Cochin

formerly known as Cochin, is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. The city is one of the principal seaports of the country and is located in the district of Ernakulam, about 220 kilometres (137 mi) north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. It has an estimated population of 600,000, with an extended metropolitan population of about 1.5 million, making it the largest urban agglomeration and the second largest city in Kerala after the capital.

Cochin is popularly referred to as the Gateway of South India. It is an important trade center and many countries prefer this place to export and import their materials. In fact, Cochin has been an important link to the rest of the world since ancient times. Cochin has been ruled over by many empires over centuries. Thus, one can find a cultural amalgamation in this place. Despite being ruled by so many different domains, Cochin still maintains its cultural identity and is fiercely proud of it. The Dutch, British and also the Portuguese have ruled Cochin for many years. This resulted in a unique mix and match of traditional as well Western architecture and lifestyle.

How to Reach Cochin :

KOCHI ROAD MAP			WEATHER REPORT
			India Tourism Guide
KOCHI DISTANCE CHART
xx	210	xx	55 Kms
xx	250 Kms	xx	250 Kms
xx	130 Kms	xx	250 Kms

Places to see in Cochin -

Kochi: Also called as Cochin is known as the 'Queen of the Arabian sea'. Kochi is the main commercial center if Kerala. The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry, various monuments of the British era, the Jewish Synagogue and the famous Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, all demonstrate the cultural heritage of Kerala.

Bolghatty: A beautiful island situated away from the hustle of the city. The elegant Palace built by the Dutch in 1744 AD, is now a KTDC Hotel. The island also has park and golf course.

Willington Island: This beautiful manmade island is surrounded by backwaters. Willington Island houses many government offices.

Jewish Synagogue: Built in 1568, this Synagogue is the oldest in India. There is also a Jewish Town in Kochi. Many antiques are available on sale here and it is also a center for spice trade.

Fort Kochi: St. Francis Chruch, the first church built by the Portuguese in India, in the year 1503, stands here. The body of the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama was first buried here. The famous Santa Cruz Cathedral is also at Fort Kochi. Chinese Fishing nets are another attraction of Fort Kochi.

Hill Palace Museum: Kerala's first ever heritage museum and an ethno-archaeological museum are the main attractions. The museum showcases oil paintings, murals, scripture in, manuscripts, furniture, inscriptions and coins belonging to royal family.

Kallil Temple: A Jain temple carved out of a single stone. It also has statue of Mahaveera.

Cochin Carnival: Cochin Carnival, December 2 to the New year day, attracts a number of domestic and international tourists each year.

Other Places of Tourist interest are Kaladi - the birth place of Sri Shankaracharya, Cochin Shipyard, Cherai beach, Bhuthathaankettu reservoir, Kerala Historical Museum, Thatteckad bird sanctuary etc...