Ancient meets contemporary in Kochi, a lively city at just an hour’s drive from Alleppey. Posh cafes sit right by the side of Chinese fishing nets that were installed here in 1350 AD; India’s largest man-made island is a major attraction and so is the Paradesi Synagogue that was built in the year 1560. St Francis CSI Church once housed the remains of Vasco da Gama and is also the oldest European church in India. Kochi also hosts the world famous Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an event that sees much of the city turning into an art exhibition ground. With its potpourri of history, culture, arts and the great Kerala cuisine, Kochi makes for a perfect short trip from Alleppey.