The story of Cochin is also the story of the Cochin Royal Family. One among three major royal dynasties of Kerala, the Cochin Royal Family played a significant role in shaping Kerala’s history, both past and present. While narrating the fascinating story of the royal family, the trail also aims to create awareness, both within the family and outside, the alarming pace at which the Family and the City is losing its heritage. On this trail we explore the origins of the Royal Family and the rise and fall in their fortunes with the arrival of the Europeans before their eventual merger with the Indian Union. We look at their role in developing the modern city of Kochi and their contributions in the field of art, culture, language, education and medicine. We start with the Hill Palace, the last seat of power of the Cochin Rajahs, now a Museum, before moving to the residential quarters of the royal family that radiates around the family temple and showcases some of the best in traditional and colonial architecture. High-tea with present day members of the family at their private residence is how we bring the trail to an end. Please Note: “Palace” in a Kerala context is very different from what you would see in Mysore or Rajasthan. The interaction with the royal family will be an informal one.