Fort Kochi, also known as Old Kochi, is a historic neighborhood in the city of Kochi (Cochin), Kerala, India. It is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and colonial architecture. Here are some of the best places to visit in Fort Kochi:
- Chinese Fishing Nets: These iconic fishing nets are a symbol of Fort Kochi and a must-see attraction. Visitors can watch local fishermen operate these unique fishing contraptions, which are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders centuries ago.
- St. Francis Church: This historic church is one of the oldest European-built churches in India and is closely associated with the famous explorer Vasco da Gama, who was buried here before his remains were taken to Portugal.
- Fort Kochi Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Fort Kochi Beach, enjoy the beautiful sunset views, and indulge in some delicious street food from the vendors lining the promenade.
- Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, this palace showcases a fine collection of murals, portraits, and artifacts representing the history of the region.
- Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue: Wander through the narrow lanes of Jew Town, which houses the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.
- Santa Cruz Basilica: This stunning Roman Catholic church is a fine example of colonial-era architecture, with its colorful interior and impressive facade.
- Indo-Portuguese Museum: Located in Fort Kochi, this museum exhibits a wide array of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and other historical items that highlight the Indo-Portuguese heritage of the region.
- David Hall: This historic building has been transformed into an art gallery and cultural center, hosting exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
- Vasco da Gama Square: A lively and vibrant area in Fort Kochi, known for its street art, cafes, and shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
- Kerala Kathakali Centre: Experience the traditional performing arts of Kerala, including Kathakali, a classical dance-drama form, at this cultural center.
These are just a few of the many attractions you can explore in Fort Kochi. The area’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for travelers.
How to reach Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is well-connected to other parts of Kochi and neighboring cities by various modes of transportation. Here’s how you can reach Fort Kochi:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 45 kilometers away from Fort Kochi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach Fort Kochi. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- By Train: The main railway station in Kochi is Ernakulam Junction (also known as Ernakulam South), which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Ernakulam Junction, you can hire a taxi, take an auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach Fort Kochi, which is about 13 kilometers away.
- By Bus: Kochi has a well-developed public bus transport system. You can take a bus from different parts of the city to reach Fort Kochi. KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and private bus operators offer regular services to the area. Look for buses heading to Fort Kochi or Mattancherry.
- By Ferry: Another unique way to reach Fort Kochi is by taking a ferry from Ernakulam Boat Jetty or Vypin. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the harbor and the Chinese Fishing Nets. It is a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists.
- By Auto-rickshaw or Taxi: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available in Kochi and can take you directly to Fort Kochi. They are a convenient option if you prefer a door-to-door service.
Once you arrive in Fort Kochi, most of the attractions in the area are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the neighborhood on foot. Alternatively, you can also rent a bicycle to get around and soak in the charm of this historic place at your own pace.
Location
Latitude: 9.964793, Longitude: 76.242943