Prime attractions in and around Kochi
1. Kerala Lalithakala Academy Art Center
Kerala Lalithakala Akademi or Kerala Academy for Fine Arts is an autonomous body which was established to promote art and artistic heritage in the sate. The academy is based at Kochi (Cochin). The Kerala government provides funding and support for the academy. The academy is run by an autonomous body. The academy is situated on the Durbar Hall road. The Durbar hall, was the durbar of the Kochi raja, is now a prime art center in the state. The hall is opened to all from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.
2. Marine Drive
One of the most enchanting attraction in Kochi, Marine drive is a long gracefully curving road along the shores of Vembanad lake. The place offers breathtaking views of the backwaters and the Kochi harbor. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the local people. But no vehicles are allowed here. The walkway here starts from the Jankar Jetty in the north to the Ernakulam Boat Jetty in the south. The walkway is 140-meter long and paved with black-dotted, red-carpet ultra tiles. Two beautiful bridges are there on the walkway, namely the 'rainbow bridge' and 'Chinese fishing net bridge'. The space between Marine Drive and Shanmukham road is filled with some popular buildings like Skyline apartments, Federal Bank Building, the GCDA Shopping Complex, the Kerala Trade Center, Abad Bay Pride Mall, Pioneer Towers, Hotel Taj Residency, DD Samudra Darshan apartment, Indira Priyadarshini Children Park etc. At the end of the walkway, the very famous Public Ground is located. The beauty of the place increases at night. The drive is open to all.
3. Museum of Kerala History:
This museum has a unique way of unfolding Kerala’s history. The museum actually uses three dimensional visuals to retell the story. The 87 figures, who have a hand in shaping the history and culture of Kerala in the last two thousand years can be seen in the Light and Sound Tableau. The museum literally takes you on a voyage from the earlier days to the modern age. In total there are 36 visuals including — early peoples, Nannan of Ezhimala, Senguttavan and Ilango Venmani, St. Thomas, Sankaracharya, Ravi Varma Kulasekhara, Vasco da Gama, Marthanda Varma, Raja Ravi Varma, etc. Museum of Kerala History is situated at a distance of 10 kilometers from the Kochi city and 19 kilometers from Kochi International Airport at Edapally. Commentaries in English and Malayalam is available here for easy learning. The museum opens from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm every day except Mondays and public holidays.
4. Gallery of Paintings and Sculptures:
This place is a haven to all those who wants to explore the specimens of Indian Contemporary Art. The range of paintings one will find here come from the Company School of Paintings, The 'Matured' Bengal School, The Progressive Artists Group, Indian Abstract Act, etc. In total there are around 200 paintings and Sculptures. Gallery of Paintings and Sculptures is situated at a distance of 10 kilometers from the Kochi city and 19 kilometers from Kochi International Airport.
5. Dolls Museum:
Here you witness hand crafted dolls depicting the wide diversity of people and customs of India. There are around 150 dolls that represent people from different parts of India. You can find 'brides' and 'bridegrooms', dance figures from various states of India. Dolls Museum is situated at a distance of 10 kilometers from the Kochi city and 19 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.
6. Bolgatty Palace:
The Bolgatty palace is located on Bolgatty Island. It is a monument of great historic significance. Believed to be built in 1744, this palace is considered as one of the oldest Dutch palace. The palace with its beautiful surroundings can offer some peace and serenity. Bolgatty Palace is situated at a distance of 2 kilometers from the Kochi city and 30 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.
7. Hill Palace:
Located at Thripunithura, the Hill Palace is arguably the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Believed to be built in 1865, this palace was the official residence of the Kochi Royal Family. The palace complex has around 49 buildings, most of which have been built in the traditional Kerala architectural style. This palace, which is now a museum, displays exhibits such as paintings, murals, sculpture in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, etc. The museum also houses over 200 antique pieces of pottery and ceramic vases, laterite memorials, rock cut weapons, etc. Hill Palace is situated at a distance of 12 kilometers from the Kochi city and 22 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.
8. Cherai Beach:
A part of the Vypin Island, Cherai beach is a 12-15 kilometers long beach with golden sand. Being very shallow, this beach is a favorite spot for swimming and sunbathing. During December this beach stages the tourism fest. Cherai Beach is situated at a distance of 30 kilometers from the Kochi city and 50 kilometers from Cochin International Airport. 9. Fort Kochi:
Fort Kochi has quite a few attractions for you all to explore. Fort Kochi is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from the Kochi city and 30 kilometers from the Cochin International Airport. Some of the prominent attractions are as follows:
• Beach: This is ideal location to view the sunset from. The view of the sea, with Chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the foreground and the setting sun as the background — believe us, it’s really mesmerizing. It’s such a romantic experience that even we found it difficult to express it in words for you. This beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Stroll along the beach to explore the shoreline, which is decorated with many European style bungalows. You can find many small stalls here, where you can treat your taste buds to traditional dishes featuring freshly caught fish.
• Chinese Fishing Nets: The Chinese fishing nets, known as Cheenavala in Kerala, have been a unique characteristic of Kochi. These nets have long history, and it is believed that these nets were introduced to Kerala by Chinese traders, long time back. Apart from China, these nets can only be seen in Kochi, Kerala. The real fun is in witnessing the fishermen using these nets to catch fish. The procedure of catching fish with these nets is quite simple, yet effective.
• Vasco House: Vasco house is amongst the few of the oldest Portuguese houses in India. Built in the early sixteenth century, the Vasco house is situated on Rose Street, Kochi. It is believed that Vasco da Gama, the great Portuguese explorer who discovered an ocean route from Portugal to the India, lived in this house. Hence the name — Vasco house. The house is beautified by European glass paned windows and balcony.
• St. Francis Church: St. Francis Church is one of the oldest churches in India that was built by the Europeans. It is believed that this church was built in 1503. History says that the renowned Portuguese explorer was buried here till his son shifted the remains to Portugal after around 14 years. However, the site where he was buried has been clearly marked out.
• Santa Cruz Basilica: It is believed that the Portuguese built the original church in 1505, and named it as a cathedral in 1558; however, the British destroyed the original cathedral, during their reign, in 1795. The current structure that you can see was built in 1905. The Basilica status was bestowed to the Santa Cruz church by Pope John Paul II in 1984.
10. Jewish Synagogue:
Located in Mattancherry, the Jewish Synagogue is believed to be built in 1568. It is a real pleasure to witness the combination of accessories from various countries giving pride to the synagogue. This architecture includes Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers, which furthers its beauty. You can also go through the giant scrolls of the Old Testament that have been preserved here. Jewish Synagogue is situated at a distance of 6 kilometers from the Kochi city and 27 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.
11. Dutch Palace:
Situated in Mattancherry, this palace was originally built by the Portuguese, and later on modified by the Dutch. In due course this palace was handed over to the Kochi kingdom. It is believed that the palace has witnessed coronation ceremony of many Rajas of Kochi. Explore this place to witness the amazing mural paintings of various scenes from the great Hindu Epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha. Dutch Palace is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from the Kochi city and 30 kilometers from the Cochin International Airport.
12. Bishop's house / Indo-Portuguese Museum
The bishop's house was the residence of the Portuguese governor during their reign. The house is believed to have been built in 1506 and stands on a hillock near the parade ground. The large Gothic arches characterized here is a good attraction. The Indo-Portuguese museum is located within the compound of the Bishop's house. The museum is well stored with artifacts like sculptures and coins made centuries ago.The museum includes five sections – Altar, Procession, Treasure, Civil Life and Cathedral. Collections include a 16th century altar made in teak wood, a 19th century chasuble, processional cross and the Coat of Arms of the Franciscans. The museum is located at Fort Kochi.
13. Fort Immanuel
The Fort Immanuel was constructed by the Monarch of Portugal in 1503 and reinforced in 1538. The fort was constructed in collaboration with the Maharaja of Kochi. Later the port came under the rule of Dutch and then under British. These dynasties made serious damages to the fort. The remains of the port can be seen along the Fort Kochi beach.
14. Dutch Cemetery
The Dutch cemetery includes hundreds of tomb stones of early Europeans who came here to expand their Kingdom and altered the history of this land. The cemetery was consecrated in 1724 and today the cemetery is under the Church of South India. Hundreds of tourists visit this cemetery to pay reverence to their ancestors. The cemetery is located at Fort Kochi.
15. Princess Street / Loafer's Corner
The Princess Street is one of the oldest streets constructed at Fort Kochi. The street includes some European style buildings still retains the past generations beauty. The Loafer's corner is the traditional meeting place of the fun loving, energetic people resides here. The place is a favorite hangout for the residents. The Street and Loafer's corner is located at Fort Kochi.
16. Maritime Museum
The maritime museum displays the history, evolution and land marks of the Indian Navy. The museum includes a variety of sections to describe the rich maritime heritage of the nation. Some of the exhibit here dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization era. One section describes the conflicts between India and Pakisthan during the war time (1965 and 1971). One section here describes the different stages in traditional and new era ship building. The museum is located at the beach road at Fort Kochi in a distance of within 20 kilometers from the city. The visiting time here is from 9.30 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm.
17. Kalli Kotta, Thripunithura
The Kalli Kotta, located near the Poornathrayesa temple, was the legacy of the Dutch rule here. Served as an entertainment auditorium to the erstwhile royalty featuring dance, drama and plays. It functions largely as a marriage hall today. The place is easily accessible.
18. Light House, Vypin
The Vypeen Lighthouse is located at Ochanthuruthu, 6 kilometers north of Kochi. The tower is around 46 m in height and an an ideal place to find sea shore wonders like sunset. The light house is open to all everyday from 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm.
19. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
This ecologically protected area lies at the heart of Ernakulam town near to High Court at the Dr. Salim Ali road. It is a home for a large variety of migratory birds and supports many varieties of mangroves (Thats why the name 'Mangalavanam). Mangalavanam is primarily a bird refuge. 72 species of birds are observed here. it is recorded 17 species of butterflies are this area and 51 species of spiders belonging to 40 Genus and 16 families were recorded from here. The sanctuary plays an important role in keeping the pollution rate of the City in a normal state. The sanctuary is under the control of the Peechi - Vazhani wildlife sanctuary. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between mid January and early March.
20. Pallipuram Fort, Vypin
The Pallipuram fort here at Vypin,established in 1503, claims that the oldest European fort in India. The fort was captured by the Dutch in 1661 and the Dutch sold it to the State of Travancore in 1789. The fort opens to visitors on all Thursdays.
21. Sree Poornathrayesa Temple, Thripunithura
One of the important religious center in this area, The poornathrayesa temple is located at Thripunithura 15 kilometers from Kochi. The presiding deity in this temple is Lord Maha Vishnu in the form of Santhanagopala Murthy. It is well believed that childless couples will be blessed with children on praying Poornathrayesan. The temple have a history of over 1000 years. Poornathrayeesan is the Family deity of Cochin Royal Family (in local language Perumpadapu Swaroopam). The temple itself an attraction because of the architectural beauty of past generations. The temple is located on the way towards the Sree Raja Rajeswary temple at Chotanikkara. The temple is famous for two vibrant festivals here. The annual festival of the temple falls on November- December, while tha 'Athachamayam' (Procession on the atham day) is the most popular one, falls on the occasion of Onam. It is believed that Arjuna, in Panadavas built the sanctum sanctorum of this temple.
22. Sree Raja Rajeswari Temple, Chottanikkara
The Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most important Temples among the thousands of shrines spread over Kerala. The Divine Mother known as Rajarajeswari (Adiparasakthi) is worshipped here in three forms Saraswathy in the morning, Lakshmi at noon and Durga in the evening. There is an Idol of Mahavishnu on the same sanctum and so the Deity is called Ammenarayana, Devinarayana, Lakshminarayana and Bhadrenarayana also, where Narayana is Vishnu. Along with Lakshmi & Narayana there are idols of Brahma, Siva, Ganapathi (Ganesh), Subramanya and Sastha in the shrine. There is another temple at the temple complex known as Kizhukkavu Bhagavathy Temple, where Sastha, SIva, Ganapathy, Nagas and some other upa-devas being worshiped. The 'Makom thozhal' (worship on Makom day) is the most important festival here at this temple which falls on February-March. Pushpanjaly, bhagyasookthem, mrithyunjayam, poomoodal, udayasthamaya puja and chandanam charthal are the main offerings here. Koothambalam is the main attraction in this temple. This temple is one of the leading temples in Kerala when considering the number of marriages held here. Devotees believes that it is very auspicious start their married life in front of the goddess. The place Chottanikkara lies 9 kilometers from Poornathrayesa temple and is easily accessible.
23. Sringeri Mutt, Kalady
Sringeri Mutt in Kalady is found by Adi Sankaracharya, a renowned philosopher lived in the first millennium AD who derived the famous ADVAITHA philosophy. It is one of the four Mutt's he established in India. The remaining three are Dwaraka (in the west), Puri (in the east) and Badrinath (in the north). Sringeri Mutt at Kalady is in the south. The Sankara temple, Ramakrishna Advaitha Ashram and the Adi Sankara Keerthi Sthamba Mandapam are the main attractions here. The Sringeri Mutt is a large, partly open structure situated on the northern bank of the river Periyar (known as 'Purna' in ancient scriptures). There are two shrines in the temple dedicated to Sankara and goddess Saradamba, the main deity. The complex also have another small shrine dedicated to Ganapathy. Unlike other temples in the state, traditional rituals in these temples is done by Tamil or Kannada Smartha Brahmins, and not by Kerala Brahmins. The Ramakrishna Advaita Ashram is a monastery based on the Advaitha philosophy and includes spacious prayer hall and a shrine modeled on the Sri Ramakrishna temple at Belur Math. The Ashram also runs a school (Brahmanandodayam), a charitable dispensary, and a library includes several rare ancient Hindu manuals. Sri Adi Sankara Keerthi Sthamba Mandapam is an eight-story memorial built by Kanchi Kamakoti Mutt, which is believed to be superior to Sringeri Mutt. The walls of this memorial is decorated with paintings depicting the Guru's life. The Keerthi Stamba and all other shrines here are open to all.
The Sringeri Mutt is located 8 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.
The famous Sree Krishna Temple, Manickamangalam Karthyayani Temple, Mattoor Thiru Vellaman Thulli Siva Temple, Nayathodu Sankara Narayana Temple, Manjapra Karppilli Kavu Siva Temple, Aryadevi Samadhi Mandapam are other shrines located near to the place. Kalady Kadavu (Aaraattu Kadavu), Crocodile Ghat (Muthala Kadavu) etc also draws people. Kallil Temple lies 22 kilometers from Kalady and is a major tourist attraction.
24. Malayattoor Kurisumudi
Malayattoor is a village in the North Eastern corner of Ernakulam District, which is famous for the St. Thomas church located at Kurisumudi. The place Malayatoor is derived from the Malayalam words 'Mala' (mountain), 'aar' (river) and 'uur' (land), making 'The land with mountain and river'. The place is on the banks of River Periyar. The Kurisumudy, the highest peak in this region with 609 feet hight, has its fame as a place visited by St. Thomas, one of the Apostles of Jesus Christ. The St. Thomas church here is considered as an International shrine designated by Vatican. This is one of the most famous Christian Pilgrimage Centers in South India. The church was believed to have been built in the first century AD, by St. Thomas. The St. Thomas mount or Kurisumudi is located 10 kilometers from Kalady and 50 kilometers from Kochi. The Marthoma Mandapam, Sannidhi, The Golden Cross, The Footprints of St Thomas, The ancient chapel struck by the elephants ('aana kuthiya palli' in local language), The miraculous water spring etc are the main attractions at the St. Thomas mount. The church architecture is highly attractive. The church is an amalgam of Greeco-Roman architecture. The main Altar here is designed in Greek style while the front section of the church is been built in the traditional Roman Catholic architecture. The ancient baptismal pond and the traditional pulpit seen here are of historical relevance. The church is also decorated with fine wood carvings and paintings. The annual festival of the shrine falls on the next Sunday after Easter. But the actual glory of the shrine will be seen at the Easter period. Thousands of devotees used to climb the Kurisumudi carrying wooden crosses during this period in memory of Christs crucifixion. There is another church on the foot of the mountain.
The hilltop offers stunning views of the surrounding areas and the Periyar river. Boating at Periyar River is another attraction here. Ecologically sensitive areas like Mulankuzhi and Illithode lies near to Malayattoor. The famous 'Elephant Kraal' (an elephant training camp) situated at Kodanad, on the other shore of Periyar) is another nearby attraction. The irrigation dam Ezhattumugham and Athirappilly waterfalls lies just within a 20 kilometers from here. The Kerala Department of Tourism's Nature Study Centre and The trigno-metrical center of south India are located here. The place is well connected by road. The nearest railway station is Angamaly about 17 kilometers from Malayattoor. The nearest airport is Cochin International airport lies 15 kilometers from Malayattoor.
25. Vamanamoorthy Temple, Thrikkakkara
Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple is one of the very few temples in India dedicated to Lord Vamana (the dwarf), the fifth incarnation of Lord maha Vishnu. It is believed that the temple was built by the Vaishnavas (people worships Vishnu). It is one of the 108 holy places in India. The temple a large number of lithic records from the 10th to the 13th century having great historical significances. The annual festival of this temple falls at 'Chingam' (August-September) during the Onam celebration. The Onasadya or the Onam feast is held in a grand manner in the temple with a large number of people participating in it without considering their religion and belief system. The temple is located 8 kilometers from Kochi and is easily accessible.
26. Chendamangalam
The place Chendamangalam is famous for hand loom weaving and coir manufacturing and it lies 42 kilometers from Kochi. The place is located at the confluence of three rivers and is famous for the Paliam Palace too. The Paliam Palace was the residence of Paliathachan, hereditary prime ministers of the Kochi Kings. The Palace is over 450 years old and well stored with collection of historic documents and relics. This building is one of the architectural splendors in Kerala. Kottayil Kovilakom, a palace built by the Dutch was the was the seat of Kshatriya chieftains of Villarvattom and is situated near the ancient Kunnathali temple at Chennamangalam. The small village is also known as Kottayil Kovilakom. Kottayil Kovilakom was the only Christian royal house in Keralam. It is believed that the Christian dynasty here was demolished by the Kochi kings. The hillocks at Kottayil Kovilakom are unique as it includes a Hindu temple, a Christian church, a mosque and the remains of a Jewish synagogue, all within 1 square kilometers. Chendamangalam was once an important trading center in the Kodungallor, a historical port known as 'Musiris' in ancient manuals, region. 'Sree Venugopala Krishna Swami Dewasthan' is a shrine located at Chendamangalam, established in 1900 AD. 'Venugopalakrishna Swamy.' (Lord Krishna) is the presiding deity here. The temple celebrates six day long annual festival in the month of Vaisakh (April-May). This place Chendamangalam draws plenty of tourists.
27. Bhoothathankettu Dam
The Bhoothathankettu dam is situated in the village of Pindimana, about 10 kilometers away from Kothamangalam town and 50 km away from kochi. The dam is one of the existing European monuments in Kerala. The dam is across the Periyar River and in local language the name 'Bhoothathankettu dam' means 'a dam constructed by Monsters. The dam is meant for irrigation purpose. Boating is possible at the reservoir here. The dam is located 50 kilometers north-east of Kochi and is well connceted bby road. The journey to the dam through the virgin forests is an enchanting one. The Periyar Valley Irrigation Project and the Idamalayar Irrigation Project , the two main irrigation projects in the district Ernakulam is located here.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located near to the dam at Thattekkad, which is in Idukki district. This dense tropical evergreen forest area is the home for over 500 species of exotic birds. The sanctuary is named after Dr. Salim Ali, a well renowned ornithologist in India. The sanctuary spread across 25 square kilometers and is also rich in flora and fauna. The sanctuary is located 60 kilometers from Kochi and 13 kilometers north east of Kothamangalam. The place is well connected by road and the nearest railway station here is Aluva which is 50 kilometers away.
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