Also known as Mattancherry Palace, this 16th-century palace was built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi. It later came under the rule of the Dutch, who made some modifications to its architecture. The palace is home to some exquisite murals, ancient weapons and royal belongings.
Constructed in 1568, the Jewish Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth Nations. The synagogue exudes a classic charm, with hand-painted tiles from China, Belgian chandeliers, and a beautiful teak ark that contains the Torah scrolls.
Satisfy your taste buds with the freshly prepared local seafood delicacies at one of the many restaurants and cafes in Fort Kochi. Some popular restaurants include Kashi Art Cafe, Malabar Junction, and The Rice Boat.
The Chinese Fishing Nets in Kochi are a must-visit for any traveller. It is a unique and age-old method of fishing which is still in use today. You can walk on the beach and watch the fishermen operate the nets, or even try your hand at pulling one up yourself.
The St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India, built in 1503 by the Portuguese with later modifications by the Dutch. The church holds historical significance as the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was buried here until his remains were later moved to Lisbon in Portugal.
End your day taking a relaxing stroll along the serene Fort Kochi Beach. With palm trees lining the beach, spectacular sunset views, and the cool breeze from the Arabian Sea, it's a perfect way to wind down your day in Mattancherry.
If you have more time to spare, you can explore other nearby attractions such as the Hill Palace Museum, the Paradesi Synagogue, or take a boat ride around the backwaters. If you have less time, you may want to skip the Dutch Palace and include a quick visit to the Mattancherry Market instead, where you can find beautiful spices and local art.