Kochi , India

Kochi Heritage Walking Tour

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About this experience

Book this half-day walking tour that gives you a glimpse into Kochi’s rich history and heritage, showcasing the mixed Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences that make the city unique. Visit some of the most popular attractions in Kochi including the Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Cochin, Mattancherry, St. Francis Church, Dutch Cemetery, Jewish Synagogue, and Dutch Palace. All ages and fitness levels are welcome!

Available options

Kochi Heritage Walking Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel/Port pickup and drop-off

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Landing and facility fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from Fort Cochin hotel or Cochin Cruise Port at 9:00am and start this relaxing half-day walking tour in Kochi

Before the walk commences, your guide will provide an introduction to the history of Kochi and the events that have shaped it. You will also be given notes/handouts for the tour. During the tour you will visit the old quarter of Fort Kochi to explore the quaint streets of this city on foot and also Fort Kochi’s seaside promenade to get a glimpse of daily life in Kochi. Stop by the St. Francis Church, Also visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets, Koder House, Tower House, Old Harbour Hotel), Santa Cruz Basilica, Union Club Building, Fort Immanuel as the bastion of the Portuguese and Dutch Cemetery now managed by the Church of South India.

Take a brief walk past the seaside beach and Bishop’s House Road with its beautiful old-style homes. When the tour ends, you will be dropped off at Fort Cochi Hotel or Cochin Cruise Port.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

A maximum of 10 people per booking

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Important notes

• If you travel to Kochi with cruise and you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

Valid from the time of first use, for the consecutive days selected.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Kochi

Kochi, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a vibrant port city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's a captivating blend of historical architecture, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

Top Attractions

Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a historic area known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Historical Half day to full day Free to visit most attractions

Mattancherry Palace

Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century palace is a fine example of colonial architecture and houses a museum with artifacts from the era.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 5 (USD 0.07) for Indians, INR 100 (USD 1.30) for foreigners

Jew Town

A historic area known for its Jewish heritage, vibrant markets, and antique shops. It's a great place to explore the city's multicultural past.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, shopping expenses vary

Marine Drive

A picturesque promenade along the backwaters, offering stunning views of the sunset and the city's skyline. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

A small but beautiful bird sanctuary located in the heart of the city. It's a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Appam with Stew

Appam is a soft, lacy pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, served with a mild and creamy vegetable or meat stew.

Breakfast Vegetarian (if stew is vegetarian), Vegan (if stew is vegan)

Karimeen Pollichathu

A popular Kerala dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in spices, and fried to perfection.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Kerala Parippu Curry

A comforting dal made with yellow lentils, coconut, and spices, served with rice or appam.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, Vegan

Thalassery Biryani

A fragrant and flavorful biryani made with basmati rice, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat (chicken, mutton, or fish)

Popular Activities

Backwater cruises Kayaking Trekking in Munnar Beach relaxation in Kovalam Ayurvedic massages Houseboat stays in Alleppey Exploring Fort Kochi Visiting Mattancherry Palace

Best Time to Visit

October to February

This is the best time to visit Kochi, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malayalam
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kochi is generally safe for travelers, but it's always important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use trusted transportation services, such as app-based cabs or reputable taxi companies.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Cochin International Airport • 29 km (18 miles) from city center

By train

Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town

By bus

KSRTC Bus Station, Private Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport in Kochi. They cover most parts of the city and its suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fort Kochi Mattancherry Ernakulam Vypeen Island

Day trips

Alleppey (Alappuzha)

55 km (34 miles) • Full day

Alleppey is famous for its backwaters, houseboat stays, and serene landscapes. It's a perfect day trip for those looking to experience the tranquility of Kerala's waterways.

Munnar

130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight

Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Kovalam

16 km (10 miles) • Full day

Kovalam is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouse, and Ayurvedic treatment centers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.

Festivals

Onam • August-September (dates vary based on the Malayalam calendar) Kochi-Muziris Biennale • December to March (biennial, next edition in 2023) Easter Celebrations • March-April (dates vary based on the Christian calendar)

Pro tips

Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets in Fort Kochi early in the morning to see the fishermen at work.
Try local street food, such as banana chips and Kathi rolls, for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the backwaters of Kochi by taking a ferry or a houseboat tour for a unique and scenic experience.
Learn a few basic phrases in Malayalam to connect with locals and enhance your cultural experience.
Attend a Kathakali performance or a Kalaripayattu demonstration to immerse yourself in Kerala's rich cultural heritage.