History of Ernakulam Starting from the Stone Age, Ernakulam has been the site of human settlement. Monolithic monuments like Dolmens and rock-cut caves can be seen in many parts of Ernakulam. Etymology Ernakulam was also known as "Rishinagakulam" in ancient days. The word 'Ernakulam' has been derived from the name of a very famous temple of Lord Shiva called the Ernakulathappan Temple. It is also said that the word Ernakulam has been taken from Malayalam words 'Ere naal Kulam', that means 'Pond for a long time'. Climate in Ernakulam Since the region lies in the south western coastal state of Kerala, the climate is tropical, with only minor differences in temperatures between day and night, as well as over the year. Summer lasts from March to May, and is followed by the South-west monsoon from June to September. October and November form the post monsoon or retreating monsoon season. Winter from December through February is slightly cooler and windy, due to winds from the Western Ghats. The city is drained in the monsoon season by heavy showers. Demographics of Ernakulam According to the 2011 census Ernakulam district has a population of 3,282,388. Ernakulam has a sex ratio of 1028 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 95.68%. This district is listed as the "most advanced" district in Kerala. Economy of Ernakulam Ernakulam is regarded as the centre of business in Kerala. Ernakulam is a major financial and commercial hub of Kerala. The Cochin Port, Cochin Shipyard has resulted in the faster growth of the city. Tourism has also contributed heavily to the economy of Ernakulam. Temples in Ernakulam The city with its temples, old churches and its culture is ranked first in the number of domestic tourists visiting Kerala. There are many holy places like temples to visit in Ernakulam. The temples that are located here are Ernakulathapan temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Hanuman Temple, Muruga Temple, Valanjambalam Devi Temple, Ravipuram Srikrishna Swamy Temple. Places of Interest Transport There are two railway stations in Ernakulam City; Ernakulam Town railway station and Ernakulam Junction Railway Station. Ernakulam city is served by Cochin International Airport, which is about 27 kilometers away. |