About Ernakulam Ernakulam is a complex structured city, being the headquarters of the name-sake district and the mainland of Cochin city at the same time. There is not much distinction between Ernakulam and Cochin which are only separated by the spreading backwaters, which carry many tiny natural islands which form the subland, and the railway stations. Originally the town shot into prominence with the formation of Ernakulam district in 1958. The city is neatly linked on the west-coast line by road and rail. For Kerala, it is the hub of all commercial and tourist connections. Also well-connected by air also. The unique feature of the city is its ferry services to Vypeen, Mattancherry, Fort Cochin, Varapuzha, Willington Island and Bolghatty Island. Ernakulam district is a beneficiary of two most important rivers -- Periyar and Muvattupuzha. Confluence of 3 rivers, Kaliyar, Thodupuzhayar and Kothamangalam, occurs at Muvattupuzha and hence it is called so. Location & Attractions Cochin Port is one of the largest ports in India. It is a natural harbour and considered one of the finest throughout the world. Dutch Palace, Mattancherry, the palace, built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma in 1555, came to be called the Dutch Palace once taken over by the Dutch who improved the structures in 1663. The surprising fact is that at no time did the Portuguese or the Dutch stay there. The dresses, turbans, weapons and palanquins from that era are on display in the coronation hall of the central courtyard which is surrounded by the double storied quadrangular building. The highlight of the palace is the 17th century mural paintings of mythological figures and scenes from Ramayana in the tradition of Hindu temple art. Traditional and unique Kerala technique -- combination of egg white, coconut shell, charcoal and lime -- furnished the floor of the palace into a polished black surface. Jewish Synagogue,the Synagogue at Mattancherry built in 1568 is the oldest Synagogue in the Common Wealth Countries. It was partially destroyed in the war of 1662, but was rebuilt by Dutch. Festivals Ernakulam and its surroundings boast of many Shivite shrines. Onam and Vishu are celebrated grandly in this city.