Kerala • 8 monuments
Kochi is home to a number of old European churches and Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom at Vallarapadam is one of them. An extremely popular Christian pilgrimage centre, the church is dedicated to Mother Mary who is worshipped as Vallarpadathamma in the region. According to the popular legends, Mother Mary protected many ships against the violent storms originating in the Arabian Sea. The beautiful church was constructed by the Portuguese merchants and houses the holy picture of Blessed Virgin Mary. Today it enjoys the status of a national shrine and hosts the grand annual festival in the month of September. Masses are held on weekdays and on Sundays in Malayalam and on Saturdays in English and Tamil.
One of the most popular temples of Kerala, Chottanikkara Rajarajeswari Temple is denoted as Adhiparasakthi Temple. One of the most notable Hindu shrines of Kerala, the temple houses an impressive 5 ft. idol of Rajarajeswari a.k.a. Durga Bhagavathy. The Bhagavathy Devi in this temple is believed to have healing powers that cures mental disorders. Stationed in a hilly region and embellished with lush green farms, the temple is blessed with utmost serenity and gives mental peace. One of the biggest attractions of the temple is the idol that has four arms and decorated with jewels, fresh garlands and glittering lights make it appear spectacular. Makom Thozhal is the important festival celebrated in this temple in the month of February and March. Another is the Navaratri, which is held during October to November. As the temple is brought from Mookambika Temple in Kollur, it is believed that Mookambika Devi resides in this temple till 7 a.m.
One of the most popular temples of Kerala, Chottanikkara Rajarajeswari Temple is denoted as Adhiparasakthi Temple. One of the most notable Hindu shrines of Kerala, the temple houses an impressive 5 ft. idol of Rajarajeswari a.k.a. Durga Bhagavathy. Bhagavathy Devi in this temple is believed to have healing power that cures mental disorders. Stationed in a hilly region and embellished with lush green farms, the temple is blessed with utmost serenity and gives mental peace. One of the biggest attractions of the temple is the idol that has four arms and is decorated with jewels, fresh garlands and glittering lights making it appear spectacular. MakomThozhal is an important festival celebrated in thetemple in the month of February and March. Another important festival celebration isNavaratri, which is held during October to November. As the temple is brought from Mookambika Temple in Kollur, it is believed that Mookambika Devi resides in this temple till 7 a.m.
The Mattancherry Synagogue popularly called as the ParadesiSynagogue is located in Fort Kochi, Kerala. Built in 1568, it is one of the oldest synagogues and is functioning even today.The central piece of interest in the Mattancherry Synagogue is the Scrolls of the Law written in ancient writingencased in silver and gold. The synagogue has many features that are rare including the Belgium glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling dating back to the 19th century. The copper plates dating back to the fourth century are written in mirror image writing. The synagogue houses an oriental rug gifted by the last Ethiopian Emperor and even the hand painted floor tiles which boasts of each design being unique from the rest.The floor of the synagogue showcases exquisite hand-painted blue willow patterned floor tiles, imported from China in the 18th century by Ezekiel Rahabi, a renowned Jewish businessman. The speciality of these tiles is that no two tiles are the same.
Designated as the oldest European Church in India, St. Francis Church in Kochi was constructed in the beginning of the 16th century. This was the time when the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama had discovered the Indian coast and paved the way for the likes of Pedro Cabral and Afonso de Albuquerque. Originally built as a wooden church, it was reconstructed as a brick, mortar and tile church from 1506 and 1516 and was dedicated to St. Anthony. Captured by the Dutch in the 17th century, it was handed over to the British in 1804 and St. Francis was declared the new patron saint. The church was the original burial place of Vasco da Gama when he died in 1524. Though, his remains were transferred to Lisbon later, the gravestone marking the original burial place is still intact. Dutch cemetery (one of India’s oldest) can also be found here. Interesting exhibits include the pankhas or fans from the colonial era and the Doop Book (register with records of baptism and marrianges). Today, it is a protected monument, an historical landmark and one of the prime tourist spots in the city. Services are held every Sunday.
Kochi in Kerala is home to some magnificent colonial marvels, Bolgatty Palace being one of them. Built by the Dutch during their colonial expansion in the region more than 250 years ago, the palace now operates as a heritage hotel and boasts of well-preserved old world charm. Located on the Bolghatty Island, the palace is surrounded by the serene and picturesque backwaters. Staying at the palace hotel is a wonderful experience, as the property offers attractions like swimming pool, ayurvedic wellness centre and a golf course. One can also enjoy the very invigorating Kathakali dance performances here. Other extremely enjoyable activities near the palace include backwater boat cuisse, bird watching, fishing and morning walks. There are deluxe rooms, lakeside cottages, honeymoon suites and other accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Warnings: Booking in advance is recommended if you wish to stay at the heritage hotel.
Chinese Fishing Nets is one of the most photographed sites in Kochi because of the breathtaking view. The suspended nets in the mid-air drooping towards the water like hammocks add beauty to this place. These fishing nets were established between 1350 and 1450 AD by a Chinese explorer Zheng He. The most astonishing feature of these nets is that they work on the principle of balance by the bamboo poles. Each of these fishing net is operated carefully by at least four fishermen maintaining their weight on the main plank. This rhythm of balancing a net is spellbinding for the viewers. Fishing is generally done in the morning hours or in the early evening. Sometimes, lights are attached to the bamboo poles and are suspended over the net to attract more fish. This place is especially great for all photo enthusiasts.
Originally constructed by the Portuguese (as a gift to the local rajas), restored and improved by the Dutch and depicting the traditional Nalukettu architecture style of Kerala, Matancherry Palace is a multi-faceted tourist attraction in Kochi. With a quadrangular construction, the palace is very well-known for exhibiting stunning murals. These beautiful paintings portray scenes from various mythological tales of India. Another striking feature of the palace is its floor, which seems to be made of black marble, but has an interesting composition of burned coconut shells, lime, egg whites and charcoal. Apart from the mesmerizing murals, there are collections of royal umbrellas, regal attires, coins and stamps, along with a royal ivory palanquin and many other interesting items. A temple dedicated to Pazhayannur Bhagavati stands in the courtyard, while temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna flank the palace’s either side. With its quaint charm and fascinating serenity, the palace is a must-visit attraction on Kochi tours. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace.
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