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 Cherai is in Pallipuram Panchayat which is at the northern end of Vypeen Island. Cherai was a part of Kochi and Travancore States prior to the merger of the states.For a land which has a history of less than 700 years since formation, Cherai boasts of a rich cultural heritage with monuments which stand out prominent in India’s history. The Portuguese, Dutch and British dynchasties had ruled the Cherai area. The hexagonal fort built by the Portuguese in 1503 still stands as one of the oldest European Monuments of India. The Portuguese had built, by the lake side, a theological school called “Vyikotta Seminary” which was later converted into a Leprosy centre by the Dutch. The printing press built at this School in 1577 claims to be the first printing press in Kerala, going by the facts made by some historians. In 1661, the Dutch defeated the Portuguese, as a result of which the Seminary, which was under Jesuit priests, was transferred alongwith the press to Chendamangalam.
Few beaches in Kerala can compare with the cleanliness and beauty of Cherai beach, situated at a distance of 35 kms from Cochin. Affectionately called the princess of the Arabian Sea , this 10 kilometer long beach is becoming the favourite destination of the tourists with each passing day.This beach also occupies the unique position of being the only beach where dolphins are sighted.
The tourism department has laid much emphasis on the development of this beach and has taken up the task of widening and beautifying it to suit the convenience of the tourists. The unique position enjoyed by Cherai in the tourism map of Kerala stems from the fact that it is strategically located. One side borders the Arabian sea and the Vembanad Kayal ( Backwaters) borders the other side. The beach and backwater frontages provide for Cherai ‘s magnificent scenic beauty. At Cherai beachside village, prawn farming is resorted to at every corner. The sight of coconut trees swaying in the winds and the long line of paddy fields have made Cherai the favourite destination of globe trotters.
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