Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi: Silence, History, and the Soul of Old Kerala

Among the many famous Churches in Kochi, there are some that announce themselves with grand facades and tour buses, while others quietly become part of the city’s everyday rhythm. Our Lady of Life Church belongs to the second category.

Among the many famous Churches in Kochi, there are some that announce themselves with grand facades and tour buses, while others quietly become part of the city’s everyday rhythm. Our Lady of Life Church belongs to the second category.

You don’t “arrive” here dramatically. Instead, Kochi slowly leads you toward it.

A narrow road. Coconut trees bending in the coastal breeze. Elderly women carrying flowers wrapped in newspaper. Children in neatly pressed uniforms rushing toward catechism classes. Somewhere nearby, fish curry simmers in a home kitchen while church bells echo softly through humid Kerala air.

That is the atmosphere surrounding Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi.

Unlike heavily commercialized heritage attractions, this church feels lived-in. It still belongs to local families, fishermen, prayer groups, neighborhood celebrations, and generations of memories. The experience here is less about checking another monument off a list and more about understanding how faith quietly shapes the social and cultural landscape of Kerala.

For photographers, the church offers layered textures — peeling pastel walls, candlelight reflections, monsoon skies, weathered wooden details, and expressive faces. For cultural travelers, it reveals how Kerala Churches evolved through Portuguese influence, Syrian Christian traditions, and local coastal life.

And for slow travelers, this is exactly the kind of place that rewards patience.

Why Visit Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi When travelers search for Churches in Kochi, most immediately think of larger heritage landmarks connected to colonial history. But Our Lady of Life Church offers something more intimate.

Why Visit Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi

When travelers search for Churches in Kochi, most immediately think of larger heritage landmarks connected to colonial history. But Our Lady of Life Church offers something more intimate.

Reasons this church stands out

  • It reflects the everyday spiritual life of Kochi
  • The architecture blends colonial influence with Kerala sensibilities
  • It offers excellent opportunities for documentary photography
  • The surrounding neighborhoods feel deeply authentic
  • The atmosphere changes beautifully during monsoon season
  • Local festivals create emotionally rich cultural experiences
  • It remains relatively peaceful compared to heavily crowded sites

The church also serves as a reminder that Kerala Churches are not just historical structures. They are social spaces. They host baptisms, marriages, funerals, feasts, evening gatherings, and community conversations.

You feel this immediately upon entering.

There is movement. Familiarity. Human warmth.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Christian history of Kochi is extraordinarily layered. Christianity arrived in Kerala long before European colonial powers reached India, traditionally linked to the arrival of St. Thomas the Apostle in the first century CE.

Later, Portuguese influence dramatically transformed the religious architecture of the coast. Many Churches in Kochi began incorporating European design elements while still adapting to Kerala’s tropical climate.

Our Lady of Life Church reflects this cultural intersection.

Portuguese Influence on Kerala Churches

The Portuguese brought:

  • Baroque-inspired altar aesthetics
  • Decorative arches
  • Bell towers
  • Catholic devotional practices
  • Marian traditions

But Kerala adapted these elements uniquely.

Unlike churches in Europe, Kerala Churches evolved with:

  • Sloped roofs for monsoon rains
  • Ventilation-friendly windows
  • Local wood craftsmanship
  • Coastal construction techniques
  • Simpler exteriors suited to humid weather

This fusion gives churches in Kochi their distinct identity.

The Role of the Church in Community Life

In many parts of Kochi, churches still function as:

  • Educational centers
  • Community support systems
  • Cultural anchors
  • Social gathering spaces
  • Festival organizers

Older residents often speak about church feasts with emotional attachment rather than religious formality. For many, these celebrations represent childhood memories, food traditions, neighborhood reunions, and music-filled evenings.

That emotional continuity is one of the most compelling aspects of Kerala Churches.

My Personal Experience at Our Lady of Life Church I reached the church early in the morning after wandering through nearby lanes that still carried traces of last night’s rain. The first thing I noticed was the soundscape. Not silence exactly. Bird calls. Bicycle bells. Distant traffic softened by humidity. A vendor arranging bananas on a wooden cart. Then suddenly, the low ringing of church bells.

My Personal Experience at Our Lady of Life Church

I reached the church early in the morning after wandering through nearby lanes that still carried traces of last night’s rain.

The first thing I noticed was the soundscape.

Not silence exactly.

Bird calls. Bicycle bells. Distant traffic softened by humidity. A vendor arranging bananas on a wooden cart. Then suddenly, the low ringing of church bells.

The church appeared slowly between trees.

Its architecture did not attempt grandeur. Instead, it carried age gracefully. Faded paint. Old crosses. Slightly uneven textures. Time had softened everything.

Inside, the atmosphere shifted completely.

The air smelled faintly of wax candles and old wood. Thin shafts of sunlight entered through side openings, illuminating drifting dust particles like suspended gold.

An elderly man sat quietly near the entrance, turning prayer beads through practiced fingers. A young mother tried to calm a restless child near one of the side pews. Nobody seemed conscious of being observed.

That authenticity matters.

Many famous heritage sites eventually begin performing for tourism. This church still felt emotionally real.

As a photographer, I found myself shooting less and observing more.

Facade and Exterior The exterior architecture reflects modest colonial-era Catholic influence with local adaptations. Look closely and you’ll notice: Soft pastel tones weathered by coastal humidity Symmetrical façade composition Arched entryways Traditional cross placement Locally influenced roof structures

Architecture and Design Details

Facade and Exterior

The exterior architecture reflects modest colonial-era Catholic influence with local adaptations.

Look closely and you’ll notice:

  • Soft pastel tones weathered by coastal humidity
  • Symmetrical façade composition
  • Arched entryways
  • Traditional cross placement
  • Locally influenced roof structures

Monsoon stains running down walls actually add visual character. Photographers will appreciate how the textures become richer after rainfall.

Best time to photograph the exterior

  • Early morning: Soft light and fewer distractions
  • Late afternoon: Warm tones on walls
  • Monsoon evenings: Dramatic skies and reflective surfaces

Avoid harsh midday sunlight if possible.

Interior Details

Inside the church, visual storytelling becomes even more interesting.

Pay attention to:

  • Wooden pew textures
  • Candlelight patterns
  • Ceiling details
  • Religious statues
  • Floral offerings
  • Layered shadows

The church interior works especially well for:

  • Low-light photography
  • Human-centered compositions
  • Black-and-white storytelling
  • Symmetry shots

Photographers using mirrorless cameras or fast prime lenses will enjoy the atmosphere immensely.

The Human Side of Kerala Churches

What makes many Kerala Churches unforgettable is not simply architecture.

It is people.

Outside the church, I met a middle-aged local who explained how generations of his family had attended services there. He pointed toward specific corners while narrating family memories:

  • His parents’ wedding
  • Feast processions from childhood
  • Monsoon flood stories
  • Christmas celebrations with lanterns

These conversations transform a structure into living heritage.

In Kochi, churches are deeply tied to memory.

Feast Days and Celebrations

If your timing aligns with local church festivals, the experience changes dramatically.

During feast periods, the church surroundings often become vibrant with:

  • Decorative lighting
  • Flower arrangements
  • Community meals
  • Music processions
  • Evening prayers
  • Temporary stalls selling snacks and religious items

Unlike commercial festivals, these celebrations still feel neighborhood-driven.

Children run around freely. Families gather after prayers. Elderly residents sit outdoors discussing old stories.

For cultural photographers, this is gold.

Detailed Exploration: Walking Around the Neighborhood One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is leaving immediately after visiting the church. The surrounding locality deserves equal attention.

Detailed Exploration: Walking Around the Neighborhood

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is leaving immediately after visiting the church.

The surrounding locality deserves equal attention.

Coastal Kerala Atmosphere

Walk slowly through nearby lanes and you’ll encounter:

  • Portuguese-influenced homes
  • Small shrines
  • Laundry lines fluttering in sea breeze
  • Narrow coconut-lined streets
  • Tiny tea stalls
  • Fish vendors returning from morning markets

The visual language of Kochi exists in these details.

Observe Everyday Life

Spend time simply watching:

  • Schoolchildren interacting after mass
  • Elderly residents sharing benches
  • Women carrying flower baskets
  • Scooters parked beside ancient walls

These scenes create emotional context.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Insights

1. Visit During Light Rain

Many travelers avoid churches during rain.

In Kochi, rain transforms everything.

Wet stone surfaces deepen in color. Palm leaves glow brighter. Church bells sound richer through damp air. Reflections form in courtyard puddles.

Monsoon photography here can be extraordinary.

2. Look for Old Woodwork

Some of the finest details are easy to miss:

  • Handcrafted benches
  • Aging doors
  • Decorative carvings
  • Traditional ceiling beams

Photographers should carry a lens suitable for detail work.

3. Observe Local Dress During Sunday Services

Kerala church fashion itself is visually fascinating:

  • Crisp white mundus
  • Gold-bordered sarees
  • Simple cotton dresses
  • Traditional jewelry

Sunday mornings offer remarkable opportunities for respectful documentary photography.

4. Explore Nearby Food Stalls

After morning services, local eateries become lively gathering spaces.

This is when you witness authentic neighborhood energy.

Best Photography Spots Around Our Lady of Life Church

Front Courtyard

Best for:

  • Symmetrical compositions
  • Wide-angle architecture
  • Human interaction shots

Ideal timing

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

Side Lanes

These narrow roads offer:

  • Leading lines
  • Tropical framing
  • Natural storytelling

Look for bicycles, umbrellas, and textured walls.

Interior Window Light

The side windows create beautiful directional lighting.

Perfect for:

  • Moody portraits
  • Spiritual atmosphere shots
  • Minimalist compositions

Recommended gear

  • 35mm prime
  • 50mm prime
  • Low-light capable camera body

During Monsoon

Rain reflections create cinematic scenes.

Try:

  • Low-angle puddle reflections
  • Umbrella silhouettes
  • Wet texture close-ups

Photography Tips for Churches in Kochi

Respect Matters More Than Photography

Always remember:

  • This is an active place of worship
  • Avoid flash during prayers
  • Ask before photographing people closely
  • Dress modestly

Respect creates better human interactions.

Best Camera Settings

For interiors:

  • ISO: 800–3200
  • Wide aperture
  • Shutter priority for handheld work

For exteriors:

  • Slight underexposure during cloudy weather preserves texture

Best Seasons for Photography

SeasonPhotography Mood
MonsoonDramatic, atmospheric
WinterSoft golden light
Summer morningsClear skies and vibrant colors

Local Food Experiences Near the Church

No exploration of Kochi feels complete without food.

The area around many Kerala Churches often contains small family-run eateries serving deeply satisfying local meals.

What to try nearby

Appam and Stew

Soft lace-edged appams with coconut-based vegetable or chicken stew.

Fish Curry Meals

Fresh coastal flavors with:

  • Pearl spot fish
  • Tamarind gravies
  • Red rice
  • Coconut chutneys

Pazham Pori

Banana fritters paired with strong Kerala tea.

Kattan Chaya

Black tea often served after evening prayers in local tea shops.

The best meals are usually found in unassuming places without flashy signage.

Conversations That Stay With You

Travel memories are rarely about monuments alone.

Near the church, I spoke with a local fisherman repairing nets beneath a tree. He described how church bells once helped coastal communities keep track of time before many households owned clocks.

Morning bells. Noon bells. Evening bells.

Religion intertwined with daily survival.

That conversation changed how I heard the church afterward.

Later, an elderly woman explained how families prepare homes before major feast days:

  • Cleaning courtyards
  • Hanging lights
  • Preparing sweets
  • Hosting relatives

These details reveal how deeply embedded church culture remains in Kochi life.

Best Time to Visit Our Lady of Life Church

Early Morning

The best overall experience.

Advantages:

  • Soft light
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Active local life
  • Cooler temperatures

Monsoon Season (June–September)

Ideal for:

  • Atmospheric photography
  • Dramatic skies
  • Emotional storytelling

Carry rain protection for gear.

Christmas Season

Many Churches in Kochi become beautifully illuminated during Christmas.

Expect:

  • Decorations
  • Carol singing
  • Festive food
  • Community gatherings

Avoid Midday

Heat and harsh lighting reduce both comfort and photographic quality.

How to Reach Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi

Kochi is well connected through:

  • Cochin International Airport
  • Ernakulam railway stations
  • Ferry systems
  • Local buses
  • Auto-rickshaws

Best way to explore

Combine:

  • Walking
  • Ferries
  • Auto-rickshaws

Slow movement helps you notice details.

Using local ferries

Ferries remain one of the most atmospheric ways to experience Kochi’s geography and rhythm.

Where to Stay

Fort Kochi

Ideal for:

  • Heritage lovers
  • Photographers
  • Slow travelers

You’ll find:

  • Boutique stays
  • Colonial-era guesthouses
  • Art cafés

Mattancherry

Better for:

  • Cultural immersion
  • Budget stays
  • Local atmosphere

Ernakulam

Suitable for:

  • Business travelers
  • Better transport connectivity
  • Modern hotels

Budget Tips for Travelers

Save Money Without Losing Experience

  • Use ferries instead of taxis
  • Eat at local family-run restaurants
  • Travel during shoulder season
  • Walk short distances
  • Stay in heritage homestays

Photography Budget Tip

You do not need expensive gear here.

Observation matters more.

Even smartphones can capture beautiful compositions if used thoughtfully.

Suggested Half-Day Itinerary

TimeActivity
6:30 AMReach church surroundings
7:00 AMExplore exterior and morning life
8:00 AMAttend or quietly observe morning prayer
9:00 AMWalk surrounding lanes
10:00 AMLocal Kerala breakfast
11:00 AMExplore nearby heritage streets

Responsible Travel Tips

Dress Respectfully

Especially during prayer hours.

Avoid Loud Behavior

The church is primarily a spiritual space, not merely a tourist attraction.

Support Local Businesses

Choose:

  • Family-run cafés
  • Local guides
  • Small shops

Ask Before Photographing People

Particularly elderly worshippers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Rushing Through

Many travelers spend only ten minutes here.

Slow down.

2. Ignoring Surrounding Streets

The neighborhood experience is part of the visit.

3. Visiting Only Midday

Morning and evening are far superior.

4. Treating It Only as Architecture

The emotional and cultural layers matter equally.

5. Overpacking Photography Gear

Mobility is more valuable in Kochi’s narrow lanes.

FAQs About Our Lady of Life Church and Churches in Kochi

Is Our Lady of Life Church worth visiting in Kochi?

Yes, especially for travelers interested in culture, photography, and authentic Kerala church experiences beyond crowded tourist spots.

What is the best time to visit Churches in Kochi?

Early mornings and evenings are ideal due to softer light, cooler weather, and more atmospheric surroundings.

Are Kerala Churches good for photography?

Absolutely. Kerala Churches offer unique combinations of colonial architecture, tropical landscapes, local culture, and emotional storytelling opportunities.

Can tourists attend prayer services?

Yes, provided they behave respectfully and avoid disrupting worship.

Which season is best for photography in Kochi?

Monsoon season creates dramatic visual conditions, while winter offers comfortable exploration and softer light.

Are there good local food options near churches in Kochi?

Yes. Small eateries around churches often serve authentic Kerala breakfasts, seafood meals, tea, and snacks.

Final Thoughts

Some places impress you immediately.

Others stay with you quietly.

Our Lady of Life Church in Kochi belongs to the second category.

Days later, what I remembered most was not a single architectural detail. It was the atmosphere. The sound of bells moving through humid air. Rainwater reflecting old walls. The calm expression of worshippers arriving without hurry. The feeling that faith here was woven gently into everyday life rather than displayed dramatically.

Among the many Churches in Kochi, this church reveals something essential about Kerala itself — the coexistence of history, spirituality, coastal culture, and ordinary human warmth.

For photographers, it offers layered visual storytelling.

For travelers, it offers emotional texture.

And for anyone willing to slow down, it offers one of the most authentic experiences hidden within the evolving landscape of Kochi.

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If you land in Bangalore, you can catch a KRSTC bus running regularly to Kozikhode or directly to Wayanad. Some kerala transportation buses are also available. It is highly recommended to plan it well and know about bus timings before hand, to plan your trip well. Let's also talk about travel by Rail/train. Nearest railway station is Kozikode and beyond that you need to either take a taxi or bus. Related Post : Journey from Delhi to Wayanad via Bengaluru, Mysore, and Sultan Battery || Kerala DiariesHow to reach Wayanad and main places to explore, along with interesting things to do






I had always heard about Wayanad as one of the biggest tea producers in India, but when I actually visited this beautiful place I realized that coffee is also produced in abundance. Wherever we went in Wayanad, we found acres of lands covered by coffee plantations. This Photo Journey shares some information about coffee plantations in Wayanad region of Kerala. Coffee production in India is dominated in the hilly terrains of South Indian states. Karnataka produces the max followed by Kerala. Indian coffee is said to be the finest coffee grown in the shade rather than direct sunlight anywhere in the world. Our host at Meenangadi had huge coffee farm around his homestay and he shared the fact about coffee in shadow. Most of the the plants were in shades of various trees including black pepper, jackfruit, coconut & rubber trees.Above is the view from out cottage at Treasure Trove which was surrounded by coffee plantations all around. After coming back from Wayanad, I read more about Coffee plantations in India and got to know that we have approximately 2.5 lac coffee growers and majority of them are small growers. Major part of the coffee grown in India exported to Germany, Russian, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, United States, Japan, Greece, Netherlands, France and Italy.There are two methods to process Coffee - dry processing and wet processing. Dry processing is the traditional method of drying in the sun which is favoured for its flavour producing characteristics. This what we witnessed during our stay in Wayanad. Indian coffee, grown mostly in southern India under monsoon rainfall conditions, is also termed as “Indian monsooned coffee. Two well known species of coffee grown are the Arabica and Robusta.Drawn by the aroma into the Coffee Plantations of Wayanad || Kerala Diaries






I did a post on main places to explore and things to do in God's Own Country - Kerala and one of the followers mentioned on Facebook that it's unfair not to mention food of Kerala. And I agree, so thought of compiling this post about Food of Kerala. I am sure that some of the following names would sound familiar - Puttu and Kadala Curry, Thalassery biryani , Appam with Stew, Dosa Ghee Roast with Kerala styled Sambar , Idiyappam with Egg Curry, Spicy Chicken Fry (locally known as Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu), Kerala Prawn Curry, Mussel Stir Fry (popularly known as Kallumakkaya Ularthiyath ) , Pumpkin (Erissery) and Lentil Stew, Naadan Beef fry or Kerala Style Beef Fry and Malabar Parota, Kerala style Fish Molee and Kerala rice(boiled rice) along with sambar, parippukari with ghee, pachadi, kichadi, aviyal, puliyan, kuttukari, Kalan, Olan, Injikkari, rasam, pappadam, pickle, raita, sweetners(two or three different types), payasam.I clearly remember the Theayyam feast we enjoyed at Kannur. After spending whole day at Theyyam temple, one of the priest invited us to join for the feast. Everyone is invited to have lunch at temple and some of the popular food items are served on banana leaf. The same day we were wondering about the banana trees which would have lost those leaves. Hundreds of folks had lunch at the temple during Theyyam festival. Whenever anyone talk about Kerala food, that feast come to my mind. So my recommendation is to find a community event where you can enjoy authentic Kerala food.If you have visited Kerala you would know how Kerala rice look like and if not, just have a look at above photograph. These are very light as compared to rice we get in North India.If you are visiting Kerala, it's recommended to buy some spices to bring back home for family and friends. Patimugam is something which we liked and bought in abundance. The pink colored water served with food is basically boiled water by putting Patimugam in it. Travellers very well know that food of any place is very much inspired by it's weather and local ingredients. You can very much guess the major ingredients of Kerala food. Coconuts grow in abundance in Kerala and hence coconut cream & coconut milk are widely used in dishes for thickening and flavouring. Owing to the weather of Kerala and the availability of spices, the Kerala cuisine is richly spicy especially the hot ones - chilli , black pepper , cardamom , cloves , ginger and cinnamon.Kerala's long coastline, various rivers, backwaters and strong fishing industry have contributed to many sea & river food based dishes. Rice and cassava (Tapioca) form the staple food of Kerala. All main dishes are made with them and served along with Kootan; the side dishes which may be made from vegetables, meat, fish or a mix of all of them. The main dish for lunch and dinner is boiled rice.If you love cooking and prefer healthy food for your family, you may want to check this brilliant blog by Sangeeta . And here is a recipe for Chicken stew Mughlai Style.Let me give another tip to fellow travellers for exploring authentic food of Kerala. Prefer staying in Home Stays and do proper research. We were lucky to have great experience of home stays in Kerala. If you plan to explore Wayanad, here are 2 recommendations - Treasure Trove and Bamboo Village.As you can see, banana leaves are used in different forms. Apart from serving food on banana leaf, it's also used for cooking. At our homestay, we used to get home cooked snacks with evening tea. What an awesome stay it was. I wish to go there right now. Non-veg was main part of all our meals at Kerala. I found it interesting when fish and chicken vendors sell various types of fish on bicycle. While staying at Bamboo village, we met some vendors who were selling 4-5 types of small fish and almost every villager was buying fish. Banana is other main ingredient of Kerala food. In fact, unripe banana are also used in various ways. Banana pakoras, boiled banana, banana chips etc. I am sure that banana must be used in 10 other forms in Kerala. I didn't like boiled banana which was served to us in breakfast. Either I ate it in wrong way or I could relate to it's taste.Food Trail in God's own country, Kerala (India)






India is also referred to as 'God's Own Country'. Kerala is a coastal state in India and has rich traditions, culture and lush unspoiled tropical beauty with unmatchable landscapes. Kerala is popularly known for its landscapes, backwaters, food, elephants, Theyyam & various types of spices. Kerala is perfect destination for folks visiting India and even for Indians who want to spend some time at peace & slow pace of life. Kerala has options for different types for tourists and travellers. This post lists some of the popular places to explore and things to do in Kerala state of India. Munnar - Usually I hate to do comparisons of places because it's usually unfair, as every place is unique. But I would like to call out that Munnar is popularly known as Kashmir of South India. Munnar is one of the key destination in Kerala which attracts lot of domestic and foreigner tourists to Kerala. It's a beautiful hill station which has lush green tea estates apart from spice plantations.Some of the popular places to explore in Munnar are Eravikulam National Park, Indo Swiss Dairy Farm, Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary, Anamudi, Tata Tea Museum, Idukki Arch Dam.Thekkady - Thekkady is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala state of South India. Thekkady is located in the famous Periyar National Park. The Periyar National Park is home to a large number of Indian elephants, lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Indian bison and Bengal Tigers. Mullaperiyar Dam around the area on the Periyar River and formed an artificial lake for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.Kovalam Light house beach in Kovalam is must visit place. And I am sure that you must have seen some exceptional photographs of lighthouse beach. Just notice the lighthouse in above photograph and you would be able to recall other photographs from same place and beach. Kovalam is also known as beach town of Kerala. It is also known as the paradise of the south and beaches of KOvalam are considered some of the best beaches in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. Alleppey - Alappuzha is an important backwater tourist destination in Kerala. Alleppey is one of the most preferred place for tourists, which attracts several thousands of foreign tourists each year. If you have ever watched boat races, Alleppy is the place to host these events. Apart from boat races Alleppy is also popularly known for beaches, marine products and coir industry. Allapuza Backwaters is a must experience thing in Kerala.Some of the other interesting other places around Alleppy include Statue Of Karumadikuttan, Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple and Revi Karuna Karan (RKK) Memorial Museum.Wayanad - Wayanad is north Kerala and popular for it's tea & coffee plantations. Hilly region of Kerala which has plenty of natural things to explores. Lakes, Waterfalls, caves, tea estates, adventure activities, home stays, wildlife and lot more. Kalpetta, Pookot Lake , Edakkal Caves , Pakshipathalam, Lakkidi, Sulthan Bathery, Banasura Sagar , Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelimala view point , Meenmutty falls and Curuva Island are some of the popular places to explore in Wayanad. On our blog, we have shared about some of the best home-stays in Wayanad and incredible experience of Bamboo village. Check out more on the blog and I am sure that you would definitely plan for this region of Kerala.Vagamon hill station is located on Idukki - Kottayam border area. A best place to spend time during summers of Kerala. Vagamon is immensely beautiful with many points of tourist interest, which offer great landscapes. The meadows, forests and hills surrounded by fog/clouds make this place more interesting. ( Cochin ) / Ernakulam - If you are taking flight to south Kerala, most likely you would be hitting Kochi first. Kochi is located in Ernakulam district of Kerela, which was earlier known as Cochin. Kochi is also an important seaport in India. Ernakulam is popular for shopping options in Kerala. I haven't really done shopping in Kerala but this is well known fact about Ernakulam. Some of the popular places to explore around Cochin include Jewish Synagogue, Cherai Beach, Marine Drive, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Fort kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, Ezhattumugham Nature Village and Athirappally Falls. Thiruvananthapuram - Poovar is a small village in the Southern tip of Trivendrum. Around Poovar beach you can explore mangroves, floating restaurants, varieties of birds and biodiversity. The beach is pristine with golden sand with no or less people. Solitude’s comfort, you see! Fisherman waiting to trap the fishes in their giant nets at one corner and eagles and crows waiting for the fishes to be their fodder. Nature, oh nature, vicious circle, it is Some of the interesting places to explore around Thiruvanantpuram are Priyadarshini Planetarium, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Kuthiramalika, Kanakakunnu Palace. A photograph of Coffee plants from Kerala state of India. some of the old temples. Some of the temples around Kannur celebrate Theyyam festival and lot of foreigner tourists visit Kannur for Theyyam. Thottada beach is one of the popular and isolated beach in Kannur. Riding around these beaches and backwaters can be interesting.Kumarakom Houseboats Kumarakom is most popular tourist spot located near the Kottayam city and famous for its houseboats in backwaters of Vembanad Lake. Vembanad Lake is the largest freshwater lake of Kerala and longest lake in India. Kumarakom is a famous Bird Sanctuary and home to a wide variety of local and migratory birds.One of the most important recommendation is to try Kerala food when you are in Kerala, but be careful about the quantity you order. Usually lot of curries are served, so it's recommended to order the minimum portion from menu and then decide, if you need more.Main places to visit and things to do in Kerala, India


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