This charming destination in the district of Ernakulam is popular among tourists within India and from across the globe. Fort Kochi is an old town of trade for the Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and the Arabs.
A journey to this offbeat town is a time travel to a couple of centuries back. This town has architectural and cultural reminiscents from the yesteryears.
The archaic churches and the synagogue in this little town showcase a marvel of historical architecture and distinguish the significance of religion in the bygone era and the 21st century. With houses and villas that adorn the streets of this fascinating town, it looks as if each house has a thousand glorious tales to share. The windows, the doors, the yard and the colour of the paint represent the western style and you could easily fool your mind to think you are in quaint old street in Portugal or Netherlands.
The marvels of the town are vast. The Chinese fishing nets are rather famous in Fort Kochi. These impressive nets are a legacy from Chinese traders from the fifteenth century. Each net requires at least 4 people to operate. Most tourists and photographers flock down here at sunset to capture the scenic photos of the net set it a natural tone against the sun.
Another major attraction for the folks visiting this town is the cafes. To entertain and please the guests, the cafes are set in the calmest colours and oddly basic furniture with its walls decorated with antiques and souvenirs. The food is mostly continental in the cafes while some restaurants also serve the authentic Kerala cuisine with delicious seafood on the menu.
The streets also have some offbeat shops with a variety of products ranging from spices to clothes to jewellery, all with a distinct scent and hue that reminds you of the glory and culture of Fort Kochi.
So, when you plan your visit to Fort Kochi, plan it for a week. Enjoy the offbeat town slowly as you take in the history, culture, traditions and all that is left behind by the West and Orients. Savour the delicacies and the quirkiness of the streets. Enjoy the life in Fort Kochi as one among them.
Travelogue 