Best Things To Do in Ernakulam, India

Are you looking for what to do in Ernakulam?

PLACES TO SEE

Ernakulum has something for everyone and itstourist placesconvey itsculture, influences and history. To see the city’s best spots, do try to plan a stay of around 2 days in Ernakulum.

Kick start your stay in the city by visiting the Mattancherry Palace or Dutch Palace built in the 16th century and the Jewish synagogue- the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations built in 1568. The stunning architecture of both these places ooze its historic charm and show Chinese and Classic Malayalam influences merged with an impeccable taste of art.

The Boghatty Palace is as much a lesson in Kerala’s culture as it is in its history. Built in the 18th century, the huge palace accommodates a hotel, an Ayurvedic center to pamper yourself to a rejuvenating massage and Kathakali performances that are a highlight for tourists. 

During yourvisittoErnakulum, don’tmiss out on the religious places like the Churches and Temples, especially if you are in the city during the festival season.

A spiritual visit to St Francis Church- the oldest church built in 1510 AD by the Europeans in India, gets you closer to the city’s history. The remains of Vasco da Gama where kept here for 14 years before they were taken to Portugal. AnotherChurch- St.Francis Assissi church (popularly known as Naduvileppalli) merges the architectural influences of Portuguese and Kerala styles and is loved for its tranquil space.

Closer to the sea line, the ChineseFishing nets that are so intrinsic to Ernakulum is a rare treat to see while the ferry to the Wellington Island is just as beautiful as taking a walk at the famous sea-link between Kochi and its trade ports.

If you are an Art and History lover, the M.N.F Gallery of paintingsand Sculptures, Chitram Art Gallery and the Museumof Kerala History will satiate your curiosity with detailed exhibits and art pieces that will take your breath away.

For Nature lovers, Mangalavanam’s evergreen forests are ideal for bird watching and hiking through the electric greenery all around! 

Below we have a list of things to do in Ernakulam and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Ernakulam getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Ernakulam with confidence.

Tourist Attractions in Ernakulam

Here is the list of things to do in Ernakulam and tourist attractions in city.

  1. St. George Syro-malabar Catholic Forane Church, Edappally

    Church, Religious Site

    The Edappally Church Complex dates 14 centuries back when the country of India and the state of Kerala did not exist and the water occupied the space till the small harbor of Edappally. Catholic religion was introduced here to the locals by St. Thomas the Apostle (alias Dideemos) who came to preach the Gospel. A small church was built here by Elangalloor Swaroopam (The Raja of Edappally) in 593...Read more
  2. Bhoothathankettu

    Forest, Waterfront, Dam

    Bhoothathankettu Dam & Reserve Forest has its story rooted in Hindu Mythology. It is believed that the Ghosts (Bhootham)tried to submerge the Trikkariyoor temple whose deity is Lord Shiva, by making a dam in the Periyar river and flooding the area. To trick the Ghosts, Lord Shiva faked the sound of the rooster. The ghosts fled the river area fearing of the light and the Dam (whose traces ca...Read more
  3. Pavakulam Sree Mahadeva Kshetram

    Religious Site, Temple

    The Paavakkulam Shree Mahadeva Temple’s main deities are Lord Shiva and Swayamvara Parvathi Devi and is one of themost popular temples in Ernakulum. Hindu religion believes that there is one God but in different forms and Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra (Shiva) form the there fundamentals of life. In this temple Lord Shiva is seen in the ‘Nataraja bhavam’ form performing ‘Thand...Read more
  4. Kadamattom Chruch

    Church, Religious Site

    Established in 865 AD by Mor Abo- a Persian priest with the help of “Aikunnathu Karthakkanmar” in AD 865, the church is deducted to the priest who was believed to have magical powers. Today, the church is a famousPilgrimage spot in south India. For tourists, the church’s architecture with Portuguese influences and its close affinity to art is hard to miss. Stop by at the churc...Read more
  5. Puthuvype Beach

    4.3 (108 Votes)
    Puthuvype Beach

    Outdoors, Beach, View Point

    Even though not as famous as other beaches around Ernakulum and Kochi, the Puthuvype Beach has it own charm. The Sunsets at the beach are the highlight while sun-soakers love to take long walks here throughout the day. The nearby Lighthouse that is one of the tallest in India, is accessible for visitors and gives you a panoramic view of the coast and the gorgeous sea. If you are looking for the...Read more
  6. Changampuzha Park

    4.2 (87 Votes)
    Changampuzha Park

    Park, Walking Area

    The Changampuzha Park is a cultural center where you can find many events and programs take place regularly while on other days you will find senior citizens at theirdaily meetingsand families and children spending some time around the premises. The park is wellmaintained and is a good place to take a small walk or simply relax during evenings. If you are in Ernakulum during a cultural show or ...Read more
  7. Little Flower Church

    4.6 (82 Votes)
    Little Flower Church

    Church, Religious Site

    The Little Flower Church is dedicated to Saint Therese of Lisieuxestablished in the 1960’s. The church attracts pilgrims and devotees duringthe popularLittle Flower Parish fiesta. The weekend fiesta starts of by a nine-day novena and Holy mass to give way to the grand Saturday procession and cultural programs that light up the city. On other days, the simple church carries a calming atmos...Read more
  8. Ramakrishna Math Image
    ©

    Religious Site

    Started in 1948, the Ramakrishna Math provides free coaching for underprivileged children, has an in-house dispensary that offers Ayurvedic treatments and Sanskrit and music classes. The place is also open for worshipping for devotees who follow Guru Ramakrishna and is a warm hospitable center for everyone. The weekly discourses and regular lectures are attended my many locals and are also open...Read more
  9. Paliam Nalukettu Museum

    Museum, Specialty Museum

    The Paliam Nalukettu has a series of houses that add to the heritage and culture of Kerala. The museum is located 30 kilometers from Ernakulum and are the traditional houses where several generations of family have lived in the past. The museum consists of a main house surrounded by other houses. The houses were closely related to the belief and rituals of the women in the Paliam Noble family a...Read more
  10. Erattakulangara Sri Mahadeva Temple

    Religious Site, Temple

    Located around 70 kilometersfrom Ernakulum, Erattakulangara Sri Mahadeva Temple is a solemn space to get away from the hustle-bustle of the city life.  The Temple has a pond and an auditorium where marriages are held. For tourists the place is yet another temple to visit especially if you are a devotee of Lord Shiva. The temple grounds are a pleasure to take a walk and the pujas held here ...Read more
  11. Vypeekotta Seminary

    3.9 (13 Votes)
    Vypeekotta Seminary Image
    ©

    Ancient Ruin, Historical Site, Monument

    Built in 1577, the seminary was originally constructed by the Portuguese and was used to train Christian priests. In 1935, the whole place was declared as a monument and till today you can see Vattezhuthu inscriptionsthat are now incorporated into the compound wall of the church. The pottery found here is maintained at theArchaeological Museum located in Thrissur. Taking a walk at the monument ...Read more
  12. Salem Marthoma Church

    Church, Religious Site, Architecture

    One of the oldest Marthoma Churches in India, the Salem Marthoma Church is loved for its classic 20th century design and architecture, peaceful ambience and regular prayer services. The church’s simple yet elegant interiorsadd to its iconic design. Visiting the church during the Holy communion is the highlight of the place. However, for tourists, a walk around the church is perfect to adm...Read more
  13. Kochi International Marina House

    Waterfront

    The historic Kochi International Marina, the first of its kind in the country boasts of its infrastructure to berth 34 yachts at a time. Inspired on the popular St Catherine Marina of London, this marina stands on the premises of the Bolgatty Palace and offers the visitors to roam around and take a look at the docked yachts. For accommodation purpose there is the three storeyed Marina House off...Read more
  14. Marine Drive Pay And Park

    Park

    If you want the best experience with nature, Marine Drive Pay and Park in Ernakulam, India is the place to go. One of the highly visited destinations by the locals, this place is good to visit during the day for a long walk. Marine Drive Pay and Park is surrounded by some well-known markets and famous restaurants and one can also enjoy the waterfront along the promenade. If you want to relax or...Read more
  15. Kodungallur Bhagavathi Temple

    4.3 (76 Votes)
    Temple