Overview

Formerly known as Cochin, Kochi is located along the Arabian Sea, on the south-west coast of India .Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as 'God's Own Country'. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala.

From time immemorial, the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese have left indelible marks on the history and development of Cochin. Over the years, Cochin has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala and is perhaps the second most important city on the west coast of India (after Mumbai/Bombay). Cochin is proud of its world class port and international airport that link it to many major cities worldwide.

This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate.

Fort Cochin - it is the most prominent tourist spot in Cochin and many important monuments related to the city's history are located in Fort Cochin. These include-

St. Francis church - this is the oldest church built in India by the Europeans. Vasco da Gama , the famous Portuguese trader and explorer was buried here. His remains were later shifted to Portugal by his son.

Santa Cruz Basilica - the current structure of this Church was built in 1905 after the British had destroyed the original cathedral built by the Portuguese. The structure dates back to 1505. It was upgraded to the status of Basilica in 1984.

Fort kochi Beach - this beach is an ideal location for a walk during dawn or dusk. The Chinese fishing nets used by the fishermen are a distinctive feature of this beach.