Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheenavala)

About this place

Bolgatty Palace, set on picturesque Bolgatty Island in Kochi, is one of Kerala’s notable surviving Dutch-era landmarks and today forms part of a heritage resort operated by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). Built by a Dutch trader in 1744, the palace is regarded by Kerala Tourism as one of the oldest Dutch palaces outside the Netherlands. Its history reflects the changing political and colonial landscape of Kochi: after the Dutch period, the property was leased to the British in 1909 and was used as accommodation for British governors until Indian independence. In 1976, KTDC took over the property and converted it into a heritage hotel, giving the historic building a continuing role within Kochi’s tourism landscape. The palace stands within an approximately eight-acre property overlooking the waters of Vembanad Lake and the Kochi harbour area. Its architecture retains characteristic Dutch influences, with tiled roofs, wood-framed windows, strong pillars and spacious halls set among mature trees and landscaped lawns. The wider property has evolved beyond the original palace, incorporating accommodation, gardens, a nine-hole golf course established in 1925, the Bolgatty Event Centre and the Kochi International Marina. The island setting provides opportunities to observe the busy maritime landscape of Kochi, including vessels moving through the harbour and estuary, while the surrounding waters and greenery create a quieter atmosphere than much of the mainland city. KTDC lists morning and evening walks, birdwatching, traditional fishing activities and boating among the activities available at the property, although individual experiences and availability can vary. The palace and island are also connected with Kochi’s broader heritage and waterfront attractions, making the location useful for visitors interested in the city’s colonial history, maritime traditions and backwater landscape. The property’s lawns, waterfront setting and historic architecture contribute to its appeal as a heritage accommodation and event venue, while the preserved palace provides a tangible link to Kochi’s Dutch and British colonial periods. Rather than functioning solely as a museum, Bolgatty Palace remains a living heritage property where historic architecture, hospitality and contemporary tourism coexist. Its combination of Dutch-era history, island scenery, landscaped grounds and access to Kochi’s waterways makes it a distinctive heritage destination within the city.

🚆 Railway: Ernakulam Junction — approximately 6 km; Ernakulam Town railway station is about 5 km from Bolgatty Palace according to KTDC.

✈️ Airport: Cochin International Airport — approximately 40 km from the property according to the current KTDC access information.

🚌 Bus: Bolgatty Palace is accessible by road via the Goshree bridges. The nearest bus terminal listed by KTDC is Ernakulam, approximately 5 km away; local road transport can be used for the onward journey to Bolgatty Island.

🏨 Stay: Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort is a current KTDC Premium Heritage Property offering palace rooms, cottages, suites and other accommodation within the resort complex.

✅ Notes: The palace was built in 1744 and is currently operated as a KTDC heritage property. Facilities and activities listed by KTDC include boating, birdwatching, island walks, traditional fishing observation, a golf course and the Kochi International Marina. Availability of individual activities should be confirmed with the property in advance