Located in the heart of Kochi City in Kerala, Thevara is a quaint and beautiful locale that offers both urban convenience and the peaceful ambiance of a location, fronting a river. Being a part of mainland Kochi, Thevara forms the southwestern extent of the city and is linked to the water-bound region of West Kochi by bridges. This connectivity has made Thevara one of the crucial links in Kochi’s complex transport web, while its cultural and scenic values are likely to attract both domestic and foreign visitors.
Places To Visit Near Thevara
There are indeed a many places to visit in Thevara which are truely adventurous and scenic, Here is a list of best places to visit in and near Thevara.
1. Kerala Folklore Museum
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Located near Thevara, the Kerala Folklore Museum is a storehouse of Kerala’s culturally diverse legacy and is a famed tourist destination. The museum boasts of preserving collections such as the traditional apparels, instruments of music and other artworks. The architectural design of the museum is a fusion of traditional architecture of Kerala and is a feast to the eyes.
Must Read: Kathrikadavu
2. Kochi Naval Base
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Kochi Naval Base is one of the major naval establishments of the Indian Navy and is situated in the vicinity of Thevara. Though the base is a closed area and is not accessible to the public, its existence is of strategic importance. Sometimes performances and ceremonies are organized where one gets a picture of the naval activities and its history.
3. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
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Located in a close proximity to Thevara, in Kochi and definitely worth a visit is the Mattancherry Palace, also referred to as the Dutch Palace. The Portuguese constructed this palace and further it was rebuilt by the Dutch while now it serves as a museum exhibiting royal objects, paintings, murals, and other artifacts of the Kochi Rajas. The most beautiful and complex artwork found here is the murals that portray scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
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4. Paradesi Synagogue
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The Paradesi Synagogue is situated in the Jew Town of Mattancherry and is the only active synagogue in the whole of the Commonwealth of Nations. Also designed in 1568, the church boasts a rich interior with Belgian chandeliers, gold pulpit, and Chinese handmade porcelain floor tiles. This Jewish synagogue is an important cultural and historical site in the region that attests the Jewish presence in Kochi.
5. Vasco da Gama Square
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Located at the shores of the Kochi beach, the Vasco da Gama Square is among the famous and visited areas both by tourists and the locals. Near the esplanade you can find coconut sellers, fish sellers, ice cream vendors and other local food sellers. Tourists can see the fishermen at work and also get breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
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6. Willingdon Island
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Willingdon Island that is named after Lord Willingdon who was once the Viceroy of India, is one of the biggest artificial islands in the country. It plays a very important role in trade since it has an essential port complex. The island also has several hotels that offer luxurious accommodations and this makes the place very attractive to tourists. It is one of the best places for tourists because of its quiet and strategic setting.
7.Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
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The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of the oldest churches in India, which is situated at Fort Kochi. The church is of great spiritual and historical significance with beautiful Gothic architecture and stunning artwork. With well-designed stained-glass windows and murals, this religious place is a recommended destination for architecture and historical enthusiasts.
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8. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
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The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is situated in the Kochi city and serves as an ideal tourist destination, especially for bird lovers. The sanctuary occupies 2.74 hectares of land and is characterized by the presence of migratory birds and thick mangrove vegetation. An area of shallow tidal lake located in the middle and a canal linking it to the backwaters enhance the environment of the habitat.
9. Hill Palace Museum
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A bit further afield, but equally worthy of a visit, is the Hill Palace Museum in Tripunithura. It is the largest archeological museum in the state and was originally a palace for the rulers of Cochin kingdom. The museum complex consists of several structures along with a deer park and a horse riding facility, which provide general overviews of the royal past of the region.
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Accommodation Options
Thevara offers various accommodation types that can match the customer’s budget. There are many excellent accommodations for Tourists from luxury to affordable hotels. Also provides a sumptuous cuisine to those who are fond of trying different food specialties. Ranging from traditional Kerala food to global tastes, the state has something for everyone to relish. These are the two handpicked accommodation options in Thevara to make your say more comfortable and most memorable.
- Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Kochi: This is one of the most popular hotel chains, providing guests with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. It is ideal for business travelers as well as tourists as the hotel is situated near major attractions in Kochi.
- Lake County Heritage Home: For the lovers of a more countryside & homely stay, the Lake County Heritage Home offers you traditional-styled rooms, with a glimpse of the heritage of Kerala. The property is famous for its welcoming staff and a peaceful environment.
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Food And Local Delicacies
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One traditional dish that tourists should not fail to taste is seafood, which is a delicacy in Kochi. Some of the popular traditional dishes are Karimeen Pollichathu, a fish preparation that is marinated with spices and then steamed in banana leaf and Chemmeen Curry which is Prawns cooked with coconut milk and spices. For the lovers of local sweet dishes, it is suggested to try Keralite specialties such as Payasam and Ada Pradhaman.
- Fusion Bay : As a restaurant that specializes in seafood and fusion dishes, Fusion Bay serves an assortment of sumptuous meals while ensuring that customers have the best views of the bay.
- Dhe Puttu : This restaurant is famous for offering authentic Kerala breakfast dishes such as Puttu and Kadala Curry, which is why it is a favorite among both localites and guests of the region.
- The Rice Boat : Situated in the Taj Malabar Resort, the place offers a fine dining experience with an emphasis on sea food offerings. The restaurant is shaped like a boat which makes the environment even more appealing.
How to Reach Thevara
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the closest airport and it is positioned about 33 kilometers to the north east of Thevara. This airport is very well connected to most other cities in India and international locations as well. After arriving at the airport it is very easy to take a taxi or Uber a cab to get to Thevara. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour from the airport to reach Thevara depending on the traffic jam.
By Train: Thevara is strategically set near two railway stations. The South Railway Station (Ernakulam Junction) is about 2.5 kilometers away while The Ernakulam Town (North) railway station is 4 kilometers away from Thevara. Each of the two stations is well-linked with several parts of India. From either of the stations, you can hire a taxi or an auto rickshaw to get to Thevara.
By Bus : Ernakulam Central Bus Station is about 3 kilometers away from Thevara. Public transport such as the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and privately owned bus services have daily connections between Kochi and other cities in the state as well as other states. Local transport facilities like buses and auto rickshaws are easily available from the bus stand to reach Thevara.
By Road : Thevara is well connected by road transport network. There are two ways to reach the destination, the major arterial road passing through Kacheripady up to Thevara Junction. Further, the road through Kundannoor also provides connectivity to Cochin bypass, to and from various parts of the city as well as other regions.
Best Time To Visit
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It is always good to visit Thevara during the winter season, which is from October to March. Regarding the climate, the weather is flattering during this period with average temperatures between 17°C and 33°C. The weather is pleasant to encourage the tourists to explore and visit the attractions that the region has to offer.
- Summer (March to June): Thevara experiences a tropical climate, and during summer, temperatures tend to be above 35°C and accompanied by high humidity. But if you can stand the heat, this season is perfect for budget-conscious travelers since most lodging prices drop during this period.
- Monsoon (July to September): During the monsoon season, there is heavy rainfall in Thevara and Kochi. While the fresh and lush green environment can be inspiring, the rainy season might hinder most travel plans. However, the monsoon season has its own beauty and it is ideal to witness celebration of different festivals and occasions in the region.
- Winter (October to March): The best time to visit Thevara is during the winters because this is the time of the year when the weather is mild. The weather during this period is comparatively moderate and free from rainfall, thus people can go out for sightseeing and exploring the heritage, culture, and natural beauty of the region. This period also covers a number of local festivals, which further contribute to the lively aspect of the area.
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Tips for Travellers
- Weather: Depending on the season of your visit, you should wear suitable clothes. Light clothes are preferred in summer, you might require a jacket for the cooler winter nights and an umbrella if visiting during the monsoon season.
- Local Transport: Local transport facilities include auto-rickshaws and taxis that are more convenient as compared to others. It is important to bargain on fares or demand the driver set the meter to avoid being overcharged.
- Cultural Sensitivity: It is advisable for any visitor to respect the culture and tradition of the people of Kerala. It is best to dress conservatively, particularly when entering shrines or temples.
- Health Precautions: Carry some fundamental first aid supplies and any medications required. It is also advisable to also take bottled or purified water to eliminate any health complications.
- Safety: Thevara is relatively safe for tourists, however, one should be cautious and mindful of their belongings when in large crowds.
Further Read: Things To Do in Kochi
A trip to Kerala, which is famously known as ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a revitalising one with a right mix of nature, tradition, and contemporary facilities. Thevara, which is a peaceful place situated on the bank of the river in Kochi, is one of the places that represent the beauty and the variety of Kerala. Exploring Thevara gives a good initial understanding of the place’s rich characteristics. Thevara gives travellers a glimpse of what Kerala has to offer making it an ideal place for any traveler interested in exploring this amazing region.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Thevara
When is the best time to go to Thevara?
The ideal conditions that favour a visit to Thevara are from October- March which is the winter season and the climate tends to be cool, the temperatures range from 17°C to 33°C. This period provides an ideal climate, suitable for strolling and other outdoor activities to discover the region.
What is the best route to get to Thevara from Cochin International Airport?
Thevara is located at about 33 kilometres from Cochin International Airport. The distance from Cochin to Thevara can be covered by taxi which may take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour maximum based on traffic conditions.
Which are the main tourist spots in and around Thevara?
Some of the tourist destinations in Thevara are the Kerala Folklore Museum, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, Vasco da Gama Square, and the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. All these sites provide a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Is it possible to find a good place to stay in Thevara?
Yes, Thevara has many types of accommodations available including a five-star hotel Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels as well as traditional homestays like Lake County Heritage Home and more.
What type of dishes can be found in Thevara?
Thevara provides its visitors with a rich choice of restaurants that offer local Kerala cuisine, especially seafood. Different cuisines such as Kathakali Fish and Prawn Curry, in addition to other traditional and innovative local delicacies, can be tasted in restaurants and cafes.
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