Unveiling Ernakulam's Hidden Tourist Spots: A Journey Beyond the Usual

Welcome to a curated exploration of Ernakulam, a district in Kerala, India, that extends far beyond its well-trodden tourist paths. While popular destinations like Fort Kochi and Marine Drive are undoubtedly worth visiting, many of Ernakulam's true gems lie hidden, waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveler. This guide, brought to you by www.discoverhiddendestinations.com, aims to unveil those Ernakulam hidden tourist spots, offering a unique perspective on this vibrant region.

Beyond the Mainstream: Discovering Ernakulam's Hidden Gems

Ernakulam, often referred to as the commercial capital of Kerala, is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. While the bustling city life is apparent, a deeper look reveals pockets of serenity, historical significance, and culinary delights that are not widely known. Let's delve into some of these Ernakulam hidden tourist spots.

The Northern Isles: A Glimpse of Rural Kerala

One of the least explored yet most rewarding areas of Ernakulam is the cluster of islands north of the city, often called the Goshree Islands. These are not your typical tourist hubs; instead, they offer a genuine experience of rural Kerala. The largest among them is Vypeen Island, a densely populated area characterized by fishing villages, coconut groves, and backwaters.

Brackish water canals, coconut groves and backwaters make much of Northern Isles Tourism Credit: qph.cf2.quoracdn.net.

The Island of Vypeen and its associated regions in the north side is the home of rural tourism of Kochi, being so close to Cochin City center. Credit: qph.cf2.quoracdn.net.

Beaches: Vypeen Island boasts several stunning beaches, including Puthuvypeen Beach, known for its pristine white sands, and Kuzhupilly Beach, a quieter spot ideal for romantic walks. Cherai Beach, while becoming more popular, still offers a less commercialized experience compared to other beach hubs in Kerala.
Backwaters: The backwater stretches of the Northern Isles provide opportunities for houseboat and canoeing cruises, offering a glimpse into local life at a fraction of the cost compared to Alleppey.
Aquatourism Center, Njarakkal: This hidden gem is a large lake owned by the Kerala Fisheries Department, now open for tourism. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and fresh seafood lunches, providing a unique aquatourism experience.

Malayattoor: Mountains, Forests, and Spirituality

Venture east of the city and you'll find the Malayattoor region, a haven of mountains and forests that is not heavily promoted to tourists. This area offers a blend of adventure, nature, and spirituality.

The second off beat destination in Kochi will be the Eastern Mountains and forests of Malayattoor located close to Cochin Airport. Credit: qph.cf2.quoracdn.net.

One of the oldest customs among Christians to trek the mountains of Malayattor with crosses, reminiscent of Christ’s last walk during the Holy week Credit: qph.cf2.quoracdn.net.

Malayattoor Church: A significant Christian pilgrimage site, the Malayattoor Mountains are believed to be where St. Thomas the Apostle received a vision. Trekking to the peak is both a spiritual and adventurous experience.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary, named after the renowned ornithologist Salim Ali, is a paradise for bird watchers. The forest is home to a variety of rare avian species, including the Malabar Hornbill.
Bhoothankettu Dam: A natural dam formed by large rocks, believed to be stacked by the spirits of Lord Shiva. The area is suitable for kayaking and wild rafting.
Inchathotty Hanging Bridge: Kerala's longest suspension bridge, a popular spot for romantic getaways, often featured in Malayalam movies.

Culinary Delights Beyond the Tourist Traps

Exploring hidden spots in Ernakulam also means discovering unique culinary experiences. While popular restaurants cater to the masses, the real treasures lie in local eateries and tea shops, often tucked away in less frequented areas.

Hidden Food Gems in Kochi

Based on a discussion in r/Kochi, here are some hidden food gems worth exploring:

Eat n Pack, Kunnumpuram: Known for its excellent Shawarma.
St. Mary's Bakery, Mundamveli: Famous for its Halwas, especially the special Milk Halwa.
Rozario Bakery, Thoppumpady: A must-try for their Ghee Cake.
The Roti (Old Dal Roti): Renowned for its Chicken Kati Roll.
Hotel Arafa, Mattancherry: Try their BDF and Biriyani, noted for being tender and flavorful. (Note: there's another branch in Chullikkal with a different preparation).
Puthus Tea Shop: Known for Bonda with spicy sauce and Potato Baji.
Riya Restaurant: Offers Appam and Beef stew on Sundays, as well as Cutlets and Mutton soup.
Shawarma Time: Recommended for their Alfaham.
Oporto Bar: A good spot for Beef fry and Pork fry.
Mohandas’s Thattukada: A street food spot with dosa, vattum karalum, beef fry, botti fry.
Hotel Friends: Good for meals and fish and beef fry.
Solo Cafe and Restaurant: Worth checking for their food, though availability may vary.
Los Angeles Cafe.

These spots offer a more authentic taste of Kochi, away from the mainstream tourist eateries.

Historical Sites Beyond the Usual Suspects

While Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace are well-known for their historical significance, Ernakulam is home to many other historical sites that are often overlooked.

Lesser-Known Historical Places

Koonankurish Church: A lesser-known historical church with its own unique story.
Pallipuram Fort: A fort that offers a glimpse into the region's past, often missed by regular tourists.
Muziris Heritage Circuit: This circuit explores the historical richness of the ancient port city of Muziris and Mahodayapuram, highlighting the area's global trade connections from centuries past.

Exploring Ernakulam's Natural Beauty

Ernakulam's natural beauty extends beyond the beaches and backwaters. Several lesser-known natural spots offer a more tranquil and authentic experience.

Hidden Natural Escapes

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: A small but significant bird sanctuary in the heart of the city, often missed by casual tourists.

Conclusion: Embracing the Hidden Side of Ernakulam

Ernakulam is a region of diverse experiences, and while popular tourist spots have their charm, the real magic lies in its Ernakulam hidden tourist spots. These places offer a more authentic glimpse into local life, history, culture, and culinary traditions, making your visit truly unforgettable. From the serene backwaters of the Northern Isles to the spiritual peaks of Malayattoor, and the hidden food gems scattered across the city, Ernakulam has much more to offer than meets the eye. So, venture beyond the usual and discover the hidden beauty of Ernakulam. This is your guide to uncovering the real, the authentic, and the truly memorable side of this fascinating region, brought to you by www.discoverhiddendestinations.com.