Highlights of the Kochi (Guided Half Day City Tour)

Kochi , India

Highlights of the Kochi (Guided Half Day City Tour)

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About this experience

Discover all of Kochi's gorgeous and iconic landmarks, such as Fort Kochi, Jew Town, and the Ernakulam Shiva Temple. Taste local specialties on this great 4-hour trip in an air-conditioned car with a personal guide.
If you are short on time or simply want to see tourist attractions in and around the city, a half-day city trip is the perfect alternative.

Highlights:

Explore the city's ancient ruins, magnificent structures, vibrant marketplaces, and beaches. We created this lovely garland of all the locations in our Trails of Kochi trip, an unrivalled history experience with amazing anecdotes to help you grasp a city's existence, culture, and local knowledge.

1. Explore the gorgeous & beautiful historic fort Kochi side, beaches, and learn about the city's history,culture & life.
2. Visit the famed Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, Kochi's bazaar, old lanes, twisting avenues, & so forth.
3. Finish the journey with a big smile on your face & wonderful moments to treasure in your photos.

Available options

Sedan Car Tour

On board kit Budget Duration: 4 hours Food tasting Sedan Car Pickup included

SUV car tour

on board kit luxury Duration: 4 hours Food tasting SUV Pickup included

What's included

2. Car for all the destinations

3. Great local tips and recommendations

1. Highly trained and friendly Storyteller/ Guide who can speak English & Hindi

Detailed itinerary

Kochi offers a unique experience; the soothing waters of the lakes, the old ghats, the city's narrow serpentine lanes, the numerous temple spires, and royal places—all create a fascinating encounter that is unique to the city of lakes. During the 4 hour guided tour, visit five to six of the following locations.
1. Explore the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica and St. Francis CSI Church
2. Fort Kochi Beach, Bastion Bungalow and Chinese fishing net
3. Mattancherry Palace and St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church
4. Jew Town
5. Aspinwall House and Indo Portuguese Museum
6. Ernakulam Shiva Temple
7. Marine Drive

What's not included

Entry fee to any historical site

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Our tours start strictly on time so please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the tour start time.
We would recommend travelers to provide number available on WhatsApp for easier and faster communication.

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.