Kochi (also known as Cochin) is a city in southwest India's coastal Kerala state. It has been a port since 1341, when a flood carved out its harbour and opened it to Arab, Chinese and European merchants. Sites reflecting those influences include Fort Kochi, a settlement with tiled colonial bungalows and diverse houses of worship. Cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, typical of Kochi, have been in use for centuries. Unknown too many, Kochi is nicknamed Queen of the Arabian Sea on account of its importance as a port city since the Medieval Period of India when it was an important spice trading centre. The port of Kochi is well connected to all other major ports in the world. October to February: Winters are by far the best time to visit Cochin as the weather is very pleasant. Temperatures range between 17 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. This is a great time of the year for honeymooners, beach bums and adventure seekers.