Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Vypeen Island – An Idyllic Island in Ernakulam

Vypeen, a fishing hamlet in Kerala’s Ernakulam district is a Nature lover’s paradise with its picturesque landscapes. A ride along the narrow canals of Vypeen is indeed an experience to cherish – the quacking of ducks will give you a warm welcome, followed by the chirping of small and big birds. Capture the sight of fishing boats cruising along the waves, swaying palm trees, fishermen doing their daily chores, gigantic ships, fishing, a variety of water birds, and dolphins dancing in the water. 

Located about 5 km from Ernakulam city, Vypeen Island covers an area of approximately 25 km. It originated in 1341 as a result of a major flood. Until the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, the island was home to a small fishing community. The Portuguese later built the Pallipuram Fort, one of the oldest European forts in India. According to current research, the Portuguese legacy can still be seen in the dialects of a few Anglo-Indians in Vypeen. They employ the earliest forms of Portuguese Creole (a blend of two or three languages), while the grammar is influenced by Malayalam. The Goshree Bridge now connects the island to the city of Kochi. 

Vypeen features the most beautiful beaches in Kochi, including Kuzhupilly, Puthuvype, Cherai and Munambam. It also serves as the location of Kochi's major fishing harbour, Munambam Fishing Harbour. The area is also home to numerous temples, including the historic Elamkunnapuzha Subrahmanya Temple, Azheekkal Sree Varaha Temple, Cherai Temple and Pallathamkulangara Bhagavathy Temple.

Contact:
District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC)
Ernakulam
Ph: +91 484 236 7334, +91 98473 312000
Email: info@dtpcernakulam.com 

Getting there: 
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 29 km
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Town Railway Station, about 20 km
Nearest Bus Station: Fort Kochi Bus Station, about 16 km