40 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kochi

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is a religious place located at Jew Town in the Mattancherry area of Kochi city. It is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, and among the must-visit places during your Kochi tour.

Also known as Paradesi Synagogue, & Mattancherry Synagogue, the Cochin Jewish Synagogue was constructed in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi for the Malabari Jewish community who mainly migrated from the Middle East and Europe. In 1662, it was destroyed by the Portuguese and then reconstructed, two years later, by the Dutch. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town and is the only one of the seven synagogues of the Cochin Jewish community still in use.

The complex has four buildings. It was built adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace temple on the land given to the Malabari Yehuden or 'Yehuden .....

...read more

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Fort Kochi Beach, or Kochi Beach is a pristine beach located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Kerala. Also called as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, it is one of the finest beaches in Kerala, and among the prime places to visit as part of Kochi holiday packages.

Often known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Fort Kochi Beach is a serene beach that offers a scenic view and natural beauty to its visitors. With its pristine water and tranquil ambiance, it is extremely admired by tourists and local people as well. The main attraction of this beach is the historic fort, which is the perfect example of European architecture. The presence of the Chinese fishing nets is probably the most easily identifiable one. The trees and the greenery on the walkway to the beach add to the serene atmosphere there. The beach also offers a breathtaking .....

...read more

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction, Chinese Fishing Nets are a type of fishing nets that dotted the harbor's mouth at Fort Kochi. These are among the most popular Kochi tourist attractions.

Locally known as Cheenavala, these nets were introduced in Fort Kochi by the Chinese explorer, Zheng He between 1350 and 1450 AD. The Chinese Fishing Nets are fixed land installations, used for fishing in a unique method. These nets are fixed on bamboo and teak poles holding them horizontally by huge mechanisms to pull them down into the sea. These nets are weighed by large stones tied to ropes.

The entire structure of the Chinese fishing nets is 10 meters in height, spreads 20 meters over the water body, and is operated by a team of six fishermen. Each net has a fixed operating depth and due to this, a net cannot be repeatedly worked in tidal waters. There are different fishing nets for the operation which .....

...read more

At a distance of 3 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Marine Drive is one the most beautiful spots in Kochi City.

The Marine Drive stretches from the Jankar Jetty in the north to the Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the locals. It is an important shopping centre in Kochi. The place offers wonderful views of sunset over the sea mouth. The gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine Drive an important tourist spot in Kochi. The 140 meter walkway passes through bridges, the Rainbow bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge. Country boats and motor boats are available at both the ends of walkway for rides in the backwaters.

...read more

At a distance of 4 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary situated behind the High Court, in the center of Kochi City. It is one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in Kerala, and among the most popular places of sightseeing in Kochi.

Established in 2004, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the smallest protected area under the state forest department. Covering over an area of about 2.74 hectares, the sanctuary also houses a shallow tidal lake surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation. The lake is connected with Kochi backwaters by a canal and is home to seven species of fishes. It is the only bird sanctuary in Kerala which is located in Mangrove forests. The word Mangal means mangroves in Portuguese.

The Bird Sanctuary plays a significant role in balancing the ecology of Kochi, hence it is .....

...read more

At a distance of 7.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St. George Ferona Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic church situated in Edappally, Kochi. It is one of the oldest churches in India, and among the top pilgrimage places to visit in Kochi.

This Roman Catholic Church was built in 594 AD in the land donated by the Raja of Edappally. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later, the Edappally church became known as St. George's Church.

The church has undergone many renovations since the time of its construction. The picture of the Virgin Mary surrounded by sculptures and angels was integrated with the altar during one such renovation. On the wall behind the .....

...read more

At a distance of 16 km from Kottayam, 36 km from Alleppey, 56 km from Kochi, 135 km from Munnar & 164 km from Trivandrum, Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous Kerala backwaters destination for traditional houseboat rides and among the most visited Kerala tourist places.

The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of an old temple Kumaran. Kumarakom is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi. Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. In order to protect the ecology of the place, the Kerala government has declared Kumarakom as a special tourism zone. Arundhati Roy, the author of the 1997 Booker Prize-winning 'The God of Small Things', was .....

Distance (From Kochi): 56 Kms
Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): Full Day
.....

...read more

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, St.Francis Church is the first European Church built in India. It is located on Parade Road in Fort kochi, less than 1 Km from Kochi Beach.

The Church was originally named as Santo Antonio, the patron Saint of Portugal. The history of this Church reflects the colonial struggle of European powers in India, from the 15th to 20th Centuries. The Portuguese Vasco da Gama was the first European to discover the sea route to India. In 1503 Alphonso Alburquerque was given permission by the Rajah of Cochin to build a fort. The original structure was built in wood, which was later rebuilt in stone. Vasco Da Gama has died in Kochi in 1524 and was originally buried in this church cemetery. After 14 years, his remains were moved to Lisbon in Portugal. The gravestone of Vasco Da Gama can still be seen here.

The Church became a protected monument in April 1923.

...read more

At a distance of 20 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Aluva Shiva Temple is the most famous Shiva temple in Kochi situated on the banks of Periyar River in Aluva.

The temple stands distinct as the Sivalinga or the idol of Lord Siva is not enshrined on any Pagoda. It stands alone on the vast sand banks of the river Periyar. During the monsoon season, the whole region gets flooded and the idol gets submerged in water. Shivarathri is the main festival of the temple carried out every year in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (February-March). The devotees stay awake the whole night in prayer. A dip in the river after observing the rituals of Shivarathri is considered very sacred.

...read more

At a distance of 38 km from Kochi & 36 Kms from Thrissur, Kodungallur, also known as Cranganore is a historical town located in Thrissur district on NH17 between Kochi and Kozhikode. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also an ideal getaway from Kochi for a short trip.

Kodungallur was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera Ruler in the 7th century AD. Kodungallur is home for several important historical monuments:

- Bhagawati Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala with history of above 2000 years and was mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha
- Thomas the Apostle of Jesus is believed to have landed in Kodungallur with his followers in the year 52 AD. This place has become the earliest Syrian Christian centre of Malabar. Monuments built in the memory of Thomas still exist here, including St. Thomas Church.
- Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque built in India in .....

...read more

The Indira Gandhi Boat Race is a boat race festival celebrated in Vembanad Lake during the last week of December to promote tourism. It is one of the most famous boat race festivals celebrated in Kerala.

About sixteen huge majestic snake boats participate in this boat racing festival. These huge boats race against each in this stunning festival. Tourists from all over the world visit Kochi to enjoy these celebrations.

The snake boats representing different villages of the region take part in the race. Each snake boat is manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and 100 to 125 oarsmen. Feeding them during practice sessions and on the festival day is the responsibility of the villagers or the sponsors.

...read more

At a distance of 10 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace located in Mattancherry locality of Kochi. Situated near Jewish Synagogue, it is one of the famous heritage sites in Kerala, and among the must-include places in Kochi holiday packages.
 
The Mattancherry Palace was built around 1545 CE by the Portuguese and gifted to the King of Cochin Veera Kerala Varma in the year 1555 CE. The Portuguese influence was further supplanted by the Dutch, who took over Mattancherry in 1663. The Dutch then carried out some extensions and renovations in 1663, and since then the palace was popularly known as the Dutch Palace. The palace was included in the 'tentative list' of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Considered as one of the top Kochi tourist attractions, the .....

...read more

At a distance of 4 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Bolgatty Palace is located on Bolgatty Island near Vallarpadam Island.

The Palace was built in 1744 by the Dutch trader and was later taken over by the British. Today, the palace is a popular hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. The palace is two-storied containing well-decorated bedchambers and a huge lounge, which exhibits historical portraits. The palace can be reached by boat from the mainland Ernakulam.

The Island is also home for a fine golf course amidst backwaters.

...read more

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Vypin Island is one of the group of islands that form part of the city of Kochi, Kerala. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Kochi.

Sprawled over an area of 25 km, Vypin Island is formed after heavy floods in the year 1341. Vypin forms a barrier island that lies between the Arabian Sea in the west and the Cochin backwaters formed by the various distributaries of the Periyar river, in the east. It is one of the most densely populated islands in the world that connects Kochi by a series of bridges called Goshree bridges touching other two islands Mulavukadu and Vallarpadam and then end at Marine Drive, Kochi. The island, also named Vypeen is a fast-developing suburb of the city.

The beautiful Bungalow Heritage homestay is also located at Vypin which was built in the year 1930, representing a perfect blend of Kerala, Dutch .....

...read more

At a distance of 45.5 kms from Kochi, St.Thomas Church located in Malayatoor (near Perambavoor) on the banks of Periyar River is one of the famous churches in Kerala.

Situated on top of 609 meter high Malayatoor Hill, the church is dedicated to St. Thomas, who is believed to have prayed at this shrine. The architectural style of the Malayatoor Church is a blend of Greco-Roman style. The walls of the church have been adorned with exquisite designs, paintings and carvings which describe the various events in Lord Jesus' life. A rock on the hill is believed to have been the footprints of Saint Thomas.

Malayatoor Perunal, the popular annual festival is celebrated in the months of March and April.

...read more

At a distance of 61 km from Kochi, Bhuthathankettu, situated near Kothamangalam (10 Kms) is a wonderful picnic spot and one of the largest irrigation projects in Kerala built on Periyar River. This place is famous for its tremendous natural beauty.

The dam here is one of the oldest existing European structures in Kerala. Nature walks and forest treks are popular and exciting activities at this place. Near by Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary (15 Kms) situated on the banks of Periyar River is the best place for bird watching with a population of over 500 species of exotic birds. This globally acclaimed bird sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist.

Boating facilities are available in the artificial lake formed by the barrage here. There is a nice restaurant and children park near the barrage.

...read more

At a distance of 1 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Gallery of Contemporary Art is situated in the Durbar Hall Road near Ernakulam Shiva Temple.

The Rajas of Cochin used to conduct their durbars (meetings) in this impressive building located within the Durbar Hall Grounds. It was later converted to a museum and named after Rama Varma Parikshith Thampuran, the last official ruler of the Cochin Empire. The museum used to house archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals. The building has been taken over by the Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy and now houses the Gallery of Contemporary Art. All the exhibits of the museum have been moved to the Hill Palace museum.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 12 PM & 3 PM to 5 PM.

...read more

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Hill Palace Museum is an archaeological museum located in Thrippunithura. It is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, and among the prime Kochi places to visit.

The Hill Palace was built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Cochin Ravi Varma using his personal wealth and was the official residence of the Cochin Royal Family. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in traditional Kerala architectural. It is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with ponds, fountains, a garden, and lawns. The palace was handed over to the Government of Kerala by the Cochin Royal Family in 1980. Later in the year 1981, it was taken over by the Archaeological Department and opened the museum in 1986.

In the Archaeological Museum, there are 15 major galleries exhibiting a plethora of artifacts like paintings, weapons, jewelry, sculptures, coins, and .....

...read more

At a distance of 28 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Siva Temple located in Pazhoor on the banks of Muvattupuzha River near Piravom (3 Kms) is an ancient temple constructed during 2nd - 3rd century AD.

The temple represents wonderful features of typical Kerala architecture.

...read more

At a distance of 11 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Thrikkakara Temple is the only temple in India dedicated to Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Vishnu. It is also the seat of famous 10 days Onam celebrations.

Thrikkakara Temple has about 18 important stone inscriptions dating back to 10th to 13th Century AD. The main temple of Vamana also has shrines for Bhagavathi, Sastha and Gopala Krishna. There is also a Siva Temple with shrines for Parvathi, Durga, Bhagavathi, Subramanian and Ganapathy.

The Onam is observed by all Malayalees as the return of the King Mahabali to Kerala. Colorful Boat Races are held on this occasion on the banks of the Pampa River.

...read more

At a distance of 27 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Munikkal Cave Temple situated on a hillock in Chengamanad near Aluva (11 Kms) has historical and mythological importance.

It is believed that sage Jangaman had lived here around 2000 years ago. A famous Lord Murugan Temple was built on the spot where the sage is said to have meditated.

...read more

At a distance of 13 km from Kothamangalam, and 62 km from Kochi, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located at Thattekkad near Kochi, Kerala. Also known as Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, it is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, and among the major places to visit as part of Kochi tour packages.

Spread across 25 Sq. km at the foothills of Western Ghats, the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was established in 1983 and is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala. Lies across the Periyar River, this sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist. His famous survey of Travancore in the 1930s led to the formation of this modern-day paradise for avian life. This is one of the popular places to visit near Kochi.

The sanctuary is home to about 300 species of birds including Peninsular Bay Owl, Ceylon .....

...read more

At a distance of 40 km from Athirapally & 76 km from Kochi, Edamalayar Dam, also known as Idamalayar Dam located near Vadattupara is a picturesque location and one of the major reservoirs of Kerala.

The Dam is built across Edamalayar River which is merged into Periyar River. The forests around reservoir provide shelter for variety of wildlife. Edamalayar is a heaven for people interested in birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest around the reservoir.

Boating in the reservoir will leave a memorable experience.

...read more

At a distance of 1.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Ernakulam Shiva Temple is one of the ancient Temples in Central Kerala. It is located close to the shores of Vembanad Lake Backwaters.

Lord Shiva also known as Ernakulathappan is the presiding deity of this temple. It was built during the Maharaja rule. The deity faces westward and enjoys the beauty of the sea. The annual festival usually falls during January or February and is spread over 8 days.

The uthsavom starts with Kodiyettam on the first day evening. On the seventh day there is Pakalpooram, when the deity is being taken out in procession with caparisoned elephants with Panchavadyam and finally terminating at Durbar Hall Ground after the famous Pandimelam and colorful fire works. On the final day around evening the deity is taken for the Arattu (holy bath) in the nearby temple tank. After that starts the Arattu procession with the accompaniment of Panchavadyam.

...read more

At a distance of 37 kms from Kochi, Kaladi is the birth place of Adi Sankaracharya, the great Indian philosopher of the 8th century AD.

Situated on the banks of Periyar River, Kaladi is now a famous pilgrim centre. He propounded the philosophy of Advaita. Adi Sankaracharya was born here in 788, as the only son of Sivaguru and Aryamba, a Kerala Brahmin couple. He propounded the philosophy of Advaita and extensively traveled through out India towards the efforts to unify the Hindu religion. There are two shrines in memory of Adi Sankaracharya. One dedicated to him as Dakshina Murthi and the other to the goddess Sharada maintained by Sringeri Mutt.

On the same premises there is also a Brindavan where Adi Sankaracharya's mother Aryamba was cremated. The Shi Krishna Temple close by was the family temple of Adi Sankaracharya. Crocodile Ghat is the place where the acharya took his vows of renunciation.

...read more

At a distance of 9.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Museum of Kerala History is situated in Edappally. The museum was built and maintained by Madhavan Nayar Foundation. A statue of Parasurama greets the visitors at the entrance of the Museum.

The Museum also has a Gallery of Paintings and Sculptures with a unique collection of over 200 paintings. The gallery displays the works of some of the greatest exponents of Indian art including Raja Ravi Varma, Mammiyoor Krishhan Kutty Nair, Jamini Roy, Manu Parekh and M F Hussain.

A one hour light & sound show is presented with life-size sculptures of 87 personalities who shaped the history and culture of Kerala in the last 2000 years. Light & sound show timings: 10AM, 11 AM, 12PM, 2 PM, 3 PM & 4 PM.

Museum Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays & public holidays.

...read more

At a distance of 43 km from Kochi, Kallil Bhagavathy temple or Kallil Kshetram is a famous 9th century rock-cut cave temple situated near Perumbavoor.

It is believed the temple was initially a Jain temple and the idols seen in the temple are believed to be Jainatheertha Parswanathan, Mahaveer and Padmavathi Devi. This temple is now considered as a Hindu pilgrimage with Goddess Durga as the main deity. Siva, Vishnu & Brahma are also worshipped in this temple. The temple is located on a 30 acres hill with 120 well laid stone steps to reach the temple. The temple is maintained by the Kallil Pisharody family.

The annual festival of the temple is celebrated for 8 days in the months of November / December.

The temple is open only till afternoon.

...read more

At a distance of 28 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Chendamangalam (a small village near Paravur) is famous for Paliam Palace, residence of the Paliath Achans, Prime Ministers to the former Maharajas of Kochi. It is one of the architectural splendors of Kerala state.

The Palace was built in mid 16th century and it features a rare collection of historic documents and relics. The place is dotted with three rivers, seven inlets, hillocks and vast expanses of green plains.

Other places of interest around Chendamangalam include:
- The Jewish synagogue built in 1614 AD
- Remains of the Vypeenakotta Seminary built in the 16th century by the Portuguese
- Sri Venugopala Swami Temple established in 1900 AD
- An ancient Syrian Church

The hillocks at Kottayil Kovilakom are unique as the site of a Hindu temple, a Christian church, a mosque and Jewish synagogue, within 1 km radius. The town is also an important center for handloom weaving and coir .....

...read more

At a distance of 43 kms from Kochi, Kodanad situated on the banks of Periyar River near Perumbavoor town (3 Kms) is famous for Elephant Training Center.

Kodanad is the headquarters of Malayatoor forest division. Earlier elephants were captured from the nearby Malayatoor forest and were trained in Kodanad Elephant Training Center. Now, elephants of different ages are trained at this center and supplied for festivals & celebrations for procession in different areas of kerala.

Elephant rides can be taken with in the training center. The Elephant Training Center also has a small wildlife park inside which accommodates number of animals and birds.

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM. Closed on Mondays.

...read more

At a distance of 15 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple situated near Chottanikkara is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. The presiding deity here is Raja Rajeshwari Devi, another form of Goddess Durga (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati).

The image of the deity is said to be self manifested with four arms, covered with a golden amour. This deity is worshipped in 3 different forms, as Saraswati in the morning, as Bhadrakali at noon and as Durga in the evening. Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Siva, Ganapathi & Subramanya are also worshipped in this temple.

People suffering from mental illnesses commonly visit the temple. The major festival 'Makam Thozhal' is celebrated for 9 days in the month of February / March. Dasara is also celebrated in grand manner at this temple attracting large crowd.

Timings: 4 AM to 12 PM & 4 PM to 8 PM.

...read more

At a distance of 8 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Sri Poornathrayesa Temple is situated in Tripunithura, which was the formal capital of Cochin State. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped as Santhaana Gopala Murthy

This historical temple was almost ruined in a major fire accident in the early 19th century and later reconstructed. It is said that Arjuna of Pandavas has established this temple. The deity is seen sitting under the shade of the divine serpent, Ananthan. The folded body of the serpent acts as the throne for the God.

This temple is famous for the yearly festival Vrishchikoltsawam, which is conducted every year in the month of November / December. The other cultural festival includes the Athachamayam which is held during the harvest festival of Onam.

This deity is Kula Daivam of Cochin Royal family.

...read more

At a distance of 25 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Mookambika Temple or Saraswati Temple is located in Paravur (towards Kozhikode). The temple is situated near Paravur KSRTC Bus Station.

Dedicated to Saraswathi Devi, the goddess of wisdom, it is one of the fewest temples of goddess Saraswati. The temple complex has separate smaller shrines for Ganapathy, Subrahmanyan, Yakshi, Hanuman and Veerabhadran. The temple is under the administration of Travancore Devaswom Board.

Navarathri festival is celebrated with great devotion. Music festival and Vidyarambham ceremony are the main features of this festival. Thousands of people participate in the Navarathri music festival.

Timings: 5 AM to 11 AM & 5 PM to 8 PM.

...read more

At a distance of 8.5 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Sri Krishna Temple is a powerful 13th century temple located in South Chittoor.

The temple is surrounded by backwaters and coconut lagoons and the presiding deity is found in the standing posture with four hands carrying Sankhu, the Sudarshana chakram, the Lotus and Mace. This temple is treated by devotees as Dakshina Guruvayur. For centuries the temple was maintained by the Kartha family of Cheranelloor Swaroopam and was later taken over by Rama Varma Maharaja of Cochin Royal family. The Temple is a classic example of typical Kerala style.

Timings: 4 AM to 11 AM & 4:30 PM to 8 PM.

...read more

At a distance of 13 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, the Santa Cruz Basilica is situated in Fort Kochi.

This church was built by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul 1V in 1558. Later the British demolished the structure and Bishop Dom Gomez Vereira commissioned a new building in 1887. Consecrated in 1905, Santa Cruz was proclaimed a Basilica by the Pope John Paul II in 1984. It is one of the 8 basilicas in India and one of the oldest churches in India.

The Church has two lofty spires and a remarkably bright, white-washed exterior and a pastel-colored interior. The interiors of the church are mostly Gothic. The columns decorated with frescoes and murals, the seven large canvas paintings on the passion and death on the Cross, especially the painting of the Last Supper, modeled on the famous painting of Leonardo da Vinci and the beautiful stained glass windows add to the artistic grandeur of the place.

...read more

At a distance of 7 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Our Lady of Ransom Basilica or St. Mary's Church is a major pilgrim center for Christians situated in Vallarpadam. The shrine is also known as Vallarpadath Amma.

Vallarpadam is a little island located in the middle of the Vembanad Lake Backwaters, above Fort Kochi. The church was built in 1676 and has a famous picture of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Portuguese missionaries brought the picture from their native land and installed here. It is believed that the picture has miraculous powers. The church was declared as a special church in the year 1888 and in 1951 the Union Government declared it as a major pilgrim center.

The church was given the status of a basilica in 2005. A week long Vallarapatha Amma festival is celebrated in the month of September every year. People of all religions participate in the festival.

...read more

At a distance of 8 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Gundu Island is the smallest of all the islands that constitute together the city of Kochi. The area of this island is only 5 acres in the middle of Vembanad Lake Backwaters and the island is mostly covered with coconut trees.

Gundu Island is accessible by boat from the Vypeen Island. The serene nature and the cool breeze blowing across the waters, makes this island a favorite among. Gundu Island has a coir factory where coir is made into rope manually, and carpets are manufactured by looms operated by hand.

...read more

At a distance of 31 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Cherai village. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also one of the top beaches in Kerala.

The 15 km of long golden beach is very clean, shallow, and famous attraction for swimming and sunbathing. This is one of the few places where we can see the lagoon and ocean separated only by a few hundreds of metres. The newly beautified 400 meters of the main beach has a walkway and high mask lamps which make the beach enjoyable even at night. The Beach is very safe and tourists of all age groups can enjoy the Beach alike.

The beautiful beach is studded with seashells of various hues and shapes. There is a park for children on the beach. Water Scooter and Speed Boats are also available. Dolphins are also spotted at this beach. The far end of the beach lined with Chinese fishing nets is a beautiful sight.

A tourism festival is celebrated .....

...read more

At a distance of 12 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, The Indo-Portuguese Museum situated in Fort Kochi is an important center to understand the Indo-Portuguese Christian Art heritage.

The museum was established by Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi. It is divided into five main sections according to the nature of items displayed in each section, Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral.

The museum currently houses a piece of the altar made in teak wood from the Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen, a chasuble from Bishop's House, Fort Kochi, Processional cross, which is a combination of silver and wood from Santa Cruz Cathedral, Fort Kochi, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance from The Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen. Among the displayed items, the Coat of Arms of the Franciscans needs special mention.

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays.

...read more

At a distance of 63 km from Kochi, and 152 km from Trivandrum, Alappuzha is a magnificent destination in Kerala with a mix of Backwaters and Beach. This is also one of the popular attraction not to miss in your honeymoon tour, and also one of the best Kerala tourist places.

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea close to the banks of Vembanad Lake. It is the administrative headquarters of the Alappuzha district and the 6th largest city in Kerala. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Kerala Backwaters. A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. It connects Kumarakom and Cochin to the North and Kollam to the South. The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha .....

Distance (From Kochi): 63 Kms
Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): 1-2 Days
.....

...read more

At a distance of 45 km from Thekkady, 58 km from Idukki, 76 km from Kumarakom, 64 km from Kottayam, 92 km from Munnar, 99 km from Alleppey, 103 km from Kochi, 181 km from Madurai, and 196 km from Trivandrum, Vagamon, or Wagamon is an enchanting hill station situated in Idukki district of Kerala. Located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, it is one of the offbeat hill stations in Kerala, and among the must-include places in Kerala Tour Packages.

Perched at an altitude of 1100 m, Vagamon is surrounded by 3 hills namely, Thangal hill, Murugan hill, and Kurisumala at the foothills of Western Ghats. Also known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon was discovered by the British who found the place ideal for tea plantations, and they were followed by Christian missionaries who built their abode of service at Kurisumala in Vagamon. National Geographic Traveler has listed Vagamon on their directory .....

Distance (From Kochi): 103 Kms
Trip Duration (From Kochi - Including Travel): Full Day
.....

...read more