Cochin: Queen of the Arabian Sea
Cochin, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is the commercial and industrial capital of the southern Indian state of Kerela. Kerela, considered by many to be God’s own Country, is among the most visited tourist destinations in the country. Cochin, located along the vast Arabian Sea, is perhaps the most prominent entry-point in Kerela. Though recently renamed as Kochi, the city of Cochin is still popularly known as Cochin. Home to Kerela’s largest lake, the majestic Vembanad Kayal, Cochin has been the gateway to South India ever since Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India.
Though Cochin was for long a major town, it emerged as the preferred trading destination much later. It was for long dwarfed by the harbour at Muziris which was located up north. Muziris was an ancient port and had trading links with east African and Arabian civilizations. Cochin emerged as a major harbour as a result of natural calamity: a major flood which occurred in the year AD 1341. In this year, due to heavy rains, there was a major flood in the Periyar River that led to an outlet in the sea near Cochin; this flood also destroyed the harbour at Muziris by causing excessive silting. Consequently, the merchants of Muziris shifted to Cochin.
The European Age of Discovery first bought the Portuguese, who were ousted by the Dutch. The Dutch relinquished control to the Brits, who further cemented Cochin as one of the premier trading destinations in South India. The Cochin harbour, as we know today, was constructed in the year 1765, and at that time was considered by the British to be the most difficult task of engineering in the world. It may come as a surprise but the primary reason for the European interest in Cochin was pepper and other spices that were and are abundant in the lush green hills of Kerela.
Places of Visit in Cochin
Cochin is full of historical and colonial monuments that are definitely worth a visit. Perhaps the most prominent among these is Fort Manuel or Manuel Kotta, which is named after the then King of Portugal and is also the first fortress constructed by the Europeans in India.
Cochin- Travel tips, languages spoken, cuisine
Malayalam and English are widely spoken in Kerela, and as such communication should not be a problem. Hindi, however, is somewhat less prevalent. Cuisine catering to all tastes and stomachs is readily available in Cochin. For many tour operators, Cochin is the perfect jump-off point for Kerala package tours. Cochin is also one of the most important places in Kerela when it comes to Ayurvedic health treatments facilities such as spas, massage centres, yoga centres, etc.
Best time to visit Cochin
The beautiful honeymoon destination of Cochin can be visited any time of the year. However, during the monsoons, that is, between the months of June and September, Cochin experiences very heavy to heavy rainfall. Many consider the post-monsoon period to be the best time to visit Cochin.
How to reach Cochin
- By Air: Kochi has a well-equipped international airport with daily flights to and from major destinations such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Middle East, etc.
- By Rail: Cochin is also an important railway station in South India. Rail connectivity to other cities in the region and India is excellent.
- By Road: Cochin is well connected to all the important cities and other beach resorts in the region.
Accommodation
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, etc. are available to suit all budgets. Cochin abounds in family holiday resorts, travel homes and beach houses. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via package Kerala tours. This tourist destination is also home to some of the best 5-star hotels and spas in the country.