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Fort Kochi, Kochi Overview
Fort Kochi is situated in the seaside part of south-western Kochi– the place that has so many things to show, that forms its colonial and cultural heritage. Kochi has witnessed many changes, be it cultural or traditional, and it still holds on to those changes. While most parts of India were under British rule, Kochi was mostly governed by other European colonies like Portuguese or Dutch. That’s one of the reasons why many tourists come here to see how this place is different than the rest of India. Due to being colonised by a different European colony, you can see some differences and the surrounding and structures will take you back to those pages of colonial history.
Due to the easy access through the sea route, it used to be the entry point of foreign travellers and colonies. This place is a mute spectator of the rise and fall of colonial powers, mainly the Portuguese, Dutch and Chinese before most parts of India came under the British rule in the 18th centuries. Fort Kochi, which is influenced by the European structures and architecture along with many churches and buildings, will make you feel as if you have gone back in time.
The astounding architecture and pleasant surroundings attract tourists and give them a chance to experience the diversity of India. Fort Kochi is quite different than other forts that are in other parts of India, such as in Rajasthan. Unlike other forts, It has no historical fortification or any kind of artillery setup of canons or remnants of ruined buildings. Up until today, it has that charm and uniqueness of those colonial cities with colorful and alluring buildings, toy-town like streets and an amazing view of sea beaches.
More on Fort Kochi
Things to Do in Fort Kochi
1. Fort Kochi Beach
If you want to experience the extraordinary view of Arabian sea sitting on one of the beaches of Mambar coast, especially during the sunset, then Fort town of Kochi is the place you should consider visiting. It is a great experience for tourists to enjoy and relax in a pleasant atmosphere along with spending some fun time with friends or family. While making your way to the beach, you can notice all those beautiful historical structures and the remains of the Emmanuel Fort which was the first fort built by the Portuguse colonists at the shore of Arabian Sea.
You can spot many historical structures like Chinese nets and fort while walking along the Fort Kochi beach. Apart from that, you can go for some recreation activities like fishing, beach photography, dolphin sightings and many more.You can also have some see food like grilled fish, shrimp/prawn, crab along with tender and refreshing coconut water.
2. The Chinese Fishing Nets
Chinese nets are one of the distinct identifications of Fort Kochi. Talking about the history, it is said that these fishing nets were set up by the Chinese explorer, Zheng who was sent by Kubla Khan in between 1350 AD and 1450 AD. These fishing nets are called Cheenavala in Malayalam, and each net has a height and width of 10 meters and 20 meters respectively with counterweight stones and a cantilever. These nets are still being used and are one of the important tourist attractions.
If you want to watch the local fishermen using these chinese nets to catch fish from the sea, then you should be on the beach in the morning time. Up around 11 AM, you can see those Chinese nets standing and making wave due to the cool and roaring wind of beach which provides a scenic beauty at the time of sunset to click some marvelous pictures.
3. St Francis Church
St Francis Church is the first church made by the Portuguese. It was originally made using wood and mud. Even though it was revamped and restructured by Dutch and British later, still it has not lost its antique beauty. This church is located in the premises of the Emmanuel Fort and due to its history and unique architecture, it grabs the attention of many tourists.
The cenotaph, in the middle of the lawn of St. Francis Church, is also an attraction here. It is a memorial ground for all those Great War martyrs of Kochi and the burial ground of the first Portuguese sailor, Vasco da Gama (now it has been taken to Portugal).
4. Kerala Kathakali Centre
Kerala is the ground well-known for the popular classical dance form called Kathakali. Apart from Kathakali, you can also know about another form of art and dance of Kerala which have been performed by people for centuries. Kathakali Centre is located near the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, and the timing of the performance is from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. You have already booked your seat for the show, then you should reach the spot at least one and a half hour earlier to have a glance at the makeup and costumes used by the artists.
6. Kashi Art Café
Whether you are a foreigner travelling to Kochi for the first time, or someone from the other parts of India and looking for some place to have some delicious meals and breakfast, then this a must go place in Fort Kochi. Kerala is known as the land of spices, so if you want to try the real taste and fusion of spices, you should order some best continental cuisines. For non-vegetarians or eggetarians, there are lots of options to choose from. Beef burger, mushroom burger, chicken sandwich, and lemonade are quite famous food items here.
7. Teapot Café
If you want to try a variety of teas and coffees along with some succulent breakfast, then you must go to this cafe. This place has an old and antique touch from outside to inside. The old tea pot and a serene ambience will make you feel relaxed and great.
8. Pepper House Café
If you are looking for a quaint place to spend some time and have some European or South Indian delicacies, then this cafe is the most recommended option. Due to being featured in the Malayalam movie, it draws a lot of attention from the locals and even the tourists. With those wooden benches and green garden, you get a pleasant and serene ambience to have your food at. You can also buy souvenirs from the store located there.
Other popular tourist places in the vicinity of Fort Kochi are the Dutch Cemetery, the Indo-Portuguese Museum, Santa Cruz Basilica, Vasco da Gama’s house the Bishop’s House, and the Maritime Museum inside INS Dronacharya.
Tips For Visiting Fort Kochi
Get your hand around in some popular local dessert and cushions. And never miss the sunset at the beach and don’t forget to take a look at those fishermen using chinese nets in the morning.
History of Fort Kochi
Kochi is derived from the Chinese name “Cochin”.. The translation of Co-Chin in English is “like China”. Kochi, rich in different types of spices, had a long and strong trade relations with China and Arabs.
The entire region of fort Kochi was a fishing village until the King of Kochi granted it to the Portuguese for their trading hub. Slowly, the portuguese traders established their many trading hubs and constructed churches and fort to show their dominance. Many of the buildings and architecture of that time are now popular tourist attractions.
How to Reach Fort Kochi
Ferry services from Ernakulam’s main jetty start early in the morning at 5 PM and go on till 9:50 PM. They connect with Mattancherry and Fort Kochi- Custom, making travellig convenient. You can also opt for a bus service or an auto rickshaw.