The Backwaters and Beaches of Kochi

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Distance from Benagluru: 368 kilometers

Kochi has lured traders and travellers alike for the past 600 years. The financial capital and cosmopolitan hub of Kerala, Kochi is a bustling city, home to the country’s fourth busiest international airport and well connected by the rail and road network to the rest of the country. The picturesque city has a number of interesting but unfrequented attractions that you must visit. Have a look at them:

Indo-Portuguese Museum: Soak in the history and culture of the region with a visit to the Indo-Portuguese Museum. It is a great place to discover how the Portuguese influenced the art and architecture of Kochi and adjoining areas. It is divided into five different sections – the Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral and is located in the compounds of the Bishop’s House.

The Jew Town: Kochi is a melting pot of different religions and societies, and each has left an indelible mark on the city. The Jews of Kochi are believed to have come to India in around 70 AD. Though a large number of the Jews have migrated to Israel and other countries, a few families still live in Kochi, adding a unique flavor to this bustling city. While here, you can interact with the Jewish community, admire the architecture, visit the synagogue and walk down the narrow alleys. An example of the varied religious sites in India, the Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568, is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. While paradesi means foreigner, in reference to the white Jews who made Kochi their home when they fled prosecution centuries ago, the synagogue is also referred to as the Mattancherry or Jewish Synangogue.

Greenix Village: While in Kerala, it would be a crime to leave the state without witnessing the beautiful art forms that it is so famous for. The Greenix Village, located in Fort Kochi, is a great place to learn about various performance arts such as Kathakali and Kalaripayattu. You can listen to some traditional Indian music every evening, and also practice all the different poses of yoga in the morning yoga lessons.

Utsavam at the Siva Temple: In January, you can also attend the annual seven-day festival at the Ernakulam Siva Temple in Kochi. The festival is famous for its Seeveli procession, which is taken out twice every day with nine tuskers and panchavadyam (an orchestra with five instruments).

Does the sound of all these sights and experiences waiting to be explored, excite you? Well then what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets and get on the next flight or train to Kochi and don’t forget to tell us about your experiences.