Kochi became the first European colonial stronghold in India when the Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century, followed by the Dutch and the British, each leaving enduring architectural and cultural influences (THINGS TO DO IN COLOMBO, SRI LANKA).
A city of diverse religions and communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Jews, exemplified by one of the oldest Jewish settlements in India. Kochi also boasts traditions ranging from classical dance forms like Kathakali to ritualistic music and temple festivals. The blend of history, culture, and strategic importance defines Kochi today and shapes what to do in Kerala.
The walk begins along a stretch of road in Mattancherry, passing a mix of old buildings, shops, and narrow streets. Time permitting, short stops can be made to visit shops selling clothes, souvenirs, local snacks, spices, and other Kerala produce.
In the Mattancherry area is the Dutch
Palace, also called Mattancherry Palace, making it one of the top things to do
in Kerala. The palace was first built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and
later renovated by the Dutch before being handed over to the local Cochin ruler.
It served as the home of the royal family and was also used for official work.
The palace has a central courtyard and
wooden ceilings, reflecting both local and European building styles. Inside,
murals depict scenes from Hindu epics, alongside portraits of the Cochin royal
family, royal furniture, and some old weapons. These decorations highlight the
art of Kerala and the mix of local and European culture during the colonial
period.
Although not very large, the Dutch Palace gives a clear idea of how the royal family lived and how European and local influences shaped the architecture, art, and daily life of the time.
Jewish Synagogue
Not far from the Dutch Palace is the Paradesi Synagogue, located within an area
known as Jew Town. Built in 1568, it is more than 450 years old and is the
oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Jew Town itself was an
important trading area, especially for spices, and the synagogue reflects the
long presence of the Jewish community in Kochi.
Inside, there are hand-painted tiles from
China, a chandelier from Belgium, and gold crowns given by patrons over the
years. It also houses Torah scrolls, old manuscripts, and a few other
historical items. The architecture blends local Kerala styles with European
influences, showing how the Jewish community interacted with both local and
colonial powers.
Situated in a small area, visiting the Jewish Synagogue will not take too long but gives a clear view of the city’s history and the Jewish community’s role in trade and culture.
St. Francis Church
Built by the Portuguese in 1503, St. Francis Church is the oldest European
church in India. It was first a small wooden structure and later rebuilt in
stone. St. Francis Church in Kerala was one of the first places the Portuguese
used to spread Christianity in the region.
The Roman Catholic Church in Kerala is
best known as the original burial place of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese
explorer. His body was later moved to Lisbon, but the original burial spot is
still inside the church, making it an important historical site in Kochi.
Undergoing changes under Dutch and British
rule, the church’s architecture now reflects a mix of European and local
styles. Inside, there are old tombs, plaques, and simple interiors that tell
stories of the people and events connected to the church.
The church is small and quiet, with a
straightforward layout. Located in the heart of historic Kochi, St. Francis
Church highlights how different communities and cultures lived close together.
Kumbalangi Chinese Fishing Village
Kumbalangi is known as India’s first model tourism village. It is famous for
its “cheena vala”, or Chinese fishing nets, which were introduced by Chinese
traders centuries ago. These nets are still used today as the traditional
fishing methods of Kerala.
Kumbalangi Chinese Fishing Village,
surrounded by Kerala backwaters, is a place of calmness. Simply standing and
looking around makes it meaningful, observing the daily life of the villagers
and how they work with nature and the water around them. Kumbalangi also gives
a clear idea of how the local fishing community lives, with demonstrations of coir
making, crab farming, and other traditional activities.
Kumbalangi is recognised as eco-friendly,
keeping the waters and surroundings clean and sustainable.
Kerala Kathakali Show
A must-see in Kerala is the classical dance-drama Kathakali show. Performed for
centuries, it draws hundreds of foreign tourists and tells stories from Hindu
epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The dancers wear elaborate costumes, large
headgear, and detailed facial makeup. Preparing for a performance can take
several hours. Every gesture of the hands (mudras) and every facial expression
has a specific meaning, as the dance relies only on movements. Musicians
accompany the performance with traditional instruments such as the chenda,
maddalam, and cymbals, which guide the dancers’ movements.
Kathakali was traditionally performed in
temples during festivals and rituals, though today it is also staged in
auditoriums for travellers. Dancers start training at a young age and spend
many years mastering the gestures, expressions, and stamina required for performances.
