Fort Kochi is the old quarter of Kochi (Cochin), on a peninsula where the backwaters meet the Arabian Sea. Its quiet, tree-lined streets, colonial bungalows, churches and warehouses reflect more than 450 years of European presence, and together with neighbouring Mattancherry it is the most interesting part of the city to explore on foot.
It takes its name from Fort Manuel, the first European fort in India, built by the Portuguese after the Raja of Kochi granted them land in 1503. The fort itself has long gone, but the layers of history remain easy to read.
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A short history
Kochi became a major port after a great flood in 1341 changed the coastline and closed the older harbour at Kodungallur. Arab, Chinese and later European traders came for pepper, cardamom and other spices. The Portuguese held Fort Kochi for about 160 years; the Dutch captured it in 1663 and destroyed many Catholic buildings; and the British took over in 1795. Foreign rule ended in 1947, and in 1967 Fort Kochi, Mattancherry and Ernakulam were merged into the Kochi Municipal Corporation.
Things to see in Fort Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets: huge cantilevered nets on the waterfront, lowered and raised by teams of fishermen using stone counterweights. They are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. Watch them at work in the morning or at sunset.
- St Francis Church: begun as a wooden church by the Portuguese in 1503 and rebuilt in stone by 1516, it is one of the oldest European churches in India. Vasco da Gama died in Kochi in 1524 and was buried here; his remains were moved to Portugal about fourteen years later, but his tombstone remains. It is now a Church of South India church and a protected monument.
- Santa Cruz Basilica: a Portuguese-era cathedral destroyed under the British and rebuilt in the late 19th century, with a painted interior.
- Heritage streets: Princess Street and the lanes around the parade ground are lined with Dutch and British-era houses, many now cafés, galleries and homestays.
- Fort Kochi beach: a promenade for sunset walks; the sea is not suitable for swimming.
Mattancherry next door
A short drive or auto ride away, Mattancherry has two of Kochi’s best-known sights. Mattancherry Palace, also called the Dutch Palace, was built by the Portuguese around 1545 as a gift to the Raja of Kochi and later renovated by the Dutch. It is now an Archaeological Survey of India museum known for its Kerala murals of scenes from the Ramayana and Hindu mythology, and portraits of the Rajas of Kochi.
Nearby, in the spice and antique shops of Jew Town, stands the Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568 and rebuilt after damage in 1662. Its floor is laid with hand-painted blue-and-white tiles brought from Canton in China in the 18th century. At the time of writing, Kerala Tourism lists it as closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Jewish holidays, with short morning and afternoon opening hours; shoes must be removed. The palace museum also closes one day a week – check before you go.
Getting around
Fort Kochi is best explored on foot or by bicycle, starting early before the heat. Ferries link Fort Kochi with Ernakulam across the harbour, which is a pleasant way to arrive. Plan at least half a day for Fort Kochi and Mattancherry together, and stay for sunset by the fishing nets. Seafood from the stalls near the nets, cooked in the cafés nearby, is a local experience.
Kochi hosts the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a major contemporary art exhibition held in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry venues, usually over the winter months of alternate years.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Kochi is roughly 560 km from Pondicherry by road, a long day’s drive, so it is best done as part of a Kerala circuit. Our Kerala tour: Kochi, Kumarakom and Varkala includes a Fort Kochi walk, and Kochi also links well with Munnar and Alleppey. Interstate permit charges apply for Tamil Nadu cars entering Kerala. See our heritage page for more.
Official information: Kerala Tourism
Frequently asked questions
What is Fort Kochi famous for?
Its Chinese fishing nets, St Francis Church, colonial-era streets and its layered Portuguese, Dutch and British history, with Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue close by.
Is Vasco da Gama buried in Fort Kochi?
He was first buried in St Francis Church after dying in Kochi in 1524, but his remains were moved to Portugal about fourteen years later. His original tombstone is still in the church.
When is the Paradesi Synagogue closed?
At the time of writing, it is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Check locally before you go, as hours can change.
How much time do I need in Fort Kochi?
Half a day covers the main sights of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry; a full day lets you walk slowly, visit museums and stay for sunset at the fishing nets.