Population in Cochin: 16.6 lakhs

Area of Cochin: 87.341 sq. km

Altitude of Cochin: Sea Level

Climate of Cochin: Summer: max. - 35 C, min. - 22.5C; Winter: min.-20C.

Rainfall in Cochin: 3099.1 mm with 132 average annual rainy days

Best Season in Cochin: October to March

Languages Spoken in Cochin: Malayalam/ English

A Brief History of Cochin

History has it that Cochin or Kochi earned its significance after the massive flood of 1340 AD, when River Periyar destroyed the world famous port of Kodugallur. Cochin became the bustling center of commercial activity as the Chinese, Arabs, British, Dutch and Portuguese connected the mainland with the rest of the world. It developed to be the main trading center of pepper, cardamom, cinnamom, cloves, etc.

In 1956 the state of Kerala was formed by the amalgamation of provinces like Kochi, Malabar and Travancore. In 1967 the Corporation of Kochi was formed, which included the towns of Fort Kochi, Mattanchery, Ernakulum and many villages nearby.

How to Reach Cochin

To reach Cochin tourists can avail any of the following modes of transport.

Air: located 30 kms north east of the city, Cochin has a world class modern international airport with regular flights to major cities in India and abroad.

Rail: Cochin is connected with the rest of India through the three main railway stations- Ernakulum Junction (main station), Ernakulum Town and Cochin Harbor Terminus.

Road: apart from many state roads, three significant National Highways (NH) pass through Cochin- NH 47 from Kanyakumari to Salem; NH 17 to Mumbai and NH 49 to Madurai (in Tamil Nadu) start from Kochi.

Sea/Backwaters: Cochin has a natural port that is used regularly by large cargo ships. Boat service to places like Kottayam, Kumarakom and Alleppey are also available.

Local Transport: Cheap and affordable private buses are available. Short distances can be covered in an auto rickshaw. Taxis are generally recommended for longer trips.

With the bewildering scenic beauty and such easy access to and around the place, Cochin has always been the primary tourist attraction in south India.

Get more tourist information on Cochin and other places from www.touristplacesinindia.com