Kochi Hotels

• State: Kerela
• District: Ernakulum
• Area: 87,341 square kilometers including the mainland Ernakulam
• Population: 595,575 (2001 census) 600,000 as per the Cochin’s official record.
• Climate: Summer 22-35°C, Winter 22-25°C
• Rainfall: Mid June to Mid September
• Altitude: 0 metres above sea level
• Clothing recommended: Light cottons throughout the year
• Best time to visit: September to April
• Languages spoken : Malayalam and English
• Food Specialties : Appam ,Stew and Puttukadala

Kochi has been hailed with different names through the centuries. Titles like ‘the Gateway to Kerela’, ‘queen of the Arabian Sea’, ‘mini England’, ‘homely Holland’ and ‘Little Lisbon’ that have been very fondly bestowed upon this beautiful town of Kerela, suggest its perpetual status of a cosmopolitan city that has percolated down through several millenia. Erstwhile known as Cochin by the foreign settlers, the city carries with itself a rich historical and cultural heritage. In fact, it can be safely called a melting pot of cosmopolitan culture and tradition.

One of the most beautiful natural harbors of India, the mini metropolis of Kochi reflects an aura of rich maritime heritage. Throughout history, the Arabs, the Chinese, the British, the Dutch and the Portugese have all left their footprints in its soil. Today, Kochi has evolved into an industrial and commercial capital of Kerela.

Having the Western Ghats to the East and the Arabian Sea to the West, Kochi is host to some of the rare sights and sounds that any modern city would be envious of. The Chinese fishing net and stalls overlooking the sea, the Fort area showcasing the Synagogue and Mosque placed side by side and exuding a mixed air of Portugese, Muslim, Dutch and Muslim culture and the older city of Ernakulum reflecting the glory of the Malayali Culture, Kochi is a mixed bag that has something to offer to everybody, suiting all budgets, desires and aspirations.

History of Kochi

Till the arrival of the Portuguese, Kochi had been a virgin territory. However, earlier records exhibit that the name of the town of Cochin can be found as early as the year 1102 A.D., after the breaking up of the Khulasekhara Empire. In fact, the origin of the name of Cochin is also controversial. While some are of the view that the Malayam word “Kochazhi” is the source of the name Cochin, others believe that it is the advent of Kublai Khan of China that had given the city, its name.

Kochi is known to be the first place in India to bear the European township. The Portuguese had come to Kochi in 1503 and had stayed on till 1663. Having signed a treaty of peace with the then king of Kochi, they had built the fort of Manuel with his due permission. The great Portuguese discoverer, Vasco Da Gama is also buried in Kochi.

Followed by the Portugese, Kochi was invaded by the Dutch. Next in the cue of invaders was the Mysorean King, Hyder Ali, who brought along the distinct Muslim Cultures and traditions and embedded them in the land of Kochi. The English came to Cochin soil in 1814 and under the leadership of Sir Robert Bristow Kochi became an important harbor center in India. After Independence in 1947, Kochi was the first city to join the Indian Union. Today, it is a major contributor to the booming economy of Kerela and is also one of the important commercial hubs of the state.

What to eat in Kochi

Amongst all the dishes of Kerela, the Kerelites boast of a scrumptious breakfast that is not only wholesome but also nutritious and at the same time light on the stomach.

Puttukadala is a rice dumpling served with masala channa and popadum is one of the staple foods served in a Kerela breakfast.

South Indians are also avid eaters of meat and sea-food. Hence the road side kiosks easily sell even shark meat. If you are a devotee of non-vegetarian food, Kerela is just the place for you.

Adventure in Kochi

Water Sports is popular in Kochi, particularly in Fort Kochi beach and Cherai beach where water skis/jets and water scooters are available. Cochin Marina in Bolgatty Island, the Yacht club in Thevera and Ramada Resort in Panagad operate a wide range of water sports games. Para-gilding is not allowed in any areas, due to presence of several strategic military installations.