Wayanad district is nestled amidst the majestic mountains of Western Ghat and is noted for its pristine beauty. The name, Wayanad, is believed to have been derived from the word “Vayalnadu” which means “the land of paddy fields”. The district is set in a peculiar and antique geographical position. The difference in altitudes of each locality within the district presents a variation of climatic conditions .Nature has blessed this part of the State with mist-clad mountains and verdant valleys. It has enormous tourist potential due to its idyllic nature, nearness to major tourist destinations like Ooty in Tamil Nadu and Mysore in Karnataka, with well laid roads to these centres.Agriculture is the main-stay of the district’s economy. The rich cash crop plantations of pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea ,spices and other condiments has perhaps made Wayanad one of the biggest foreign exchange earners in the State. Besides plantation crops, paddy is the most important agriculture produce. The extensive lush paddy fields of the district are truly impressive. The splendid scenic spectacle, with mist clad hills appearing deep blue in bright sunlight, juxtaposes with the green of the paddy fields is truly mesmerising.The East flowing rivers of Wayanad are in striking contrast to the various rivers of the State. The Kabbani river of Wayanad is a perennial source of water to the Kaveri River.
The characteristic feature of the district is the presence of large number of tribals or Adivasis.The district also has a small Jain community consisting of Gounders who came from Karnataka.The Jains have built beautiful temples in the district.
Ernakulam is the first fully literate district in the country and the most industrially developed district of the State, with its headquarter Ernakulam being recognized as the commercial capital of Kerala with more than 1.5 million population. There are many prestigious large and medium scale industries in the industrial belt covering Ernakulam-Kalamassery-Eloor and Alwaye.Besides this there are large number of small scale and cottage industries. The district is also rich in mineral deposits. Captivating Kochi is the commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala. It is an excellent blend of traditions and modernity and is a perfect reflection of the cosmopolitan society of Kerala. The town also known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea” has one of the finest natural harbors in the world and is one of the oldest ports in country.It is indeed one of the most spectacular cities of the country, brimming with history, legends and natural beauty. Since time immemorial, Arabs, Chinese, Dutch, British and Portuguese had trade relations with Kochi. The city‘s rich historical legacy is well exhibited at Fort Kochi and Mattancheri, which still retains the ambiance of the colonial past. Here one can see ancient temples, Churches and synagogues staying closely and standing as a symbol of complete harmony of Kerala.
The island set amidst mainland Ernakulam and the old town Mattanchery was created due to the settling down of the material dredged during the deepening of Kochi Harbour. It is named after Lord Wellington, one of the British Viceroy and is separated by beautiful backwaters. It is an important part of Kochi, as most of the port facilities and important establishments are located here. The island is also dotted with some of the finest hotels and trading centers of the city.
It was built in 1568 and is the oldest synagogue in India. The synagogue was partially destroyed during the Portuguese raid in 1662 and was rebuilt by the Dutch. The clock tower was later added to the structure in the mid -18th century and the floors were paved with exquisite hand – painted blue willow tiles from China. The Great Scrolls of the Old
Testament, the copper plates depicting the grants of privilege made by the Kochi rulers, Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs and other ancient artifacts are some of the evidences of the Jewish history stored over here. The township around the Synagogue is also known for spice trade and curio shops dealing in antiques as well as rare glass and beads.
In 1653, the Malankara Syrian Christians assembled here and pledged not to obey the Latin Archbishops or be under the Jesuits. This event resulted in division of Roman Catholics Christians of Kerala.Earlier they were united under the fold of the Catholic Bava of the East.
It was built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma in 1555.The Palace was later taken over by the Dutch and renovations were made after which it came to be known as the Dutch Palace. The palace is adorned with fine murals depicting scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata and other mythological figures. Royal costumes, palanquins and other royal memorabilia are also exhibited here.
The charming beach borders the Vypeen is island. Sometimes dolphins can also be seen on the beautiful beach. Paddy fields and coconut groves located nearby enhance the splendid scenic beauty of the area.
The scenic island located in the Kochi Bay is known for the Bolghatty Palace built by the Dutch in 1744 and later served as the seat of the British Resident. The Palace has been converted into a heritage hotel run by the KTDC.The lush green landscape with great views of the backwaters makes it an attractive picnic spot. There is also a small golf course and special honey moon cottages.
It is one of the most densely populated islands of the country and the southern part of the island fall within the city limits. The light house is located at Ochanthuruth and affords an awe-inspiring view of the Kochi city and Aluva town.
The island is accessible by boat services. There is a bridge which connects the northern end of the island to the mainland, but is about 21kms.from the city.
The fort was built by the Portuguese in 1503 and is said to be the first fort built in India by the Europeans.It is located on th e northern end of the Vypeen island and has a Catholic Church, which is an important Christian pilgrim centre.
It sprawls over an area of just 5 acres and is smallest island around Kochi.The island is famous for the Coir Factory, where ropes and carpets are manually manufactured by looms.
This mangrove forest in the heart of the town is located on the Dr.Salim Ali Road, just behind the High court building. It has a small bird sanctuary, which attracts many migratory birds throughout the year.
This scenic area on the Ernakulam foreshore, facing the beautiful backwaters is truly enchanting. From here one can enjoy the views of nearby islands as well as the merchant ships and the cruise liner halting for fuelling. It is the main business and shopping area. The Park Avenue is dotted with several parks.
It is the oldest and the most attractive church in Ernakulam.The structure is a fine blend of Portuguese and Kerala styles and is noted for its unique roof, which rests only on the centre pillars on the either sides.
The sacred shrine is situated in the heart of the town, near the Cochin Cultural Centre and the Durbar Hall Ground. According to a legend, the idol here was installed by sage Nagarishi.It is one of the largest temple of the State and the annual temple festival held for eight days during the month of January.
Attractions of Fort Cochin
These huge cantilevered fishing nets are the landmark of Malabar Coast. The nets were introduced between 1350 and 1450A.D. by traders from the Court of Kublai Khan in China. The nets set up on teak wood and bamboo poles can be seen along the entire stretch of the coast and are mainly used during the high tide.
Affords the best view of these nets. The lovely sight of the nets in the evenings, when the Sun melts down into the waters of Arabian Sea is truly amazing. The square is also a great place to enjoy delightful sea food preparations and tender coconuts.
The beautiful beach extends from Kamalakada to the entrance of Kochi Harbour. Along the beach are many colonial bungalow’s which retain the ambiance of the bygone era.
The historic Roman Catholic Church near the St.Francis Church was built by the Portuguese. It was elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558.The Church was demolished by the British in 1795, when they captured Cochin. In 1887, a new building was constructed on the same site and was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984 by Pope John Paul II .The church has a rich collection of beautiful paintings.
This 16th century building is one of the earliest residences built in Fort Cochin and is said to be the house of Vasco da Gama.The typical European glass pane windows and balcony cum verandas of the building are noteworthy.
This large wooden gate was built in 1740.It faces the parade ground and is adorned with the monogram (VOC) of the Dutch East India Company.
The large sports ground was once used by the colonial powers to conduct their regular military parades and drills. The building around the ground was occupied by the defence establishments.
This stately structure on a small hillock near Parade Ground was built in 1506. It was the residence of the Portuguese Governor and is noted for the beautiful façade with large Gothic arches. It was taken over by the Dome Jos Gomes Ferreira, the 27th Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin whose jurisdiction extended over India, Burma, and Srilanka.
This strategic fort was built in 1503 as a result of the alliance between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Monarch of Portugal. It was reinforced in 1538 and later passed into the hands of Dutch and then the British.Itwas destroyed by the British and today relics of this magnificent structure can be seen along the beach.
The cemetery was consecrated in 1724 and has hundreds of tomb stones of the Europeans. It is an authentic proof to several chapters of colonial history.
The Fort Kochi area has perhaps the best preserved history of the colonial times. The Protestant Church here was built in 1503 by the Portuguese Franciscan friars and is believed to be the first church built by the Europeans in India. The church was originally made of wood, but was later rebuilt in stone in the mid -16the century.Vasco da Gama, the discoverer of sea route to India, died in Cochin in 1524 was buried here. After 14yrs , his mortal remains were taken to Portugal. The tombstone still lies in the church premises
The important pilgrim centre and summer resort is located on the left bank of Periyar river, 25km.north –east of Kochi.The river is ideal for bathing here and is a popular picnic site. Another attraction is a Shivalingam on the sand bank.
This small township is 42kms from Ernakulam and was one of the most important Jewish centres in Kerala.The old Jewish colony here has a synagogue built in oriental style. Nearby are the ruins of the Vypeenkotta seminary built by the Portuguese and an ancient Syrian Church.
The summer resort of erstwhile Cochin royal family is located on the right bank of river Alwaye.There is an old palace here and the town is also known for the mat weaving and rattan work.
This important Hindu pilgrim centre on the banks of river Periyar is 45km. from Kochi.The great Advaita philosopher and Bhakti saint of 8th century Adi Sankaracharya was born here. There are two shrines in memory of Adi Sankaracharya, one dedicated to him as Dakshina Moorthi, while the other is dedicated to Goddess Sharada.It also has a Sri Ramakrishna International Temple, which was built in 1976 and was conceived as an abode of peace and temple for all religious faiths.
Kallil in Kunnathunad taluk of the district is of great interest for historians and archaeologists. It is famous for the rock cut caves housing Jain monuments.
The sacred shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati and lies near Ernakulam city. Nearby is the Poornatrayesa temple at Tripunittura, where the goddess is worshipped along with Lord Vishnu and is known as Lakshmi-Narayana.
It is located in the Durbar Hall of the palace. It exhibits a rich collection of 19th century oil paintings, old coins, sculptures and Mughal paintings and megalithic relics of Kerala.One may also visit the Deer Park situated here. Horse riding facility is also available.
It is located about 10kms from Ernakulam, on Ernakulam-Alwaye route. It is known for the Museum of Kerala History & Its Makers, which is a fine representation of the rich historical legacy of Kerala.An impressive image of the mythological sage Parasuram, the creator of the lush land of Kerala is set outside the museum. There are sound and light shows, accompanied by commentaries in English and Malayalam. The show provides an insight in to the glorious past of the State.
It is another attraction of Edappally and is located next to Museum of Kerala History. The gallery has about two hundred original paintings of eminent Indian painters. There is also an authentic collection of reproductions of selected world masters and mural reproductions o f Indian art. The centre also exhibits splendid modern sculptures.
This museum temple lies about 8km away from Ernakulam.The inscriptions found in the temple indicates that the foundation was laid in 947AD.The temple is worth visiting as it exhibits historical legacy right from the Neolithic Age to the modern times through well represented life-size figures. A sound and light show accompanied by commentaries in English and Malayalam is also held here.
This ancient temple at Thrikkakara near Ernakulam is noted for the inscriptions dating back to 10th -13th centuries.
The town is located 55km. from Kochi on the Aluva- Munnar road and is known for various ancient churches. The 14th century St.Thomas Church of the Orthodox Syrians and the St.Mary’s Church are of special interest.
This Christian pilgrim centre lies just across the Periyar river from Kodanadu, the river can be crossed by boat, which takes about 5 minutes time. It is 53km.from Kochi and 8km.from Kalady.The town is known for the St.Thomas Church, which is one of the greatest Catholic churches in the State. The annual feast falls in the month of Mar/Apr., which attracts thousands of devotees. It is said that St.Thomas has prayed at this shrine.
Located 9km from Kochi, it was the seat of Cochin Rajas.Sri Poornathreyesa temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu is a masterpiece of Chola architecture. The town is associated with “Athachamayam”- a spectacular procession which marks the beginning of Onam Festival. The “Sahyadri International Ayurvedic Centre” here is renowned world over.
The museum is housed in the palace of the former royal family of Kochi and lies about 10kms. From Kochi and 12kms.from Ernakulam.The palace complex was built in 1865 and has 49 elegant buildings built in traditional Kerala architectural style.The palace houses an etno-archaeological museum and a heritage museum, which is first of its kind in Kerala.The museum exhibits the riches and fortunes of the former royal family of Kochi.King’s throne and the crown are some of the most interesting objects displayed here. Other items includes majestic beds, paintings , carvings, and samples of epigraphy.
