Cochin Fort, Cochin

Fort Kochi also called Old Kochi or West Kochi is a charming beachside locality in the Kochi city of Kerala. It began as a fishing village and gained fame after the Portugese built Fort Emmanuel here in 1503. It is well known for its calm streets lined with old heritage buildings from Portugese, Dutch and British eras.

It is also popular for its scenic beach, busy shops, churches and the Chinese fishing nets along the edge of the sea. Fort Kochi is rich in heritage & culture and has grown as a must visit tourist destination, blending its historical vibe with modern cafes, art galleries and cultural events like the annual Cochin Carnival.

History

Before the arrival of European, Fort Kochi was a part of the kingdom of Kochi. It was a busy port on the Arabian Sea, where people traded spices with merchants from Arabia & China for a long time. In 1503, the local Raja invited the Portugese, after helping him in battle, and they built the Fort Emmanuel and the St. Francis Church. 

After about 160 years, the Dutch captured the fort in 1663, destroying many Portugese structures before their 112 years of rule ended, when the British took control in 1795. The British era saw Fort Kochi grow into the first municipality in Kerala  and later it became part of India after independence in 1947.

How To Reach

Fort Kochi bus stand is located just 450m away from the fort and can be reached by walk easily from the bus stand.