subject: Kochi A Gateway To Enchanting Backwaters Of Kerala [print this page] Kochi used to be known as Cochin is a major port city of Kerala is often referred as gateway to the state. It is a vibrant city has Western Ghats to its east and Arabian Sea to its west and is located very near to equator. All these make Kochi an outstanding place to visit. Kochi itself is a small town but it has outgrown its original bounds and a general name is given to much of the region adjoin the original town which include places like Fort Kochi, Mattanchery, Ernakulam and many more villages which makes it a large metropolis. Kochi is an ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala and is rated among top three destinations by World Travel and Tourism Council and is featured in National Geographic Travellers 50 great places to be visited in a lifetime. So make a plan and book cheap flights to Kochi and rest assure the city wont leave you disappointed.
Popularly known as Queen of Arabian Sea Cochin is one of the finest natural harbours in the world and is a gateway to enchanting backwaters of Kerala. It is also referred as business capital of Kerala and is one of the fastest growing cities in India. From time immortal, the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch and Portuguese have left indelible marks on the history and development of Cochin and make it a tapestry of vivid colors and cultures which attract scores of tourists from far and wide to its shores.
Among all the major activities that tourists can enjoys over here and that is must in itinerary of its every visitor is a ferry ride across vast expanses of Kochi backwaters. Backwaters in Kerala are a major draw of visitors. Hemmed with swaying coconut trees , Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against the backdrop of setting sun and a slow moving houseboat that glides across the water makes it truly spectacular experience for its visitors that they cant enjoy anywhere else in the world.
Step back in time and visit the heritage zone of city. Build in 1503 by Portuguese Fort Kochi is now in ruins where you can see vestiges of Dutch, English and Portuguese colonial rule even today. The shady avenues, sleepy streets, imposing European heritage and temperament of Kochi will make you fall in love with this place. Enjoy a boat ride across the blue lagoons and explore the rustic life of unhurried pace from a wayside caf is truly once in a life time experience. To explore all this and do much more book Kochi flights from London and this experience will surely leave you spellbound.
Fort Kochi beach is an ideal place that provides you a great escape from hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy some moments of your life with sun sand and sea and soak in the dazzling views of sunset. Enjoy sea food at various restaurants and eateries along the beach that serve fresh fish delicacies at a very affordable price.
Another interesting place to visit is Hill Palace Museum which is located at a distance of 12 kilometers south east of Ernakulum, towards Kottayam showcases a rich collection of Cochin and Travancore royal families. The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry, through actually built by Portuguese was presented to the rulers of Cochin in 1555 AD. The main attraction of the place is its wall murals depicting the scenes from Ramayana.
What stops you? Just pack your bags and book flights to Kochi to enjoy its myriad of attractions.
