While on your tour to Kerala you can visit the numerous tourist attractions in and around Kochi or Cochin - one of the chief harbors of India in the Ernakulam District, approximately 220�km towards the north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. However apart from the tourist attractions in Kochi there is a host of options for excursions from Kochi that need be explored on your tour to this place. The following are the examples of the same:

Apart from the treading on the avenues within the city, the regions around Kochi are equally exciting to be explored. You can choose to visit the Parishath Thampuram Museum near Kochi to appreciate the beautiful oil paintings, old coins, exclusive Mughal paintings, sculptures, and brilliantly carved temple models. To view the conserved belongings of the regal families of Kochi and Travancore you may travel to Thripunithura. The Museum of Kerala History Edapally, near Kochi is a nice option of sightseeing situated near Kochi.

You can travel to Chendamangalam as one of the Kochi excursions. Located at a junction of 3 hills and 7 inlets it is a geographical wonder. The place is a photographer�s ecstasy and is home to some of the wonderful architectural works. The Paliam palace is an architectural masterpiece. Also, you will find beautifully styled temples, mosques and churches here, speaking of the peaceful coexistence of different religions in this place.Malayatoor, situated approximately 50 kilometers from Cochin, is famous for the Catholic Church positioned on the Malayatoor hill and is devoted to St. Thomas. Each year, thousands of devotees take up a pilgrimage to the shrine to participate in the yearly festival of the Church, which is held during the months of April or May. It is supposed that St. Thomas prayed in this holy place.

The various tourist attractions in Kochi are listed as follows:

St. Francis Church:
Constructed by Europeans, St. Francis Church houses the remains of the great trader Vasco da Gama. It was on his third visit to Kerala that this Portuguese trader fell ill and eventually died in Kochi. He was then buried in the St. Francis Church although later his remains were carried back to his native land in Portugal. Till today, this church is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Kochi and it still has the burial spot marked clear.

Chinese Fishing Nets:
The Chinese Fishing Nets are undoubtedly some of the excellent tourist attractions in Kochi. As you enter the Kochi harbor the several Chinese Fishing Nets which are called Cheena Vala in Malayalam will catch your eyes. Large nets hang from bamboo or teak posts which are even today used by local fishermen in Fort Kochi for fishing. The golden rays of the sunset on the nets make for a spectacular view of Kochi�s waterfront.

Fort Kochi Beach:
The Fort Kochi Beach is an ideal spot to make use of your vacation. At sunset a relaxing walk along the beach through the golden sands, is an unforgettable experience. Many European styled bungalows border the shoreline. Enjoy the flavor of the delicious traditional cuisines preparing items from freshly caught fish at the little stalls on the coastal stretch.

The Jewish Synagogue, Matancherry Palace and Dutch Palace are other Kochi tourist attractions to be traveled to by the travelers visiting Kochi.

Log on to www.touristplacesinindia.com which gives online information on excursions from Kochi on your tour to India.