Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a bustling port city in Kerala, India, situated on the southwest coast along the Laccadive Sea. Located in the Ernakulam district, Kochi is often interchangeably referred to as Ernakulam. It is Kerala's most densely populated city and boasts the state's largest metropolitan area.

Historically, Kochi has been a vital spice trading hub on India's west coast, enriched by a tapestry of cultural influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial eras. Today, it is a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists, thanks to its vibrant tourism industry. Kochi is also a financial, commercial, and industrial powerhouse in Kerala, with its economy driven by maritime trade, IT, tourism, and manufacturing.

The city is governed by the Kochi Municipal Corporation, supported by various statutory bodies. It is home to several significant institutions, including the Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy and the Cochin University of Science and Technology, alongside major healthcare facilities.

Kochi's diverse population features a blend of ethnicities and religions, enhancing its rich cultural landscape. The city thrives on arts, literature, and cuisine, and serves as a central hub for Malayalam cinema. Its media industry is vibrant, with numerous newspapers, TV channels, and radio stations.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate Kochi's strong football culture, with professional teams and state-of-the-art sporting facilities. The city also offers golf courses, yachting, and various other recreational activities.

Kochi enjoys sister city relationships with Norfolk in the USA, Menlo Park in California, Pyatigorsk in Russia, and Vilnius in Lithuania, fostering international camaraderie.