Ernakulam

Ernakulam, located in the heart of Kerala, is a vibrant city with a mix of modernity and tradition. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in the culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty of the area. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Exploring the City and Local Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast. Try some puttu (steamed rice cake) with kadala curry (black chickpeas) at a local eatery like “Gokul Oottupura.”
• Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum: After breakfast, head to this museum to get a glimpse of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The museum showcases traditional art forms, costumes, and artifacts.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious meal at “Hotel Saravana Bhavan” where you can savor authentic South Indian thali.
• Marine Drive: Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive. The view of the backwaters and the iconic Chinese fishing nets is simply mesmerizing. You can also enjoy some shopping at the nearby malls.

Evening:

• Visit the Hill Palace Museum: This is the former residence of the Kochi royal family. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a peek into the royal lifestyle.
• Dinner at a Waterfront Restaurant: End your day with dinner at “The Rice Boat” at the Taj Malabar Resort, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the water.

Day 2: Day Trip to Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Hotel: Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast.
• Head to Fort Kochi: Take a short drive to Fort Kochi, a charming area with colonial architecture. Start with a visit to the iconic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Café: Try “Kashi Art Café” for a delightful meal in a cozy setting. Their sandwiches and coffee are highly recommended!
• Explore Mattancherry: After lunch, visit the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) and the Jewish Synagogue. The vibrant streets are perfect for a leisurely walk and some shopping for local handicrafts.

Evening:

• Chinese Fishing Nets: Head back to Fort Kochi to witness the sunset at the Chinese fishing nets. It’s a perfect spot for photography!
• Kathakali Performance: In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at a local cultural center. It’s a mesmerizing experience that showcases Kerala’s classical art forms.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at “Fort Kochi’s Seagull,” where you can relish some local delicacies.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Diner: Start your day with a traditional breakfast at “Baker Street,” known for its pastries and coffee.
• Visit the Bolgatty Palace: After breakfast, head to Bolgatty Island to explore the Bolgatty Palace, which offers stunning views of the backwaters.

Afternoon:

• Lunch on a Houseboat: Experience a unique lunch on a houseboat. You can book a short cruise that includes a meal while you glide through the serene backwaters.
• Visit the Lulu Mall: If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to Lulu Mall, one of the largest malls in India. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy some snacks.

Evening:

• Relax at Cherai Beach: Spend your evening at Cherai Beach, which is about a 30-minute drive from Ernakulam. Enjoy the sunset, take a dip in the sea, or just relax on the sandy shores.
• Dinner at a Beachside Restaurant: End your trip with a beachside dinner at “Chillout Cafe,” where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a laid-back atmosphere.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider hiring a taxi or using rideshare apps for convenience.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local dishes like appam, fish curry, and payasam (a sweet dessert).
• Stay Hydrated: Kerala can be humid, so keep yourself hydrated throughout your trip.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Ernakulam! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌴📸