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Ernakulam

A complete tourist and cultural guide

Ernakulam, the mainland portion of the vibrant Kochi city, is the bustling commercial and cultural hub of Kerala. Often called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” this dynamic city is a fascinating blend of historical influences—from ancient Jewish and Portuguese settlements to Dutch and British colonial heritage. With its stunning backwaters, modern skyline, ancient churches, and thriving spice trade legacy, Ernakulam offers travelers a perfect gateway to experience Kerala’s rich diversity.

Wiki Link: Ernakulam wiki page

Must-Visit Attractions in Ernakulam

Mattancherry Dutch Palace

A Portuguese-built palace later renovated by the Dutch, famed for its exquisite mythological murals, royal memorabilia, and portraits of Cochin’s Maharajas.

Paradesi Synagogue

Built in 1568, this is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, featuring hand-painted Chinese tiles, Belgian chandeliers, and ancient scrolls.

Santa Cruz Basilica

One of India’s eight basilicas, this magnificent Gothic-style cathedral boasts stunning vaulted ceilings, beautiful frescoes, and exquisite architectural detail.

Jew Town

A historic heritage precinct in Mattancherry lined with antique emporiums, aromatic spice shops, and art galleries offering a nostalgic walk through Kochi’s multicultural past.

Major Attractions Nearby Ernakulam

Cherai Beach

A pristine Vypin Island beach offering golden sands, Chinese fishing nets, and a unique blend of sea and backwater views.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

India’s first bird sanctuary, established by Dr. Salim Ali, home to over 300 bird species including rare migratory birds.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

An elephant care center on the Periyar riverbank offering close encounters with bathing and feeding sessions of trained elephants.

Bhoothathankettu Dam

A picturesque dam and reservoir surrounded by dense forests, ideal for trekking, boating, and scenic picnics.

Things to Do in Ernakulam

Experience the historical, cultural, and culinary essence of Ernakulam. From exploring ancient synagogues to cruising the backwaters, the city offers a journey through time and tradition.

Witness a Kathakali Performance

Experience the elaborate storytelling of Kathakali with its vibrant costumes and expressive gestures at cultural centers like Kerala Kathakali Centre.

Backwater Houseboat Cruise

Enjoy a peaceful cruise through Vembanad Lake and surrounding canals aboard a traditional kettuvallam houseboat.

Learn Kerala Cuisine

Join a local cooking class to master Kerala’s famous seafood curries, appams, and the elaborate vegetarian Sadya served on a banana leaf.

Spice Shopping & Heritage Walks

Stroll through the aromatic lanes of Jew Town, inhaling the fragrance of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon while exploring antique shops.

The Performing Arts of Ernakulam

Ernakulam is a thriving cultural center where Kerala’s classical and folk art traditions come alive. The city hosts regular performances that preserve and celebrate the state’s rich artistic heritage.

Music Forms

Sopanam Sangeetham

Mappila Paattu

Vadakkan Pattukal

Ernakulam is a vibrant center for Kerala’s classical and traditional music, with Sopanam Sangeetham deeply rooted in temple rituals and Kathakali performances. The region resonates with the devotional melodies of Tamil Isai and Christian liturgical music from ancient Syrian Christian traditions. Folk music forms like Mappila Paattu and Vadakkan Pattukal narrate tales of love, valor, and everyday life along the Malabar coast. The city also thrives as a hub for Carnatic music, hosting numerous sabhas and annual festivals that nurture young artists.

Dance Forms

Kathakali

Mohiniyattam

Thullal

Ernakulam is a flourishing cradle of Kerala’s classical and folk dance traditions, with Kathakali’s elaborate storytelling and Mohiniyattam’s graceful lyrical movements taking center stage. The region celebrates vibrant folk expressions like Oppana, performed by Muslim bridesmaids with rhythmic clapping, and Margamkali, the ancient Syrian Christian circular dance narrating St. Thomas’s legacy. Thullal, the satirical solo performance created by poet Kunchan Nambiar, continues to entertain with its wit and humor. The city’s cultural calendar brims with festivals showcasing these art forms, preserving Kerala’s rich performing heritage for generations.

City Vibes - Heritage, Commerce & Coastal Charm

Ernakulam pulses with a unique dual energy—it is Kerala’s financial nerve center, yet it breathes history through its ancient temples, churches, and synagogues. The aroma of spices mingles with the salty Arabian Sea breeze, while modern flyovers coexist with cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. It is cosmopolitan yet deeply traditional, offering travelers a rich tapestry of experiences.

Heritage of Ernakulam

Ernakulam’s heritage is a remarkable confluence of civilizations. For centuries, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, British, and Jews have left their imprint. The result is a unique architectural and cultural landscape—from Jewish synagogues to Portuguese churches, Dutch palaces to British bungalows. This multicultural legacy, preserved in its heritage zones, defines the soul of the city.

Cuisine of Ernakulam

Ernakulam is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering the rich, coconut-infused flavors of authentic Kerala cuisine. Influenced by Syrian Christian, Mappila (Muslim), and Nair culinary traditions, the food here is aromatic, spicy, and unforgettable.

Kerala Sadya

A ceremonial vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with rice, curries, pickles, and sweet payasam.

Karimeen Pollichathu

Pearl spot fish marinated in spicy masala and baked in a banana leaf—Kerala’s signature delicacy.

Appam with Ishtu

Soft, lacy rice pancakes served with a creamy, aromatic vegetable or chicken stew.

Puttu & Kadala Curry

Steamed cylindrical rice cakes layered with coconut, paired with spicy black chickpea curry.

Shopping in Ernakulam

Ernakulam’s shopping scene reflects its artistic traditions—from handloom weaves to aromatic spices, antique treasures to coir craftsmanship.

Kasavu Sarees

Handwoven cream and gold sarees with traditional zari borders, embodying Kerala’s timeless elegance.

Brass & Wooden Lamps

Intricately crafted Nilavilakku and brassware, sacred symbols of Kerala’s ritual and home decor traditions.

Spices & Tea

Aromatic cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and premium teas from Munnar and Wayanad—Kerala’s fragrant treasure.

Coir Products

Eco-friendly mats and carpets woven from coconut fiber, showcasing Kerala’s sustainable craftsmanship.

Tourist's Handbook

The ideal time to visit Ernakulam is from October to March (winter), when the weather is pleasant (20°C to 32°C), perfect for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and heritage walks. June to September is the monsoon season, offering lush greenery and Ayurvedic treatments, though heavy rains may disrupt outdoor plans. Summers (March-May) are hot and humid (up to 35°C), making outdoor exploration challenging.

Monsoon Caution: During monsoon (June-Sept), roads can be slippery and waterlogging common. Avoid venturing into deep water.
Boat Safety: Always wear a life jacket on houseboats and ferries, especially if traveling with children.
Respect Dress Codes: Temples and some churches require modest attire (shoulders and knees covered). Some temples restrict entry to Hindus only.
Photography Etiquette: Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside synagogues, churches, and during Kathakali performances.
Seafood Freshness: Enjoy the abundant seafood but ensure it's from reputable, hygienic restaurants to avoid stomach issues.
Water Precautions: Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Autorickshaws are the most convenient mode for short city trips; insist on metered fares. Kochi Metro connects major points like Aluva, Ernakulam Junction, and Petta efficiently. Ferries operated by SWTD provide scenic, economical transport between Ernakulam, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and Vypin. Uber/Ola operate widely in the city. Local buses are frequent but can be crowded. Walking is best for exploring heritage areas like Jew Town and Fort Kochi.

Houseboat Price Traps: Always book through reputed operators and confirm the exact route, duration, meals included, and total cost in writing to avoid hidden charges.

Spice Shop Commission Touts: Drivers/guides may take you to specific spice shops offering high commissions. Compare prices at Jew Town's established shops before buying.

Antique Fakery: Jew Town has beautiful antiques, but many "ancient" artifacts are clever replicas. Buy for artistry, not investment value, unless you have expertise.

Fake Temple Jewellery: Beware of vendors selling "temple jewellery" that is cheap electroplated metal at gold rates. Buy from reputable jewellers.

Autorickshaw Overcharging: Drivers often refuse meters and quote inflated flat fares. Insist on metered fare or use app-based cabs when possible.

Kathakali Photo Fees: At some performance centers, photography/videography during the show may incur additional charges. Clarify before the performance begins.

Explore Kerala

Ernakulam Blogs

Kerala Cultural Guide
Places to Visit in Ernakulam
Places to Visit Nearby Ernakulam
India’s Heritage Port Cities
India’s Backwater Destinations