Top reasons to visit Ernakulam
- Vibrant City Life: Ernakulam boasts a bustling atmosphere with lively nightlife, shopping centres, and local boutiques, perfect for urban explorers.
- Cultural Experiences: Discover historic palaces and indulge in the rich cultural heritage of Kerala through local attractions and outdoor activities.
- Beautiful Parks: Enjoy leisurely strolls in urban parks and along the esplanade, offering serene spaces amidst the city buzz.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from an array of comfortable hotels and charming guesthouses that cater to various needs.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Ernakulam is ideal for family vacations with a mix of attractions that appeal to all ages.
Find great hotels in and around Ernakulam
Ernakulam offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to various needs. Whether you are travelling for business, seeking a family getaway, or indulging in a spa-themed holiday, you'll find suitable lodgings to enhance your experience. Explore the array of hotels and rooms in Ernakulam to find the perfect base for your adventures in this vibrant region of Kerala.
- Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty: Nestled along the serene Bolgatty Island, the Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty is a luxurious 5-star retreat that boasts a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. Ideal for families and golf enthusiasts, this property offers a wonderful blend of leisure and recreation. Guests can enjoy golfing experiences on-site, while families benefit from a range of children’s amenities, including a shared playground and mini-golf facilities. With spacious accommodations and exceptional service, this hotel is tailored for those seeking a family-friendly vacation enriched with activities.
- Vivanta Ernakulam, Marine Drive: Located in the heart of Ernakulam, Vivanta Ernakulam, Marine Drive is a chic 4.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This property is perfect for families in search of a luxury spa experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa treatments alongside leisure time at the outdoor pool. Children are well catered for with a dedicated arcade game room and a swimming pool just for them. With its modern design and comprehensive amenities, this hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to relax and unwind.
- Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin: Situated 5km from Ernakulam, the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin is a distinguished 5-star hotel, holding a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This property is particularly suited for adventurous families, offering a plethora of recreational activities, including hiking and kayaking nearby. With dedicated services for children, such as an arcade game room and babysitting facilities, families can enjoy peace of mind while exploring. Its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere make it a captivating choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Where to stay in and around Ernakulam
Ernakulam, a charming village in Kerala, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly experiences and vibrant city life. Visitors can enjoy the lively nightlife, explore local boutiques, and immerse themselves in the rich culture. The friendly atmosphere and serene locations make it perfect for both leisure and business-themed vacations. Whether you're seeking excursions or a quiet retreat, Ernakulam promises unforgettable experiences and warm hospitality.
- Kochi: Located a mere 6km from Ernakulam, Kochi is a vibrant city known for its mix of modernity and tradition. The city experiences a moderate influx of tourists, with peak seasons from December to February, drawing visitors for outdoor adventures, beach escapades, and thrilling experiences. Kochi is home to stunning beaches, historic temples, and the scenic national park, making it a haven for nature lovers. The bustling shopping centres and malls also provide a delightful experience for those looking to indulge in retail therapy after a day of exploration.
- Edapally: Nestled close to Ernakulam, Edapally is a lively neighbourhood that caters to families and business travellers alike. Unlike other areas, its visitor numbers remain fairly consistent throughout the year, with peaks in July, September, and December. Edapally is a fantastic place for shopping, featuring numerous shopping centres and malls. Its local landmarks, including impressive buildings and the historic palace, offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and leisure.
- Ernakulam South: Ernakulam South, another charming neighbourhood near Ernakulam, is popular among those seeking outdoor adventures, romantic experiences, and a touch of thrill. With visitor numbers peaking in April, July, and November, this area offers a variety of attractions, including scenic esplanades, picturesque waterfalls, and revered temples. The lush surroundings and tranquil atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or an adventurous day out, ensuring that every traveller finds something to cherish during their stay.
Things to do in Ernakulam
Shopping
In Ernakulam, visit Lulu Mall for a variety of international brands and local products. If you're up for a drive, explore Marine Drive, which offers charming shops and local handicrafts along the waterfront. Don't miss the vibrant Broadway Market for authentic souvenirs and street shopping.
Recreation
At the Ayurvedic Healing Village, immerse yourself in traditional therapies amid tranquil surroundings, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Experience yoga sessions at the Green Leaf Resort, where lush landscapes enhance your practice. Explore the scenic backwaters on a houseboat, offering a unique blend of nature and serenity.
Adventure
In Ernakulam, explore the backwaters by canoeing or kayaking, immersing yourself in serene landscapes. Visit Fort Kochi for a thrilling cycling tour along its scenic coastline, while the nearby Western Ghats offers trekking opportunities with breathtaking views of lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Barbecue Company on Marine Drive, where you can savour grilled delights. For a lively ambience, visit the 10 Cuts of Beef on Park Avenue, offering a variety of cocktails and music that keeps the energy flowing late into the night.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ernakulam
For a budget-friendly trip to Ernakulam, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June and September when accommodation prices drop. Enjoy free attractions like Marine Drive and Changampuzha Park to maximise your savings. Use public transport options like the Metro and buses for economical travel. Book your hotel a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Sundays for the best rates. Combining hotel bookings with flights and activities can also yield significant discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ernakulam are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to November to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Ernakulam about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ernakulam is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Ernakulam is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Ernakulam with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Ernakulam
Ernakulam is an ideal destination for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in its rich culture by exploring historic palaces and urban parks, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the esplanade. Popular attractions include the Ernakulam Public Library, offering a perfect blend of outdoor and romantic experiences for all types of travellers. Discover the charm of this vibrant city as you indulge in its diverse offerings.
- Marine Drive: Stroll along this picturesque esplanade, where you can enjoy stunning views of the waterfront. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for romantic evenings or family outings, with various eateries and shops nearby adding to the charm of your visit.
- Bolgatty Palace: Explore the heritage of this historic palace, set on Bolgatty Island, just a couple of miles from Ernakulam. The architecture reflects the rich culture of Kerala, and the surrounding gardens offer a tranquil escape, ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
- Changampuzha Park: This urban park is a green oasis in the city, perfect for families seeking outdoor activities. With its expansive lawns and pathways, the park serves as a lovely spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the local flora.
Best time to go to Ernakulam
The best time to visit Ernakulam is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ernakulam
To reach Ernakulam, flying into Cochin International Airport (COK) is the most convenient option, situated 23km away. Excellent accommodation near the airport includes the luxurious Port Muziris, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott, and Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport, both around 966m from COK. Saj Earth Resort, also 1km away, offers similar proximity. Alternatively, Coimbatore Airport (CJB), 142km distant, features Le Meridien Coimbatore and Radisson Blu Coimbatore, both within 5km. Kozhikode Airport (CCJ), 134km from Ernakulam, has hotels like The Raviz Kadavu, which provides shuttle services. These options ensure a smooth transition from airport to hotel during your stay.