Cochin

India Holidays - Chinese fishing nets, Cochin

Cochin is one of the most charming of India's cities, set picturesquely overlooking Lake Vembanad, separated by a narrow island from the Arabian Sea. This strategic port has been fought over by the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese, each of which has left indelible marks on the city's history. This morning take a tour of Fort Cochin (Kochi), the oldest part of the city, visiting the Dutch-style Mattancherry Palace, now a museum, the 16th century Church of St Francis, the market area and the distinctive Chinese fishing nets (pictured) that line the entrance to the harbour.