INTRODUCTION :
The commercial capital of Kerala and the most cosmopolitan of the state's cities, Cochin has long been eulogized in Tourists literature as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. It has a fascinating blend of cultures. From time immemorial, traders and travelers frequented the place. One of the finest natural harbors in the world is located here.

Most of the city's commercial centers and shops are located in the mainland, the town called Ernakulam which also lends its name to the district.

The Chinese fishing nets swaying in the breeze over the backwaters, the Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Portuguese architecture and British influence all blend harmoniously with the basic thread of Kerala's rich heritage. 

PHISOGRAPHY :
The harbor is the nucleus around which Kochi has grown to become the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. The backwaters extending to the east and south from the harbour are dotted with tiny islands formed naturally by alluvial deposits from the rivers. Some of these are Vypeen, Willingdon, Ramanthuruth, Vallarpadam and Bolgatty.

Periyar and Muvattupuzha are the main rivers of the district. The chalakkudi river which flows through north of Alwaye also joins Periyar at Alanthikara. The rivers Thodupuzha, Kallai and Kothamangalam join together to form Muvattupuzha river. The Kodungalloor Kayal and Varappuzha Kayal are also in this district.