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Ernakulam
is the commercial capital of Kerala. It is the
eastern part of the mainland of Kochi City. The word
Ernakulam was derived from a Tamil word “Erayanarkulam”,
which means the dwelling place of Lord Shiva.
It is one of the important tourist destinations in
Kerala. It is located in a picturesque location
between Arabian Sea and backwaters. |
Places To Visit In
Ernakulum:
Bolghatty Island:
Bolghatty Island is located near Ernakulam and is linked
by a bridge. The palm fringed island allures hundreds of
tourists. Bolghatty palace in this island is a must see
place. It was built by the Dutch when they ruled Kochi.
The palace was converted into a hotel later. Now it
offers luxurious accommodation to the tourists who want
ultimate relaxation.
•Santa Cruz
Basilica: Santa Cruz
Basilica is located near Ernakulam and is one of the
prominent tourist spots. It was built by the Portuguese
before 500 years. It is renowned for its elegant
interiors, Gothic style façade and the stained glass.
•Cherai Beach:
Cherai Beach is located near Bolghatty Island and is
accessible by boat from Ernakulam. It is a perfect beach
for swimming. The azure sea waters on one side and
backwaters on the other side make it an exotic tourist
destination. Cherai Beach is famous for mouthwatering
seafood and country wine.
•Chinese fishing
nets: Chinese fishing
nets are important attraction in Ernakulam. They exhibit
a mechanical method of fishing by local fishermen.
•Mattancherry
Palace: This palace is
located eight kilometers away from Ernakulam. It was
constructed by Portuguese in the year 1555. This
oriental style palace attracts the attention of numerous
tourists from all over the world. The palliyara or the
royal bed chamber in this palace is awesome. The walls
depict the entire story of the great Indian Epic
Ramayana.
Flooring is made of
burned coconut shells, plant juices, lime and egg
whites. However, the polished appearance is often
mistaken as black marble. The central courtyard houses
the deity of royal family Palayannur Bhagawati. The
ladies chamber in the ground floor is linked by a
staircase leading to Karithalam.
•Willingdon Island:
Willingdon Island is a manmade island created using the
soil from Kochi harbor. You can see a large aerodrome
built by the royal air force here. This island is the
best place to enjoy mesmerizing sea views and mainland.
•Kalady:
Kalady is located 37 kilometers away from Ernakulam. If
you have taste for spirituality, Kalady can offer you a
wonderful experience. Adi Sankara, the founder of
Advaita School of philosophy was born in Kalady in 8th
century. Shri Adi Sankara Keerthimandapam is an
important place to visit here. There are two shrines
inside this complex- one is for Sankaracharya in the
form of Dakshinamoorthy and the other one is for Goddess
Sharada.
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