Kochi Tourism Information

History of Kochi:

In 1102, The Kingdom of Kochi came into existence, after the fall of the Kulasekhara Empire. Till 14th century onward, Kochi was an important spice trading center on the Arabian Sea Coast. In 1503, Portuguese captured the Kochi and established first European colonial settlement in India. It was the capital of Portuguese India until 1530, when Goa became the capital. Later City was occupied by the Dutch, the Mysore, and the British. After gained independence by India, in1947, Kochi was the first princely state to willingly join the Indian Union.

Dutch Palace:

This famous tourist site of Kochi is a unique example of Dutch architecture. This palace is a unique blend of the oriental and the occidental architectural patterns. It is famous for the mural paintings in it. There are three temples inside the premises of palace, one is devoted to lord Krishna, other one is devoted to Lord Shiva and last one is devoted to Pazhayannur Bhagavati (the protective deity of the Royal family of Kochi).

Cherai Beach:

Beaches abound in Kochi. But the beauty of Cherai Beach surpasses all with its swimming facility and coconut groves. An occasional sight of dolphins is also an added attraction.

Hill Palace Museum:

It was actually the residence of the Kochi Royal family. It is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a Deer Park. It is the first heritage museum in Kerala. This museum houses collections of old coins, paintings, sculptures, and Royal valuables.

Apart from these places, other Kochi tourist attractions are Jewish Synagogue, Willingdon Island, Gundu Island and Vypeen Island.