Mattancherry, perhaps the most interesting part of
Kochi city, is situated to the east of
Fort Kochi in
Ernakulam District. Almost all the major historical sites of the district are in this town. Mattancherry is around 10 km from
Ernakulam, the nerve center of Kochi.
Mattancherry lies on a narrow strip of land, which juts out into the Arabian Sea. Replete with backwaters, coconut lagoons, mosques, churches and synagogues, the place is a perfect spot for group picnickers. The town is a blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village, as is reflected in the style of buildings and seats of worship in the narrow streets.
Mattancherry Palace (better known as Dutch Palace), built by Portuguese in 1557, is the main attraction. Jewish Synagogue, Madapally Madhom, Thekkemadam Sree Dharmasastha Temple and Archaeological Museum are other points of interest here. Bazar Road, the very center of the spice industry in Mattancherry, has many pepper exporting companies.
Mattancherry is about 10 km from Ernakulam Junction Railway Station. Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport. Frequent bus and ferry services connect the place with Ernakulam.
