Cochin: 15 Apr 2008 to 16 Apr 2008

Whether you call it Cochin, Kochi, Ernakulam, Queen of the Arabian and Adriatic Sea or Gateway of South India, this formerly land-locked city, which became one of the finest natural harbours due to a cataclysmic flood in AD 1341, was moulded by Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, Jewish and Arab influences over the centuries.

The British touch is felt at Fort Cochin, while Santa Cruz Basilica and St. Francis Church are Portuguese-inspired. Koder House is a beautiful example of Indo-European Architecture, and the Jewish synagogue in Mattancherry is decorated with Belgian chandeliers and Chinese tiles. The Dutch Palace, though originally built by the Portuguese, was modified by the Dutch in the 17th century and given to the Raja of Kochi.

Round out your day in the spice trading capital of Cochin by watching the massive Chinese cantilevered fishing nets being lowered into the water at Vasco de Gama Square.

Excursions:
COCHIN CITY SIGHTS

KERALA BACKWATERS