Cochin Guided City Tour: Explore Historical Places, Palaces, Forts, Museums and More
Kochi (Cochin)
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Cochin on a guided city tour. Explore historical places, palaces, forts, museums, and more. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this port city and experience its unique attractions.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Mattancherry Palace - Pick-up from Cruise Port, Hotel, or other desired location and leave to explore Kochi (Cochin) with your private guide. Visit Mattancherry Palace, commonly known as the Dutch Palace, is an archaeological wonder. The palace has a fascinating collection of beautiful murals painted that depict scenes from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.One can also get a peek into the royal lifestyle through the life-size portraits of the rulers of Cochin, sheathed swords, axes, daggers and ceremonial spears ornamented with feathers, along with royal caps and coins issued by the rulers of Cochin.

Note: Mattancherry Palace is closed on every Friday.

  • Paradesi Synagogue - Also referred to as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue. It is the oldest synagogue in all the 53 member-countries of the Commonwealth of Nations, constructed in 1568. It houses numerous antiques related to the old history of Kerala with Jews. Enter the synagogue and the large main hall arrests your attention with display of rare antique objects that add to the grandeur of the place. The majority of Kochi’s Pardesi Jews have emigrated, but the synagogue remains excellently preserved.

Note: Paradesi Synagogue is closed on every Friday afternoon, Saturday and on all Jewish Holidays.

  • St. Francis CSI Church - Constructed in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars, this is believed to be India’s oldest European-built church. The faded-yellow edifice that stands here today was built in the mid-16th century to replace the original wooden chapel, though it was later altered by both the Dutch and British. Explorer Vasco da Gama, who died in Cochin 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.
  • Chinese Fishing Nets - The huge cantilevered Chinese fishing nets that droop towards the waters like over-sized hammocks have become a hallmark that represents Fort Kochi on the tourist map. The fishing nets are thought to have been built 500-600 years ago as Chinese traders were initially exploring the southern coastline of India. The sight of the Chinese nets is undoubtedly one of the most photographed sights in Kochi.

Lunch Break, Enjoy lunch at one of the best local AC restaurants (at own expense).

  • Fort Kochi Beach - This walking tour gives you a glimpse into Cochin’s rich history and heritage, showcasing the mixed Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences that make the city unique. During the tour, we will visit the old quarter of Fort Kochi, exploring the quaint streets of this city on foot. We will also visit Fort Kochi’s seaside promenade, and get a glimpse of daily life in Kochi.
  • Kerala Folklore Museum - Created in Kerala style from ancient temples and beautiful old houses collected by its owner, an antique dealer, the family-run folklore museum houses a priceless collection of over 5000 artefacts and covers three architectural styles: Malabar on the ground floor; Kochi/Portuguese on the 1st; and Travancore on the 2nd (top). The fine top-floor theatre has an 18th-century wood-carved ceiling depicting Hindu gods, as well as colourful Ramayana and Mahabharata murals.

Note: Kerala Folklore Museum remain closed on Good Friday, Onam & Christmas days.

  • Cochin Port Authority - After the sightseeing tour you will be dropped back off at the cruise port, your hotel,  the airport or your desired location in Cochin.
What's Included
  • Bottled water included
  • Convenient pickup and drop-off at Cruise Port, Hotel, or Airport
  • Expert local private tour guide
  • Travel in comfort with a private air-conditioned vehicle
What's Not Included
  • Entrance fees
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Anything not mentioned in Inclusions
Additional Information

Kochi, also known as Cochin, has been a key port city since the 14th century. It boasts a rich history, displaying palaces, forts, ancient churches, beaches, backwaters, snake boat races, Kathakali performances, museums, and many more attractions. With this Full Day Private Tour of Cochin, you’ll get to explore Mattancherry Palace (also recognized as the Dutch Palace), the Jewish Synagogue which is the oldest of its kind still standing, and St. Francis Church, one of the earliest churches. You’ll also visit the Kerala Folklore Museum that is established in true Kerala fashion, take a walking tour in Fort Cochin, and witness the unique Chinese fishing nets, a sight that is exclusive to Cochin outside of China.

  • At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
  • The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • 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
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
  • Travelers should be vaccinated and carry the covid vaccination certificate
Location
Mattancherry Palace
Palace Road
Cancellation Policy

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

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up to 15 guests
1
Adult
June 2024
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