Vypin, also spelled Vypeen is an island in Ernakulam district of Kerala. The island which is about 27 km long was formed in the year 1341 after a heavy flood. It is known to be the island having highest density of population in the world. It is connected to Kochi by a bridge from Kalamuku. There are regular boat services from Fort Kochi to Vypin Island.Vypeen is like a hand stretched out to the water. 27 km long and 2.5 km wide, with sea and backwater on either side, Vypeen is mostly densely populated but suffers from a shortage of fresh potable water during the dry season.Pallipuram Panchayat, in which Cherai is included, is at the northern end of Vypin Island. Cherai and Munambam are the two parts of Pallipuram Village, which were parts of Kochi and Travancore States prior to the merger of the states.In 2004 a bridge was built by Goshree Islands Development Authority (GIDA) and thus Vypin was connected to the main land. The Goshree Bridges also connects the islands Mulavukadu and Vallarpadam. Now Vypin is a fast-developing suburb of the Kochi City. Today all basic infrastructures for modern living are available in Vypin.Narakkal is the business capital of vypin. Travellers from north kerala is using Vypin-Munambam state highway to reach ErnakulamThe light-house at Ochanthuruth is a vantage point to enjoy a panoramic view of Kochi. The entry time to light-house is 3-5 pm. Extreme north lies Pallipuram Fort built by Portuguese in 1503.
Location info:
Address:Vypeen is an island in Ernakulam district of Kerala
District: Ernakulam
Nearest City:
Best time to visit: Any Time.
Climate/Weather:
Moderate temprature…During summer the humidity will be high and the temperature too.
History:
For a land which has a history of less than 700 years since formation, Cherai boasts of a rich cultural heritage with monuments which stand out prominent in India’s history. This land has the story of invasion by many foreign regimes. The Portuguese, Dutch and British dynasties had ruled Munambam area, marks of which remain even now. The hexagonal fort built by the Portuguese in 1503 still stands as one of the oldest European Monuments of India.A little South of this fort, by the lakeside, the Portuguese had built a theological school called “Vyikotta Seminary”. The printing press built at this School in 1577 is claimed to be the first printing press in Kerala by some historians. In 1661, the Dutch defeated the Portuguese, as a result of which the Seminary, which was under Jesuit priests, was transferred along with the press to Chendamangalam. The Dutch converted the Seminary to a Leprosy centre.In 1728, the Dutch sold Pallipuram to the King of Travancore. However, the Leprosy Centre and some adjoining buildings were excluded from this sale and continued to be with the Dutch. These properties came under British authority, eventually, when the British defeated the Dutch in 1795. Till recently, this area was known as “British”. As per the agreement between the Dutch and British, the Leprosy Centre continued to be run till 1921. Afterwards, they were handed over to missionaries to establish a Nunnery and School, which are still functioning.
Interesting things to do:
Interesting things to Visit:
Mobile range info:
How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:There are two main stations, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town also known as North station along with additional train stations in Cochin terminal, Aluva and Tripunithura. Ernakulam Town junction is prominent and most of the trains pass through this station.
Nearest Airport:The airport is situated 5 km. away from Ernakulam. Cochin airport has domestic and international terminals.
Road Transport:Cochin is very well interlinked via road with all major cities of Kerala by national highways. Ernakulam city owns a bus station and is located near Ernakulam Junction. Kaloor Junction, Railway station and High court Junction are the three places from where private buses operate.
Nearest Visiting places:
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary This sanctuary is 12 km from Kothamangalam, which is on the Kochi-Munnar route.Kodanadu This is a forest elephant care centre. Here you can see baby elephants rescued from the forests being cared for. Elephants are also trained here. Kodanadu is 15 km from Perumbavoor which is on the Kochi-Munnar route (via Aluva).Fort Kochi Beach: The Fort Kochi beach is a place ideal for an evening stroll, Bathing and swimming are not recommended here, The colourful carnival at New Years Eve is a feature of this beach.Bolghatty Island: A beautiful island lying close to Ernakulam and Willingdon Island. The Bolghatty Palace was built by the Dutch in 1744 which later became the seat of British Resident. The palace is now converted into a hotel. There is also a well laid golf link.Dutch Palace: Situated at Mattancherry, it is 8 kms, away from Ernakulam. Although called Dutch, it was built by the Portuguese and presented to the Maharaja of Cochin in 1555. It acquired the present name after1663 when the Dutch added some extension to the building and carried out some repairs. In the centre of the building is the coronation hall. 17th century murals depicting scenes from the Indian Epic, Ramayana can be seen here.Cochin Harbour and Willingdon Island: Cochin, one of the finest natural harbours in the world, and the only all weather harbour on the west coast, south of Bombay, affords a safe anchorage to ships, Willingdon Island is a man made one which was formed with materials dredged while deepening the Cochin Port and channel, It is the seat of the harbour and cochin Port Trust. The Southern Naval Command has its headquarters here. The seaport, naval airport and the railway terminus are all on this island.Kali Kota Tripunithura – As the name suggests, this beautiful, imposing building a legacy of the Dutch rule served as an entertainment auditorium to the erstwhile royal family featuring dance, drama, and plays. Today it functions largely as a marriage hall, Situated near the Poornathreyesa templeJewish synagogue: The Jewish Synagogue at Mattanchery was built in 1568. The great Scrolls of the Old Testament, The copper plates containing the privileges granted by the cochin Ruler to the Jewish community and the exquisite Chinese hand-painted tiles at the Synagogue are of great interest.Kerala Lalitha Kala Akademi Gallery of Contemporary Art, Ernakulam It is situated at the Durbar Hall ground on D.H. Road. The hall had been the durbar of the raja of CochinMangrove Forest, Ernakulam This small protected area a haven for birds, is located on Dr. Salim Ali Road, adjacent to the High Court of Kerala, Winter migrants include species coming from Kashmir and even distant siberia. Best time to visit mid-January to early March.Chennamangalam: Chennamangalam was one of the chief centres of the Jews in Kerala. Very old Black Jews Synagogue, remains of Vaipicotta Seminary etc, are still present, It was the seat of Palieth Achan, the Prime Minister of erstwhile State of Cochin.Chowara: Former summer resort of cochin Royal family .Lies on the northern bank of Aluva river (Periyar), Site of water works supplying drinking water to Ernakulam city.Ambalamukal: A fast developing area lying about 16 kms. east of Ernakulam. Site of Oil Refineries and FACT Kochi Division.Fort Cochin : Lies 10 kms away ,from Ernakulam . The architectural style of the buildings and lay-out of the town mark out Fort Cochin from other cities and towns of Kerala. The buildings show the influence of European architecture. The Chief attraction of Fort Cochin is the St. Francis Church built by the Portuguese It is believed to be the first church built by Europeans in India. The body of Vasco Da Gama was buried here. Close to St. Francis Church is Santa Cruz Church. some beautiful paintings can be seen in the Roman Catholic Church.Cherai Beach It is located in Vypin Island accessible by ferry or by road from mainland, Kochi. This calm beach is ideal for swimming. It has sea on the western side and backwater on east, which gives this tourist destination, a unique surrounding. Thick coconut grooves and Chinese fishing nets on the waterfront give it an added attraction. Dolphins can also be seen here occasionally.Museum of Kerala History, Edappally Located along with the Art Complex at Edappally, it is a Sound and light show presenting thirty five scenes from the political, social, and cultural history of Kerala. Commentaries in English and Malayalam.Bolgatty Island: This long narrow palm-fringed island,easily accessible from the mainland, is where the Bolgatty Palace is situated amidst15acres of lush green lawns. Built by the Dutch in 1744, and later became the seat of the British Resident. In 1976 the palace was converted into a hotel under the Kerala Tourism development corporation. The palace has a golf course on its grounds.Vamanamoorthy Temple, Thrikkakara Set in a land of great mythological significance, this ancient temple, dedicated to Vamana- the fifth avatara of Lord Vishnu is venerated by the Vaishnavates. The temple holds a large number of lithic records, some of great historical significance. The annual festival is held in the month of chingam (Aug- sept.)Veega Land Pallikara Located 12 kms from the city is this unique amusement park offering a world of non-stop fun and adventure. Sprawling over 18.5.acres, the main attractions include caterpillar trains, a 500- seater theatre with a Musical fountain, the exciting family Fun Pool, the Nest housing a variety of exotic birds, and an array of water rides.St. Francis Church St. Francis Church is the oldest European Church in India Built i in 1503 A.D. by the Portuguese at Fort Cochin. the Dutch later restored the church in 1779. Which was converted into an anglican Church by British in 1795. Vasco-da-gama, who discovered the sea route to India from Europe, was buried here in 1524 A.D. before his mortal remains were removed to Portugal, his tomb stone still remains.ST.George Forane Church This is an important pilgrim centre located approximately 6 km from Kochi city. This Roman CAtholic church was built way back in 594 AD in the land donated by Raja of Edapally, This church is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Kerala. A new church building was built in 1080. CHurch is well known for the nine-day feast in the month of May.Hill Palace Museum Tripunithura- Set on top of a hillock, this prestigious palace-turned-museum displays 13 categories of exhibits, including paintings, carvings and other royal antiquities donated by the Cochin and Travancore royal families and the Paliam Devaswom. The Heritage Museum, located on the rear side of the palace buildings familiarizes you with the traditional lifestyles of ancient Kerala. As part of the establishment of a mini zoo, a deer park with spotted deer, sambar and peacocks is run by the Society for the Preservation of Hill Palace Premises. The museum premises has also been converted into a botanical garden with exotic tropical trees from central America to Australia. Located 11 Kms east of Ernakulam, en route to Chottanikkara.Pallipuram Fort, Vypeen It is situated at the far end of Vypin island. SMall and hexagonal, it was built in 1503, claiming to be the oldest European fort in India.Santa Cruz Basilica, Fort Cochin There are some beautiful paintings in this Roman Catholic church situated close to the St. francis Church.Aluva Situated about 21 kms north of Ernakulam. It is known for the famous Sivarathri festival.Chottanikkara Temple Famous for the Devi temple, an important pilgrim centre of Hindus. Navarathri is celebrated on a grand scale. The temple is located 15kms from Cochin City. The presiding deity here is Durga Bhagavathy. It is also that this deity was brought from Mookambika Temple in Karnataka and therefore there is a presence of Mookambika Devi till 7 a.m. in the morning at this temple. There is also one more temple as a part of the complex where deity is Bhadra Kali Devi. THe major festival is Makam Thozhal. It falls during February-march every year for a period of 9 days Temple is open from 4 am to 12 Noon and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.Ernakulam Siva Temple The Temple is situated in the heart of Kochi City with Siva as deity also known as Ernakulathappan. It was built during Maharaja rule and is presently under devaswom Board control . This is one of the rarest Siva Temples where deity is facing Sea towards west. The temple has Deity of siva & Parvathy in Kirathamurthy form which is claimed to be self originated (Swayambhoo)Ankamali A place of historic importance to Syrian Christians. Lies 40 kms. North of Ernakulam.It is the seat of the first Portuguese Bishop.Kaladi Kaladi is the birth place of Sreesankaracharya , the great Indian Philosopher. It is 13 kms. away from Aluva. Kaladi has got Sringeri Madham, Ramakrishna Asramam and the Sreesankara stupa.Kanjiramattom It is 18kms. south east of Ernakulam. The most important and beautiful mosque of the District is situated in this placeSree Poornathrayeesa Temple Located at TrIpunithura, 10 km from Cochin city. The deity here is Maha Vishnu and is one among three Vishnu Temples in Kerala . Arjuna (one of the Pancha Pandavas ) is believed to have established this temple., The Major festival of this temple is held during November-December. The Other cultural festival, Athachamayam during harvest festival of Onam is also celebrated with procession of float, Tableau and dances like Pulikkali, This deity is Kula Daivam of Cochin Royal family.
Nearest Petrol Pump:
Supplyco Petrol Bunk Near Iac, D H Road, Ernakulam, Kerala 680016, India – 0484 2362852Petrol Bunk MG Road, Ravipuram, Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaPetrol Bunk SH 1,Kerala, IndiaPetrol Bunk Shastri Road,Kerala, IndiaPetrol Bunk NH 220, Kottayam, Kottayam, Kerala, India
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Maple Regency Hotel & RestaurantSaphire Tourist HomeHotel Ceylon BakehouseLe Meridien PresidencyVedic village resortsThe Gateway HotelThomas InnCherai Beach ResortHotel PresidencyADI Service Apartments and Home StayThe Grand Hotel, Don’t miss the Ammachi Kozhi curry.Abad PlazaAbad FortGokulam Park InnAbad MetroHotel MermaidWhite HouseBest Western Avenue
Things to carry:
Carry drinking waters during summers since there is a scarcity of srinking water during summers.
Tips & Suggestions:
Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station:Nas Naval & Police Stores M G Road, Perumanoor, Ernakulam, Kerala 680015, India 0484 2359316ET North Police Station Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaPolice Station Edappally Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaHill palace police station Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaTripunithura Police Station Tripunithura, Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaPanangad Police Station Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaFort Cochin Police Station Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaAlwaye Police Station Sub Jail Road, Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala, IndiaMalayidom Thuruth Police Station Thadiyittaparambu, Malayidom Thuruth Makkinikkara Mathangakurishu Road, Kerala State, IndiaMala Police Station Kerala, India
Nearest Hospital:Nairs Hospital Nairs Hospital, N H Bypass, Ernakulam, Kerala 682304, India 0484 2302666Al Shifa Super Speciality Hospital For Piles Near Ksrtc, Rajaji Road, Ernakulam, Kerala 680035, India 0484 2363777Ranjini Eye Hospital Near Powerhouse, Vyttila, Kochi, Cochin, Kerala 682019, India 0484 2301922Specialist Hospital K C M Mather Road, Ernakulam, Ernakulam, Kerala, India 0484 2395952Ernakulam Medical Centre Nh Palarivattom, Palarivattom, Ernakulam, Kerala 680025, India 0484 2807102Lakeshore Hospital Nettoor P O, N H No 47, Bye Pass Maradu, Ernakulam, Kerala 680304, India 0484 2701032Kandamkulathy Ayurveda Hospital Near Ymca, Chittoor Road, Ernakulam, Kerala 680035, India 0484 2384399Vijaya Insitute Of Medical Sciences Kamadhenu Apartments, Kadavanthra Kaloor Road, Kadavanthara, Kochi, Kerala 682020, India 0484 2205261Chaithanya Eye Hospital Near Sree Krishna Temple, Ravipuram Road, Ernakulam, Kerala 680016, India 0484 2357135Electronics Diagnostics Changampuzha Nagar, Opposite Federal Bank Atm, Kalamassery, Ernakulam, Kerala 680104, India 0484 2541951
