What is the Difference Between Kochi and Cochin?

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Kochi and Cochin refer to the same city in Kerala, India, which is often confused by travelers due to the dual names. The difference between the two names is primarily historical and cultural:

  • Kochi: This is the local name for the city, derived from the Malayalam word "kochazhi," which means "small estuary". The official name of the city is Kochi, and it was declared as such in the 1990s.
  • Cochin: This is the name given to the city by the British during their colonial rule. It is still used by many people who live there or who travel to Kochi, and the airport is also known as Cochin International Airport.

In summary, Kochi and Cochin are the same city, with Kochi being the local name and Cochin being the name given by the British. Despite the official name change to Kochi, both names are still used interchangeably by locals and travelers alike.

Comparative Table: Kochi vs Cochin

The terms Kochi and Cochin refer to the same city, which is a major port city along the Malabar Coast of India bordering the Laccadive Sea. The city is part of the district of Ernakulam, and both Kochi and Cochin are used interchangeably. However, the local administration has officially changed the city's name to Kochi. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two names:

Feature Kochi Cochin
Name Present official name of the city Former name of the city, still used by many people
Popularity Used by the local administration Used by most people in India and abroad
Origin Derived from the Malayalam word "Kochazhi" Given to the city by colonial powers

In summary, Kochi and Cochin are the same city with two different names. The city is now officially called Kochi, but the name Cochin is still widely used.