Fort Kochi with its plethora of alluring destinations has always been a getaway place in the famous God’s own country. If you are having plans to go on a weekend trip with your family and friends, Fort Kochi would surely stake its claim in making a firm case. Being a water-bound region with a one-hour drive from Kochin airport, Fort Kochi is readily accessible to the whole world. The place resonates with the history of settlers who choose to set foot on these shores. Amazing things to do in Fort Kochi discusses some of the most prominent places and activities to try out in the coastal city.
You can enjoy places in Fort Kochi that would raise your heartfelt emotions. Be the architectural beauty of the Jewish Synagogue and the historical significance of St Francis Church. The intriguing Chinese fishing nets by the seashore and the astonishing artistical exhibition of Biennale. All of these would literally entice you to this beautiful place. So, what’s holding you back to experience this crown jewel of the Malabar coast? Check out these amazing things to do in Fort Kochi which would make you fall in love with the famous place.
1. Try your luck with Chinese Fishing Nets.
Chinese fishing nets are one of the most significant attractions of the Vasco Da Gama square in Fort Kochi. These are nothing but large fishing nets attached to long bamboo or teak rods fixed to the elevated basements by the seashore. Chinese fishing net is also known to the natives as Cheenavala. It’s believed that over 500 years ago, this fishing technique was introduced by Chinese explorers to the fisherman in Kochi. Even now this method is being used by the fisherman to have their catch. Chinese fishing nets would look more beautiful at sunset with a colourful sky. We can also try out this fishing technique as this option involves payment. If we are lucky enough we would also be able to get some fish. Also, we can buy fresh fish from these fishermen. Chinese fishing nets surely be classified as one of the most intriguing things to explore in Fort Kochi. This has made it to be the first entry in the list of Amazing Things To Do In Fort Kochi.
2. Buy fresh seafood from vendors and get it cooked in Cafe
Apparently, there is a fascinating facility available in Fort Kochi where tourists can buy fresh seafood from street vendors and fishermen. Later when we hand over this seafood to the nearby cafes, they would cook it for you as you wish. These cafes also have a seafood collection of their own and we can ask them to get it cooked as we please. We can get tawa fried seafood varieties and these will be served with sliced vegetables. The cafe has a menu board in front, so it’s better to enquire about the rates before making the order.
3. Visit the ancient churches of Fort Kochi
St. Francis Church built in Portuguese architecture is one of the famous tourist destinations in Fort Kochi. It is built in 1503 and is apparently considered to be the oldest European church in India. When you go through the history of St. Francis Church, it’s quite fascinating to know that the church has served three different roles. It’s been a Roman Catholic church, a Dutch Reformist church & an Anglican church according to the European powers who gained control over the land. Another interesting factor about St. Francis Church is that this is the initial burial place of famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama who died in 1524. Although he was later moved to Portugal, the burial place is clearly marked in St. Francis Church.
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is among the most beautiful architectural attractions in Fort Kochi. It is believed to be one of the oldest catholic churches in India and is one of the nine basilicas in Kerala. This church was initially constructed in 1505 by the Portuguese and was later destroyed by the British. It was constructed again in 1905 and was elevated to Basilica by the late 20th century.
4. Spend some time in Maritime Museum, Kochi
Maritime Museum is an alluring spot which portrays the history of the Indian Navy. If you are a person who follows history, this museum would prove to be an amazing advocate of the changes that the Indian Navy has gone through. Some of the post-independence Navy equipment like pistols, warships and aircraft are all on display. There is also a special section which talks about our naval victories. The Museum also has a collection of exhibits which sheds light on the ship-building activities which were carried out in history. Some of the ancient ploys adopted by the sailors in kingship way before the independence were also explained.
5. Explore the Fort Kochi Beach
Fort Kochi beach is another attraction, especially for the Chinese fishing nets which look amazing by the sunset. There is a long walkway through the beachside with numerous street vendors selling crafts, toys, juices and food items. New years eve is when this Fort Kochi beach becomes fully crowded with people for celebrations. The beautiful view of cargo ships passing through the evening sunset provides an amazing view.
6. Enjoy the Dance forms at Kerala Kathakali Centre
Kerala Kathakali centre came into existence in 1990 in Fort Kochi and will introduce you to a variety of intriguing dance forms of Kerala. The architecture of the building is quite fascinating with wood carvings on the inside. The traditional style of the building provides a cosy feel and it’s quite inviting for tourists. The place is usually filled with tourists and locals who come in to watch the dance forms like Kathakali and other classical dance forms.
Kathakali is believed to be a 300-year-old indigenous dance form of Kerala which involves sophisticated eye movements and mind-blowing traditional costumes which attract the attention of the viewers. The centre has many daily shows and visitors can even check out the exciting makeup procedures that transform the artist’s look so differently. Kerala Kathakali centre would surely prove to be an invaluable entry in your Fort Kochi itinerary. In fact, the list of amazing things to do in Fort Kochi wouldn’t be completed without making a visit to the Kerala Kathakali Centre.
7. Bask in the beauty of Mattancherry Palace or Dutch Palace
Mattancherry Palace is one of the very important tourist destinations in Fort Kochi. The Portuguese were the ones who built the palace in 1545, which was in fact a present to King Veera Kerala Verma. Later in 1663, the Dutch came up with a major renovation of the palace and since then, it is also known as the Dutch Palace. The beauty of the Mattachery palace lies in its simple Kerala architecture and is located 12km away from the main town.
The main attraction of the two-storied palace is its 300 sq. km vast mural painting within the inner walls. It portrays Ramayana and Mahabharata which are the two major Indian epics. Lord Krishna of Guruvayur temple and the invaluable works of the Sanskrit poet Kalidasa have also been a topic of this majestic art depiction. The palace is known for its big and spacious centre courtyard which is also where the holy deity of the royal family, Pazhayannur Bhagavathy resides.
8. Visit the beautiful Bastion Bungalow Museum
Bastion Bungalow is believed to be built by the Dutch in 1667 and is located in Fort Kochi near the Vasco da Gama square. The Bungalow has an amalgamation of Indian and European architecture with Kerala roof tiles on top. One of the major attractions of the mansion is its long and open verandahs on the first floor. Apparently, the Bungalow made use of wood, laterite and bricks for its construction. Soon after the independence, the Bastion Bungalow was assigned as the official residence of the Sub-Collector for some time. Later in 2016, the Kerala government made a decision to change it into a heritage museum and was open to the public. Being a museum we would be able to see paintings, artefacts and various other infographics about the coastal city of Kochi.
9. Stroll through the famous Jew Town
Jew Town is one of the most intriguing spots in Fork Kochi located between Mattancherry Palace and the Pardesi Synagogue. These narrow streets are with two-storey buildings down the side of lanes. The place is quite known for antique shops all across the town making it a heaven for shopaholics who are looking for precious products from the past. Jew town was once the abode of the Jew community who came from Kodungallore long back in the 16th century. The King of Kochi in the year 1524 has given shelter to the Jewish community in Mattancherry which later came to be known as Jew town.
The establishment of the State of Israel in the year 1948 prompted these Orthodox Jews communities to migrate to their homeland, leaving behind their homes and belongings which are being sold as antiques. You can find a whole host of interesting items like crockery, carved wooden furniture, Jewellery, wall hangings, paintings and many more. The Paradesi Synagogue is considered to be the most popular religious monument of the Mattanchery Jew community with alluring architectural brilliance. Strolling through the historical Jew Town and visiting the Paradesi Synagogue is a unique experience for travellers.
10. Check out the Biennale in Kochi
Biennale is a contemporary international art exhibition in the city of Kochi which has gained immense popularity among art lovers. It’s been regarded as the biggest art exhibition in India and in fact, Biennale is been considered to be the biggest contemporary art festival conducted among Asian countries. Its been made possible by Kochi Biennale Foundation with the help of the government of Kerala. The exhibition will be for a period of four months and as visitors, we can go through the art forms of Indian as well as international artists. We would be able to witness art forms in a variety of mediums like installations, paintings, handicrafts, sculptures and many more. Besides the exhibitions, we would also be able to attend seminars, talks, workshops, music, screenings and other functions.
11. Tour of alluring Princes Street in Kochi
Princes Street also known as Loafer’s corner is believed to be one of the earliest cities in Kochi. It’s also a place where we could see the new and ancient times interwoven in existence. The presence of cafes and clubs on these streets forms the habitat for people who loves parties. Princes Street is well known for buildings with European architecture maintaining its beauty. Loafer’s corners which in turn is a traditional gathering spot for the people would have the credit for the best view of this quaint place. Streets have either side with European architectural buildings. Many of the tourists who come to Fort Kochi take a tour of this beautiful street. It also offers several food spots with delicious cuisines and beverages for visitors.
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