Book this perfect group shore excursion when your cruise docks in Kochi. You will be picked up at Kochi Port Pier and start this relaxing 4-hour group tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with a English-speaking guide.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Covid-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 4 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Private group available
Experience
Highlights
- See the Chinese Fishing Nets and Dhobi Khana
- Marvel at the Santa Cruz Basilica and St. Francis Church
- Experience Jew Town, the Jewish Synagogue or Paradesi Synagogue, the Dutch Palace
Full description
You will be picked up from Kochi Port Ships Berth and transfered to Fort Kochi to visit your first stop, the Chinese Fishing Nets. Introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century, Kochi fishermen still use the fishing nets to earn their livelihoods. Continue your stroll down to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. The church was constructed in 1503 by Portuguese friars and is now the burial place of Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer who led the first ships that sailed directly from Europe to India.
Next you will visit Santa Cruz Basilica, one the largest and most impressive churches in India. The church has two soaring spires and a bright, white-washed exterior. Inside, you will find walls decorated with frescoes, murals, and large paintings depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ.
Stop at Local Laundry or Dhobi Khanna. Later, visit the Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi in 1555. The palace is famous for its stunning murals portraying scenes from Hindu tales, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Next door is the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in South India. Admire the ornate brass pulpit, the Belgian glass chandelier, and hand-painted Chinese porcelain floor tiles. Before the tour is concluded, you can wander around Jew Town and Jewish Synagogue, a central location for the spice trade and inhale the aroma of ginger, cardamom, turmeric, and cloves. If your schedule allows, you can also do some shopping for spices, handicrafts, and antiques, or have a casual lunch. When the tour ends, you will be transferred back to Kochi Port to board your cruise on time.
Includes
- Port pickup and drop off
- Bottled water
- Driver and guide
- Local English-speaking guide
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Snacks and drinks
- Lunch
- Gratuities
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
Covid-19 precautions
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Cochin Port. A tour representative will be waiting for you at the ship's berth holding a sign with a blue umbrella.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Know before you go
- The tour departure is as per the time selected when booking. Please be at the meeting point 10 minutes before your tour departure time. Your guide will be waiting for you at the ship's berth holding a sign with the local partner's name on it
- When entering places of worship and selected museums, a dress code must be followed. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed, and both men and women must have their knees and shoulders covered. You risk being refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
- A small amount of walking is involved, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- The Jewish Synagogue/Dutch Palace will be closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Jewish Holidays, and Jewish Passover days