Cherai, Tourism, Tourist ,Attractions, Sightseeing, Destinations, Places, Tour, Tours, Packages

The Cherai Beach bordering Vypeen Island is ideal for swimming. The beach fringes the Vypeen Island on the Kochi harbour mouth. The sea on the Western side and the backwaters on the East give this upcoming tourist destination a uniqueness which can be found only in Kerala. Thick coconut groves and chinese fishing nets on the waterfront are added attractions. One can stand here and watch closely the passing ships. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby is an added attraction.

Chennamangalam Synagogue:
Chennamangalam, situated 40kms north of Cochin near North Paravur, is home to a synagogue that is based on traditional Kerala architecture. The major attractions of this synagogue are the intricate artwork and the majestic altar. This 175 year old synagogue was recently renovated to its old glory. The oldes Hebrew inscription in India, dated 1269, can be found on a tombstone near the synagogue. Chennamangalam is also a village that splendidly displays religious tolerance with a church, synagogue, temple and mosque located close to each other.

St.Thomas Church:
Christs apostle St Thomas is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD. The St.Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.The schematic map of the region around Kodungallur gives only a faint suggestion of the landscapes of the area, which is hardly above sea level and abounding in canals and lagoons and prone to flooding in the rainy season. It is now not possible to locate the ancient site of Musiris harbourat any of the present sites of the environs of Kodungallur.

Kodungalloor Bhagawati Temple:
The Bhagawati temple at Kodungallur is of great renown throughout the state of Kerala. The Cheraman mosque KodungallorBharani festival at the Kodungallur Bhagawati temple is one of the grandest in Kerala.

Cheraman mosque:
The Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to be the first mosque in India, built around 629 AD. The mosque is unique because it was baseed on traditional Hindu art and architecture and resembles a temple.

Air:
Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery, 23km from Cherai.

Rail:
Nearest railway station is at Aluva 23 Km. away from Cherai. Kochi has Two stations, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town, about 26 km away from Cherai.

Road:
Cherai is just 15 minutes drive from North Paravur (5km).