Ernakulam – Kerala Travel Guide
Soaked in history and the many different grandeurs of Kerala, Ernakulam is one of the most stunning destinations in God’s Own Country! The once a capital of the Kingdom of Cochin, this township is a major commercial area in Kochi and is also called the ‘Commercial Capital of Kerala’.
While the existence of this city dates back to the Stone Age, today it is revered to have the most electrifying ambience in the entire country. Ancient, yet with modern charm, Ernakulam also serves as a throbbing hub for budding entrepreneurs and also contributes significantly to the state’s tourism industry.
How to Reach Ernakulam:
1By Road:
The cosmopolitan is well-connected with all the major cities and towns in Kerala through a network of State Highways. Both government and private buses, car rentals and local taxis are available to reach Ernakulam by road. Nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, and others are also well-connected through road networks.
2By Train:
Ernakulam is connected to almost every corners of India through its rail network. The Ernakulam Junction Railway Station within the city limits serves as the most ideal spot to reach Ernakulam by train.
3By Air:
Located around 27km away, Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Ernakulam by air. From the airport, one can easily hire or book road transport options to reach the cosmopolitan by road.
Best Time to Visit Ernakulam:
Winter (October – February) – Best Time:If you are searching for the best time to visit Ernakulam, you must plan your trip during the winters. Serene and calm atmosphere, drop in temperature, clear ambience, and ample of tourist activities will make your trip memorable.
Monsoon (July – September) – Good Time: This span serves as a good-to-go time to visit Ernakulam. The city receives an adequate amount of rainfall; the ambience turns emerald green and creates a magical spell for the visitors. Monsoon also serves as an ideal time to laze around the city or just relax and get rejuvenated with Ayurvedic therapies.
Summer (March – June) – Average Time:If you are accustomed to high temperatures, you can visit this city during the summers. With temperature reaching a maximum of 35 degrees, the atmosphere may turn unpleasant or make things difficult for the ones living in cooler or moderate regions.
Places to Visit in Ernakulam: :
Fort Kochi:A visit to Fort Kochi can be called as a journey back into time! Fringed with numerous tourist attractions and historical landmarks, it is a melting ground of different cultures and traditions.
Marine Drive: A popular hangout destination, Marine Drive is undoubtedly the most stunning place to be in while in Ernakulam. A 3km backwater-facing walkway, it is known for offering mesmerising sunset views. Come evening, this walkway turns magical with multi-coloured illuminations and creates an electrifying ambience all around!
Bolghatty Palace:Whether you are in Ernakulam or anywhere in Kochi, the Bolghatty Palace will surely drag all your attention! A 1744 palace built by the Dutch trading community in Kerala, this historic palace served as the Dutch and British Governor’s residence during different phases of history. At present, it has been converted into an elegant heritage hotel and is open to public.
Cherai Beach: A prominent landmark for the visitors to Ernakulam, this stunning beach is a must to visit destination! Dotted with Chinese fishing nets and lush coconut coppices, this is also the beach where the silent backwaters romance the playful sea-waves. Cherai Beach is also a wonderful place for dolphin spotting.
Chinese Fishing Nets:Introduced to Kerala in an around 1350-1450AD by a Chinese explorer named Zheng, these fishing nets are the reminiscent of Kochi’s glorious past. Visit these nets while touring around Ernakulam; rediscover grandeurs and flamboyance of the past!
Hill Palace Museum:If you want to rewind history and explore the splendours of a bygone era, you must visit the Hill Palace Museum while in Ernakulam. The first heritage museum in the state, it has collections of royal artefacts, attires, and other belongings of Kochi’s royal families.
Dutch Cemetery:Kochi has been long associated with the Dutch and British culture. A visit to this historic place in Fort Kochi showcases the true essence of universal brotherhood and how the different cultures co-existed simultaneously in Kerala.
Things to Do in Ernakulam:
Historical Tour:Dotted with an array of historical landmarks, Ernakulam is a primal destination to revisit and rewind history. Mattan Cherry Palace, Dutch Cemetery, Edappally Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, and other such spots are the spots that will serve your purpose in Ernakulam.
Beach Activities: For the leisure and fun seekers, this cosmopolitan serves as an ideal destination. Its pictorial beaches are known to be tourist-friendly, calm, and also offers an ample of fun-filled activities to the visitors.
Shopping:Starting from bustling local markets to incredible shopping malls, Ernakulam has it all! Whether you are on a budget, or in the mood to spend handsomely, this city will keep you amused with its enticing options.
Backwater Cruises: If you are a backwater enthusiast, Ernakulam is the right place for you to visit the enchanting backwaters in Kochi.
Hotels in Ernakulam:
The city offers numerous stay options to its visitors. Starting from budget hotels to ultra-lavish stay options, you can select from a range of hotels according to your budget. However, if you are planning to visit Ernakulam during the peak season, it is advisable to make early bookings as hotel charges and other related costs usually go high.
