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Kochi, has one of the finest natural harbours in the world.
Ancient mariners from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and
Portugal have all left their mark on this beautiful island
city. Formerly known as Cochin, this tourist destination is
set on a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and
Backwaters. This harbour city of Kerala with its breathtaking
beauty, will enthrall anyone with its aromatic spices and
abundant availability of fresh bananas and coconuts. Kochi is
also famous for its superb cuisine, fusioned with an array of
mixed spices, seafood and meat dishes to delight any hungry
visitor.
Highlights of Kochi
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Visit St Francis Church built in 1503, which is one of the
oldest churches constructed by Europeans on Indian soil. Vasco
de Gama, the first European to reach India by sailing around
Africa, died in Kochi in 1524 and was buried here for 14 years
until his body was transferred to Lisbon in Portugal.
Next,
visit the Chinese Fishing Nets. Next depart for Mattancherry
Palace built by the Portugese in 1567. The most important
aspect of this palace, however is the astonishing murals
in the bed chambers and
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other rooms
depicting the scenes from the Ramayana and Puranic legends connected
with Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara and Durga.
Continue your tour with a visit to
the Jewish Synagogue, which was built in 1568. This is the
oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. The present building was
destroyed by shelling during a Portuguese raid in 1662 and was
rebuilt two years later when the Dutch took over Kochi. Guests
also have the opportunity to shop at the local Jewish Town.
Kochi Harbour Cruise
Cruise in a motorboat and discover Kochi which is a cluster of
islands networked by lagoons and backwaters. This is one of
the finest naturals harbours in the world and was once a major
centre of trade and commerce with the Arabs, Chinese,
Portuguese, Dutch and the British. While cruising through the
harbour in a motorboat, you will be able to see the Chinese
fishing nets, a glimpse of Kerala Village by the backwaters,
churches, etc
Alleppey Houseboat Voyage
Depart for Alleppey, a 64 km journey, then board the local
houseboats for a cruise at Alleppey. A unique way of sailing
on the backwaters is by these houseboats, which are a modified
version of the traditional ‘rice boat’ or ‘kettuvallam’. In
the past, the village people living in the backwaters used
these boats for transporting goods like paddy and other
commercial goods. This unique web of lakes is an integral part
of the backwaters of Kerala. Added to this experience is the
freshly cooked Keralan meal served on the houseboat. After
lunch disembark at Alleppey for the drive back to the pier.
Kochi Delights
Depart to Fort Kochi for a photostop at St. Francis Church and
the Chinese Fishing Nets. St Francis Chuch was built in 1503
and is one of the oldest churches constructed by Europeans on
Indian soil. Vasco de Gama, the first European to reach India
by sailing around Africa, died in Kochi in 1524 and was buried
here for 14 years until his body was transferred to Lisbon in
Portugal. Stop at MG Road, Ernakulam, a modern part of the
city known for its many showrooms selling dress materials,
Guests will have a choice to either disembark here or to
disembark at Broadway – a local market famous for readymade
garments and spices. Await your pick-up either at Broadway or
MG Road before heading back to the ship.
Read more at Yachts India
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SuperStar Libra - Destinations
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