Fort Kochi: A heritage haven

There is something in store for every visitor to this tiny island. A walk through the streets of Fort Kochi is a mesmerising experience, a perfect blend of the past with the present

A melting pot of the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English culture and architecture, Fort Kochi boasts of an intriguing history, making it a perfect haven for natives and tourists alike. Its population is a good mix of Anglo Indians, Christians, Hindus, Muslims and Jews. Different communities such as the Gujaratis, Kutchis, Punjabis, Konkanis and so on, have made Fort Kochi their homeland and have been living here for decades. 

“The government of Kerala is implementing projects for the comprehensive development of tourism in Fort Kochi. Infrastructure improvement including the development of parks, beautification of roads and walkways, children’s park, parade ground and so on is part of it to make the place a favourite spot of tourists,” says S Suhas, Sub Collector, who is also the secretary, Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC).

The sheer beauty of the decade old town speaks for itself. The tress are old, mighty and well-maintained, a rarity for the city dwellers. St Francis Church, also called the Vasco da Gama church, the oldest European church in India is in Fort Kochi. A walk by the Fort Kochi beach looking at the vast endless ocean is the best way to unwind after a tiring day. 

For Priyadarsini Deepak, Fort Kochi is truly a heritage heaven and her soul lies there. “A drive to Fort Kochi is an unforgettable experience. The stillness and calmness of the place encompasses you. Walking through its clean streets amongst the heritage monuments and age old buildings is like walking into the past. The decade old churches, especially the Santa Cruz Basilica and St Francis church stands majestic and magnificent even today,” says the 40 year old lawyer, who has been born and brought up in Fort Kochi.

Every nook and corner of this land is soaked in history and the specimens of the past are still alive, offering something amusing to every person landing here. 

What to see: Chinese fishing nets, the synagogue, Jew Town, Fort Immanuel, David Hall, Vasco-da Gama square, Bastion Bungalow, Santa Cruz Basilica, parade ground, Maritime Museum and the Indo-Portuguese Museum.

What to do: A stroll on the beach, walk through the historic streets, shopping for artefacts, cycling, journey on a jankar, a rejuvenating massage at the Ayurveda centres 

What to eat: Sea food specials, traditional Kerala cuisine, north Indian dishes…. Do not miss the speciality restaurants and cafes.