Ernakulam is a gorgeous destination in Kerala - God's Own Country - which attracts tourists from all around the world.
It's home to several beautiful places, which you must visit on your Kerala trip.
This article brings you a list of the most popular ones among them.
Ernakulam - spreading over about 3,000 sq. kilometers of land - is the third (after Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram) most populous district in the South Indian state of Kerala. It served as a major commercial hub in the ancient era and attracted spice traders from England, China, Persia, Portugal,France, the Netherlands, and more. Therefore, it stands as a testimony to Kerala's cultural evolution over the centuries.
Ernakulam now attracts a huge number of tourists each year. Blessed with scenic natural beauty, it provides an abundance of rejuvenation to the visitors. Also, it houses numerous structures (some of which are centuries-old) which hold rich architectural significance.
Without further ado, let's have a look at the not-to-miss sites here.
Vypin consists of several islands
Vypin is located at a distance of about 5km from the main city of Ernakulam. It covers an area of 25 km and is considered among the most visited islands in India. It connects Kochi by Goshree bridges (which refer to a series of bridges) and touches the other two nearby islands Mulavukadu and Vallarpadam. The major highlights here are Cherai, Kalamukku, Perumpilly, Kuzhupilly, Fort Vypin, etc.
Pavakkulam Sri Mahadeva Temple has a unique architecture
Pavakkulam Sri Mahadeva Temple is an ancient temple located in the Kaloor region of Ernakulam. It's dedicated to Lord Mahadeva and makes for a highly sacred place for the Hindu community. It houses an idol of Lord Mahadeva which is revered among the locals. Also, it has a very unique and exquisite architecture, ornamented with wood carvings.
Mattancherry Palace is included in the "tentative list" of UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mattancherry Palace - popularly known as the Dutch Palace - was built in the mid-16th century by the Portuguese. The structure represents the Nālukettu style which is the traditional Kerala style of architecture. It also has some European influences as well. It's packed with murals depicting portraits (painted by local artists in western style) and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. The main highlights here are coins, stamps, a howdah, an ivory palanquin, ceremonial clothes used by the royalty, etc.
Apart from these, you can also visit Santa Cruz Basilica, Fort Kochi, Jew Street, etc.
