How Wellington Island came into being
This island was very small and it was further built to become the Wellington Island. The construction of the Cochin port started in 1936. The soil that was dug out from the building of this port was used to create the island. It is named after Lord Wellington, the governor who initiated the project.
But the engineer who planned and organized the project was Robert Bristow. The basic structure of the port was completed by 1939 just before the Second World War. This island also has a port hostel to accommodate passengers who arrived here and currently this is known as the Malabar Hotel.
During the war, the Air Force constructed an aerodrome and this artificial island became their military base. The hotel served as a place for wartime staff and new administrative block was also added. In addition to this, a new post office, branch bank and an open swimming pool between the hotel and offices were also seen.
Again the deep wharf and railway bridge was instrumental during the wars. Even a naval works was also constructed near the Venduruthy Island. After Independence the aerodrome was further extended and it became the airport of Cochin.
But currently it has shifted and you have the Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery located 30 km from Ernakulum. By 1950 the remaining space that was available in this island was utilized completely.
By the time British had left this island, this place had turned into a major hub which handled in almost one million tons of freight. By the year 1960 this traffic had doubled and it became one of the best seaports of the world.
Highlights of Wellington Island
The major port in Kochi is located on this island. This place has turned out to be a tourist destination and so many hotels or restaurants have opened up in this region. You also have both national and international branches of prominent banks.
Tourists can also make their purchases of souvenirs from numerous outlets located here. The Southern Naval headquarters is positioned here and so is the Cochin shipyard. This shipyard turns out to be one of the biggest ship repairing and maintenance facility available in India.
Kochi being a commercial hub you also have number of export import offices and a customs office here. The Cochin Chamber of Commerce as well as the Government of India Tourist Information Office is also located on this island.
How to Reach Wellington Island
The distance between Kochi Airport (COK) and Willingdon Island is 26 km. The road distance is 39.1 km.
Road: Another option would be the Venduruthy Bridge which is seen to enhance connectivity between Kochi mainland and Wellington island.
Air: The Cochin International Airport is at a distance of 42 km.
Hotels and Resorts in Wellington Island
Wellington Island is an ideal tourist destination and it has numerous hotels to accommodate its guest.
Taj Malabar: The main attraction is the Taj Malabar, a five-star hotel which offers an amazing view of the Kochi Harbor. Attractive suites, well furnished rooms, special spa treatments and it also has its own the private yacht which can be hired.
Address: Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682009
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: 0484 664 3000
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: 0484 664 3000
Casino Hotel: This another five star hotel in the Wellington island. and it is located 8 km from the main city.Interiors are luxurious and offers numerous facilities including banquet hall, swimming pool, gymnasium and special tours for its guests.
Address: Casino Building, KPK Menon Rd, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682003
Phone: 0484 286 4500
Phone: 0484 286 4500
Trident Hotel: This hotel features the modern architecture and definitely woos its customers with its facilities. 24 hours room service,recreational facilites including spa,massage, swimming pools, banquet hall, and conference rooms are some of the highlights.
Address: Bristow Rd, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682003
Phone: 0484 353 1000
Phone: 0484 353 1000