“Who needs a time machine when you have Cherai?” Cherai is not just a place; it’s a delightful journey through history, culture, and art. This blog takes you to the majestic Portuguese Fort, where colonial stories still whisper in the wind, and to the vibrant Gowreeswaram Temple, alive with festivities.The Azheekal Sree Varaha Venkateswara Temple is a treat to watch, and the history attached to Rich Paliam Palace will turn back the clock and take you into its majestic wonderland. The craftmanship at Chendamangalam Handloom Village will make you believe in magic. So, if you are a tourist, a curious traveller, or a solo backpacker trying to find solace, Cherai is your one-stop destination.
Historic Sites and Cultural Delights Around Cherai
Heard your inner voice and immediately started curating the best places in Cherai. From the ancient Portuguese Fort and its colonial secrets to the lively Gowreeswaram Temple’s colourful festivities. Explore the unique Azheekal Sree Varaha Venkateswara Temple, marvel at the historic Paliam Palace, and step into the past at the Jewish Synagogue in Chendamangalam. Discover the artistry at Chendamangalam Handloom Village and find peace at Pallipuram Church. This guide is packed with tips on the best times to visit, how to get around, and what to look out for, making it a must-read for anyone planning their Cherai adventure.
1. Portuguese Fort, Cherai
Image Credit: Manikanta1973 for Wikimedia Commons
The Portuguese Fort, also known as Aya Kotta, is a testament to India’s colonial history. It is the oldest European monument in India. It was an outpost to safeguard the famous Mussiris Port. In 1661, the Dutch captured the fort, and in 1789, the fort was handed over to the King of Thiruvithamkoor. In 1795, it came under the British. The hexagonal fort is the best-preserved Portuguese bastion. Today, visitors can explore its ruins and imagine the past maritime activity that once thrived here. It’s a short drive of about 4 kilometres to reach the fort from Cherai Beach. A visit to this historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and strategic importance.
Location: Vypin Island, Cherai, Kochi
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Must Read: Kochi In December
2. Gowreeswaram Temple, Cherai
This temple is situated in the village of Cherai near Vypin, sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the beautiful backwaters of Cochin. Gowreeswaram Temple is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Muruga, the God of War. Built in 1912, the temple is renowned for its vibrant January festival, featuring ornamented elephants and elaborate decorations. Located just 3 kilometres from Cherai Beach, visitors can easily access this temple to witness its cultural grandeur and participate in the festivities. The temple’s serene ambience and architectural beauty make it a must-visit for those exploring Cherai.
Location: Main Road, Cherai, Kochi
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Varaha Temple Cherai
Situated near Pallippuram in Cherai, the Sree Varaha Temple at Azheekal is the only complete nagara-type temple in South India. Established in 1565, it is a religious, cultural, and community hub for the Gowda Saraswat Brahmins. Though these temples are primarily houses of worship, they also serve as centres of the community’s religious, cultural, and aesthetic life. The temple is famous for its intricate wood carvings, silver ceiling, and the temple tank known as Sreevarahapuskarani. The highlight is the temple chariot, constructed from silver and Chinese glass, which runs on rails. Located around 5 kilometres from Cherai Beach, this temple offers a rare blend of artistic and spiritual experiences.
Location: Varaha Temple Road, Cherai, Kochi
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Edappally
4. Paliam Palace, Cherai
Image Credit: Ranjithsiji for Wikimedia Commons
The Paliam Kovilakam, the traditional home of the Paliathu Achans, who were Prime Ministers to the Kings of Kochi, is an architectural marvel blending Kerala and Dutch styles. Known as ‘Kovilakam’ or palace, it gained prominence when the then Paliath Achan protected the King from Portuguese threats. It was later renovated by the Dutch and then served as the official residence of the Paliath Achans. This contains two storeys showcasing exceptionally well-built wooden staircases, carved balustrades, and a fantastic aura. The museum inside the Palace displaces the historical contributions through letters and events that tell the tales of Kochi’s beautiful history. It is also easily accessible, located about 10 kilometres from Cherai Beach, and can be reached by a short drive. This historical site is a must-visit for anyone interested in Kerala’s royal heritage.
Location: Paliam Palace Road, Chendamangalam
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Jewish Synagogue, Chendamangalam
Image Credit: Robin klein for Wikimedia Commons
The Chendamangalam Synagogue, built by Malabari Jews, is located near the Periyar River in Kerala. Believed to have been rebuilt in 1614, it now functions as the Kerala Jews Lifestyle Museum. Unique for its proximity to a temple, church, and mosque, it exemplifies harmonious interfaith coexistence. It is said that every eight or nine years, the festivals of all four places of worship coincide, creating a spontaneous, totally unorchestrated but harmonious mix of sounds from the temple conch, the church bell, the muezzin’s call and the shofar [Jewish horn]. Located approximately 12 kilometres from Cherai Beach, the synagogue is easily accessible by road. Visiting here allows you to appreciate this ancient place of worship’s architectural beauty and historical significance.
Location: Synagogue Lane, Chendamangalam
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Jew Town
6. Chendamangalam Handloom Village
Image Credit: videaki for Wikimedia Commons
Chendamangalam Handloom Village is renowned for its traditional handloom textiles, which have been produced here for centuries. Located in Ernakulam, this ancient village, with GI tagging, produces authentic Kerala attire like set-mundu, kasavu sarees, and thorthu towels. Famous for its Puliyilakkara borders, Chendamangalam sarees now incorporate contemporary motifs. Since the 17th century, the Devang Chettiar community has thrived here, making it a prominent handloom centre. The intricate process involves spinning thread from cotton or silk fibres, weaving on traditional looms, and carefully pounding the cloth to align the threads, showcasing exceptional skill and craftsmanship.
Location: Chendamangalam, Kerala
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Pallipuram Church
Image Credit: Wikitanu for Wikimedia Commons
Pallipuram Church, also known as Our Lady of Snow, is one of the oldest churches in the Diocese of Kottappuram. The St. Mary’s Forane Church holds significant historical and religious importance as Asia’s first church dedicated to Our Lady of Assumption, established according to tradition in 52 AD by St. Thomas the Apostle. This Syro-Malabar Catholic church houses relics like the St. Thomas Cross, a testament to early Christianity in India. The church features an icon of Madonna and Infant Jesus, believed to have origins linked to St. Luke. Pallippuram Seminary, founded in 1795 by Palackal Thoma Malpan, further underscores its role as a centre of faith and education within the community, connecting to revered figures like St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara. The church has a fascinating legend tied to its name, where a miraculous mist is said to have hidden the church during the Tipu Sultan’s invasion. Located just 5 kilometres from Cherai Beach, the church is easily reachable by a short drive. Visiting this historic church offers a peaceful and reflective experience.
Location: SH63, Pallipuram, Vypin Island, Kochi
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Further Read: Poornathrayeesa Temple
Hope you enjoyed reading this Cherai travel guide. Yet, the words may not do justice to this place’s splendour. It’s a place that needs to be seen and experienced, deserving all your attention. Plan your trip to Kerala for a memorable experience with your loved ones.
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Cover Image Credit: Vampireprodigy for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherai
What is the best time to visit Cherai?
The best time to visit Cherai is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 33 degrees Celsius. This period offers ideal conditions for adventure sports and dolphin sightings.
How can I reach Cherai?
Cherai is easily accessible from Kochi. The Kochi airport is just 26 kilometres away; the drive takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to Aluva railway station or bus stand and then an auto-rickshaw to Cherai.
Where can I stay in Cherai?
Cherai offers a range of accommodation options, including resorts like Blue Waters Cherai and Cherai Beach Resort, hotels like Holiday Hotel, and homestays like Blue Birds Homestay. Many of these places are located along the beach, providing beautiful views of both the sea and the backwaters.
How far is Cherai Beach from Kochi?
Cherai Beach is about 30 kilometres from Kochi. It's located on the northern end of Vypin Island and is often referred to as the “Princess of the Arabian Sea” due to its beautiful and relatively uncrowded 10-kilometer stretch of sandy beach.
What not to do when in Cherai?
To keep Cherai's natural beauty intact, avoid littering, feeding dolphins or other aquatic life, and be respectful at temples by dressing modestly. Additionally, do not write on the walls of historical sites like the Portuguese Fort.
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