One of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea coast of India, Kochi, has been a port of call for foreign traders from very early times. A city of islands, today it is the commercial hub of Kerala. Kochi is connected with regular flights from Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Thiruvanthapuram and Chennai.  The sightseeing places include the Dutch Palace & Jewish Synagogue, built by the Portuguese. Koonan Kurishu Shrine, is a small chapel. The smallest island around Kochi, Gundu Island has a coir factory. Fort Kochi, 12 km from Ernakulam. The St. Francis Church, the oldest church constructed by the Europeans in India. Santa Cruz Basilica, the Roman Catholic church. Kochi is also famous for the big Chinese Fishing Nets, at the entrance of the Kochi Harbour. Willingdon Island, is a man made island created from materials drudged while deepening Kochi Port. Bolgatty Island, is a beautiful island lying close to Ernakulam. Bolgatty Palace is situated here. Pariksith Thampuran Museum has collections of 19th century things. There is a Shiva Temple situated close to the Kochi Cultural Center. Museum of Kerala History located at Edappally. Hill Palace Museum, is a archaeological museum. The near by places of  visit are Chennamangalam, The Pallipuram Fort, is one of the oldest existing European monuments. The Kanjiramattom Mosque, which is believed to have been erected over the mortal remains of Sheikh Parid. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, another important pilgrimage center. Ambalamugal, a fresh water lake. The Cherai Beach and Kalady are other important places.