Bolgatty Palace
March 26, 2010 by admin
Filed under Bolgatty Palace
Bolgatty Palace – Cochin
Bolgatty Palace in Cochin is among the oldest existing palaces built by Dutch in India, before the British period. This is the greatest feature of Bolgatty Palace and the glorious edifice is still well-maintained. With the construction of the Goshree Bridge, this island which was previously connected only to the mainland by ferry services, is easily accessible from Ernakulam and is barely a 10 minute drive from the High Court Junction in the city. However, once if you arrive at this extensive land known as Bolgatty Palace, there is peace and serenity that shuts all loud noises of the bustle of the mainland. Kochi has long been one of the important trading centers of India, attracting traders and seafarers. In 1744, the Dutch traders built this palace, initially as a villa. Later, the villa was extended and green gardens were added all around it.
The palace is a two – storied edifice with well-laid verandas on both the sides facing the sea. The upper floor is of timber and contains the bedrooms. The imposing columns of the porch and veranda, supporting the timber alls, and the glossy sash windows are typical features of the Dutch colonial style. In 1947, after India gained her independence, the Bolgatty Palace of Cochin became the property of the state and was later transformed into a heritage hotel resort. Soon this scenic beauty changed into a beautiful resort with greenery everywhere and blue water. Also referred to as the Hotel Bolgatty Palace, it is now under the administration of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC).