Kochi: The Gateway to Kerala's Rich Heritage

• Helloഹലോ
  [halo]
• Goodbyeവിട
  [vita]
• Yesഅതെ
  [athe]
• Noഇല്ല
  [illa]
• Please/You're welcomeദയവായി
  [dayavayi]
• Thank youനന്ദി
  [nandi]
• Excuse me/Sorryക്ഷമിക്കണം
  [ksamikkanam]
• How are you?സുഖമാണോ?
  [sukhamaano?]
• Fine. And you?നന്ദി. നിനക്ക്?
  [nandi. ninakku?]
• Do you speak English?നിനക്ക് ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് സംസാരിക്കുക?
  [ninakku english samsaarikkuka?]
• I don't understandഞാൻ മനസ്സിലായില്ല
  [naan manassilayilla]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseദയവായി മെനു കാണാമോ
  [dayavayi menu kaanamo]
• I don't eat meatഞാൻ മാംസം കഴിയുന്നില്ല
  [naan maamsam kuzhiyunnilla]
• Cheers!ചീർസ്!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseദയവായി പണം നൽകാമോ
  [dayavayi panam nalkaamo]

• Help!സഹായം!
  [sahayam!]
• Go away!പോയിക്കിൽ
  [poikkil]
• Call the Police!പോലീസിനെ വിളിക്കൂ!
  [polisinne vilikku!]
• Call a doctor!ഡോക്ടർനെ വിളിക്കൂ!
  [doctorne vilikku!]
• I'm lostഞാൻ പാത്തുക്കി
  [naan paathukki]
• I'm illഞാൻ രോഗിയാണ്
  [naan rogiyaanu]

• I'd like to buy...ഞാൻ വാങ്ങാനായിട്ടുണ്ട്...
  [naan vaanganaayittund...]
• I'm just lookingഞാൻ മാത്രം കാണുന്നു
  [naan maathram kaanunn]
• How much is it?അത് എത്ര?
  [athu ethra?]
• That's too expensiveഅത് വളരെ വാങ്ങിയത്
  [athu valare vaangiyathu]
• Can you lower the price?വില കുറഞ്ഞു പറഞ്ഞേക്കുമോ?
  [vil kurannu paranjeekkumo?]

• What time is it?എന്തൊരു സമയമാണ്?
  [enthoru samayamaano?]
• It's one o'clockഒന്ന് മണിക്കൂർ
  [onnu manikkoor]
• Half past (10)(പത്തു) അര കഴിഞ്ഞിരിക്കുക
  [(patu) ara kazhinjirikkuka]
• Morningരാവിലെ
  [raavile]
• Afternoonഉച്ചയ്ക്ക്
  [ucchaykku]
• Eveningസന്ധ്യ
  [sandhya]
• Yesterdayനിന്നെ
  [ninne]
• Todayഇന്ന്
  [innu]
• Tomorrowനാളെ
  [naale]
• 1ഒന്ന്
  [onnu]
• 2രണ്ട്
  [randu]
• 3മൂന്ന്
  [moonnu]
• 4നാല്
  [naalu]
• 5അഞ്ച്
  [anch]
• 6ആറ്
  [aaru]
• 7ഏഴ്
  [eel]
• 8എട്ട്
  [ett]
• 9ഒന്പത്
  [onpath]
• 10പത്ത്
  [patth]

• Where's a/the...?...എങ്ങനെ?
  [...enganne?]
• What's the address?വിലാസം എന്താണ്?
  [vilaasam enthaanu?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ഞാൻ കാര്യം കാണിക്കാമോ?
  [naan kaaryam kaanikkaamo?]
• When's the next (bus)?അടുത്ത ബസാ എപ്പോ?
  [adutha basa eppo?]
• A ticket (to ....)ഒരു ടിക്കറ്റ് (....ഇലേക്ക്)
  [oru ticket (....ilekku)]

Kochi, also known as Cochin, has a rich history as a prominent maritime gateway on the Malabar Coast. As early as the 14th century, Kochi was a bustling port city that attracted traders from Arabia, China, and Europe. The city's strategic location made it a pivotal center for the spice trade, particularly in black pepper, which was highly sought after globally.

In 1500, Portuguese explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral arrived in Kochi, marking the beginning of European colonial interest in the region. The Portuguese established a strong foothold by constructing Fort Manuel, the first European fort in India, in 1503. Kochi became the first European colony in India and played a significant role in the spice trade under Portuguese control.

By the mid-17th century, the Dutch East India Company sought to dominate the spice trade and overthrew the Portuguese in Kochi in 1663. They reinforced Fort Kochi, enhancing its defenses and leaving a lasting architectural imprint on the city. The Dutch also contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure, including the construction of the Mattancherry Palace, which is known for its exquisite murals.

Kochi came under British control in 1795 during the Napoleonic Wars. The British further developed the city's infrastructure, including modernizing the port and establishing educational institutions. The Willingdon Island was created during this period, serving as a major port and naval base, which significantly boosted Kochi's status as a trading hub.

Kochi is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in India, with roots tracing back to ancient times. The Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568, stands as a testament to this rich heritage. It is located in the Jew Town area of Mattancherry and is renowned for its beautiful Belgian glass chandeliers, hand-painted Chinese tiles, and historic artifacts.

Kochi is a vibrant cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse influences of its historical inhabitants. The city is known for its elaborate festivals such as the Cochin Carnival, celebrated with great fervor in Fort Kochi. Traditional art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam thrive here, alongside modern developments in art and literature. The Kerala Folklore Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts showcasing the region's rich cultural legacy.

In contemporary times, Kochi has evolved into a cosmopolitan city, balancing its historical legacy with modern advancements. The city is part of the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) and is a key player in the Indian Information Technology sector. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international exhibition of contemporary art, has put Kochi on the global cultural map, attracting artists and visitors from around the world.

Kochi is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 30 kilometers from the city center. It serves both domestic and international flights. For rail travel, Kochi has two major railway stations: Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North), which are connected to major cities across India. Buses operated by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators connect Kochi to various parts of Kerala and neighboring states. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for travel within the city and to nearby destinations.

Transportation within Kochi is diverse and convenient. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are widely available for short distances. Kochi has an efficient public bus system run by KSRTC, covering most parts of the city. The Kochi Metro is a modern and reliable option for quick travel across major areas. For a unique experience, try the ferry services that connect different parts of the city through its waterways. Renting a car or a scooter is also an option for exploring at your own pace.

The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and large retail stores, but smaller shops and street vendors may prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful throughout Kochi, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be a problem. Mobile payment options like Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe are also popular and accepted in many establishments.

Kochi is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, as in any city, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Areas like the Ernakulam South Railway Station and some parts of Fort Kochi can be hotspots for petty crimes targeting tourists, so stay vigilant. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects to police, fire, and medical services. For medical emergencies, several hospitals like Aster Medcity, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, and Ernakulam Medical Centre offer 24/7 services. Pharmacies are readily available across the city for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. The nearest police station can be found in most neighborhoods, and tourist police can assist with specific concerns.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove shoes before entering temples and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a 'Namaste' with joined palms. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kochi like a local, visit the local markets such as Broadway and Mattancherry, where you can buy spices, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the Kathakali performances and the traditional martial art Kalaripayattu. For a unique experience, take a boat ride through the backwaters and explore the quaint neighborhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry on foot.