Ernakulam

Ernakulam is one of Kerala's most developed districts. It has been formed by amalgamating the princely states of Travancore and Cochin and the British Malabar. Ernakulam is Kerala's first district to have 100% literacy. Ernakulam derives its name from the Tamil word, Erayanarkulam, which translates into abode of Lord Shiva. The best time to visit Ernakulam is between October and March. Summers are hot and winters mild. Ernakulam abounds in plenty of tourist attractions which you can get a first hand feel of. The Bastion Bungalow was built in indo-European style in 1667 AD. It is so called as it is located on the Stromberg Bastion of the Old Dutch fort.

Bhoothathankettu is a scenic dam site north east of Ernakulam that provides travelers with boating sites within a vast virgin forest. It is a favorite picnic spot with the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary nearby. Travel to Bolghatty Palace from Ernakulam by boat. It was built by the Dutch in 1744. Later it became the seat of the British residence of Cochin. Presently, the Bolghatty Palace is a hotel that is managed by the KTDC. Here, there are several spots that give the traveler pleasant views of the harbor and the sea. There is a small golf course too.

Chendamangalam in Ernakulam was once the quarters of Paliath Achans - the prime ministers of the Maharajas of Kochi. The Paliam Palace represents the architectural splendor of Kerala. The Paliam Palace houses a collection of historical documents and relics. Edappally in Ernakulam is the place of the Historical Museum which portrays historical events through sculptures. At the outset, the visitor is welcomed by the statue of Parasurama the mythological figure who is said to have created Kerala. Kanjiramattom Mosque near Cochin was erected over the remains of a Muslim saint, Sheikh Parid. There is also a Jewish Synagogue in Fort Cochin. It was built in 1568 and is the oldest of its kind in the Commonwealth countries.