Chennamangalam, Ernakulam

Location : About 42 km from Ernakulam town, Ernakulam district, central Kerala.

A church, a temple, a mosque and the remains of a Jewish synagogue - all lying in close proximity is an ideal example of the ancient Indian tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence. At Chennamangalam, apart from these historic evidences, nature also unveils her rare combination. The place has a singular geography of three rivers, seven inlets, hillocks and vast expanses of green plains.

This land was once the abode of the Paliath Achans, the prime ministers of the Maharajas of Kochi. Their residence, the Paliam Palace represents the architectural splendour of Kerala. The Palace houses a collection of historic documents and relics. The hillocks at Kottayi Kovilakom present an unusual view of the church, temple, mosque and the synagogue.

Also interesting is a visit to the remains of the Vypeenkotta Seminary built in the 16th century by the Portuguese.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 42 km away.
Nearest airport : Cochin International Airport, about 20 km from Ernakulam town towards the north.