Half Day Kochi City Tour, a Kathakali Classical Dance Performance and Dinner

Kochi , India

Half Day Kochi City Tour, a Kathakali Classical Dance Performance and Dinner

Active

5h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kochi has influences from the many traders and travellers who visited this delightful city for hundreds of years. On your private half day city tour you will see giant fishing nets from China, a 450 year old synagogue, Portuguese houses and the remains of the British Raj. Following your tour enjoy a Kathakali performance. Like all classical dance arts is of India, Kathakali is a blend of music, vocals, choreography, hand and facial gestures to tell familiar stories in Indian culture. It is the dance drama from the South Indian state of Kerala. The performance gives you a chance to watch the traditional and classical Kathakali Dance with its amazing costumes.

Highlights
• Dutch Palace
• Fort Kochi
• St Francis Church
• Traditional Kathakali Dance Show
• Dinner at a local Restaurant

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.

Dinner at Local Restaurant (Beverage Excluded)

Local English Speaking Guide.

02 Bottles of Mineral water per person

Hotel pickup and drop-off within city center.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from your hotel in the city center around 1:00 PM with your English speaking local guide.

Your tour will start in Jewish Town, an area of Kochi where the Jewish refugees from Jerusalem settled during the Crusades. This area has several antique and handicraft shops. The highlight is the Paradesi Synagogue, constructed in 1568 making this the Commonwealth's oldest Synagogue. This is one of the very few functional synagogues in India and the structure is unique due to influence of native Hindu-Christian architecture.

Stop 2

Next, you will see the Dutch Palace (also known as the Mattancherry Palace), built by the Portuguese in 1568 as a gift to the Maharaja. The coronations of Kochi Maharajas have always been held here. A large throne and coronation costumes are on display and there is an extensive collection of royal chariots, swords and other artifacts. The mural room has some of the best mythological murals.

You will then continue to Fort Kochi, the upper part of the Peninsula with neatly arranged colonial buildings, narrow well-paved roads, Anglo-Dutch influenced structures and large antique shops. Here you can see the iconic giant Chinese fishing nets, a legacy of traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century.

Stop 4

Next, you will visit St. Francis Church. Constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars, this is believed to be India’s oldest European-built church. The edifice that stands here today was built in the mid-16th century to replace the original wooden structure. Explorer Vasco da Gama, who died in Kochi in 1524, was buried in this spot for 14 years before his remains were taken to Lisbon – you can still visit his tombstone in the church.

After your city tour, you will be driven to the Theater for a traditional 'Kathakali' Dance Show this evening (Between 05-06 :30 PM).

The story in ‘Kathakali’ is communicated to the audience through amazing footwork and impressive gestures of face and hands complimented with music and vocal performance. The dancers wear intricate and vivid makeup, unique face masks and costumes that reflect the age-old martial arts and athletic conventions prevalent in Kerala and surrounding regions. Traditionally performed by male dancers, the art developed in courts and theatres of Hindu regions contrary to other Indian classical dances which predominantly developed in Hindu temples and monastic schools. Although not clearly traceable, this classical dance form likely goes back to the 1st millennium CE, possibly even earlier.

After the show, you will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Beverages excluded).

After dinner, you will be driven back to your hotel in central Kochi.

What's not included

Food or drink Unless Specified.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.