Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is situated on the historic trade routes of the Malabar Coast. The port is not only an entry point into Kerala but rather a museum of migrations. For 600 years, the waters belonged to the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Every nation has made its contribution to the culture of Kochi (or the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”), which can be observed today from its architectural masterpieces, cuisine, and traditions.

Before the dawn of the modern port era, the natural harbor was used to transport ships bearing commodities like black gold pepper, as well as cardamom, cinnamon, and silk. Enter the less-contaminated old part of the city, known as Fort Kochi or Jew Town, where history is on display. Now, the storefronts of ancient churches, centuries-old Dutch houses, and bazaars full of lovely artifacts from the Indian Ocean.

These days, Kochi is all about blending culture seamlessly. Apart from the 4-century-old godowns, there are many galleries showcasing talented artists and traditional Kathakali dancers working in the background.