Cochin - A Trip To Ancient Marvels

By Author: Nagma Biswas
Total Articles: 26
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The world knows Cochin to be the spice hub that produces the world's best spices. Lately renamed as Kochi, it still retains its fame for being the spice garden for the world. The fragrance of cinnamon and cardamom penetrates the air so deep that no one can probably miss it. Yet another feather in Kochi's cap is the marvel called Chinese Fishing Nets which are not found elsewhere except in China. Traditional churches and heritage buildings are other things that make Cochin charming and a place worth visiting. Traditional and delectable, local seafood is something you can look forward to.

The Chinese Fishing Nets are most definitely a major draw to the town. Sheer marvel in engineering, these are found nowhere except in Cochin and their place of birth, China. Balanced on teakwood and bamboo poles they need careful management. Six people are required to do the task and utmost care is taken. The Vasco da Gama Square at the Fort is the best place to catch a glimpse of the same. The Fort Kochi Beach is another wonderful place to see these cantilevered marvels of Chinese engineering. The beach is particularly attractive with ...
... its old English style houses and an ancient lighthouse. A fine ancient European Church is also present here at the Fort Beach. One of the oldest churches in the country, it houses one of the rarest eighteenth century marriage registers. Vasco House is also located close to this Fort and is an attraction for being the residence of famous Portuguese traveler to India, Vasco da Gama.

On the religious front, Kochi is again an important place. The Guruvayoor temple here, dedicated to Krishna, is highly revered by Hindus all across the world. The temple is believed to be so sacred that most couples wish to get married here. It has seen as many as 100 marriages in a day. Punnathur Kotta, a place for training temple elephants is located close to this temple.

Heritage structures make Cochin a treat to the visitors. The Santa Cruz Basilica is believed to be around 500 years old and has spectacular interiors and a charming Gothic exterior. Sculpted female-figured pillars are a typical feature here. The Jewish Synagogue here is also a few centuries old and is locally called the Pardesi Synagogue. Some rare items preserved here include a Belgian crystal chandelier, ancient Old Testament Scrolls and copper plaques engraved with privileges granted by rulers to Jews. The Matancherry Palace is also a place of tourist interest here. The Kerala murals that adorn the palace are particularly interesting. A traditional Kerala style temple, dedicated to the family lord of the royal family, is present within the palace. The Dining Hall is a place to view some excellent examples of artistry. The floor which is made to resemble black marble is actually made of natural elements like coconut shells, lime, coal, plant extracts and eggs. The King's room is also interesting with as many as 48 illustrations from Ramayana. Numerous objects used by the royalty are also preserved here. One of the oldest Dutch Palaces is present in Cochin. The Bolgatty Palace is one of those rare structures that have survived. Now converted into a hotel, it is run by the KTDC. The Hill Palace of the erstwhile royalty is now an archaeological museum and worth a visit. In its valuables it has collections from China, Japan and also the Indus Valley Civilization.

Amongst the latest additions to Cochin, the Veega Island is most famous with tourists. It is the state's largest amusement park and has numerous fun rides and a water park. Visit Cochin for the fine amalgamation of ancient charm and contemporary attractions it has to offer.