The Tower House

During Europe's Age of Discovery, the various kingdoms on the continent were scrambling to establish trade routes to the once-mythical lands where spices were said to grow. Portugal was one of these powers and was among the earliest to navigate a route around Africa and reach India. They first established a trading post in Calicut, now modern-day Kozhikode. Although they were driven away from Calicut after relations with the natives broke down horribly, the Portuguese were able to resettle in the nearby kingdom of Kochi in 1503, where they established a fortified settlement.

It was during this time that a lighthouse was established near the shore to guide ships. Though the lighthouse no longer exists, the site inspired the name of Neemrana's Tower House that stands here today. This current heritage mansion was built by the Dutch, who took Kochi from the Portuguese in the 1600s. It served as a bungalow for their officers until it was purchased in 1928 by the British Pierce Leslie Company.

While records are scarce regarding the construction of the mansion we now call the Tower House, it has a very apparent Indo-colonial architecture that blends Dutch, Portuguese, and native Kerala conventions.

The structure uses laterite and granite stones for its masonry, while the region's abundant teak wood makes up most of the walls, ceilings, upper-story flooring, and beams. For better temperature control and air circulation, the bungalow was designed with tall ceilings and spacious halls. Arched portals and colonial-style columns are also common elements seen throughout the property. Other aspects that contribute to the Tower House's colonial atmosphere are its terracotta tiled roofs and its whitewashed facade. The interior design, though modern, embraces vintage and native touches, equipping rooms with sleek, carved wooden furniture.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The whole Fort Kochi district, where Neemrana's Tower House is located, is pretty much a heritage site due to the number of cultural experiences and landmarks found here. The majority of these attractions are within walking distance, so you can ensure your itinerary is easily filled with fun and interesting activities.

Right across the Tower House are the Chinese Fishing Nets, a shore lined with cantilevered lift nets meant to catch fish that gather near the water's edge. St. Francis Church is recognized as India's first and oldest European church, first established by Portuguese Catholic missionaries in 1503, but later converted by the Dutch for Protestant use. Cochin is also known for being the home of the oldest Jewish groups in Asia, with the local community centered around the Paradesi Synagogue.

If you'd like to learn more about Kochi's culture and history in general, drop by the Indo-Portuguese Museum, where you'll find various exhibits about life during the Colonial Era. You can also catch live performances of traditional martial arts and dances at the Kathakali Dancing Theater.

Of course, you should also explore the region to discover the many other facets of Kochi. Boat cruises and ferries have been the traditional method of getting around. Whether it's to watch the sunset on the Arabian Sea, or to visit villages deep in the jungle, you can arrange for a boat trip to take you to your desired destination.

Other Celebrations

Need a nice place to accommodate your corporate function? Neemrana's Tower House provides not only lovely accommodations, the city of Kochi will also be host to a variety of activities worth checking out. Take your team on trips around historic neighborhoods, or go on an excursion or cruise out on the sea. As for venues for meetings and conferences, the management can prepare an indoor venue with a capacity for 20 participants. Audio-visual equipment is available but will be provided at an extra charge.