Nestled along a magnificent estuary, Kochi (formerly Cochin) has always drawn explorers and travelers to its shores since time immemorial. It is perhaps the only place in the country where there is such an intriguing mix of giant Chinese fishing nets, a 450-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese and Dutch colonial-era houses, and the crumbling remains of the colonial British Raj.
It is a fascinating blend of medieval Portugal and Holland and an English village grafted coastal Kerala. A surprisingly delightful place to explore, laze in arty cafes and relax at some of India’s finest homestays and heritage hotels. It's also an important center for Keralan arts (traditional and contemporary) and an outstanding place to watch Kathakali performances as well as Kalarippayattu.
Mainland Ernakulam is Kochi's hectic transport and cosmopolitan hub, while the historical towns of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, even though the most popular with especially Western tourists, remain wonderfully atmospheric. The other islands, including Willingdon and Vypeen, are linked by ferries and bridges. Kochi is the only city in Kerala that boasts its own ultra-modern metro system.