SERENE BACKWATERS, BOAT RIDES INTO THE SUNSET, COASTAL CUISINE TO SAVOUR, MAGNIFICENT SHIPS TO ADMIRE, FORTS AND PALACES... KOCHI IS TRULY THE QUEEN OF THE ARABIAN SEA...
With luxuriant palms outlining the shimmering waters, like jewels elegantly resting on a royal crown; huge ships arriving from far-off oceans; the opulence and antiquity of buildings that form her character; the incessant buzz of activity; the prevailing fragrance of spices floating in the breeze; there is every reason to call Kochi the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'.

INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND TRADING CENTRES OF SOUTH INDIA
An all-weather harbour, Kochi is one of the premier industrial, commercial and trading centres of South India, having a maritime history that began in the remote past. The historical Fort Kochi was an old, obscure fishing village that became the first European township in India which was shaped by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and later, the British. The colonial influences are still to be seen from the postcard prettiness of Chinese fishing nets forming a silhouette against the sunset sky to Dutch houses, Portuguese churches and English trading buildings. This, as hapless tourists try to work the giant wooden pulleys on the quiet beach in front of Fort Kochi.

KOCHI, THE LOVELY SEASIDE CITY
Kochi, the lovely seaside city, is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Since Kochi has outgrown its original bounds, it is now the general name given to much of the region adjoining the original town. Present-day Kochi City includes Ernakulam Town, Wellington Island, Bolgatty, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and outlaying islands such as Kumbalangi. Bustling with life, Ernakulam town, on the way to becoming a cosmopolitan metropolis, is truly the starting point for discovering the city. Lively and bustling with people, shopping centres, cinema halls, hotels, posh buildings, exotic restaurants and eateries, Ernakulam, with its quintessential city life, is the face of modern Kerala.

HILL PALACE ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Hill Palace Archeological Museum, the erstwhile official residence of the Maharaja of Cochin, showcases the riches and fortunes of the royals. Built with a blend of Dutch and traditional architectural style, the museum is a befitting tribute to the illustrious history of Kochi.

MARINE DRIVE
Marine Drive is the most beautiful part of the city and a popular meeting point for visitors. With its medley of options, this scenic strip is an ideal place to spend evenings in the city. At night, the lights from ships anchored in the harbour create an amazing sight! Travelling by ferry is the best way to explore Kochi. The sightseeing boat trips around the city as well as the village tours on country boats top the 'To Do' list while in Kochi. Fort Kochi, the laidback town, once the centre of military, maritime and commercial activity, is now a picturesque reminder of an era gone by. Quaint narrow lanes, colonial buildings and open spaces give it an atmosphere and character of placidness, making it an ideal getaway.