Known
as Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin (Kochi)
is believed to be the finest natural harbour
in the world. Some of the islands are
Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam.
The main tourist attraction of Kochi is
visiting these islands on the local ferries.
It is a cluster of islands on the vast
expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Because
of its commercial importance, foreign
powers vied for supremacy in the area
and therefore the place has a blend of
several exotic cultures like the Portuguese,
Jewish, English, French, Dutch and Chinese.
Ferry
rides in Kochi commands a breathtaking view
due to its lush green lawns sloping down
to the water's edge. Giant Chinese fishing
nets that billow from massive teak and bamboo
poles dot the entrance to the harbor. Silhouetted
against the setting sun, they present a
magnificent sight at the waterfront. |