Top Things to Do in Ernakulam
The commercial capital of Kerala, where a majority of business activities in Kerala are carried out is the town Ernakulam. Ernakulam is one of the tourist destinations in Kerala. The city receives a significant crowd from domestic and international countries. The nearest airport to this town is located in Kochi.
Ernakulam History
In earlier times, a bag full of black pepper and other Kerala spices was considered valuable. It was so valuable that Kerala traders used to exchange the sack of spices with gold and precious metals. Black pepper was one of the most expensive spices in ancient times. It was because of
the black pepper that the Malabar Coast had become one of the popular areas in India.
Ernakulam was the center of the spice trading and exquisite spice trails. In fact, the popular explorers such as Vasco Da Gama and Pedro Alvares Cabral visited Ernakulam and made it a popular town. The influence of these trading communities on the overall city was so much that tourists still get to witness the ancient culture in Ernakulam. The history and top attractions of this popular town in Kerala make it a tourist destination. Here’s the list of things you can do in Ernakulam.
1.) Bird Watching:
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is Kerala’s first-ever sanctuary that is known for its beautiful aura and a wide variety of colorful birds. If you are a nature enthusiast, then Thattekkad bird sanctuary is going to be a heavenly destination for you. What makes this place stand out from the rest of the sanctuaries in Kerala is the presence of colorful and endangered species of birds. Bird watching is surely an adventurous activity for those who love to explore the natural beauty.
Not only birds, but this breathtaking place houses a variety of trees including teak, rubber, mahogany, and rosewood. Several tourists visit Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary to explore endangered bird species and capture them in their cameras. If you want to enjoy the best experience, bring your binoculars. This will help you get a better insight into the beautiful birdlife here.
2.) Boating and Swimming:
Kerala is home to some of the country’s most popular beaches. One such rejuvenating and wonderful beach in Kerala that’s known for its pleasant surroundings is the Cherai Beach in Kochi in the Ernakulam district. Cherai Beach is a perfect tourist destination for adventure maniacs. The fresh ocean waves and the glistening sand beach make it a super relaxing spot for locals and tourists. Not only do the tourists swim around the ocean here, but Cherai Beach has wonderful boating facilities. The crystal clear water of this beach is home to the dolphins.
If you are not a water-baby, you can sit beside the ocean or walk on the smooth sand. Cherai Beach receives many tourists throughout the day. But, the best part about this tourist destination is its cleanliness. Cycling, swimming, sailing, and sunbathing are some of the fun activities you can perform here. All you need to do is book a reliable taxi service in Kochi and get to this beach.
3.) Explore History:
Hill Palace is 10 kilometers drive away from Kochi. If you are a history lover, this destination in Ernakulam is going to excite you. The place was home to the ancient Kerala rulers in the 18th century. Today, the Palace is open to tourists as a Kerala museum. Hill Palace is in an ancient Kerala architecture style. It has a total of 49 buildings and 52 acres of land that
surrounds the Palace. Close to this Palace are a children’s park and some wonderful gardens. To explore the history and sacred places, you can also pay a visit to the Santa Cruz Basilica. It is one of the oldest churches in Ernakulam. The church impresses the tourists with its breathtaking architectural design and marvelous construction. The major attraction of this cathedral is the ancient paintings that are beautifully crafted on its walls.
4.) Go Shopping :
Ernakulam has so much to explore that shopping is probably not on your to-do list. But if you get a chance to visit Kochi and Ernakulam with your family, shopping is highly encouraged here.
The best shopping region for tourists is MG Road and Princess Street.
Mahatma Gandhi Road is a shoppers spot. You will find all shopping items ranging from women’s accessories to apparel to south Indian spices to electronics and much more. This shopping center receives a large number of shopaholics throughout the year. Another shopping center for tourists is Princess Street. The area is famous because Vasco Da Gama visited it.
In fact, India’s famous explorer has lived in a building on this street. The Road features eateries, stationery shops, café, and hotels.
Rent a car in Ernakulam with a driver and visit the top Ernakulam attractions. Don’t forget to buy black pepper or Kerala special spices as a souvenir.