Feasting rich culture and heritage, Ernakulam is a side of Kochi, wherein the past and present are flaunted treasures. From a beach or a holy space or even a structure or enormous backwaters; it guarantees a truly glorious experience. Here are 20 places to visit in Ernakulam, for a relaxing getaway. You can find budget and comfortable hotels in Ernakulam with modern amenities and close to the serene peaceful surroundings. Let’s continue exploring this treasure!
20 Places to Visit in Ernakulam
1. Marine Drive
One of the plethora of tourist attractions in Ernakulam, Marine Drive is ideal for beach lovers. The beautiful and long-stretched promenade runs through the backwaters from South to North Kochi, perfect for strolling while gazing across into the harbour, Vembanad Lake, and the seashore, Rainbow Bridge, House Boat Bridge, and Chinese Fishing Net Bridge.
Adventurous boat rides, cruises and ferry services take one to explore nearby islands from this beach. The locality is near shopping centres, parks like Subhash Bose Park, and restaurants, making it one of the most famous places to visit in Ernakulam and a place for the most happening things to do in Kochi.
2. Fort Kochi
History and architecture meet magically in a time capsule in the old quarters of Fort Kochi. As one of the popular historic places to visit in Ernakulam, this Renaissance treasure was preserved by the Portuguese and Dutch. They left behind religious monuments in the shape of churches and crafted villas of other colonial British accomplishments. A walk through the narrow alleyways of Fort Kochi is indeed a journey back in time.
Here one can enter the oldest European Church in India, Fort St. Francis Church and other historic spots like Fort Immanuel, Pierce Leslie Bungalow and Dutch Cemetery. You can also take a ferry ride from Ernakulam to the fort, which is considered to be one of the top ferry rides in India.
3. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
Want to witness Kerela’s royal charm? The Mattancherry Palace is the perfect example of royal Kerala architecture. It was built in 1545 by the Portuguese and remodelled in the 17th century by the Dutch. Today it exists as an architectural wonder housing the Kerala and European styles with great wooden carvings and wide halls. Also, the beautiful murals cover the walls, highlighting many of the prominent moments depicted in the Hindu epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata, making it one of the popular tourist places in Ernakulam.
Amongst the treasures of visiting royalty are portraits, earthen weapons, and Dutch maps which evoke images of the halcyon days of the Kochi kingdom. Such collections do justice to the bounteous royal heritage and colourful artistic traditions of Kerala, making it one of the famous places to visit in Ernakulam.
4. Paradesi Synagogue
For an informative glimpse of the multicultural and multi-religious fabric of coexistence in Kochi, nothing compares to the Paradesi Synagogue. Located in Mattancherry, it is not just the oldest living synagogue in the Commonwealth. It also stands as one of the most impressive symbols of Kerala’s Jewish heritage. Set up in the year 1568, the Paradesi Synagogue has glorious Belgian glass chandeliers, hand-painted Chinese tiles and a teak Ark that accommodates Torah scrolls.
The intriguing beauty inside is made with inlay wood carvings and several rare sacred relics like old copper plates and a rug (a gift from the Ethiopian emperor). It reveals how different communities lived together within the same areas for centuries and offers a link with the past, making it one of the significant places to visit in Ernakulam.
5. Cherai Beach
If you feel an adventure compulsion in the wild or a calm desire to bask and relax, Cherai Beach is one of the beaming beaches in Kochi. About 24 kms from Kochi, it is a serene bay of clear water and golden sandy shores. This beautiful beach destination is ideal for swimming, water sports or just lounging around on the sands soaking in the rays. Its ethereal touch of the cultural surroundings adds to the beauty of the beach with all those Chinese fishing nets adorning the shores.
While soaking up the sun on the beach, don’t forget to try the recognised local seafood offered at the numerous beach shacks. Cherai Beach is also one of the popular places to visit in Ernakulam for dolphin sightings, which are seen not too far from the shore, exposing yet another relationship with nature.
6. Hill Palace Museum
The Hill Palace Museum is located at Thripunithura, Kerala’s first heritage museum that serves as a repository of the royal history of the region. Once a residence of Kochi rulers, it is now a museum that houses royal portraits of the kings, their royal dresses and precious jewel pieces. It also has some very fascinating collections of artefacts. The museum is also known to have ethnological and archaeological collections, such as ancient manuscripts, weapons and sculptures. Not that the palace itself isn’t a marvel, but its high ceilings and very famous Kerala-style architecture, coupled with artfully carved wooden panels, would win one’s admiration.
This is an opportunity you would not like to miss, as the visit is a one-time experience involving cultural and historical exploration into the legacies of the Kochi royal family and the incredible heritage of Kerala. So, while looking for places to visit in Ernakulam, add the Hill Palace Museum to your list.
7. Bolgatty Island
Located just a few kilometres from the crowded Kochi city, Bolgatty Island provides a tranquil and picturesque retreat. Built in 1744 by the Dutch, Bolgatty Palace has now been transformed into a luxury resort where one can enjoy the royal charm of the past with modern-day comfort. The lush greenery surrounding the palace and the breathtaking view of the backwaters make for an ideal relaxing atmosphere, making it one of the best places to visit in Ernakulam for a relaxing holiday. Additionally, the Kochi International Marina, India’s first such facility, is also located on the island marking it one of the popular tourist attractions in Ernakulam for yachters.
So, whether you would like to relax in solitude, enjoy water activities or attend events at the Bolgatty Event Centre, this island caters to all kinds of travellers and offers accommodations in nearby hotels in Ernakulam South Kochi.
8. Chottanikkara Devi Temple
To witness Kerala’s rich traditions and rituals, you must visit the Chottanikkara Devi Temple. It is one of the most important places to visit in Ernakulam, and it is dedicated to the revered goddess Bhagavati Lakshmi. This temple is ancient, being approximately 1,000 years old and is famous for its extraordinary healing rites. The temple contains some of the most powerful exorcism practices. It is said to cure a lot of mental illnesses, especially through Guruthi Pooja, which is performed every night.
One can also get a glimpse of daily rituals worshipping the goddess in three different manifestations: in the morning, as Mahasaraswati, at noon as Mahalakshmi and finally as Mahakali in the evening. From the fine wooden carvings to the exquisite architecture, the temple resonates with the spiritual and cultural legacy of the region. Thus, a visit to it will provide a spiritual experience with quite a close understanding of Kerala’s rich traditions.
9. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Looking for an escape into solitude, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is one of the smallest preserved areas in Kerala and one of the hidden places to visit in Ernakulam. This sanctuary, though small, has established itself as an important symbol of urban green space and has the critical role of a microhabitat for some species of birds. Here, you can see more than 72 species of birds, both migratory and local. There are many variations of butterflies and spiders as well, and the sanctuary is a haven for those who enjoy nature.
The rich mangrove forests in this sanctuary make up an ecosystem for wildlife that is used by the island’s natives. Therefore, the serene setting offers a great contrast to the fast-paced life of the city and provides a retreat for nature lovers as well as for bird watchers.
10. Lulu Mall
Lulu Mall is one of the top-rated malls in Kochi to shop, eat and repeat. Located in the heart of the city, it has established itself as the ultimate place for shopping, entertainment and leisure. With around 215 outlets, Lulu Mall caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, be it a shopper looking for high-end luxury brands or a customer seeking an authentic local craft or fashion. The mall comprises many floors and is designed to give a complete shopping experience at different levels across categories like apparel, electronics, home décor and many more.
In addition, the mall has a large food court comprising many types of cuisine from local Kerala specialities to different fast food chains. It also features a modern multiplex showing the latest releases for cine lovers to enjoy after a busy day. So, save a day to spend in this shopping and entertainment paradise while creating a list of places to visit in Ernakulam.
11. Wonderla Amusement Park
Wonderla Amusement Park is located on the outskirts of Kochi and is probably the best place to visit for thrill-seeking families. The name Wonderla is associated mostly with adventurous rides, such as the Recoil, which is the first vertical looping roller coaster in India and Wonder Splash, which is water-based. More so for the younger ones, the Kids Play Area would be a beautiful destination.
The park belongs to the popular chain and can be found in other cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar. Whether it is thrilling rides, water slides to cool off or simply some nice peaceful place within the park, this is where you could easily spend a day with family and friends, making it one of the popular places to visit in Ernakulam.
12. Puthuvype Beach
This is one of the quiet and nice spots on the outskirts of Kochi. It would be crowded at the entrance, but as you proceed to the beach, you will notice that it becomes calmer and has more serene spots where you can enjoy the coastal sight. The place is just perfect for quiet reading, a romantic stroll or watching the waves. In the evening, it does prove to be one of the best spots to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
A few food stalls here serve local snacks. The area offers good car parking space and makes it convenient for visitors. Travelling to this one of the relaxing places to visit in Ernakulam is an ideal escape for people seeking to indulge in the simple pleasures that nature has to offer.
13. Kadambrayar Boating and Ecology Tourism
Kadambrayar is situated very close to Wonderla, Kizhakkambalam, one of the little-known places to visit in Ernakulam that fits best for ecotourism and boating. Surrounded by tranquil greenery and coconut trees, the serene waters of Kadambrayar provide solace from the city.
Kadambrayar offers all varieties of boating – from speedboats to pedal boats, as a pure retreat into nature. The boating facilities operate from 5:30 am to 6:00 pm, with pedal boat rides starting from Rs. 100. The peaceful ambience and the calm of the backwaters are great for family outings, nature walks and individuals looking to get back into nature.
14. Vallarpadam Church (Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom)
The Vallarpadam Basilica, situated on Vallarpadam Island, is one of the important places to visit in Ernakulam and one of the most visited churches in Kerala. The church, popularly called the Lourdes of Kerala, is famous for its miraculous stories, especially about the woman and her child whom the Virgin Mary saved from a grievous tempest in the sea. Founded in 1752, it has, since then, grown into a spiritual seat for Catholics from every corner of the world.
The grandeur of the architectural design, the peacefulness around it and its high religious importance make it a necessary stop for all who cherish spirituality and history. The basilica is connected to the Goshree bridges which increase ease of access for tourists.
15. The Indo-Portuguese Museum
Situated inside the Bishop House in Kochi, this Indo-Portuguese Museum exposes the whole colonial past of the region, focusing especially on the influence of the Portuguese on Kerala’s culture. Ethnically this museum is divided into sections that deal with religious relics, ecclesiastical items and daily life in the time of Portuguese colonisation.
Altars from the 16th century, intricate brass sculptures, silver crosses for processions and other items add a historical dimension to the rich history of the region. It caters to history enthusiasts and travellers who are interested in understanding how Indian and Portuguese cultures came together to create Kochi. So, do not miss the museum while checking out places to visit in Ernakulam.
16. Koonankurish Old Syrian Church
The St. George Orthodox Koonankurish Church is one place of worship that stands very much apart from history itself. With rich architecture and legend stories, this church is one of the oldest and most famous places to visit in Ernakulam, Kerala. Apart from magnificent stained-glass windows and exquisite woodwork, the site is understood to house important artefacts of the past and present day in the religious arena.
It is an ideal place for understanding Kochi’s Orthodox community while glancing through the impossibly rich religious diversity of Kerala. The church also stands for the spirit of the people and displays cultural pride as it withstood European influence at the time when colonialism flourished, making it one of the popular tourist attractions in Ernakulam.
17. Subhash Park
Right in the middle of Ernakulam, it is a very quiet and green, peaceful space that has a wonderful view of the Vembanad Lake and the Cochin Harbour. There are well-maintained walking paths, a play area for children and a variety of plants and trees that attract local and foreign tourists.
You can find various picnic spots, enjoy strolls and take boat rides along the lake. It is an oasis for an escape from the din and bustle of city life into a lovely, peaceful and quiet greenery oasis. So, while travelling with family, take a day out to sit and relax here while covering places to visit in Ernakulam
18. Ernakulathappan Shiva Temple
Ernakulathappan Shiva Temple is located in the city of Ernakulam and is one of the seven royal temples of Kochi. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built in ancient times. It bears deep cultural and religious meanings to the people living there. Not only is the sanctum of the temple that is in the westward direction an architecturally wonderful monument, but it also attracts devotees for its serene ambience.
The temple is also known for the celebration of great festivals, such as the Utsavam (January- February), through which it showcases magnificent processions, rituals and cultural performances. With its attractive surroundings and pleasant views of the adjoining backwaters, the Ernakulathappan Temple is one of the best places to visit in Ernakulam.
19. Kuzhupilly Beach
Kuzhupilly Beach is a quiet beach in the suburbs of Kochi that promises to take one to the beautiful stretches of golden sand and a refreshing coastal atmosphere. Surrounded by sweeping Casuarina groves, it is the perfect place to relax.
Beach volleyball, swimming and a kite flying competition are some of the activities available to visitors here. As the day closes with a beautiful sunset view, one can soak in the horizon of great vibrant colours. The somewhat quiet and less busy aspect of Kuzhupilly Beach makes it one of the ideal places to visit in Ernakulam for those who love their own time with nature.
20. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
Experience the magic of nature at Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. Located along the banks of the Periyar River, it is one of the best stress-free birdwatcher’s sites in India and one of the famous tourist attractions in Ernakulam. As the first bird sanctuary in Kerala, it is now home to over 300 species of birds, some of which are rare and endangered, such as the Indian Pitta and Ceylon Frogmouth.
As is apparent, various ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests to wetlands complete the perfect ambience for birdlife existence. Visitors can avail themselves – guided treks with diverse trails and night stays with local tribal settlements.
Ernakulam is a modern city in a traditional setting, where innumerable attractions seem to wait for every kind of traveller. The crowded streets of Fort Kochi, the calm backwaters and the beaches, have all made it an enriched experience for those who have been here, exploring the history, culture and nature that abounds. Whether you are around for a day or even a week, these 20 places to visit in Ernakulam will never disappoint in terms of memories created.
