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Ernakulam was once the capital of the Kingdom of Cochin. ... It is located 220 kilometres (137 mi) north - west of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. The city has served as an incubator for many Malayali entrepreneurs and is a major financial and commercial hub of Kerala.
A stroll through the lanes of Fort Kochi will definitely attract you to the rustic and old-fashioned neighbourhood of Mattancherry. It is said that back in the days, this cheri (street), was lined with mutton butchers, and so it ended up being called “Muttoncherry” which over the years evolved into “Mattancherry”. Today the place exhibits centuries-old architectures and various social and cultural imprints left behind by foreigners. Declared as a heritage site by the government, Mattancherry has been an inspiration to historians, film-makers, travellers and artistes alike. Amongst all the Ernakulam tourist places, this museum is one of the most prominent attractions.
The St. Francis Church, well-known for its beautiful architecture and ambience, is believed to be one of the oldest churches built by the Europeans in India. The church's history dates back to 1503. It owes its origin to the Portuguese Franciscan Friars, who reached Kochi along with Pedro Alvarez Cabral.
This temple is one of the major Jain pilgrimage site of India. The temple is beautifully tiled with white marble and adorned with artworks, sculptured pillars and idols of Tirthankaras. The mulnayak of the temple is an idol of Dharmanatha, the 15th tirthankara.
This is the oldest palace built by the Dutch outside the Kingdom of Holland. The palace was built by a Dutch merchant in 1744. Later, it was renovated with a magnificent lawn and a number of reforms. The palace served as the official residence of Dutch Governor.
Located 52 km 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. ... This shrine has now been accorded an international pilgrimage station.
One of the first bird sanctuaries in Kerala and undeniably a haven for nature enthusiasts. In the words of Salim Ali (world famous ornithologist), Thattekkad is the “richest bird sanctuary in India” since it is home to hundreds of different endangered species of migratory birds. This thick deciduous forest has plantations of mahogany, teak, rosewood and rubber running through it. Make sure to bring along a pair of binoculars to get a glimpse of the birdlife. The best time to visit would be between November and March.
Hill Palace, built in 1865, is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and the administrative center of Cochin. The palace consists of 49 buildings in the local style of 54 acres and includes the Hill Palace Archaeological Museum, Heritage Museum, Deer Park, Prehistoric Park and Children’s Park. There are many medicinal plants around the palace. The Museum Hill Palace is now open to the public for days on Mondays. The Hill Palace is located at a distance of 14 km from Kochi. Hill Palace was built in 1865 by the Maharaja Of Cochin using his personal wealth.
Around two dozen kilometers from the industrial district of Ernakulam and to the side of the Vypeen Island lies every swimmer’s paradise, Cherai Beach. It is a favorite haunt of those looking for a relaxing swim with the backdrop of coconut groves being the added incentive. It provides a wonderful view of the famous Chinese Fishing Nets or Cheena Vala well. The nearby shacks provide you with fresh cuisine that fills you up perfectly after a delightful swim.