Cochin Heritage Trail: A Guided City Tour

Kochi , India

Cochin Heritage Trail: A Guided City Tour

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(1 reviews)

6h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an enriching journey with the "Cochin Heritage Trail: A Guided City Tour" beginning with a hotel pickup in Kochi. At 9:00 AM, witness the fascinating Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, operated by local fishermen and a testament to Kochi's maritime history. Explore the historic St. Francis Church, built in 1503, and discover its significance as the burial place of Vasco da Gama. Continue your exploration at the Santa Cruz Basilica, a magnificent Catholic church, and the Mattancherry Palace, showcasing a blend of Kerala and European architecture. Relish lunch at a local restaurant and proceed to the Paradesi Synagogue, renowned for its Chinese tiles. Immerse in the vibrant Jew Town, with its eclectic mix of cultures and spice markets. Conclude the day at the Kerala Folklore Museum, delving into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Kochi's heritage.

Available options

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
<br/>Pickup included

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.
<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.
<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

Pick up from your hotel for guided city tour of Cochin. Visit:-

9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi, a popular tourist attraction. These nets were brought to Kochi by Chinese traders and are now operated by local fishermen. You can watch the nets being lowered into the water and pulled back up, with the catch of the day.

Stop 3

10:00 AM: Walk over to the nearby St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503. The church has a rich history and is the burial place of the famous explorer Vasco da Gama.

Stop 4

11:00 AM: Next, visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, a stunning Catholic church with a beautiful interior and exterior. It was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and was later destroyed by the British, who rebuilt it in the 19th century.

Stop 5

12:00 PM: Head to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace features a unique blend of traditional Kerala and European architectural styles and houses a museum that showcases various exhibits related to the history and culture of the region.

1:00 PM: Lunch at local restaurant.

Stop 6

2:30 PM: Visit the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the world, built in the 16th century by the Jewish community in Kochi. The synagogue is famous for its exquisite hand-painted Chinese tiles and antique chandeliers.

3:30 PM: Explore the nearby Jew Town, a vibrant neighborhood that has a unique mix of Indian, Jewish, and Portuguese cultures. You can find shops selling antiques, spices, and handicrafts, and also visit the nearby spice market.

Stop 8

4:30 PM: End your day with a visit to the Kerala Folklore Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts, costumes, and other exhibits related to the folklore and cultural heritage of Kerala.

After sightseeing drop off to your hotel.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please provide up pick up information atleaset one day before the tour

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.