One of the most densely populated cities in Kerala, Kochi also known as Cochin, lures you in with its culture and architecture that dates back to the time when the Dutch, Chinese, British and Portuguese reigned the city. Kochi's story can be traced back to 1340 AD, when an unfortunate flooding of the Periyar River obliterated the famous port at Cranganore, but at the same time, it created a natural harbour at a city close to Kochi. It was strategically placed in such a spot that, it transformed into one of the world's major trading centres for exciting spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves. So, read on to know how you can navigate through the diverse facets of the city!
Greet Kochi's Exclusive Cuisine
Since Kochi was a major seaport in ancient times, it's food scene is also ancient, diverse and rich. Get enlightened with facts like how 'Pepper' was known as 'black gold' and was also priced like gold. Some traders decided to stay put here and that's why The Mattancherry and Fort Kochi area harbours 39 different communities who converse in 17 different languages. And not just that, they brought the flavours of their respective natives here as well! You'll also trace the tale behind the popularity of coconut and how it made its way into Kerala's cultural heritage. Let go and devour a plethora of flavours at the local food restaurants or stalls. Another interesting thing you'll discover in this experience is the connection between Kochi's art scene and cafes.
Go Cafe Hopping!
Kochi's 'cafe scene' is ever-expanding, and ever-growing. You'll find different types of cafes here that have completely different vibes. You'll come across traditional bakery-style cafes to the trendy ones with modern decor and menu. Scrounge through the options available and go to the cafes that carry the most stories and are a part of Kochi's past. Find out why the cafe culture was so in and is still a 'happening' culture from the locals. A diverse range of tea and coffee will welcome you as you hear the backstory of the ancient commodity trade in Kochi. The caffeine will always keep you company as you discover a new shade of Kochi via its cafes.
Devour Homely Yet Authentic Meal With Locals
You are bound to know a culture better when you're at a local's home. Get a host from the Anglo-Indian community and go back in history to the era when the Portuguese ruled Koch for over 160 years. These cultural influences are still active and running in many present-day households in Kochi. What are the traditions that are maintained up to this day? How did the culinary scene of Kochi expand because of these experiences? Food items like vindaloo, grilled sardines, Kerala fish curry, crumb chops, ball curry and coconut rice are all rooted in and inspired by Portuguese cuisine. Kochi is the place where spices and seafood meet, and this experience will allow you to get this combination in a homely setting.
Know The Story Behind 'The Land Of Spices'
Back in the 1400s, Kochi attracted a lot of merchants from Europe, West Asia and China. It became an important spot on the map of the international spice trade. The story behind Kochi's spice trade is ancient and if you walk across Fort Kochi, you'll get to know more about this port city and the significance of its spices. The locals will share exclusive stories about the explorers and the fascinating odysseys that took place to reach Kochi's coastline. These were some legendary traders from the international community who are still a part of this city's culture.
Discover Kochi On A Cycle
Begin your day early and paddle your way through the mesmerizing seaside town of Fort Kochi. Awaken your senses with a hot cup of tea with the locals, who come from faraway lands and have diverse backgrounds. Watch the city starting from serenity and entering a hustle-bustle zone. Ride to the fish market, find out stories about international influences on the region and then finally end your journey with a fulfilling and re-energizing meal!
Experience The Village Life Of Kochi
Go on a bicycle tour through the gorgeous hinterland of Kerala. You'll get a glimpse of authentic rural life in Kerala here, at a silent fishing village. You'll meet the people who makeup Kerala's fishing community and know exciting facts about the fishing economy, life and livelihood of these local fishermen here. Grab breakfast after a 25km long ride with a local family, then fish by the backwaters, and watch what you catch being turned into a delicious meal at the bustling kitchen of a villager!
Enter The Realm of Kochi's Royalty
What was Kochi's royal family like? What is their history? Go on a royal heritage trail to trace the narrative of the royalty in this region. You'll not only find out about the life of the royals, but you'll also know how they enhanced and contributed to the growth of Kerala, socially, culturally and economically - how did the fortunes reach a great height and how it declined. And if you're curious about why Kerala is on the top of the Human Development Index in India, you'll find a lot of other facts. So after interacting with members of the royal family, visiting the Hill Palace Museum and a walk through the residential quarters - you can munch on some traditional Kerala snacks with some brimming tea!
Go On The Kumbalangi Village Tour
In the arms of Kochi, there's a beautiful village abundant with greenery called Kumbalangi. It is India's first model fisheries and tourism village of India. Most of the people here work in the field of agriculture and fishing. There's an island called Kallancherry nearby, which will grant you with a lot of fun options for activities! It was in the 15th century when the Chinese introduced the Chinese nets at Kallancherry Island, and these nets are still used here at night. Perhaps, you can attempt to learn the ropes of coir making, whose yarn is used in making carpets. Or you can gain knowledge about crab farming or find out facts about the livelihood of the inhabitants of Kallancherry.
Kumbalangi is known for its impeccable culture preservation practices, backwaters experience and raw village life and there will be a lot for you to learn and see here.
Know About The Women Of Kathakali
The word 'Kathakali' translates to 'story play' and is a highly stylized classical drama that originated in the 16th - 17th century CE. This was during the same period as Shakespeare when he brought his legendary plays to life in London. Initially, Kathakali was only meant for men and even the women characters were played by men. Even though Kerala is known for its high literacy rate and matriarchal culture, women were barred from the arts. Meet the rebellious women who broke the norm and excelled in performing this art form, being a beacon of hope to other women. Let them educate you about this art form and enlighten you with their tales of struggle, hopelessness, fall and victory.
Bask In Kochi's Picturesque Morning
Witness a very different side of Kochi in the early morning! It will grant you a different shade of Kochi's vibe. You can make your way to a local cafe, which is a part of almost every local's daily routine. You'll see people exercising when you go to the beach and maybe do a bit of stretch yourself, under the comforting sun rays. Then you can notice how the local fisherfolk arrive at the coast after a sleepless night of fishing. You can see the fruit of their labour at the daily fish auction at the Vypeen fishing harbour as well!