Cochin (Ernakulam, Kochi) Backwaters

More popular as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake.

Some of these picturesque islands are Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam. The lake opens out into the Arabian Sea here to form one of the finest natural harbours in the world.

It is this natural advantage that has made Lochi a fascinating blend of the cultures and influences of explorers and traders who visited this wealthy land.

The Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and Gritish have all left their mark here.

The Jewish synagogue, the Dutch palace, the Chinese Fishing nets, and other remnants of European and Asian architecture merge smoothly into the traditional fabric of the seaport city.

Half the fun of visiting Kochi is moving around on the local several quaint spots.

Boat cruises from Kochi harbor to Willingdon Island, Mattancherry Place, the Jewish Synagogue, Fort Kochi and Bolgatty Island. ·

Sunset cruise. · 3 hour backwater village cruises which include visits to coir villages and coconut plantations.