General Hospital Ernakulam (also known as Ernakulam General Hospital) is one of the oldest and largest government multi-speciality tertiary care hospitals in Kerala. Established in 1845 by the Maharaja of Cochin, it is a major referral centre in Kochi with excellent facilities in super-specialties like Cardiology, CTVS, Nephrology, Urology, and more. The hospital provides quality healthcare at highly subsidized rates and serves lakhs of patients every year.
Here is your complete guide for 2026.
Quick Overview — General Hospital Ernakulam
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | General Hospital Ernakulam |
| Type | Government — Multi-Speciality Tertiary Care Hospital |
| Address | Hospital Road, Near Marine Drive, Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala – 682011 |
| Official Website | generalhospitalernakulam.in |
| Hospital Timing | 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week |
| OPD Timing | Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Registration from 7:30 AM) |
| Emergency Services | 24×7 Available |
| Total Beds | 783+ |
| ICU Beds | Dedicated Critical Care & Super Speciality ICUs |
| Accreditation | NABH Accredited |
| Patient Rating | Highly regarded for affordability and critical care |
Location and How to Reach General Hospital Ernakulam
General Hospital Ernakulam is centrally located near Marine Drive and Subhash Park — one of the most accessible areas in Kochi.
- Cochin International Airport: Approximately 28–32 km (50–70 minutes by road).
- Ernakulam Junction Railway Station: Around 2–3 km.
- Ernakulam Town Railway Station: Approximately 3–4 km.
The hospital is well-connected by public buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services. Its prominent location near Marine Drive makes it a known landmark in the city.
Hospital Timing and Emergency Services
As a major government hospital, General Hospital Ernakulam provides round-the-clock emergency and critical care services.
The hospital operates 24×7 for emergencies, trauma, and critical cases. It features advanced emergency facilities, specialized ICUs, and a dedicated team to handle medical, surgical, and trauma emergencies efficiently.
OPD Timing
General Hospital Ernakulam runs a high-volume outpatient department with consultations across multiple specialties.
OPD Timings:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Registration starts from 7:30 AM / 8:00 AM)
- Evening OPD (limited General OPD): 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM in select blocks
Sundays and Public Holidays: Routine OPD closed (only emergency services available). Due to heavy patient load, early arrival or online registration is recommended where available. Patients should carry Aadhaar card and previous medical records.
Departments and Facilities
General Hospital Ernakulam is a large 783+ bedded multi-speciality hospital with strong super-specialty departments.
Key Specialties & Services:
- Cardiology & Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery (CTVS)
- Nephrology & Urology (including Dialysis and Transplants)
- General Medicine & General Surgery
- Orthopaedics & Trauma Care
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology
- Paediatrics & Neonatology
- Neurology & Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- ENT, Ophthalmology, and Dermatology
The hospital offers advanced diagnostic facilities, multiple operation theatres, a modern blood bank, laboratory services, and 24×7 pharmacy. It is empanelled under various government health schemes including Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY).
Insurance and Payment: Most services are free or available at nominal government rates for eligible patients. Cashless treatment is available under government schemes.
FAQs — General Hospital Ernakulam
Q1. What is the address of General Hospital Ernakulam?
A: Hospital Road, Near Marine Drive, Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala – 682011. Phone: 0484-2386000.
Q2. What are the OPD timings at General Hospital Ernakulam?
A: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Registration from 7:30 AM). Evening OPD available in some blocks.
Q3. What is the bed capacity at General Hospital Ernakulam?
A: Over 783 beds with multiple specialized ICUs and super-specialty departments.
Q4. How far is General Hospital from Cochin Airport?
A: Approximately 28–32 km — a 50–70 minute drive depending on traffic.
Q5. Does General Hospital Ernakulam provide 24×7 emergency services?
A: Yes, full emergency, trauma, and critical care services are available round the clock.
General Hospital Ernakulam continues to serve as a backbone of public healthcare in Kochi, offering quality treatment at affordable rates with advanced facilities. For the latest OPD schedules and updates, visit the official website: generalhospitalernakulam.in.
