Cochin City Guides

Set on a cluster of islands and a peninsula, Cochin (now, Kochi) is a blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village. Here you can see the oldest church in India, winding streets crammed with 500-year old Portuguese houses, cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, a well-settled Jewish community, a 16th century synagogue and a palace built by the Portuguese and given to the Raja of Cochin.

Today, Kochi (or Cochin, as it was formerly known) comprises three distinct areas. Old Kochi, comprising the down-at-heel but wonderfully atmospheric Mattancherry and its more pristine neighbor, Fort Kochi, lie on one of two peninsular arms that shield the Kochi harbor, and hold the most historical interest. Opposite it, on the mainland that creates the eastern peninsula, lies modern Ernakulam. Between the two are islands, now well connected by bridges, including Willingdon Island.

Cochin is the place for gorgeous silk saris. Intricately designed gold and silver jewellery and temple jewellery are also specialities of the area.

Cochin Quick Facts

Area: 1,493 sq mi (3,867 sq km)
Summer Max: 35°C
Winter Min: 15°C
Rainfall: 310 cm
Main Occupation: Trading and fishing

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