Ernakulam reflects the urban face of God's Own Country. With the metropolis of Kochi at its heart and housing luxurious shopping malls, myriad restaurants and majestic skyscrapers, Ernakulam is considered to be the cultural, political, commercial and industrial hub of Kerala.

From ancient religious sites to various historical sites, exotic islands, stunning beaches, magnificent palaces, amazing museums, sanctuaries, parks, and shopping malls, there are a lot of tourist attractions in Ernakulam and it is a favourite hub of tourists visiting Kerala.

The place was formerly known as Kochi which is one of the finest natural harbours of the world. It is nicknamed as "The Queen of the Arabian Sea" and is a harmonious amalgamation of Western influence and Indian culture.

According to the overall tourist footfall in Kerala, Ernakulam stands first. This city has maintained trade network with Jewish, Chinese, Portuguese, Greeks, Arabs and Roman merchants because of which the lifestyle of people in Ernakulam is a blend of these different cultures.

Popular As : Kochi

Prominent Places to Visit

Fort Kochi: It is the commercial capital of Kerala which houses a lot of tourist attractions like Bastion Bungalow Vasco Da Gama square Pierce Leslie Bungalow, Bishop's house, Fort Immanuel Thakur House David Hall Parade Ground. Chinese Fishing nets are the major highlight of Fort Kochi.

Mattancherry Palace: This palace was built by the Portuguese which depicts the traditional art and architecture of Kerala and was later gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi.

Jewish Synagogue: It is said to be one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations which is also known by the name Pardesi Synagogue.

Ernakulathappan Temple: Also known as Ernakulam Shiva Temple, it is counted along with the other major Shiva temples in Kerala such as Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple, Kaduthruthy Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom Temple, Chengannur Mahadeva Temple and Vadakkunnathan temple.

Marine Drive: It is the popular hangout of the locals as well as the tourists in Ernakulam and also an important tourist destination.

Hill Palace Museum: It is said to be the largest archaeological museum as well as the first heritage museum in Kerala.

St. Francis Church: It is said to be the oldest church in India built by the Europeans. The remains of the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama were initially buried at this church and 14 years later, his mortal remains were taken to Portugal.

Santa Cruz Basilica Church: It is the centre of historic significance which is endowed with artistic and architectural grandeur and colours of the gothic style. It is counted as one of the eight Basilicas in Kerala and as one of the heritage edifices of Kerala.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: It is nicknamed as the ‘Green Lung of Kochi’ which provides a nesting ground for many exotic migratory birds and housing vast mangrove forest.

Coonan Kurishu Shrine: It is known as Bent Cross church and is a famous shrine in Ernakulam.

Cherai Beach: It is a picturesque spot to hang out for a picnic which offers a unique combination of the sea and the backwaters and the golden sandy shore is dotted with colourful seashells.

Bolghatty Palace: Built by the Dutch traders in the year 1744, the Bolghatty Palace in Ernakulam district is one of the oldest existing Dutch palaces in the world.

Willington Island: Surrounded by the backwaters of Kochi, Willington Island is a gorgeous man-made island in Ernakulam district.

Vallarpadam Church: It is a popular pilgrimage centre in Ernakulam and this shrine is also known as Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom.

Best Time To Visit

Ernakulam can be visited throughout the year.

October marks the winter season in Ernakulam which continues till February with temperature ranging between 20 degree Celsius to 29 degree Celsius. The weather is pleasant which is ideal for sightseeing and is also the best time to attend the festivals in the city. During the monsoon season from July to September, Ernakulam receives an average rainfall of 3000 mm. The temperature ranges between 22.5 degree Celsius to 33.5 degree Celsius during the summer months of March to June in Ernakulam and the temperature is too humid during this season.

Way to Reach

 By Air - Cochin International airport is the nearest airport to Ernakulam which is located at a distance of 27 Km.

 By Rail - Ernakulam Town Railway Station and Ernakulam South Railway Station are the two nearest railway station to Ernakulam which is at a distance of 3 Km respectively.

 By Road - Ernakulam is well connected to other major cities of the country by regular buses.

Things to Do

To Shop

You can find a wide range of shops in Ernakulam that caters to the needs of the tourists. Ernakulam is a shopper's delight with jewellery, textiles, readymade garments, handicrafts, antiques as well as spices. A lot of shopping centres are available in M.G Road, Broadway and Marine Drive in the mainland Ernakulam and Jew Town in Mattancherry, Kadavanthara, half a km east of downtown Kochi and the adjacent Vytilla Junction.

Travel Tip

• While visiting the temples, make sure to follow the dress codes
• Sunscreen, cotton clothes, sunglasses and hats are a must.
• Don't forget to carry Umbrella, especially during monsoon season.