Top Tourist Destinations in Kochi, Kerala
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula. It is a part of the district of Ernakulam in the state of Kerala and is often referred to as Ernakulam. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Kochi, Kerala:
1. Fort Kochi Beach Museum²
Fort Kochi is a seaside town in the south-western part of Main Kochi, known for its historical fortifications and ruins of old palatial buildings from the Portuguese or Dutch colonial era⁶. Fort Kochi is dotted with European structures, churches, and other architectural buildings which take you right back to a different era back in time⁶.
2. Kerala Folklore Museum³
The Kerala Folklore Museum is a cultural hub that showcases the rich heritage of Kerala. It houses a collection of artifacts that represent the culture and tradition of South India³.
3. Mattancherry Palace⁶
The Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace. It is now a museum displaying paraphernalia belonging to the rajas of Kochi⁶.
4. Santa Cruz Basilica⁶
The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is located at Fort Kochi and is one of the eight Basilicas in India. Famous for its gothic style architecture and Portuguese interiors, the church is the second cathedral built by the Portuguese⁶.
5. Hill Palace Museum⁶
Located at Tripunithura, The Hill Palace is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. It was built in the year 1865 and was once the Imperial Administrative offices and official residence of the Maharaja of Cochin⁶.
6. Lulu Shopping Mall⁴
Lulu Shopping Mall, located in Edappally, is one of the largest shopping malls in India. It's a great place to shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment options⁴.
7. Kerala Kathakali Centre⁴
The Kerala Kathakali Centre is renowned for its dedication to the art of Kathakali, a traditional dance form of Kerala⁴.
8. Cherai Beach⁴
Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Kochi, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere⁴.
9. Wonderla Amusement Park⁴
Wonderla Amusement Park is a world-class amusement park in Kochi. It offers thrilling rides and games for all age groups⁴.
10. Jew Synagogue and Jew Town⁴
Jew Synagogue, also known as Paradesi Synagogue, is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Jew Town, the area around the synagogue, is a historic area that houses several antique shops⁴.
11. Marine Drive⁴
Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade in Kochi. It is a popular hangout spot and offers a beautiful view of the backwaters and the Kochi Harbour⁴.
These are just a few of the many attractions that make Kochi a must-visit destination. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kochi has something for everyone.
References:
(1) Fort Kochi Beach Museum. https://www.gettyimages.in/sign-in.
(2) 52 Best Places to visit in Kochi | Top Tourist Attractions | 2024. https://www.holidify.com/places/kochi/sightseeing-and-things-to-do.html.
(3) Kerala Folklore Museum. http://keralafolkloremuseum.org/.
(4) 30 Places to Visit in Kochi 2024, Tourist Places & Top Attractions. https://www.thrillophilia.com/places-to-visit-in-cochin.
(6) 30 BEST Places to Visit in Kochi (Cochin) (UPDATED 2024) - Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g297633-Activities-Kochi_Cochin_Ernakulam_District_Kerala.html.