For ages, Kochi has been the harbor that received mariners from all over the world. Sailors from China, Portugal, Arabia, Britain, Holland had set their feet on Kochi and has contributed one or the other way in shaping what Kochi is today. Such fruitful invasions for years has made Kochi the prime tourist destination in Kerala.
Kochi tourist attractions include the following sites:
St. Francis Church: Built in 1503, this Anglican Church is an exemplary evidence of the European colonial struggle in India. The church contains the tombstone of Vasco-da-Gama and it has been the architectural model of numerous churches in India.
Dutch Palace: 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 palace, each devoted to lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and Pazhayannur Bhagavati- the protective deity of the Royal family of Kochi.
Bolghatty Palace: This palace in the scenic island was established by the Dutch in 1744. Presently, the palace has been transformed into Kerala Tourism Development Corporation hotel.
Santa Cruz Basilica: Established in 1558, this church in Kochi is famous for the beautiful paintings on the ceiling.
Pareekshith Thampuran Museum: Previously called Durbar Hall, this museum houses collections of old coins, paintings and sculptures.
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.
Cherai Beach: Beaches abound in Kochi. But the beauty of Cherai Beach surpasses all with its swimming facility and coconut groves. Occasional sights of dolphins is also an added attraction.
Apart from these places, other Kochi tourist attractions are Jewish Synagogue, Willingdon Island, Gundu Island and Vypeen Island.
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