Cochin City-
The city's modern name is derived from the Malayalam words, Koch Azhi, meaning 'small lagoon'. Whereas, as per some old manuscripts, the traders who came here from the court of Chinese ruler, Khubilai Khan, during ancient times, gave Cochin the name of their homeland. However, one thing constant about the city is that its strategic location has always made it stand out as a significant commercial and industrial hub of Kerala. During the 14th century, Kochi gained a reputation of being an important spice-trading center.
The city's modern name is derived from the Malayalam words, Koch Azhi, meaning 'small lagoon'. Whereas, as per some old manuscripts, the traders who came here from the court of Chinese ruler, Khubilai Khan, during ancient times, gave Cochin the name of their homeland. However, one thing constant about the city is that its strategic location has always made it stand out as a significant commercial and industrial hub of Kerala. During the 14th century, Kochi gained a reputation of being an important spice-trading center.
Dutch Palace:
The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portugese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi were held here. The place has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. Parikshit Thampuran Museum:
The museum is situated near the famous Siva Temple, Ernakulam. It houses a treasure of archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals.St Francis Church:
St. Francis Church one of the most oldest church built by European in India.On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portugese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that the exact place where he was buried has been marked out inside the churchFort Kochi - Ernakulam
The exciting history of this city began when a major flood in AD 1341 threw open the estuary at Kochi, till then a land locked region, turning it into one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Kochi thus became a haven for seafaring visitors from all over the world and became the first European township in India when the Portuguese settled here in the 15th century. Fort Kochi is accessible by bus or ferry. The bus ride from Ernakulam town, which is nearly 13 km away, takes about an hour and the ferry ride from Main boat jetty at Ernakulam about 20 minutes. My Best stay in Cochin
We got to know of contritely hotel from Mission India website ( http://www.missionindiahotels.com/ ) and booked it for a very low price. The hotel was spotlessly clean, close to 5 star hotel and service. The front desk guys were extremely helpful and friendly; they guided us almost every day during our stay in Cochin. There is 24h room service, and it is extremely fast. The location is ok, 3 minutes walk from Victoria metro station. Bathroom Jacuzzis, room lighting, curtains were all of top quality and extremely soothing after a hot tired day sightseeing Athens. Breakfast was ok, I would rather grab a toast or sandwich from room service menu or nearby bakery. Anyway breakfast is not included in the price and we didn’t miss it very much. Oh and how can I forget the free WLAN facility, it was so very convenient. I would definitely stay at this hotel again, and recommend Mission India heartily to everyone.
