Kochi is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea with the backwaters of Kottayam and Allepuzha to the South, the wildlife sanctuaries and hill stations of Idduki to the East, and the cultural heartlands of Thrissur to the North. Centrally located, Kochi is your obvious choice as a base from which to explore the many tourist attractions in Kerala. The commercial capital and most cosmopolitan city in Kerala, Kochi is known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea.

Cochin or Kochi as it is now called, is a very interesting part of Kerala. In fact, it is perhaps one of the oldest trading sections. The Town of Cochin can be broadly divided into three parts to get an overview of the city. Fort Cochin on the seaward side;Willingdon Island, and Ernakulam. Willington Island was created in 1920's by dredging the bay to increase the depth of the entrance to the harbour.The present Indian Navy has an established base over here, and it is here where the Cochin Railway Terminus and Airport are located. Across the causeway from Wellingdon Island is Ernakulam. When you are approaching by road from Quilon, you will be able to see the roads branch off to Ernakulam and Fort Cochin.Immediately opposite the jetty at Ernakulam is Bolghatty Island and further away is Vypeen Island. Bolghatty Palace built in 1744 by the Dutch, has now been turned into a hotel, and you will be able to see the walls of the same when you take a boat ride.

Tourist Attractions in Kochi

Mattancherry Palace: The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is a good catch for tourists at Kochi. The place exhibits beautiful mural paintings that depict the scenes from Ramayana. The palace was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Cochin, Vira Keralavarma. Some contributions were later on made by the Dutch.

Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is inhabited by Anglo-Indian community. The whole of the region presents a different aura and ambience. The culture is quite unique and represents the Eurasian culture. Dwelling places built by the British traders and colleges established by the Dutch are worth observing. Present in this part of the city are two art galleries with good collections.

St Francis Church : St. Francis Church located in the Fort Kochi region is a wonderful attraction. This church was built by the Portuguese in the year 1503 A.D. Initially built in timber, this church was later changed into a stone structure. It is said that Portuguese explorer Vasco-da-Gama was originally buried here and his remains were later brought to Lisbon. Timings of St Francis Church 6 am to 7 pm. Mass timings 6 am and 7.15 am.

Santa Cruz Basilica : Built by the Portuguese around 500 years back, the Santa Cruz Basilica is known for its Gothic exterior with soaring spires. Apart from imposing facade, the interiors are equally impressive. The stained glass and life-like columns looking over the confessional boxes add to the beauty of the church. The Santa Cruz Basilica is open from 9 am - 1 pm and 3 pm- 5 pm. Mass timings daily 6 am, 7 am and 6 pm (all Malayalam), Saturdays 6 pm (English), Sundays 4.30 pm (English).

Ernakulam: Ernakulam is the developed on the modern lines and features a commercial centre in the city. Located at Ernakulam are some museums and popular worshipping places. The region also features great eating places in the city. the elephant procession taken out during festival days is a wonderful event, filled with great fun and excitement.