Kochi , India

Private Tuk-Tuk Tour of Kochi

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this Kochi Private Local Tour we will travel by tuk tuk .Travelling on a tuk tuk give you the true excitement to explore Kochi's local markets, temples ,Church ,stop at local Agraharam (Brahmin quarters) to see Kolam drawing,local chai stop and taste some local sweets etc with your own private guide and private tuk -tuk with a driver .

Available options

09.30 Am Departure

09.30 Am Departure<br/>Pickup included

2.00 Pm Departure

2.00 Pm Departure<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (only from Fort Kochi and Mattancherry)

Local guide

Transport by local Tuk -Tuk

Coffee and/or Tea

What you'll see

Tour starts at 09.30 Am or 2 Pm from your hotel in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry . Guide and Tuk Tuck will pick you from your hotel . First we drive to visit the Dhobi Khana (local laundry) .Dhobi Khana at Veli in Fort Kochi, is where the Tamil-speaking Vannan community carry out laundry works, the profession practiced by the community traditionally. Next we drive to a local Hindu temple, main attraction of the temple is salt is given as an offering. Later walk to a market; there you can see the local market and shops.

Next we walk to nearby Kochi Tirumala Devaswom Temple, one of the important temples in Matancherry, belongs to the Gowda Saraswatha Brahmin community. The temple also serves as a socio-religious institution of the GSB community. (Note Temple entry is restricted to Non Hindus ) .In the temple yard, there are statues of the Vijayanagara king and Swami Vijayendra Theertha, as well as a temple tank. A notable feature of the temple is its huge bronze bell, about four feet in diameter and six feet in height. In earlier centuries, the chiming of the bell could be heard even in areas far from the temple.

Next we drive to a local fruits and vegetable market, later we take part kolam making demonstration at a Agraharam, which is the Brahmin Quarters .Kolam is is a form of drawing that is drawn by using rice flour. Followed by a Tea stop at local tea shop and you can taste some freshly prepared local sweets.

Later we drive through a short part of Bazaar Road, area is where you would see most of the shops advertising wholesale, commission or retail goods. Spread over a two kilometre stretch of road from Cochin to Mattancherry, Bazaar Road is famous for its reasonable, good quality spices and pulses .On the way we make a quick stop at St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church,one of the oldest churches in India .End of the tour you will be dropped back to your hotel in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress Modestly

Important notes

• Dress modestly
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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.