SeeOld Kochi

Jew Street and Paradesi Synagogue

The synagogue was constructed in 1568 after allowing Jewish refugees from Jerusalem to settle here during the Crusades, making this the Commonwealth's oldest synagogue. This is one of the very few functioning synagogues in India, and the structure is unique due to the influence of native Hindu-Christian architecture, as well as being the only synagogue having two bimahs. Many Jews lived in the area until the creation of Israel; today, there is only a handful. Jew Street is a heritage zone with several antique/handicraft shops.

Address: Jew Town, Mattancherry
Hours: Synagogue Sun-Fri 10AM-5PM, Fri afternoon and Sat only open to Jews
Price: ₹100

Directions Suggest a nearby place

Listing from Wikivoyage: Kochi/Old Kochi, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

Close by

BuyOld Kochi
Crafters Exports
This shop has certified large collection of artifacts and heritage pieces. It's a very popular option.
SeeOld Kochi
International Pepper Exchange
Kochi's answer to New York's Wall Street, but instead of money, it's all about pepper trading. This is the world's only pepper exchange. Nowadays, trading all happens online, so there is not much to see any more except the historical place.
Free
SeeOld Kochi
Dutch Palace
Mattancherry Kottaram
Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568 as a gift to the Maharaja of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma, after he granted permission to construct Fort Immanuel. During the Dutch siege of Cochin, many parts of the original palace were destroyed. However, the Dutch Governor repaired the palace and renamed it as Dutch Palace. Coronations of Cochin Maharajas are held here. A large throne and coronation costumes are on display, and there is an extensive collection of royal chariots, swords and other artefacts. The most interesting part is the mural room, which has the entire Ramayana and Mahabharata depicted in a single mural.
Sat-Thu 10AM-5PM₹5
BuyOld Kochi
Mattancherry Old Spice Market
One of the oldest spice markets in the country. There are nearly half dozen small markets, mostly run by Gujarati and Konkanis where you can slice of Indian market flavours.