Tucked between the backwaters and the Arabian Sea, Ernakulam isn’t just another city in Kerala—it’s the vibrant heartbeat of the state. While Kochi often steals the spotlight for its colonial history and Fort Kochi’s charm, Ernakulam is the bold, modern counterpoint—a fast-paced urban haven that surprises you with slices of calm, heritage, and raw coastal beauty.
Ernakulam: Kerala’s Urban Soul with a Hint of GoaThis city is a strange but beautiful blend: picture coconut-fringed shores and modern malls, churches that date back centuries next to gleaming high-rises, and the intoxicating smells of toddy shops wafting through lanes just a few steps from metro lines. Ernakulam carries the pace of a metro city but also wears the ease of beach life, not unlike a lesser-known cousin of Goa.
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But make no mistake—this place doesn’t copy anyone. Ernakulam 2-day travel plan has its own rhythm. Its roads are pulsating with local life: the sound of honking autos, street vendors yelling over the din, and the casual chatter of fishermen at dawn. It’s a living, breathing canvas that offers not only a glimpse of Kerala’s past but also its ever-evolving present.
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Whether you’re here for leisure, for food, for spiritual calm, or simply to explore, Ernakulam demands more than just a glance. It invites you to slow down and take it all in—from its historical landmarks and cinematic backdrops to its hidden backwaters and bold cultural pride.
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ICONIC LANDMARKS OF ERNAKULAM BY 2 DAYS TAXI TOUR
MARINE DRIVE – THE PULSE OF THE CITY
One of the most loved hangout spots in Ernakulam is Marine Drive—not to be confused with its namesake in Mumbai. This scenic promenade stretches alongside the backwaters, offering a gentle breeze, stunning sunsets, and a glimpse of local life. Here, you’ll see joggers, couples, food stalls, and photographers trying to frame the perfect golden-hour shot.
The Rainbow Bridge and Chinese Fishing Net Bridge—two beautifully designed pedestrian overpasses—serve as perfect photo ops. In the evenings, the lights from boats dance over the dark waters, giving the whole place a surreal glow. It’s no exaggeration to say Marine Drive is the emotional heart of Ernakulam.
HILL PALACE – THE REGAL REMINDER
Located in Tripunithura, just on the city’s outskirts, Hill Palace is more than just a museum—it’s a deep dive into Kerala’s royal past. This was once the official residence of the Cochin Maharaja, and today it houses a fascinating collection of artefacts: royal furniture, oil paintings, traditional weaponry, and ornaments.
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Surrounded by lush green gardens and a deer park, this place offers a peaceful escape from city buzz. For film buffs, this is the very palace that appeared in countless Malayalam movies. Walking through its regal corridors makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled.
KADAVANTHRA & PANAMPILLY NAGAR – CINEMATIC CITYSCAPES
These residential neighborhoods have featured in countless Malayalam films and web series. Their tree-lined avenues, chic cafes, and colorful villas give them a unique identity—modern yet deeply Malayali. Panampilly Nagar, in particular, has become a lifestyle hub. It’s home to design boutiques, cozy cafes, and gourmet bakeries.
Spend a morning here sipping artisan coffee or just walking around and you’ll sense the quiet transformation of the city—from traditional to cosmopolitan.
SANTHA CRUZ BASILICA & ST. GEORGE'S FORANE CHURCH
While not in the exact center of Ernakulam, these historic churches in nearby Fort Kochi and Edappally respectively deserve a mention. The Santa Cruz Basilica stands tall with its Indo-European architecture and is a visual spectacle during Christmas. St. George’s Church in Edappally is one of the largest in Asia and hosts a major annual feast that draws lakhs of devotees.
Both are reminders that Ernakulam isn’t just culturally vibrant—it’s spiritually rich.
SUBHASH PARK – THE GREEN HEART OF ERNAKULAM
Often overlooked by guidebooks, Subhash Park offers a rare burst of green in the middle of a concrete-dense city. Located adjacent to Marine Drive, this well-maintained park is ideal for families, early morning walkers, and anyone needing a breather. From here, you get uninterrupted views of the backwaters and the iconic ferries that crisscross the waters like clockwork.
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ERNAKULATHAPPAN TEMPLE – SPIRITUAL CORE OF THE CITY
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple sits quietly amid urban chaos. With its classic Kerala-style architecture and an aura of reverence, it offers a spiritual reset for many locals. During temple festivals, the temple grounds come alive with traditional music, rituals, and processions that feel almost cinematic.
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MUSEUM OF KERALA HISTORY – A CULTURAL TIME MACHINE
Located in Edappally, this museum takes visitors on a chronological journey through Kerala’s past—from ancient tribes and dynasties to colonial encounters and the freedom struggle. The sound-and-light show, featuring life-size dioramas, is both educational and dramatic—perfect for those who want their history with a bit of flair.
Hidden Gems of Ernakulam – Nature’s Quiet Corners
BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS: WHERE ERNAKULAM TURNS WILD AND BEAUTIFUL
While the city’s landmarks and urban experiences shine in the spotlight, there’s an entirely different side of Ernakulam that most travelers miss—the wild, untouched, soulful side. In this part of the journey, we leave behind the traffic and temples to explore green trails, silent islands, and lesser-known treasures that make Ernakulam more than just a city—it becomes an experience.
MULAVUKAD ISLAND – THE BACKWATER ESCAPE NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT
Just a short drive and bridge-crossing from the main city lies Mulavukad (or Bolgatty Island), a green island caressed by calm backwaters. This serene strip of land, dotted with coconut palms and traditional houses, feels a world away from the honks and heat of Ernakulam. The star attraction here is the Bolgatty Palace, now a heritage hotel set inside lush gardens.
You can cycle across the island, stop by fishing spots, or even enjoy a lazy lunch at one of the waterfront resorts. If you’re chasing a slice of ‘Goa in Kerala’, this place has the vibe—minus the crowds.
KADAMAKUDY – A VILLAGE FLOATING BETWEEN SKY AND SEA
A hidden cluster of islands connected by narrow roads and small bridges, Kadamakudy is Ernakulam’s best-kept secret. Here, time slows to the rhythm of tides and fishing nets. You’ll see Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against the sky, migrant birds gliding past mangroves, and endless paddy fields swaying with the breeze.
Sunsets in Kadamakudy are magical—hues of pink, violet, and gold reflected on flooded fields. It’s the kind of place that photographers and peace-seekers dream about.
CHERAI BEACH – WHERE THE SEA MEETS SERENITY
Technically located on Vypin Island, Cherai Beach is one of the cleanest and most picturesque coastal getaways near Ernakulam. The journey here takes you through fishing villages and coastal hamlets, where old-world Kerala thrives.
Unlike the often crowded beaches of Kovalam or Varkala, Cherai strikes a quiet balance—it's lively but not overwhelming. The beach is lined with palm trees, seafood shacks, and gentle waves perfect for a dip or a long walk. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins just off the coast.
POYILICHAIRA – WHERE BIRDS AND SILENCE ROOST
Close to Kadamakudy lies Poyilichaira, a stunning stretch of backwaters and wetlands that transform into a birdwatcher's paradise at dawn and dusk. During migratory seasons, it hosts flocks of painted storks, herons, kingfishers, and the occasional osprey. There are no entry tickets, no loud tourist chatter—just nature performing quietly for those who are patient enough to watch.
PANIELY PORU – THE MYSTIC WATERFALL RETREAT
About 35 kilometers from the city lies a place that feels straight out of a poem—Paniyeli Poru. A gurgling section of the Periyar River that breaks into rocks and mini-rapids, this is a tranquil site with a hint of thrill. You won’t find food courts or shops here. What you will find is a natural, rugged terrain shaded by trees, where water rushes over black rocks and echoes through the woods.
There are forest department guards here now due to previous accidents, but with caution and the right guidance, it remains one of the most stunning places to connect with nature in Ernakulam.
VYPIN ISLAND & KUZHUPILLY BEACH – COASTAL ROAD TRIP DREAM
A road trip from Ernakulam to Vypin Island via Goshree bridges is an experience in itself. As you drive across sea-sprayed causeways, small churches and fishing boats pass by like postcards. Kuzhupilly Beach, quieter than Cherai, is ideal for anyone looking to spend uninterrupted time by the sea.
Don’t be surprised if you come across a traditional beach football game or fishermen drying their nets in the sun—it’s all part of daily life here.
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BACKWATER CANOE RIDES – THE UNTOUCHED ROUTES
While Alleppey and Kumarakom are often hailed as Kerala’s backwater hotspots, Ernakulam has its own sleepy canals and coconut-shaded lagoons—just less commercialized. You can take a local canoe ride starting from Thevara or Nettoor, where experienced oarsmen steer you through silent canals lined with banana trees, small temples, and wooden homes.
These experiences are raw, humble, and far more intimate than houseboat tours. And the stillness? It’s meditative.
SUNSET POINTS & RIVER VIEWS
For those who don’t want to stray far from the city, there are plenty of underrated sunset spots:
- Chilavannoor Kayal – calm waters, perfect for kayaking or drone photography.
- R. Block, Vytilla – lesser-known jetty where locals gather to watch boats at dusk.
- Kumbalam Island – connected via a small bridge, this is ideal for stargazing too.
TAKEAWAY: A CITY THAT HIDES ITS TREASURES WELL
Ernakulam doesn’t hand over its secrets easily. You have to dig, explore, and sometimes even get lost. But when you do, it rewards you with scenes so vivid and natural that you’ll wonder why more people aren’t talking about it.
From waterfalls that shimmer under jungle light to islands where silence sings, the city and its outskirts are brimming with wonders that go beyond Instagram spots—they’re soul spots.
Ernakulam Through Taste, Culture & Time – A Traveler’s Complete Guide
WHEN A CITY FEEDS YOUR SENSES, IT FEEDS YOUR SOUL
Ernakulam isn’t a place you merely visit—it’s a place you feel. And a large part of that feeling comes through food, festivals, and people. Whether you’re digging into a spicy fish curry at a roadside shack, listening to chenda melam drums echoing through temple walls, or watching Kathakali eyes flicker under a temple lamp—you’re not just watching Kerala’s culture, you’re becoming a part of it.
This section is your ultimate travel guide to soaking in Ernakulam like a true Malayali—starting with your taste buds.
FOOD TRAILS: EAT LIKE A LOCAL
TODDY SHOPS – RUSTIC, RAW, AND RICH
No culinary journey in Ernakulam is complete without a visit to an authentic toddy shop (known locally as ‘kallu shaap’). These are more than watering holes—they're where Kerala’s food culture lives. Accompany your glass of locally fermented coconut toddy with fiery dishes like konju roast (spicy prawns), meen pollichathu (banana-leaf fish), or karimeen fry (pearl spot fish fried till golden).
Top picks:
- Nettoor Kallu Shaap
- Kadavanthra Toddy Shop
- Mullapanthal in Tripunithura
Just be prepared for spicy food and finger-licking flavors that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
NADAN BREAKFAST – THE MORNING RITUAL
Ernakulam mornings are best experienced at a local thattukada (street food stall). Try puttu and kadala curry, appam with stew, or soft idiyappam dipped in thick coconut milk. These places aren’t fancy—but they’ll fill your belly and warm your heart.
CAFES & COSMOPOLITAN BITES
Thanks to Kochi’s global cultural pull, Ernakulam has seen a café boom. Neighborhoods like Panampilly Nagar and Kaloor are dotted with artsy cafes serving fusion dishes, single-origin coffees, and homemade desserts.
Must-visits:
- Kashi Art Café – Coffee meets creativity
- French Toast – Instagram-worthy brunch
- Café Papaya – For indie music and creative food
CULTURAL IMMERSION: FEEL THE SOUL OF ERNAKULAM
KATHAKALI, KOODIYATTAM & KALARIPAYATTU – STAGE OF LEGENDS
Ernakulam is one of the few cities in India where traditional performing arts are alive and celebrated regularly. Head to:
- Kerala Fine Arts Hall in Foreshore Road for cultural shows
- Greenix Village for performances of Kathakali and Mohiniyattam
- Kalari Kendram for a live display of Kalaripayattu—the mother of all martial arts
These aren’t tourist traps. These are living, breathing legacies.
FESTIVALS – WHEN THE CITY BURSTS INTO SONG
Whether you're spiritual or not, witnessing Ernakulam during a local festival is something you’ll never forget. The colors, the rituals, the sounds—it’s all cinematic.
1. Ernakulathappan Utsavam – Held at the Ernakulathappan temple in the heart of the city. Expect elephants, traditional drums, and grand processions.2. Onam – The biggest festival in Kerala, celebrated with floral carpets, sadya feasts, boat races, and pookalam competitions.
3. Christmas & New Year in Fort Kochi – Known for the burning of Pappanji, a massive effigy that signals the end of the year, accompanied by fireworks and parades.
SHOP LOCAL: WHERE TO BUY WHAT
Ernakulam’s markets are as eclectic as its people. You’ll find traditional gold jewelry stores next to indie clothing brands and Ayurveda boutiques.
- Broadway Market – For spices, textiles, and budget shopping
- MG Road – Branded showrooms and local boutiques
- Lulu Mall – One of the largest malls in India for those who love it air-conditioned
Also visit Jew Town in Mattancherry for antique pieces and handcrafted decor.
PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO ERNAKULAM: TIPS & ITINERARY
HOW TO REACH
1. By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is around 40 minutes from the city.2. By Train: Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North) connect to all major Indian cities.
3. By Road: Well-connected via NH66, NH85, and NH544.
WHERE TO STAY
| Luxury | Mid-Range | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hyatt Bolgatty | The Avenue Regent | Zostel Fort Kochi |
| Taj Malabar Resort | Hotel Abad Plaza | Dream Catcher Homestay |
| Book Now | Book Now | Book Now |
GETTING AROUND
1. Ferries: Scenic and efficient to reach Fort Kochi, Vypin, or Bolgatty.
2. Tour Keeda Cabs: Book your one Day ernakulam Tour Package
BEST TIME TO VISIT
1. October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals2. April to June: Hot and humid, but quieter
3. July to September: Monsoon magic – lush, wet, romantic
FINAL THOUGHT: WHY ERNAKULAM IS UNLIKE ANYWHERE ELSE
Ernakulam is not a postcard destination—it’s a living mural. It’s a blend of boat horns and temple bells, old palaces and metro rails, spiced fish curry and sea breeze. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t beg to be liked, but once you understand it, you won’t want to leave.
Come here for more than just beaches or backwaters. Come for the contradictions, the chaos, the calm—and you’ll carry a bit of it forever.
