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Chennai

The capital city of Tamil Nadu - Chennai (formerly Madras) is located on the Coromandel Coast, and is bordered by the Bay of Bengal on its east, and the state of Andhra Pradesh on the northwest. Gaining prominence after1639, when the British East India Company established a fort and a trading post at the small fishing village of Chennai, the city today ranks as the fourth largest metropolis in India, and is popularly referred as the 'Gateway to the South'.
An enticing mix of the traditional Indian culture and modern technological advancement, the vibrant city of Chennai is a tourist's paradise. The numerous tourist attractions in Chennai, including the serene beaches, historic churches, forts, palaces and monuments, charm all visitors with their magnificent splendor and beauty.

Chennai - Tourist Attractions

There are several tourist attractions worth visiting in and around Chennai. Stretched over an area of 13 km, Marina Beach is the second longest beach in the world. The St. George Fort, built in 1653, is currently used as the state government's secretariat. Santhome Cathedral was built around 14th/15th century and is another colonial structure worth visiting. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kapaleeshwar Temple is the oldest temple in Chennai. Another important temple in the city dedicated to Lord Krishna is Parthsarthy Temple. The National Art Gallery, initially known as Victoria Memorial Hall, houses a good collection of old paintings and sculptures. The Snake Park has a large collection of snakes and many other reptiles. The Theosophical Society is located in large and tranquil gardens with several shrines of different faiths and a Serene Garden of Remembrance. Nearby is the Kalakshetra, which was founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale for the revival of Indian classical arts and crafts traditions.

Parthsarthy Temple
The temple was built in the 8th century by the Pallava kings of South India. It was renovated by the mighty Vijayanagar kings in the 16th century. The temple, situated in Triplicane, another beach in Chennai and one of the major harbours during Pallava time, is famed for the beauty of its gopuram (arched gateway) and its architecture. The entire locality is fashioned around the temple.

Kapaleeshwar Temple
This temple was constructed in the 13th century and is a living example of the architectural skills of the Dravidians. Situated in the Malaypore area of Chennai, the temple is the nucleus of the local tank market and residential quarters around it. The main entrance facing east is painted in red, blue and yellow with Puranic legends sculpted on the sanctum sanctorum.

Santhome Cathedral
Built over the tomb of apostle St. Thomas, the Santhome Cathedral is an important pilgrimage centre. According to legends, St. Thomas arrived in India from Palestine in AD 52 and died after 26 year. The church was built after a millennium, probably by the Persian Christians, and his remains were moved inside. The church was refurbished in 1606 and made into a cathedral. Again, in 1806, it was rebuilt as a basilica. There is a museum in its premises with a 16th-century map of South Asia.

Fort St. George
The most powerful symbol of the British Empire in its early days in India, Fort St. George was the first piece of real estate for British in India. For many, it is still unclear that why Sir Day (the founder) choose this place to build this important fort, leaving many other picturesque locations on the vast coastline of the Bay of Bengal. The fort has a grey granite exterior unlike the Mughal forts that has lavish ornamentation and luxury. It housed barracks for the British army, a parade ground, and the oldest church of Chennai-the St. Mary's Church.

Marina Beach
The beach extends from Fort St. George all the way to Mahabalipuram. The beach looks spectacular at dusk when the setting sun casts iridescent glow and peddlers sell everything from ice creams to roasted peanuts to balloons. You can also read your future from the fortune tellers and palm readers who lure the visitors by various means. Don't try to show your swimming skills here as the sea can get quite rough here.

National Art Gallery
Built in 1906, the gallery is situated in a splendid Indo-Saracenic edifice. The building was initially known as Victoria Memorial Hall and was designed by Henry Irwin. The eminent historian Tillotson described it as one of "the proudest expressions of the Indo-Sarcenic movement". There is a good collection of old paintings and sculptures including Tanjore paintings on glass; Rajput and Mughal miniature paintings; Deccan paintings from 17th century; and handcrafts, metalware, and ivory carvings from 11th and 12th century.

Other Attractions
The Snake Park situated in the Guindy National Park in the Raj Bhavan Estate has a large collection of snakes and many other reptiles.

The Theosophical Society was founded by Madam Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott in New York in 1875 and moved its headquarters to Chennai in 1882. The society is set in large and tranquil gardens with several shrines of different faiths and a Serene Garden of Remembrance.

Kalakshetra: Smt Rukmini Devi Arundale founded this cultural institution of international repute in 1936 as a cultural academy for the preservation of traditional values in Indian art, especially in the field of dance and music. Performances of the classical arts can be seen here throughout the year.

Guindy National Park and Snake Park: A unique institution, this centre is renowned for the study and preservation of snakes and other reptiles.

Goa

Goa is known to be great blend of lifestyles and culture. In earlier times, Goa was the port of several traders and invaders. A few famous explorers are Vasco da Gama and Portuguese as well as English colonials. Goa is positioned on the Western part of India. Those who are looking for sun, fun and excitement, Goa is the ideal destination. Goa is full of vendors selling souvenirs, great Indian bazaars and sandy beaches. One of the most famous Goa attractions is the Anjuna Flea Market. It is the favorite destination of traders from all over the world, as they come here to sell their items. For Instance, Lamani women of Karnataka sell beautifully woven clothes wearing their traditional garb. Usually, tourists visit Goa during the month of February, as it is the month of fun and festivity. Goa Carnival is celebrated with great fun and frolic. It features colorful processions and parade on streets of Goa, India. Plays are the major highlights of Goa Carnival. Your Goa trip would be incomplete without visiting Old Goa. Old Goa is known for some great Churches. Most of these churches are simply outstanding and reminds of Portuguese era. These churches usually belong to late 16th and early 17th centuries. A few popular churches of Goa are Goa Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa Se Cathedral, Reis Magos Church etc. Goa attractions would be incomplete without Goa beaches, as it is known as the land of sun, sand and sea. These beaches are the major revenue generators. Moreover, they also offer great accommodation facilities. Goa Hotels Guide offers online information on Goa Attractions and Attractions in Goa, India. For more information, please fill up the form below.

ATTRACTIONS
Goa, one of smallest states in India's map, with a territory of 3,702 sq km is cradled in the Sahayadri range in the Western Ghats. A tropical paradise, it is bathed by the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. It is unique in many ways but mostly due to its history and geography. Goan culture is a blend of Indian and Liberian: European style central squares and Indian bazaars, Portuguese churches sharing their walls with Hindu temples. Goa is rich in folk culture with a delightful blend of vigorous Konkani folk songs and remnants of Portuguese dance and music. Christianity and Hinduism exist side by side.

Having been ruled by the colonial Portuguese for over 450yrs, there is still a distinctive European flavor that has permeated all aspects of Goa's life including its food, religion, language, festivals, dances and names.

Apart from the increasing strength of Indian tourists from outside Goa, a large number of western tourists also arrive using the direct-chartered flights to Goa. Goa is best known for its spectacular beaches, but there are many old churches, monuments, temples and museums, that are a must see.

SE CATHEDRAL
The Se Cathedral is the largest church in Goa and is dedicated to St. Catherine. It was on her feast day, 25th November 1510, that Alphonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa. The church is in the Portuguese-Gothic style with a Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior. The Cross of Miracles, placed in the cathedral, attracts lot of people. Its bell is one of the oldest in Goa and is called the Golden Bell.

Timing: 9 am - 12.30 pm and 3 pm - 6.30 pm

BASILICA OF BOM JESUS
Located in Old Goa, and built in 1605, this Basilica Of Bom Jesus contains the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier who was on a mission to spread Christianity in the Portuguese colonies of the East.
Timing: 9 am - 12.30 pm and 3 pm - 6.30 pm

GOA STATE MUSEUM
Goa State Museum has a great collection of Christian art. It also houses Hindu and Jain sculptures as well as Indian paintings of different styles. It is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Timing: 9 am - 1.15 pm and 2 - 5.30 pm

TIRACOL FORT
This is a beautiful Old Portuguese fort at Tiracol and houses the Hotel Tiracol Fort Heritage. It has a beautiful little church and offers a breathtaking view of the river Tiracol, the beaches and the blue horizon of the sea.

SHRI SHANTADURGA TEMPLE
This temple is dedicated to the goddess of peace. With its pagoda like structure, this temple is famous for its annual carnival. This carnival portrays an unusual blend of Hindu and Christian cultures.

ANUJANA BEACH
This is one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Anjuna beach is usually very crowded but still manages to maintain the beauty of the beach. This beach is swarming with hippies having beach parties.

CALANGUTE BEACH
The "Queen Of Beaches", as this beach is often called offers a lovely beauty that will be rare to find. You can spend your holidays soaked in sea, sun and sand. This beach is often crowded with people swelling towards the sea and children making sand castles. This picture of a perfect tourist sanctuary is completed with shacks and stalls under the shade of palm trees selling everything from fried prawns and beer to trinkets made of seashells.

DONA PAULA BEACH
People come to this beach for more than one purpose; they can have a relaxing sunbath or they can take part in the water sports available on the beach. The Dona Paula Sports Club offers water-scooter, cycle, and motorboat rides. Other water sports include windsurfing, parasailing, water-skiing, sports fishing, snorkeling, harpoon fishing, kayaking, and yachting.

MAJORDA BEACH
Majorda beach is a quiet and peaceful beach. It is also famous for its soft and delicious breads. Majorda in Goa is the place where the Goans were first trained in the delicate art of baking European breads. The Majordans are still Goa's best bakers.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Sprawled over 700 Km in the Indian Ocean, in the southern part of the Bay of Bengal, in the forms of islands and islets, the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of the most traversed tourist destinations in India. An archipelago of 527 islands, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a bearer of the rich heritage of India’s past. Mother Nature has been particularly generous in this place, with admirable vistas to charm you totally.

Having derived its name from the Hindu God, Hanuman, who was referred to as Handuman by the Malays, the Andaman and Nicobar islands have been inhabited since several thousand years, as per archaeological survey. Later on, this place was used as a site for exile during the British rule. Under the sentence of ‘kalapani’, prisoners were deported to the islands, severing any kind of relation with the civilized world. The Cellular Jail in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar was then regarded as the “Siberia” of British India and it has accommodated many a freedom fighter whoever raised their voice against the government.

Floating in the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, isolated from the rest of India, are a group of 572 islands, known as the Andaman and Nicobar islands.

The state covering an area of 700 km with about 36 inhabited islands are a nature lover's paradise, surrounded by dense forests and amazing variety of plant and bird life.

The long coastline is made up of sandy beaches lined with swaying palm trees.

The place offers immense lots of packages in the form of Andaman and Nicobar Islands ours opportunities for nature gazing and fun with a variety of water sports.

The sparsely populated cities, clean roads and fresh air make a perfect destination for people seeking peace and tranquillity.

Tourist Attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

» Cellular Jail : The Cellular Jail is one of the Main tourist attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tours. which is situated at Port Blair is a witness to many years of India's freedom struggle. The place was used to keep the freedom fighters in isolation from the rest of the country to oppress the freedom struggle.

The jail completed in 1908 was made up of 698 cells used to confine the prisoners and mete out innumerable tortures and untold suffering upon them.

The place also houses a museum and an art gallery open throughout the week (Except Monday) from 9 AM to 12 Noon and 2 PM to 5 PM.

» Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park :
The second Tourist attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Marine Park situated at Wandoor, about 29 km from Port Blair, is a park made of open sea and a number of islands.

It offers a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of some rare underwater marine life through glass bottom boats and scuba diving.

All the natural beauty combined with modern facilities at several parks around the place provide an opportunity of a lifetime.

» Andaman Water Sports Complex famous for Water sports in Andaman: The Water Sports Complex offers a variety of exciting and safe water sports in Andaman that include water scooter, speedboats, rowing boats, paddle boats, kayaks, aqua-cycle, aqua-glide, bumper boats, water skiing, para sailing, wind surfing and Water Sports in Andaman etc.

The complex situated beside the Cellular Jail offers you immense opportunities of endless fun.

Ride the waves on a water scooter towards the Ross Island or try maintaining your balance while skiing on the water.

Special arrangements have been made for kids.Watersports in Andaman makes a special enlightenment of fun and joy to the tour programmes.

» Samudrika Museum : The Samudrika Museum displays a rare collection of items that provide useful insight into the history and geography of the islands. Witness an amazing display of corals, shells and other beautiful material found under the sea.

» Anthropological Museum : The Anthropological Museum situated at Haddo was established in 1975. The museum provides complete information on the tribes that inhabited the area in the past. An impressive collection of items including tribal weapons, boats, baskets, clothing and photographs can be seen on display. A library houses a collection of books providing invaluable information about past expeditions and the tribal culture.

Marine Life

The richness of the marine life at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands can only be experienced and enjoyed. Talking of corals, you can come across the Brain coral, finger coral, antler coral, Plate coral, vase coral and leather coral amongst other corals at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. Fish, crab, lobsters, sea urchins, shrimps, cleaner wrasse, anemone, clownfish are some of the easy spots at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. Here it is noteworthy that the Andaman and the Nicobar islands are home to over 110 species of wild orchids. Various tribal reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries dot the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. The bird sanctuary at Chiriyatapoo is another must visit at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands.
You may trek from Mt. Harriet to Madhuban and enjoy the rare forest life, flora and fauna. There are other trekking routes also. Tents for island camping are locally available at various places in the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. Thus you may enjoy the pristine beauty of nature and the marine life.

Adventure Sports

Andaman and the Nicobar Islands are the best options for the adventure seekers and the merry makers alike. There are a variety of water sports that you may indulge in while at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. The most popular sports though are scuba diving and snorkeling. You must check out the Wandoor or the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Carbyn’s Cove Tourism Complex and the Havelock Island for snorkeling at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. Similarly to enjoy the marvelous marine life and get entangled in the mysteries of the wrecked ships you may try scuba diving. The Andaman Scuba Club trains amateurs in scuba diving. In fact right from Water Skiing, Water Scooters, Boats, Parasailing, Sail Boats, Wind Surfers, Speed Boats to Glass Bottom Boats For Coral/ Ship Wreck Viewing Andaman and the Nicobar Islands have it all. Elephant Safari, Island Trekking and Lagoon Cruises are other adventure activities you may enjoy at the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands.

Getting There
» By Air : The domestic airport situated at Port Blair has regular flights connecting with Kolkata and Chennai. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan provide regular services for Andaman & Nicobar islands.

» By Sea : Getting to the islands through the sea route is a unique experience and a must do if you have enough time. Ships connect the islands to Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam.

Mumbai

Located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Mumbai is the largest city in the country. Mumbai previously known as Bombay is the capital of Maharashtra, India. One of the four metro cities of India and the financial capital of the country, Mumbai is the city of gold, of dreams. Mumbai is the city which never sleeps. It is the fast running city. The city always remains active with its attractive shopping arcades, exciting sport activities, night clubs, discotheques, theaters, music, restaurants and picturesque sights.

Located on the western coast of the country, Mumbai is home to world famous Hindi Film Industry known as Bollywood, which is one of the biggest entertainment industries in the world. Some people also called it Indian Hollywood. When you are in Mumbai tours and travels, you can enjoy the fast foods of Mumbai, such as; Pani Puri, Bhel Prui, Pau Bhaji and Bada Pau. These fast food items you can find from roadside vendors. These fast food items are the major attraction of Mumbai.

The city of Mumbai is full of life, charm and fascination. This is the never sleeping city. This is the city of dreams. The city of Mumbai is a group of seven islands. These islands are Colaba, Dongri, Mahim, Mazgaon, Girgaum, Parel and Worli. Mumbai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The city of Mumbai has an important position on the itinerary of tourist who wants to visit India.

Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is the main attraction of Mumbai city. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. Situated at the Apollo Bunder, the gateway holds greater historical significance as the last of the British troops that left India by sea, marched through its portals. The monument is complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone. You can also go for a short cruise through Mumbai's natural harbour in one of the little motor launches that are stationed here.

Mani Bhawan
Mani Bhawan is one of the important places to visit in Mumbai. Presently functioning as a Gandhi memorial, it used to be the Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It is from this famous house No. 19, called Mani Bhawan, that Gandhiji was arrested in 1932. This two storied building houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo feature on the Mahatma's life, some memorabilia, an old Gandhiji's charkha and a film and recording archive. A minimum entry fee is required to get into the Mani Bhawan.

Prince of Wales Museum
The Prince of Wales museum is another major attraction of Mumbai. Built in the year 1914, it is surrounded by a beautiful landscape forming an ideal getaway for the people of Mumbai. The museum houses art, sculpture, rare coins, and old firearms and a priceless collection of miniature paintings. The Prince of Wales museum is regarded as one of the best museums in the country.

Marine Drive
A stroll down the Marine Drive is the best way to discover Mumbai. This winding stretch of road with tall buildings on one side and sea on the other extends from Nariman Point to Malabar Hills. Due to its curved shape and many street lights, it was once called the Queen's Necklace. A popular sea front, Marine Drive is also the main thoroughfare linking for the Malabar Hills to the southernmost points of Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Nariman Point, and the Fort.

Juhu
Nicknamed as the uptown bourgeois paradise, Juhu Beach is a place that attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. Characterised by walkers, screaming children and courting couples, the beach covers an area of about 5 kilometres. Juhu beach is attractively studded with many five star hotels offering the customers a splendid view of the coast. The beach remains noticeably crowded on weekends. Moreover, the beach activities like camel rides, pony rides, acrobats, performing monkeys and entertainers will keep you enthralled all the time. Keep away from hawkers.

Hanging Gardens
The Hanging Gardens makes another must see site in Mumbai. The park was built during the early 1880s over Mumbai's main reservoir at the top of the Malabar Hills. The reason of its location being to cover the water from the potentially contaminating activity of the nearby Towers of Silence. Located just opposite the Kamala Nehru Park, this terraced garden, also known as Ferozeshah Mehta Garden, is famous among the locals as well as tourists. The garden provides lovely sunset views over the Arabian Sea.

Kamla Nehru Park
Kamla Nehru park, located at the top of Malabar Hills is another site to visit in Mumbai. Overlooking the Marine Drive, the park houses "Old Woman's Shoe", wonderfully cut hazes and roomy walkaways. Moreover, the park also provides you a spectacular view of the city and the sunset. The Kamla Nehru park also makes a favourite gateway for the locals here.

Chowpatty
Another sandy gateway of Mumbai is the Chowpatty beach in the suburbs of the city. Chowpatty is perhaps the most famous beach of Mumbai, characterised by the usual hustle and bustle of stallwalahs, people snoozing under the shade of its stunted trees, screaming kids, Ferris wheels, pony rides, wayside astrologers, monkey shows, and even the odd self-styled gymnast demonstrating their skill for a fee. Moreover, the bhelpuri shops and sometimes the film shoot or a street play also adds to the festive atmosphere of the beach. A beach of action, Chowpatty makes a must visit in Mumbai.

Aarey Milk Colony
One of the most modern milk colonies in the world is Aarey Milk colony of Mumbai. Located at a distance of 32 kilometres from main Mumbai city, it falls on the main Ghodbunder Road. Aarey makes a must visit in Mumbai not only for its sophisticated dairy and the many well fed cows but also for its surrounding natural beauty. A visit to the observation pavilion here on a hill near the colony's entrance also gives you an enchanting view of the surrounding areas. But the main feature of the colony is the 4000 acres of parkland with fine gardens. You can also try the fresh milk and snacks in the colony's canteen here.

Tower of Silence
A peculiar site to visit in Mumbai is the Tower of Silence. Mumbai has a large number of Parsi population. The Parsis have the custom of leaving their dead in the open. These particular places are called "Towers of Silence", where the vultures come to eat the dead. For the Parsis, this is regarded as the final act of charity. Mumbai's Towers of Silence, have virtually disappeared today. Only a handful remain that attract a considerable number of tourists every year.

Jain Temple
Jain temple of Mumbai also makes the interesting place to visit in the city. Located on the Malabar Hill, the Jain temple houses frescoes depicting various events in the lives of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. It also has a black marble shrine decorated with celestial personifications of the planets painted onto the ceiling. A large number of devotees as well as tourists come here every day

Mahalaxmi Temple - Feel the Divinity
One of the most visited Hindu shrines in Mumbai, the Mahalaxmi temple has an interesting legend behind it. The temple was built by a contractor at the end of the 18th century. The man claimed that Mahalaxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, appeared to him in a dream. The contractor, who had been assigned the project of building a sea wall by the British, also said the Goddess had promised him success if he built Her a temple. An idol, which was actually found during the excavation for the project, was installed in the temple.
Elephanta Island - A Voyage To Primeval Past
This island with its world-famous rock-cut cave temples of Shiva, is 9 km by boat from the Gateway of India. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, the island, originally known as Gharapuri (Place of Caves) was renamed Elephanta by the Portuguese, after a rock statue of an elephant they found outside the cave complex. This temple complex, said to date back to 450 AD, contains the world-famous panel of the three-headed Shiva that is identified so closely with India. Incidentally, the statue of the elephant collapsed during the British period, and was reassembled at the Victoria Gardens. It still stands there today.

Cochin
Kochi, India (Malayalam: formerly known as Cochin, is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. Kochi or Cochin is popularly known as the Queen of Arabian Sea,^[1][2][3] also flaunts one of the finest natural harbours of the world.^[4] and was the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries. Old Kochi loosely refers to a group of islands which comprise Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, etc. Today Kochi includes Ernakulam city, old parts of Kochi, Kumbalangi, and outlying islands. It is one of the principal tourist destinations of Kerala. The city derives its name from the Malayalam word Kochazhi meaning small lagoon.

• Backwaters of Kochi are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) of Kerala state in southern India. In Cochin, the stretch from Kochi Azhi to Munambam Azhi, the serene backwaters are popularly known as Veeranpuzha. It is the northern extension of Vembanad Lake. Vembanad Lake (Vembanad Kayal or Vembanad Kol) is India's longest lake,^[5] and is the largest lake in Kerala. It is also one of the largest lakes in India.

• Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade in Kochi. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the local populace. Marine Drive is also an economically thriving part of the city of Kochi. With several shopping malls it is as an important centre of shopping activity in Kochi. The walkway has two contemporarily constructed bridges, the Rainbow bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge.The view of the setting and rising sun over the sea mouth, and the gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine Drive an important tourist destination in Kochi. Hundreds of people (both natives, and tourists) throng the walkway during the evenings.

• Fort Kochi : situated on the Fort Kochi/Mattancherry peninsula, is the historical part of the city and home to many tourist attractions, such as the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace and the Santa Cruz Basilica.

• Hill Palace : is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, near Tripunithura.^[6] It was the administrative office of Kochi Rajas. Built in 1865, the Palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style, spreading across in 54 acres (220,000 m²). The complex has an archaeological Museum, a Heritage Museum, a Deer Park, a Pre-historic Park and a Children’s park ^[7].

• Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, in Mattancherry, Kochi, features Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi.Mattancherry Palace with its medieval charm is situated at Palace Road, Mattancherry, Kochi. It was built by the Portuguese and presented to Veera Kerala Varma (1537-65), Raja of Kochi, in 1555 AD.The palace is a quadrangular structure built in Nālukettu style, the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with a courtyard in the middle. In the courtyard there stands a small temple dedicated to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati', the protective goddess of the Kochi royal family. There are two more temples on either side of the Palace, one dedicated to Lord Krishna and the other to Lord Siva. Certain elements of architecture, as for example the nature of its arches and the proportion of its chambers are indicative of European influence in basic Nāluketttu style.

• Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (locally known as Kaloor International Stadium) is an international stadium in Kochi, Kerala, India. With a capacity to hold 60,000 spectators, the stadium was built in 1996 .Originally constructed as a football stadium, it has played host to a number of international cricket and football matches. The extensive grounds of the stadium serve as venue for important exhibitions, cinema events and political rallies in the city. The stadium is quipped with floodlights for night play. The architecture of the stadium is unique compared to other stadia in India.

• Jewish Synagogue : or the Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations,^[8] located in Kochi in South India. It was built in 1568 by the Malabar Yehudan people or Cochin Jewish community in the Kingdom of Cochin. It is also referred to as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town,^[8] and is the only one of the seven synagogues in the area still in use. The complex has four buildings. It was built adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace temple on the land gifted to the Malabari Yehuden community by the Raja of Kochi, RamaVarma. The Mattancherry Palace temple and the Mattancherry synagogue share a common wall.

• Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica : a church built originally by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558, was spared by the Dutch conquerors who destroyed many Catholic buildings. Later the British demolished the structure and Bishop Dom Gomez Vereira commissioned a new building in 1887. Consecrated in 1905, Santa Cruz was proclaimed a Basilica by the Pope John Paul II in 1984. This magnificent church is a must see destination for tourists who come to Kochi.

• Bolgatty Palace : Built by the Dutch in India, it is located in the scenic island popularly known as Bolgatty island in Kochi. One of the oldest existing Dutch palaces outside Holland, this quaint mansion, built in 1744, by Dutch traders, was later extended and lush green gardens were landscaped around it. The building was then the Governor's palace for the Dutch and later in 1909 was leased to the British. It served as the home of the British Governors, the seat of the British Resident of Cochin during the British regime. In 1947, when India gained independence, the palace became the property of the state and later converted into a heritage hotel resort.

• Willingdon Island : A manmade island named after Lord Willingdon a former British Viceroy to india. Southern Naval Command, Cochin Harbour, Port Trust head quarters , Best hotels in the city,, major trading centers etc. are situated at Willingdon Island.

• Museum of Kerala History: Important scenes of Kerala history are portrayed through sculptures. Greeting the visitor outside the museum is a statue of Parasurama, the mythological safe who is said to have created Kerala.

• St.Francis Church: originally built in 1503, is the oldest European church in India^[9][10] and has great historical significance as a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the subcontinent.^[11]

• Pallipuram Fort It was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It is the oldest existing European fort in India. In 1789 the Dutch captured the fort in 1661^{[clarification needed]} and sold it to the State of Travancore. This fort is situated in the northern extremity of the Vypeen island.

 

Tourist attractions

Fort Cochin: Also known as the 'Old Fort', Fort Cochin is the very first fort built by the Europeans in India. Started by the Dutch and then British, the Fort has many amazing structures. Vasco de Gama, the first European to land on Indian coasts in 1498, died in Fort Cochin on Christmas eve in 1524. The Fort houses a huge Portuguese-style Mansion, the St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica among other attractions. Chinese Fishing Nets: They are huge cantilevered fishing nets brought by the Indian traders from the court of Kublai Khan, the famous Mongol Emperor who founded the Yuan Dynasty of China. Erected between 1350 and 1450 AD by traders, these nets are set up on teak wood and bamboo poles. The best place to enjoy the nets being lowered into the sea and its catch is the Vasco de Gama square. Mattancherry Palace: Built by the Portuguese in 1557, the beautiful Palace was gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Cochin. The Palace is famous for its beautiful murals, depicting scenes from the epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Puranic Hindu legends. Also on display are the Dutch maps of old Cochin, royal palanquins and coronation outwears of former maharajas of Cochin. Also known as the 'Dutch Palace', the palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. Jewish Synagogue: Built in the year 1568, the Jewish Synagogue is probably the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. The greatest attractions of this synagogue are the amazing 18th century hand painted willow pattern floor tiles imported from China, the copper plates on which the privilege granted by the kings were recorded, a dock tower and Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs among many others. St. Francis Church: Built by the Portuguese in 1503 AD, it is the first church built by the Europeans in India. Vasco De Gama, the famous Portuguese trader and sailor, was buried here in 1524 before his remains were moved to Lisbon, Portugal in 1538. Bolghatty Island: An enchantingly beautiful and narrow long island, it's famous for housing the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch in 1744. The only golf course of Cochin is located on this picturesque island. Other major attraction of the Bolghatty is an exciting Boat cruising on the island connecting Cochin to Bolghatty Island. Willington Island: Surrounded by beautiful backwaters of Cochin, Willington Island is an artificial island created by the dumping of the materials that were dug out while Cochin Port was being deepened. It houses the city's best hotels and trading centers, the port trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command. Cochin Museum: One of the most famous museums of Kerala, Cochin Museum is known for its rich collections of paintings, coins and sculptures. The museum displays the 19th century oil paintings, mural paintings, wooden sculptures, sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris and old coins. Earlier the museum was situated at the Durbar Hall but now it has been shifted to the Hill Palace at Tripunithura.