Cherai is a part of Vypin islands. It is about 25 km from High Court Junction, Kochi. Cherai is home to a picturesque beach - Cherai beach. It is on the northern end of Vypin Island.The 10 km of long golden CheraiBeach is very clean, shallow and pacific and evokes irresistible temptation for swimming and sunbathing. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. It has the calm serene Backwaters on the other side and the land is filled with coconut trees
Cherai Beach :
“The Princess of the Arabian Sea”. A beautiful stretch of golden beach, an azure sky, and a warm clean sea, all combine to tempt you to take a dip and unwind. For holiday makers that prefer to spend time relaxing on the beach, you can quench your thirst with tender coconuts and if lucky, you could see dolphins at play. With beach beds and umbrellas available for hire, Cherai Beach is a pleasant and convenient place to stay, swim and sunbathe.
Break-water Point :
Situated at the northern end of Cherai Beach, Break-water Point is where the River Periyar flows into the Arabian Sea. It is a perfect place to sit and enjoy the views, and watch local fisherman in their traditional canoes and colourful boats. The stunning sunset forms the classic backdrop and provides marvellous inspiration to any keen photographer.
Backwaters :
The Backwaters with their outstanding charm and beauty, are a combination of lakes, lagoons, and canals, where the heart of Cherai resides. The shimmering placid waters of Periyar, with overhanging coconut trees, create an unforgettable symphony of nature.
Lake (Poyil) :
Just a stone’s throw from the main beach lays the enchanting Lake Poyil, a unique place where the sea and the backwaters are divided by a narrow corridor of land. Waking at dawn to appreciate this stunning scenery, with the sun rising, the morning mist evaporating from the tranquil waters, and traditional fisherman casting their nets, is well worth the effort.
Gowreeswara Temple :
Gowreeswara Temple also known as South Pazhani, is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre in Kerala which was built in 1912. It was dedicated to Lord Muruga (Karthikeya), the God of War, whose vehicle is a peacock, whilst the idol was installed by the great Sree Narayana Guru. The temple is renowned for its legendary festival, which is a spectacular cultural and religious event.
Pallipuram Church :
Pallipuram church was built by the Portuguese in 1507 and houses an exquisite picture of Ave Mary positioned above the altar, which originated in Portugal. Surprisingly, the church survived the Dutch slaughter of Catholics and the Dutch even built a chapel and priest house for the church.
Juma Masjid :
Juma Mazjid-Munambam is an elegant mosque of harmonious proportions and simplicity. Although it is not known when this mosque was built, it was reconstructed in 1869. This place of Muslim worship makes an interesting excursion for visitors to Cherai beach.
Portuguese Fort :
(The oldest European monument in India) Built in 1503 by the Portuguese and also known as “Aya Kotta”, this fort is the oldest European monument in India. It was constructed as an outpost to safeguard the ancient port of Muziris.
Sahodhara Bhavan :
Sahodharan Ayappan was born on July 22nd 1889 and later became an important disciple of Sree Nayarana Guru. Ayappan was a great social reformer, journalist, and politician and on May 29th 1917 he arranged a feast with several so-called lower castes.
