COCHIN (KOCHI)
This historic harbour city is also Kerala’s commercial capital. Cochin International Airport is approximately one hour north of the city. Being a harbour city, Cochin has a number of different areas – mainland, peninsulas and islands. The main areas are connected by road bridges.

FORT COCHIN
Most of the places of tourist interest are situated on Fort Cochin and this is where most people like to stay despite the fact that travelling around the various parts of Cochin is easy. Things to do in Fort Cochin include visiting Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace with its wonderful murals; the Synagogue and streets surrounding it (known as Jew Town); St Francis Church, the oldest European built church in India and the original burial place of Vasco da Gama. It is interesting to watch the fishermen operating the Chinese fishing nets and Cochin is also a good place to take in a Kathakali performance. There is an excellent range of accommodation options in Fort Cochin.
 

WILLINGDON ISLAND
Willingdon Island is sandwiched between Fort Cochin and Ernakulam making it convenient for both these area. Parts of it are rather industrial and there is also a large naval base on the island but there are some good hotels here so don’t let it put you off.
 

ERNAKULAM
Ernakulam is the busy mainland part of the city. The main street of Ernakulam – MG Road – is excellent for shopping. Staying in Ernakulam is more convenient for the airport and it is still possible to visit the places of interest on Fort Cochin using a variety of transport methods (eg taxi, rickshaw, water taxi). Ernakulam is the name of the district as well as the city. Cochin Airport which is about an hour north of Cochin is still within the district of Ernakulam.