Introduction
Set on an array of islands and a peninsula, Cochin is an amalgam of medieval Portuguese, European architecture, Holland and an English country village. Here you can see St Francis the oldest church in India, snaky streets with 500-year old Portuguese houses, unbeaten fishing nets, an approved Jewish community, a 16th century church and a palace built by Portuguese and given to Raja of Cochin. If you wish to know what are the elements that make up a paradise, visit Cochin Backwaters! To relax and spend some quality time with nature, head out for the soothing backwaters of Cochin! The mind- boggling swaying coconut trees add to Cochin's attraction. It is place to be seen for those who want to experience newness with a hint of ancestral diorama.


Quick Facts
Location : Kerala, South West India
State : Kerala
Trip Highlights : Back waters and serene environment
Ideal time to visit : September - December
Languages : Malayalam, Hindi and English
STD Code : 0484
Climate : temperature varies between 23ºC and 35ºC

Cochin Air/Rail/Road Links

Airport :	Cochin Airport has a direct link with all major major airports in India. There re regular flights to all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Goa and Bangalore.
Railway Station :	Cochin is connected to rail by all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.
Bus Station :	Cochin has a wide network of roads that connect all major as well all remote areas. NH 47 runs through South west coast of Kerala.

Tourist Attractions in Cochin
Fort Cochin
A small town in itself, fort Cochin is a natural harbour and one of the most important centres in South India. Europeans have left a very strong impact on the cultural and traditional heritage of Cochin. That is stated by witnessing this beautiful site.

Bolghatty Palace
Located off the coast of Cochin, it is a massive monument which has presently been converted into heritage hotel. It is located among lush green environment and a fantabulous scenic beauty of backwaters. You can reach there in an adventurous manner by hiring ferry services.

St Francis Church
Built during 16th century, this is said to be the burial place of Vasco Da Gama. It is the oldest European church constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars

The Santa Cruz Basilica
It is a very important land mark of Cochin. The interiors of Basilica are worth watching especially the exquisite stained glass. It is located on Rampart road.

Shopping Centres in Cochin
There is an innumerable collection of handicrafts and antique emporia in Kochi. The works of contemporary artists can be seen and bought from different art galleries. You can have a joyful shopping from-:

Famous Hotels in Cochin

Getaways
There are many places to see around kochi. You can move to these places as a part of excursions from kochi. These places are a good way of learning Kerala from a broader angle. Given below are the places around Cochin that are often visited by tourists.

Guruvayoor - 108 km
Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary - 192 km
Munnar - 130 km
Lakshadweep Islands - 300 km