Day Tour in Alleppey and Cochin with Backwater Cruise and Beach
Active
10h
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
Discover the charm of Kerala on a thoughtfully curated full-day tour combining nature, relaxation, and culture. Glide through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional Shikara boat, enjoy a traditional Kerala-style lunch in the countryside, unwind at the pristine Marari Beach, and explore the colonial elegance of Fort Kochi. End your day with the vibrant expressions of a Kathakali dance performance — a perfect blend of heritage and tranquility.
Available options
CBSI005-01
Car+Driver+Guide: Includes car, driver, and guide.<br/>Pickup included
CBSI005-02
Car+Driver+Guide+Entrance: This tour includes a private car with a driver, a professional guide, and all entrance fees as per the Program.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Comfortable private air-conditioned transportation
Expert local guide with insightful commentary
Visits to the beautiful Marari Beach and historic Fort Kochi
Scenic 3-hour backwater cruise with authentic countryside lunch
Admission to a captivating Kathakali dance performance
All parking fees and entrance tickets are included only with the CBSI005-02 option.
Refreshing bottled water throughout the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Pickup from Cochin
Your tour begins with a timely pickup from Cochin Airport, Railway Station, or your hotel. Enjoy a scenic drive through the vibrant cityscape as you head toward the calm waters of Alleppey.
2
Upon arrival in Alleppey, board a beautifully crafted boat for a 3-hour cruise through Kerala’s renowned backwaters. Glide past lush greenery, paddy fields, and quaint village homes lining the narrow canals.
Midway through the cruise, enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch in a peaceful countryside setting, offering both authentic flavors and a truly local experience.
3
Marari Beach – Tranquility by the Shore
Next, head to Marari Beach, a peaceful stretch of golden sand framed by swaying coconut palms. This is the perfect spot to relax after your backwater cruise — take a walk along the shore, feel the warm sand beneath your feet, or simply unwind under the coastal breeze.
4
Fort Kochi – Colonial Charm and Cultural Sights
Return to Cochin in the late afternoon and explore the historic neighborhood of Fort Kochi. Stroll through quaint cobbled streets and visit iconic sites such as:
• Chinese Fishing Nets – Unique cantilevered fishing structures along the shoreline
• St. Francis Church – The oldest European church in India
• Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace – Home to fascinating Kerala murals and royal artifacts
This heritage walk offers a glimpse into Kerala’s colonial past and rich cultural tapestry.
5
Kathakali Dance Performance – Kerala’s Traditional Art Form
Conclude your day with a captivating Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes, colorful makeup, and expressive storytelling. Witness mythological tales come to life through the skill of seasoned performers.
Drop-off in Cochin
After the performance, you will be comfortably dropped off at Cochin Airport, Railway Station, or your hotel, marking the end of a memorable journey through Kerala’s natural and cultural treasures.
What's not included
Gratuities for the guide and driver
Personal expenses.
Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is already included to the total tour duration.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
