Cochin called as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ boasts of beautiful natural harbors around it. Placed on a scenic estuary, Cochin is one of those travel destinations that have all, - right from rolling emerald hills, placid backwaters, heritage monuments to buzzing beaches. There’s no wonder why ‘Lonely Planet’, a popular travel magazine, have ranked it 7th among the top 10 Cities to be traveled in the world in 2020. Cochin happens to be the only Indian destination in the list. 

Historical Background

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Cochin gradually took a special place in the world map about 6000 years ago when the Arabs, Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, British and people from other countries came for the spice trade. When these traders came, more than what they took out i.e spices, they kept on giving back to Cochin in the form of culture and heritage. Due to all these influences, Cochin turned into a potpourri of cultures and gradually developed its own identity. 

A Unique Cocktail Of Exotic Cultures, Natural Bounty and Modernity

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Cochin has preserved wonderful memorabilia of different cultures that visited Cochin, - there’s a Jewish Synagogue which is about 450 years old, one of the oldest churches Of India – St. Francis Church, a Jew Town, centuries-old Chinese Fishing Nets which are still functional, Mattancherry Palace – a testimonial of Keralan Architecture seamlessly fused with the western architectural styles and many other heritage buildings that beautify the Cochin skyline. 

The beaches by the blue Arabian Sea and the green backwaters are not very far from here. Wherever you go in Cochin, the green groves of Palm, coconut and other robust trees would follow you too reminding you of the age-old friendship of man and nature. 

Already armed with rich heritage and natural panorama, Cochin has wholeheartedly embraced the modernity with all its characteristics. The bond does not look out of place, either. 

Placid Backwaters that would run deep in your veins even after leaving the Cochin Shore

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The marvelous network of brackish lagoons, lakes, canals and creeks that run through the length of more than 900 Kms is a spectacular phenomenon to be experienced in person. Human life is still and humble here. People work hard day in and day out but there’s no commotion but tranquility. The boat cruise along the backwaters labyrinth can feel like serendipity with greenery all around, colorful bouquet of birds, amphibians and aquatic animals living in absolute peace with the human folk. 

Catch your wave in the beaches

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The blue sky meets the royal blue sea in Cochin. The surfs are pristine white, giggling all around. The Fort Kochi and the Cherai are two of the few Cochin beaches that beckon you with their distinct charms. The tide stays low here which can be relaxing for you to swim around. The Puthenthode and Kuzhupilly beaches are secluded beach destinations where you can while away your time basking in the sun with sea breezes sweeping off your face. 

Apart from all the above reasons, there is another important reason behind Cochin being one of the best destinations you can experience in shore excursions. It’s the chance to observe people from different faiths living in complete peace and harmony here. The different religious faiths, - Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Jews, and other faiths got blended into Humanity and Brotherhood here. Cochin is a brilliant example of India’s principle of ‘Unity in Diversity’. Come, be a part of it, and experience the magnanimity of it.