Jew Town) is worth exploring with it’s open fronted shops and narrow streets. The synagogue is open to visitors at certain times of the day and the nearby Dutch Palace (also known as the Mattancherry Palace) is well worth the tiny 5 rupees entrance fee where you will find examples of Hindu art, exhibits from the Rajas of Kochi and heavy European decorative wood panelling.
A short walk away from Jew Town and you come across the spice warehouses, several of which are open to the public. Escape the heat and humidity with a visit to the beautiful St Francis’ Church where Vasco da Gama was originally laid to rest in 1524 before his remains were transported to Lisbon. Do not leave Kochi before also visiting the peaceful Jain Temple where pigeons are fed at 12.15pm every day or the Laundry, where lines of washing hang out to dry and the heavy irons are heated with burning coconut shells.
Once sight-seeing is over for the day, there are plenty of inexpensive cafes and restaurants to sample a selection of rice dishes and curries, freshly caught fish and seafood.