Hill Palace Tripunithura – A Royal Walk Through Kerala’s Glorious Past

Just a short drive from the bustling heart of Kochi, nestled in the quiet town of Tripunithura, lies one of Kerala’s most majestic heritage sites — the Hill Palace Museum. Once the royal residence of the Maharaja of Kochi, this expansive complex now stands as the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the grandeur of a bygone era.

🏛️ A Palace Steeped in History

Built in 1865, the Hill Palace served as the administrative headquarters and royal residence of the Cochin royal family. After Indian independence, the complex was handed over to the Kerala State Department of Archaeology in 1980 and was officially opened to the public as a museum in 1986.

Today, the complex spans 54 acres, featuring 49 buildings in classic Kerala style architecture, surrounded by lush gardens, ponds, and tree-lined avenues. It’s not just a museum — it’s a beautifully preserved royal campus.

🎨 Inside the Museum

The Hill Palace Museum is divided into several fascinating galleries:

• Archaeological Gallery – Displays artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, Megalithic tools, pottery, ancient inscriptions, and more.

• Royal Gallery – The centerpiece of the museum, this gallery showcases the royal crown, ornaments, weapons, ceremonial robes, and rare ivory furniture used by the Kochi royals.

• Ethno-Archaeological Gallery – Exhibits tools and household items from rural Kerala, offering insights into traditional village life.

• Painting and Mural Gallery – Features portraits of the Cochin kings and religious artwork, including mythological murals.

🔒 Photography Tip: Photography is allowed inside the museum except in marked no-photo zones like the Royal Gallery. Videography is permitted only outdoors.

🌿 More Than Just a Museum

The palace grounds are serene and eco-rich. There’s a deer park, a medicinal plant garden, and scenic walking trails that make it a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and those simply looking to unwind in a historical setting.

🎬 A Touch of Cinema

Fans of Malayalam cinema will recognize Hill Palace as the iconic mansion from the film “Manichitrathazhu”, one of the most celebrated movies in Kerala’s film history. This connection adds a cinematic layer to the already fascinating visit.

ℹ️ Visitor Information

• 📍 Location: Tripunithura, Kochi, Kerala

• 🕒 Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

• 🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹10 for mobile camera, ₹30 for car parking

• 📸 Photography: Allowed (restrictions apply inside certain galleries)

🧭 How to Reach

• By Road: Easily accessible by car or auto from Kochi city (approx. 10 km from Ernakulam Junction).

• By Train: Nearest station is Tripunithura Railway Station, just 1.5 km away.

• By Bus: Regular buses from Ernakulam to Tripunithura are available.

📝 Final Thoughts

If you're looking to explore Kerala's royal heritage, soak in traditional architecture, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by history and nature, Hill Palace is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual tourist, or a local explorer, this spot offers a glimpse into a regal past that still echoes through its halls.

A Day in Fort Kochi: Exploring Jew Town, Synagogues, Mattancherry Palace & Scenic Boat Rides

Fort Kochi is a place where history whispers through every corner, and cultures merge beautifully. On my recent visit, I spent a day exploring Jew Town, one of the most vibrant and historic parts of Fort Kochi. Here’s how my day unfolded—filled with heritage, art, food, and even a scenic boat ride!

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Jew Town: A Street Steeped in Stories

Nestled between Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue, Jew Town is a charming stretch filled with antique shops, spice markets, and colonial architecture. As I walked through its lanes, the mix of cultures—Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish, and Indian—was visible in every storefront and wall mural.

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Mattancherry Palace: A Peek into Royal Kerala

Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century structure was originally built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. Inside, the palace features exquisite murals depicting stories from the Ramayana, portraits of the Kochi Rajas, and royal artifacts. It’s a great starting point for anyone interested in the historical roots of the region.

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Paradesi Synagogue: India’s Oldest Active Synagogue

At the very end of Jew Town lies the iconic Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568. Still active today, it stands as the oldest functioning synagogue in the Commonwealth. The interiors are breathtaking, with hand-painted Chinese tiles, a Belgian glass chandelier, and ancient Torah scrolls. A painting hall near the entrance showcases the bond between the Jewish community and the Kochi maharajas.

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Mocha Art Café: Where Food Meets Creativity

After exploring the Synagogue, I headed back through Jew Town and stumbled upon Mocha Art Café. Known for its cozy, artistic ambiance and tasty food, it’s a perfect spot to unwind. I enjoyed a delightful lunch surrounded by art-covered walls and travelers from all over the world. If you’re visiting, this café is a must-try!

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Kochi Water Metro: A New Way to Explore the Backwaters

Around 3:30 PM, I wrapped up my Jew Town walk and took an auto to the Fort Kochi Water Metro Terminal. I bought a ticket to the High Court Terminal, which cost just ₹40. The 20-minute ride was peaceful and scenic, offering beautiful views of the Chinese Fishing Nets—an iconic image of Fort Kochi.

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Wrapping Up the Day

As the sun started to set, I realized how much I had seen and felt in just one day. Fort Kochi is more than a destination—it’s an experience of layered history, vibrant culture, and modern charm.

If you’re planning a trip to Kochi, make sure Jew Town, Mattancherry Palace, the Paradesi Synagogue, a café stop, and the Water Metro are on your list. Trust me—it’s a journey worth taking.

Exploring Kochi Water Metro: A Scenic Journey Across Vembanad Lake

If you're visiting Kochi and want to experience something truly unique, hop on board the Kochi Water Metro — India's first water-based public transport system! In this blog, I’ll take you along for a round trip from Fort Kochi to the High Court terminal, cruising through the calm waters of Vembanad Lake.

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🛥 Starting the Journey from Fort Kochi

Our journey begins at the Fort Kochi Water Metro terminal. This isn’t just a scenic ride — it’s a glimpse into Kochi’s future of sustainable travel. After purchasing our tickets (₹40 per person one way), we walked a short distance to the boarding area. The boat was already docked and waiting.

These boats are fully electric, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort. Though the boat was packed and I didn’t get a seat initially, the ride was still smooth and relaxing thanks to the cool interior.

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🌊 Cruising Through Vembanad Lake

As we moved through the waters, the beauty of Vembanad Lake unfolded around us. We passed by several Chinese fishing nets, locally known as Cheena Vala, and saw various vessels along the way — fishing boats, jankars, passenger boats, and even large ships heading toward the Vallarpadam Container Terminal.

One of the highlights was passing under the Goshree Bridges, which connect Kochi’s islands to the mainland. These bridges have made daily commuting easier for thousands of locals.

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🏢 Arrival at High Court Terminal

Soon, we reached the High Court Water Metro Terminal, which is also a charging hub for the boats. This terminal is busier than Fort Kochi, offering connections to multiple locations across Kochi.

After stepping out, we bought return tickets (again ₹40) for our ride back. The area was crowded in the evening, and we had to wait for about 30 minutes to catch the third boat. This time, I managed to find a seat and enjoy the journey more comfortably.

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🌅 Sunset Views and Scenic Ride Back

As the sun began to set, the views became even more magical. The orange hues reflected on the water, and we saw more catamaran-style boats, just like the one we were on. These boats can carry up to 100 passengers, which explains the wait time during rush hours — but with ample seating at the terminal, it wasn't a problem.

By the way, I had recently done a houseboat cruise in Kumarakom, also set on Vembanad Lake. If you're interested in a slower, traditional experience of Kerala's backwaters, check that out (link in description/cards).

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📍 Returning to Fort Kochi

As we neared Fort Kochi, the familiar sights returned — the Chinese fishing nets, the calm waters, and the peaceful harbor setting. In the distance, we even spotted a Jankar, another common ferry used in Kerala (although not from this terminal).

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✅ Final Thoughts

The Kochi Water Metro is more than just a ride — it’s a glimpse into the future of eco-friendly urban transport. Whether you're a tourist or a local, it's worth experiencing at least once. With scenic views, smooth operations, and an affordable fare, it’s an enjoyable way to see Kochi from a different perspective.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Wanderlust Channel on YouTube for more real travel stories and local experiences!

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🔖 Quick Info:

• 🗓 Inaugurated: April 25, 2023

• 🛥 Current Active Routes: 4

• 🚉 Operational Stations: 9 (out of planned 38)

• 🎯 Final Project Target: 15 routes, 78 ferries, 78 km coverage

• 🛠 Built by: Cochin Shipyard

• 🚍 Operated by: Kochi Metro Rail Ltd

Kumarakom Houseboat Day Cruise & Pathiramanal Island: A Perfect Family Getaway

When it comes to planning a family get-together, finding the right experience that blends relaxation, fun, and nature is key. After considering many options, we finally decided to spend the day cruising the serene backwaters of Kumarakom on a houseboat—and it turned out to be one of the most memorable outings we’ve had!

Starting the Journey

We had booked a 2-bedroom houseboat with attached bathrooms, a spacious main hall, and an upper deck offering panoramic views. Though the cruise was scheduled from 11 AM to 5 PM, we reached the boarding point around 11:15 AM. Thankfully, the crew kindly extended our return time to 5:30 PM.

We were welcomed on board with a refreshing welcome drink, and soon we were off, gently reversing into the vast Vembanad Lake. The starting point was a calm bay area where many other boats were parked, and we were surrounded by the beauty of nature and the sound of birdsong—this region is part of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Cruising Through Nature

As the boat moved through the lake, we came across occasional patches of green algae, which the crew skillfully navigated. On the right side, we spotted the charming Coconut Lagoon Resort, nestled amidst lush greenery.

The calm waters, fluttering birds like Little Cormorants, and the gentle sway of the boat created the perfect atmosphere for everyone to relax. While some soaked in the views, others began playing ball games and indoor activities, turning the boat into a floating party space!

Lunch with Kerala Flavors

By noon, we anchored the boat at a safe spot for lunch. The meal was a delicious spread of traditional Kerala dishes including chicken curry and the iconic Karimeen (Pearl Spot) fry. The flavors were rich and authentic—truly a highlight of the trip!

Exploring Pathiramanal Island

After meals we found the Jetty in Pathiramanal is free, so we made a stop to explore the island. Entry costs ₹20 per person, and the place is a nature lover’s delight.

We took a peaceful walk through the greenery, listening to the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. The island is known to attract migratory birds during the winter months. We even spotted a monitor lizard along the path and explored a small treehouse and a children’s play area—a fun surprise!

Evening Vibes & Games Onboard

Although we had initially considered visiting the Thanneermukkam Bund, time was running out. So instead, we made the most of the remaining hours with lively indoor games like Dumb Charades and Antakshari. The boat was filled with laughter and music, making these memories just as special as the scenery around us.

Tea, Snacks & Farewell

Around 5 PM, we were served a light evening snack of banana fritters and tea. As the boat gently cruised back toward the drop-off point, we reflected on what a beautiful day it had been—filled with bonding, nature, fun, and fantastic food.

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Trip Summary & Info:

• Group size: 25 members

• Total cost: ₹21,000

• Inclusions: 35 km cruise, welcome drink, lunch (with chicken & Karimeen), evening tea & snacks

• Trip type: Day cruise

• Other options available: Full-day with night stay, overnight cruise, evening cruise, and non-houseboat rides

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Final Thoughts

Whether you're planning a family gathering or a day of serene exploration, a Kumarakom houseboat cruise is a fantastic choice. With the beauty of the backwaters, tasty Kerala cuisine, and fun-filled moments, this is one experience that stays with you long after the ride ends.