Kochi , India

Royal Heritage Tour of Tripunithura

Active

(5 reviews)

2h - 3h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A common feedback from all our visitors has been that getting to meet a local family, in this case members of the Royal Family, is the most memorable part of their trip. While some conversations are about how the family reacts to their non-royal status today, most conversations are around day to day happenings in Kochi/Kerala and also about the country of the visitor. It is like meeting with friends whom you have not been in touch with for a long time, and this a happy reunion. The host family is well travelled and well educated which makes the conversation so much more enriching. The local history of the family and that of the city of Kochi/Kerala sets the tone for the meet with the family. Visitors also get to spend good time in a part of Kochi that is hardly visited by tourists, both foreign as well as domestic.

Available options

CRHT

What's included

Tea/Coffee/Refreshing Drink

Light refreshments

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Tour of the galleries which exhibit general and personal items from the collections donated by the Cochin Royal Family and other Aristocratic families.

The relevance of the Temple to the Royal Family and its significance in the social history of the people will be highlighted. We will not be entering the temple, but admire its architecture and appreciate the symbolism of a Hindu temple from outside.

The Dutch era structure has an interesting connection with the Educational and Cultural history of the Family and the people.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

A maximum of 10 people per booking.

Some amount of walking is involved, including climbing stairs, first to the entrance of the Museum and then inside to access the upper floor.

Shoes have to be removed before entering the Museum. The floor outside the Museum gets hot, so it is advisable to wear socks.

Passport details required at time of booking

Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may be refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

Photography is not allowed inside the Hill Palace Museum. You are allowed to click pictures outside of the buildings and the landscaped gardens. Your camera can be secured in a locker and the key will be given to you.

Mobile phones are not allowed inside the Hill Palace Museum. It can be secured in a locker and the key will be given to you.

Not recommended for travelers with knee problems as there are steps to be climbed at the Hill Palace Museum

Meeting point

Please wait at the ticket counter located on the left as soon as you enter the main gate.

Important notes

• It is advisable not to wear shorts or sleeveless tops. 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.
• Please present this voucher to the guide before the trail starts
• Tour not available on days when there is a unscheduled strike in the city or any political unrest
• Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
• Photography is not allowed inside the Hill Palace Museum. Your camera can be secured in a locker whose key will be handed over to you.

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.