Nicolas Conti, an Italian Traveler wrote that: “If China is where you make your money, then Cochin is surely the place where you will spend it.” The Financial, industrial and commercial capital of Kerala attests to this view as well. An important spice trading from the 14th century, Kochi was a well-maintained trade network which communicated with the Arab merchants before being occupied by the Portuguese. This spice nation is still thriving in the heartlands of the state along with its native inhabitants. But here just the spices aren’t rich, but the cultural history will also sweep you away.
Kochi is generally the most famous tourist destination- national or international, and most of which come through the Cochin International Airport which is situated at Nedumbassery. This fully solar-powered airport handles interactional and domestic flights and caters directly to popular international sites like Middle East, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and other major Indian cities. You can easily get the cheapest flights from Dubai to Kochi, from Singapore, from Thailand and other places if booked in advance and save money on international flights if you book from a reliable website.
While there, here are some places you can check out:
Veegaland
Popularly known as Wonder La Amusement Park, it is the country’s first theme park. Don’t miss out on the bumping cars, musical fountain, flying ammu, balloon tower, vintage tornado, space gun, thunder fall, maverick and more. There are difficulty levels of activities so that you can choose which one to get on. Enjoy the water and land rides with your family and friends.
Folklore Museum
At the folklore museum, you will be able to view tribal objects and cultural exhibits belonging to the state. One of the most popular places in Kochi, the Kerala Folklore Theatre. Museum strides forward in representing the true legacy of Kerala. It displays kathakali costumes, masks, sculptures, ornaments, musical instruments as well as utensils which belong to the Stone Age. Don’t forget to note the Malabar architectural influence, as well as the ornate traditional door lock of Kerala. Which is called manichitrathazhu while entering the building.
Santa Cruz Basilica
The oldest church in Kochi offers a place for quiet retrospection. This cultural glory offers a tour in architecture as well with the Gothic patterns and magnificent paintings on the inside and outside. One of the most beautiful places in Cochin, don’t miss out on this heritage site.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Animal and especially bird lovers will find this place to be a heaven. You will be able to see beautiful birds like the redshank, greenshank along with colorful fishes. Located in central Cochin, this biosphere serves as a natural habitat to many regular as well as endangered species of migratory and local birds. The sanctuary has mangrove vegetation as well.
Kochi is a traveler’s paradise which offers up a strong dose of nostalgia. With the aroma of its spices and colonial architecture. Enjoy getting submerged in the past which has blended with modernity in an inviting manner.