All attractions in Ernakulam
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1. Fort Kochi--Known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and historic landmarks.
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2. Mattancherry Palace--A Portuguese palace featuring Kerala murals and Hindu temple art.
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3. Marine Drive--A picturesque promenade along the backwaters of Kochi, perfect for evening strolls.
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4. Jew Town-- Famous for its antique shops, spice markets, and the Pardesi Synagogue.
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5. Bolgatty Palace--A heritage hotel on Bolgatty Island, offering scenic views of Kochi harbor.
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6. Lulu Mall--The largest shopping mall in Kerala, with a range of shopping and entertainment options.
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7. Cherai Beach--A serene beach ideal for swimming and dolphin watching.
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8. Hill Palace Museum--Kerala's largest archaeological museum, showcasing royal collections.
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9.Veegaland (Wonderla Kochi)--An amusement park offering thrilling rides and entertainment.
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10. Santa Cruz Basilica--A historic church known for its architectural splendor and religious significance.
Zone: Central Kerala
Headquarters: Kochi
Telephone Access Code: +91 484
Ernakulam is a sprawling metropolis that beautifully combines its natural wonders with providing a base for a majority of the State’s business enterprises. Flanked by the Arabian sea, it is easily among the most visited locations in Kerala. It is an extremely important commercial centre but also has a plethora of destinations for tourists to enjoy. The city of Kochi, with its fine natural harbour, is the undisputed crown jewel of the district. From historic locations that transport you to a time when it acted as the commercial hub of the legendary Spice Route to exotic trips on boats where one can simply relax and soak in the weather, Kochi never disappoints. Ernakulam has always epitomized the Malayali spirit of welcoming all who visit it and this tradition continues to this day.
Tourist Information Offices:
- Office of the Joint Director, Department of Tourism, International Boat Jetty Complex, Ernakulam Ph: 2351015, Fax: 2355956
- Govt. Guest House, Dept. of Tourism Ph: 2360502
- Govt. of India Tourist Office, Willingdon Island Ph: 2668352/1913
- Airport Information Counter, Dept. of Tourism, Kerala Ph: 2611308
- Tourist Reception Centre - KTDC, Shanmughom Rd. Ph: 2353234 Fax: 2382199
- DTPC Tourist Information Centre, Old Collectorate Bldg., Park Avenue Telefax: 2367334, 2383988 Mobile: + 91 9847332200, Email: info@dtpcernakulam.com, Website: www.dtpcernakulam.com
Getting there
By road: Ernakulam is well connected to all major cities in India. The KSRTC Central Bus Station is near the Junction Railway Station, Enquiry Ph: 2372033 Private buses operate from High Court Jn., Railway Station and Kaloor Jn. Tamil Nadu Road Transport Bus Station Ph: 2372616. Inter-state private bus services to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mangalore, Chennai and Madurai:
- Indira Travels, near Jos Jn. Ph: 2360693
- Yesbee Travels, near Jos Jn. Ph: 2375080
- Princy Tours, Opp. Sealord Hotel Ph: 2354712
- Sharma Transports, Grand Hotel Ph: 2350712
- Ashirwad Travels, Jos Junction Ph: 2367709
By rail: Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is the major station in Ernakulam, Ph: 131; Ernakulam Town, Enquiry Ph: 2395198; Aluva Enquiry Ph: 2624141
By air: Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery (32 km from the city)
By water: There are two ferry stations in Ernakulam. The main Boat Jetty is 1 km from the Junction Railway Station and the other is near the High Court. Ferry timings (From the main boat jetty): Vypeen: Frequent services (1/2 hr journey) Mattancherry: Daily 6 ferries (1/2 hr journey) Fort Kochi: Daily 30 services (20 min. journey). First trip at 0600 hrs and the last at 2110 hrs Willingdon Island: Frequent services (15 min. journey)
Geographical Information
Altitude: Sea level
Area: 2408 sq. km
Population: 3,105, 798 (2011 census)