» Introduction
» Prime Attractions of Cochin (Kochi)
» Tour from Kochi
How To Reach Ernakulam
By Air
International Airport at Nedumbassery is 20 kms from town
By Rail
Ernakulam (Cochin) is a major railhead of the Southern Railway.
Main Station is Ernakulam (Cochin) junction and other 2 stations are Ernakulam (Cochin) town and Kochi Harbour Terminus.
By Road
Ernakulam is accessible by road from all major cities.
Ferries
There are two ferry stations in Ernakulam (Cochin). The main boat jetty is one km from the junction railway station and the other is near the high court.
Local Transport
Taxis, city buses and autorickshaws.
Ernakulam - Queen of Arabian Sea
Ernakulam (Cochin) is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea with Kumarakom and Allapuzha districts on the South, Idukki on the East and Thrissur on the North. The commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala, Kochi, in ernakulam, is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea.
Cochin, the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala, has one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Ancient mariners from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal have all left their mark on this beautiful island city.
One of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea coast, Cochin, earlier known as Cochin has been a port of call for foreign traders from early times. Its cosmopolitan character is reflected in the buildings and structures representing different regions of the world. A city of peninsulas and islands, today it is Kerala's commercial hub.
Ernakulam is Kerala's prime tourist destination, it spreads across islands and promontories in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and Backwaters. Its main sections: modern Ernakulam in the east and the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin on a peninsula in the west are linked by a complex system of ferries.
Ernakulam - Commercial Capital of Kerala
A prime tourist destination and also the commercial capital the district represents the modern facet of Kerala.
The most cosmopolitan of the state's cities, Cochin has been long eulogised in tourist literature as the `Queen of the Arabian Sea'. The beauty of the place is stunningly different and has long-standing maritime importance.
Cochin is Kerala's major port, which is strategically located on the East-West trade route. Boasting of one of the finest natural harbours in the world, the city forms the hub around which the city revolves. Most of the city's commercial centres and shops are located in the town called Ernakulam, which also lends its name to the district.
The Backwaters extend east and south of the harbour and contain tiny islands formed naturally over a long time by alluvial deposits from the rivers that empty into them.
Prime Attractions of Cochin (Kochi)
Bolghatty Palace
This island is famous for its palace of the same name. The bolghatty palace Was built built by the Dutch in 1744 AD the dutch and later taken over by the British. Today it is a hotel run by the kerala tourism (KTDC), with a small golf course and special honeymoon cottages.
Bolghatty Palace is on an island, off Cochin in the Arabian Sea. The building was once a Governor's palace for the Dutch and later the home of the British Governors.
The palace is two-storeyed and contains well-decorated bed chambers, a huge lounge wherein historical portraits are displayed. The ferry ride from the mainland Ernakulam to the island is a pleasurable experience. There is a golf course to boot. |
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Dutch Palace
Dutch Palace is also known as Mattancherry Palace. The palace with its medieval charm is situated at Palace Road, Mattancherry,10km from Ernakulam city, Kochi, Kerala. Built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi Veera Kerala Varma (1537-65) in 1555 AD, it took on its present popular name 'Dutch Palace' after 1663, when the Dutch carried out some extensions and renovations in the palace. The rajas also made more improvements to it.
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In the centre of the building, is the Coronation Hall where the Cochin Rajas held their coronations. Adjacent rooms contain 17th century Murals depicting scenes from the great Indian epic, the Ramayana. On display in the palace are the dresses, turbans, weapons and palanquins from that era. |
The palace is a double-storeyed quadrangular building that surrounds a central courtyard containing a Hindu Temple, enshrining the royal deity, Palayannur Bhagavati. Two more temples are situated on either side of the Palace dedicated to Lord Krishna & Lord Siva respectively.
Timings : The palace is open all days for the public between 10 am and 5 pm except on Fridays and National Holidays. Photography is not permitted.
Jewish Synagogue
The Jewish community of Cochin (Kochi) Kerela, India dominated the trade in spices from South India to the Middle East and Europe long before the Portuguese arrived in India in 1498. Many Portuguese Jews arrived in India in the early sixteenth century. After the Portuguese captured the settlement of Cranganore in 1523, the Jews fled to Cochin where they were joined by Jews from Goa fleeing the inquisition.
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The Jewish Synagogue, the oldest Paradesi Synagogue Synagogue in the common wealth countries was built in 1568 AD. Located at Mattancherry, the Synanogue still has the scrolls of the Old Testament and the copper plates, which recorded the grants of privilege, bequeathed by the Kochi rulers. |
Rebuilt by Dutch after having been partially destroyed in the war of 1662 AD, the exquisite hand painted blue Chinese tiles offer an interesting sight. In mid-18th century, the clock tower was added.
Not one of the nearly two hundred year old tiles resembles another. There are several finely wrought gold and silver crowns gifted to the synanogue by the various patrons.
Timing : The Synagogue is open from 10 am to 12 noon and 3 pm to 5 pm on all days except Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
Main Attraction : Oldest Synagogue In The Common Wealth Countries.
Cheeyappara Waterfalls
The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi - Madurai highway. The Cheeyappara Waterfalls cascade down in seven steps. It is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking. It is noted for two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering.
Valara waterfalls are 10 km from Adimali on the Kochi - Madurai highway. Valara has a chain of waterfalls surrounded by thick green forests.
Chottanikkara Temple
Chottanikkara temple, located near Ernakulam enshrines Bhagawati - the mother Goddess, one of the most popular deities in Kerala. The Devi is worshipped along with Lord Vishnu. Together, they are known as Lakshminarayana.
People who have mental illness seek refuge in the divine mother, who graciously cures all her devotees. Goddess Rajarajeswari is the presiding deity.
This deity is worshipped in three different forms - as Saraswati in the morning - draped in white, as Bhadrakali at noon draped in crimson, and as Durga in the evening decked in blue.
Significance
The Mental Illness of People are said to be cured by worshipping the deity here
Mythological
It is locally believed that the deity appeared in front of Vilvamangalam Swamigal, a saint associated with this shrine and with Guruvayoor.
Vilvamangalam Swamy is said to have discovered Bhadrakali enshrined in Keezhkaavu.
General Informatons
The annual festival here is celebrated in the month of Kumbha (February - March). 'Maasi Magam', coinciding with the full moon, during this festival attracts vast crowds.
Timings
The temple is kept open from 5:30 in the morning and stays so till 12:00 in the noon.The temple usually remains closed during the noon hours, and reopens in the evening at 4:00 p.m.
The temple closes in the night after the last pujas are performed by 8:00.
Main Attraction
The image in the shrine is not fixed to the ground and is mounted on loose sand. Water offered during ablution ceremonies percolates underground.
Location
Near Ernakulam, Kerala.
Cochin Carnival
Cochin Carnival is a merry making feast observed during the last week of every year in Fort Kochi in Kerala. The carnival dates back to the Portuguese New Year revelry held here during the colonial days.
It has evolved as an occasion for the youth to enjoy the party-like atmosphere with unique games, competitions and illumination during these days, Fort Kochi puts on a festive look. The highlight of the Carnival is the massive procession on the New Year Day. Organising For The Celebration. The procession is led by a caparisoned elephant accompanied by drums and music, spectacular floats, different folk art forms, Panchavadyam etc. north indian dances also figure in the festivities.
Celebration Preparations & Decorations
The procession is led by a caparisoned elephant accompanied by drums and music, spectacular floats, different folk art forms, Panchavadyam etc. north indian dances also figure in the festivities.
Edapalli Perunal
The feast at the ancient Roman Catholic Church of Edapalli Perunnal is situated on the National Highway (NH 47) between Ernakulam and Aluva. An ornate chariot carries the statue of St. George in a procession with musical accompaniment and a brilliant display of bright coloured parasols. Fowls are the main offering at this church. The annual feast of this church commences on the 23rd of April and the chief ceremony is held on the 4th of May.
Indira Gandhi Boat Race
Indira Gandhi Boat Race is a grand fest on the rolling backwaters of Kochi. The sixteen majestic snake boats racing neck to neck in gaiety and competition to the sky-rending cheers of the multitudes, is a unique sight. Conducted in the last week of December, it is a fitting finale to the Tourism Fair, which attracts travellers from all parts of the globe. The coveted trophy of the race was instituted in memory of Indira Gandhi, the late Prime Minister of India.
Jewish Festival
The Jews of Kerala are believed to have migrated to this place in the first century following the destruction of the second temple of Jerusalem in 72 AD.
The Jewish community in Kerala settled mainly in and around Mattancherry, Kochi. The Passover Festival to commemorate the liberation of Jews from Egyptian slavery is celebrated in April/ May every year.
The Pentecost Festival follows the Passover, and the feast of the Tabernacles are also observed. The New Year celebration which falls in September/ October and Hanukka, the 'festival of lights', are other popular festivals.
Celebration Trends And Rituals
The Jews of Kerala are believed to have migrated to this place in the first century following the destruction of the second temple of Jerusalem in 72 AD.
Kanjiramattom Mosque
The mosque is situated at Kanjiramattom, 30 km from Kochi. Kanjiramattom mosque is believed to be built as a memorial to Sheikh Fariduddin. Another great Muslim saint, Baver is supposed to have prayed here and attained salvation.
The Kodikuthu festival, which falls in December-January, is a major attraction for thousands of devotees. A huge procession is held in the night, when the pilgrims carrying pots of sandalwood paste proceed to the mosque as part of a ritual called as ' Chandanakkudam'. |
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Six caparisoned elephants and folk performances are the main attractions of the procession. Traditional Muslim art forms like 'Oppana' and 'Mappilappattu' are also staged during the festival.
Kanjiramattom Festival
The festival of 'Kodikuthu' is celebrated on the 14th of January each year, in Kanjiramattom Mosque, 25 kms from Ernakulam.
Celebration Trends And Rituals
The mosque is believed to have been built as a memorial to Sheikh Faridudddin. During the "Chandanakkudam" ritual at night, pilgrims carrying pots covered with sandalwood paste proceed in a procession to the mosque.
Organising For The Celebration
Six caparisoned elephants and folk performances accompany the procession. Traditional Muslim art forms like Oppana and Mappilappattu are also staged during the festival.
Kodungaloor Bharani
Kodungalloor, 50 kms north of Kochi, was the ancient port town of Muziris or Crangannore. Goddess Bhagavathi is the presiding deity of the ancient temple here.
The Bharani Festival, which falls in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March/ April) attracts the largest congregation of 'Velichappadu' (Oracles), including women from different parts of the State.
Malayatoor Perunal
The feast or the 'Perunnal' at the famous Catholic Church at Malayatoor is celebrated on the Sunday after Easter, in the months of March/April. Atop the 2000 feet high Malayatoor Hill, about 52 kms from Kochi, the church is dedicated to St. Thomas.
Celebration Trends And Rituals. It is believed that the Apostle, who came to India in the first century A.D, visited Malayattoor twice. Pilgrims of all faiths from far and near proceed uphill, chanting the name of the Apostle.
Santa Cruz Basillica Chruch
The Santa Cruz Basilica is a historic church that was built by the Portuguese. The church was elevated to a cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558 AD. In 1795 AD, it fell into the hands of the British when they took over Cochin and was demolished.
About a hundred years later, Bishop Dom Gomez Ferreira commissioned a new building at the same site in 1887 AD. The church was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984 by Pope John Paul II.
St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church is a granite church set on quiet lawns amidst the bustle of Fort Kochi, 10 kms from Ernakulam. Originally named as Santo Antonio, this protestant church was originally built by the Europeans in India.
Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 AD. Though 14 years later his mortal remains were taken to Portugal, the carved gravestone can still be seen in the church.
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It also has crypts of Portugese nobles. St. Francis Church was the first church to have been built in the new European influenced style and tradition. The original wooden building of 1510 AD was replaced by the present building around 1546 AD. |
A cenotaph erected in 1920 AD, in memory of the residents of Cochin who fell in the First Great War was unveiled by the Governor of Madras. The boundary walls were erected in 1924 AD.
Significance
First European Church In India.
General Information
Location : Fort Kochi, Kerala.
Unique Features : Vasco da Gama was buried here.
Religious Practices : There are regular worship meetings in the church every Sunday and commemorative days.
Tour from Kochi
Bhoothathankettu
Bhoothathankettu is 63 kms from Cochin, it's a beautiful spot replete with a dam and boating facilities. Trekking through the forests here is an exhilarating experience.
Cherai Beach
Cherai Beach is 42 kms away from Ernakulam. This is one of the must visit places of Ernakulam is the Cherai Beach. Bordering the nearby Vypeen Island, which is also an ideal location for swimming and the Bolghatty Island, famous for its palace of the same name attracts a considerable number of tourists every year.
The Bolghatty Palace of the island was built in 1744 by the Dutch and later taken over by the British. Now the palace has been converted to a hotel by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. It also has a small gold course and few special honeymoon cottages. |
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This lovely beach bordering Vypeen Island is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby is an added attraction of this beach.
Fort Cochin
The St. Francis Church is located in Fort Cochin, which was built in 1510 AD, by five Portuguese priests who arrived with Albuquerque. The church, the burial site for Vasco da Gama in 1524 AD is said to be the oldest European church built in India.
Gundu Island
Here is the magnificent 16th century Pallipuram Fort that is open only on Thursdays.
Jew Town
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Today Jew Town, in the Mattancherry section and a short walk from the ferry, is one street long. The area around the Synagogue. Jews used to occupy virtually all the houses on Jew Town Road, where they sold fruits, vegetables and spices or worked as oil pressers or carpenters. |
The spice markets are still located on the narrow street, but most of the homes and businesses belong to non-Jews. Out of seven synagogues that once graced this street, only the Paradesi is still open.
Kodanad
45 kms from Cochin, it is one of the largest elephant capturing camps and training centres in India. It is on the southern banks of Periyar River amidst the beautiful high ranges near Perumbadoor. Even though elephant capture was banned in 1977, the training centre continues to function.
Kodungalloor
Formerly called Muziris, it was a famed sea-port on the west coast in ancient tomes, where St. Thomas is supposed to have landed in 52 AD. It was also the capital of Cheraman Perumal, a King of Kerala, whose famous palace Allal Perumkovilakam was situated near the great pagoda at Thiruvanchikulam.
Pareekshith Thampuran Museum
This sprawling, traditional Kerala style building previously called the Durbar Hall, houses 19th century oil paintings, a collection of old coins, sculptures and Mughal paintings. The museum remains open from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. all weekdays except Mondays.
Vypeen Island
There is a magnificent lighthouse at Ochanthuruth, which remains open from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily.
Tour from Kochi
Fort Kochi Beach
Fort Kochi Beach is 12 Km away from Kochi. A leisurely walk through the lanes of the city is the best way to discover historic Fort Cochin. An obscure fishing village that became the first European township in India, Cochin has an eventful and colourful history.
An obscure fishing village that became the first European township in India, Kochi has an eventful and colourful history. The town was shaped by the Portuguese, the Dutch and later the British.
The result of these cultural interfaces is seen in the remains of the Indo-European architecture here. Cochin Carnival on the New Year eve is a colourful festival not to be missed at the beach site.
Bastion Bunglow
Built in the Indo-European style way back in 1667 AD, Bastion Bungalow get its name from its location on the site of the Stromberg Bastion of the old, Dutch fort. The building blends beautifully into the circular structure of the bastion, has a tiled roof and typical first floor verandah in wood, along its front portion.
Though it has been said that a network of secret tunnels runs beneath the bungalow, none has been found till now. Today, the bungalow is the official residence of the Sub-Collector.
Style of Architecture: Indo-European Style
Bishops House
Built by the Portuguese in A.D.1506 as residence of the Portuguese governor. Bishop house is the oldest Catholic Dioceses in India located near the Parade ground, Fort Kochi. A prominent heritage of Fort Kochi, it is characterised by large arches in Gothic Style and has circular garden path winding up to the main entrance.
The building was acquired by Dome Jos Gomes Ferreira, the 27th Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin whose jurisdiction extended over Burma, Malaya and Ceylon in addition to India.
The Indo Portuguese Museum within the palace compound has some historically significant invaluable collections. There is also the dinning area, known as Dr. Mario Sorais Hall, senate hall, teak staircase, large attics, collection of Portuguese maps, small collection of antiques and the other historical materials.
Hill Palace
Located at a distance of 10 kilometers from Kochi, Hill Palace, the official residence of the Kochi Royal Family was built in 1865. Consisting of 49 buildings, the palace is built in the Traditional Architectural Style of Kerala and is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land. |
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Hill Palace Museum, Kochi, Kerala
Exhibited inside the thirteen galleries are oil paintings, 19th century Paintings, Murals, sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, inscriptions, coins, belongings of the Kochi Royal Family, Paliathachan's gallery and royal furniture including the 'Simhasana' (the throne or the king's chair).
There are on display 200 antique pieces of pottery and ceramic vases from China and Japan, Kudalkall, tomb stone 'thoppikkallu', hood stone 'menhirs' in granite and Literate memorials, rock cut caves belonging to the early iron, age wooden temple models.
There is an amazing array of plaster cast models of objects from Mohanjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley civilization of North India. The upper story houses a gallery of contemporary art.
The huge area over which the museum is spread provides the facilities for other recreation activities as well. The huge expanse of land that surrounds the royal palace has a Deer Park and has facilities for horse riding also
Timings : The museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days except Mondays.
Koder House
Koder House is a meeting place of the past and the present. Koder House, the magnificent building constructed by Samuel. S. Koder of the Cochin Electric Company in 1808 AD is a supreme example of transition from colonial to Indo-European architecture. Features like Veranda Seats at the entrance, floor tiles set in a chess board pattern, red coloured brick like facade, carved wood furniture and a wooden bridge connecting to separate structure across the street are unique to this Bungalow.
Nestling in the historic part of Fort Cochin, this is a charming three-storey boutique hotel with a distinctive red facade. The ancestral home of the Koders, a prominent Cochin Jewish family, the centuries’ old property is a tribute to the rich mixed culture of the area – a melange of Portuguese, Dutch, Kerala and even Chinese influences. Today, it is owned and run by Amar Properties and Investments. Koder House will offer travellers an experience that is completely unique. And exclusive – because it offers just 6 super luxury suites!
Malayatoor Church
Located 52 kms from Kochi, the Malayatoor Church is situated atop the 609 m high Malayatoor Hill. The church is dedicated to St. Thomas, who is believed to have prayed at this shrine.
One of the most important Christian pilgrim centres in Kerala, this holy shrine attracts devotees in very large numbers not only from Kerala but also from the neighbouring states.
This famous church is situated at Kurisumudi, a verdant hill in the Western Ghats girdled partially by the river Periyar. The Church has a life-size statue of St. Thomas and the imprint of the feet of the Apostle on a rock.
At Malayatoor, the first Sunday after Easter is considered to be a very important day. Pilgrims, chanting the name of the Apostle ('Ponninkurisumala Muthappa'), climb Kurisumudi, the steep hill to visit the holy shrine.
Altitude : 609 m Above Sea Level
Unique Features : The Imprint of Feet of St.Thomas on a rock.
Museum of Kerala History
Situated 8 Kms from Kochi. The Museum of Kerala History is at Edapally on the way to Aluva. It is the best place to have a quick glimpse of Kerala's history. A statue of Parasurama, the sage who is said to have created Kerala, greets the visitors.
Life size figures depict important landmarks of civilization from the Neolithic age to the modern era. There is an excellent narration of Kerala history in the past 2000 years. This 'live' Museum is not just a retelling of the past but is a Light and Sound show of three-dimensional visuals. 87 figures who shaped the history and culture of Kerala in the last two thousand years have been represented here in Light and Sound Tableaus. The story, from the Early peoples of Kerala to the modern age is interspersed with Social, Cultural and literary facets is a fascinating one.
The commentary is in English as well as in Malayalam. 87 figures who shaped the history and culture of Kerala in the last two thousand years have been represented here in Light and Sound Tableaus.
The light and sound shows take place in the following timings:
10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30 12:00, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00 15:30, 16:00.
The museum remains closed on Mondays and Public holidays.
Pallippuram Fort
Situated on the northern fringe of the Vypeen Island, Pallippuram Fort was built in 1507 AD, by the Portugese. It is considered to be the first fort built in India by the Europeans.
It witnessed several battles between the Portugese and the Dutch. The hexagonal-shaped fort has three storeys and is now a protected monument.
One of the oldest existing European monuments in India, Pallippuram Fort was captured by the Dutch in 1661 AD and finally sold to the State of Travancore in 1789 AD. The Catholic Church at Pallippuram is an important pilgrim centre for the Christians.
Significance : One of Oldest remaining European Monuments in India.
Pierce Leslie Bungalow
The elegant mansion was the office of Pierce Leslie & Co.,Coffee merchants, founded in 1862. A representative of the Fort Cochin colonial bungalow, this building reflects Portuguese, Dutch and 10cal influences.
Characteristic features of this bungalow are wood panels that form the roof of ground floor, arched doorways, carved doors and sprawling rooms. Water front verandas are an added attraction to the magnifient house.
Significance : Office of Pierce Leslie & Co
Unique Features : Wood Panels that form the roof of the Ground Floor and Water Front Verandas.
Thankur House
Thakur house, the graceful building holds within itself a reflection of the colonial era.
The Bungalow was built on the site of the Gelderland Bastion, one of the seven bastions of the old Dutch fort. Earlier known as Kunal or Hill Bungalow, it was home to the managers of the National Bank of India during the British reign.
Today, the Bungalow belongs to Ram Bahadur Thakur and Company, the renowned tea-trading firm.
Vasco House
Believed to have been the residence of Vasco da Gama, this is one of the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Cochin.
Built in the early 16th century Vasco House sports the typical European glass paned windows and Balcony cum Verandas characteristic of the times.
Significance : Residence of Vasco Da Gama.
Aluva
Aluva is 20 kms away from north of Cochin, this town is situated on the banks of the river Periyar. In February- March, this town celebrates the famous Sivarathri festival, attended by thousands of devotees.
Chennamangalam
42 kms from Ernakulam. It was one of the chief Jewish centres in Kerala. There is an oriental Jewish synagogue in the old Jewish colony. In its vicinity, lie the ruins of the Vypeenkotta seminary built by the Portuguese and an ancient Syrian Catholic Church.
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Kalady
Located on the banks of the river Periyar, this is the birthplace of the 8th century Advaita philosopher, Sri Shankaracharya. The town is famous for its many temples. |
Koonankurissu
Located in Mattancherry, the place is famous for the oath taken in front of it by the Malankara Syrian Christians, which paved the path for the division of Christians in Kerala into Roman Catholics and Malankara Syrian Christians. Before the split, the Christians were united under the fold of the Catholic Bava of the East.
Willingdon Islands
Named after Lord Willingdon, one of the British Viceroys, Willingdon Islands are Cochin's famous islands. Situated between Ernakulam and Mattancherry and separated from both by the Backwaters, it is a man-made island created by using the soil obtained while dredging the Cochin harbour to allow vessels with deeper draughts to dock.
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