What to do and see in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala: The Best Cultural Tours

February 1, 2022 Fernanda Pittenger

A blending of several small villages on the southwestern coast created the current incarnation of Kochi (or Cochin), where sunset strolls, sampling fresh fish from seaside vendors and boat rides through the islands just offshore top visitors' to-do lists. Art centers showcase the traditional dance, Kathakali. European influences are seen in the 16th-century Portuguese-built churches and forts, while the mark of early Chinese traders is visible in the unusual fishing nets dotting the shoreline.
Restaurants in Kochi (Cochin)

1. Adventure,Culture and Life of kochi with a local and free hotel Pickup !!

Biju's Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 4 reviews

Discover Kochi in this half-day Private guided tour in air-conditioned Cab with Local Guide or Driver/Guide. Kochi was the centre of spice trade in India and because of her rich spice history kochi was attracted by most of the foreign traders. Kochi was the first european colonies for Portuguese in the colonial India from the year 1500-1663, followed by Dutch and later by  British. It is the old buildings which most clearly reveal this deep-rooted colonial influence. During this tour you will discover the traditional landmarks of historical Kochi like Chinese fishing nets, Vasco de gama church,dutch cemetry and after towards the Dutch palace, a museum under ASI and walk towards famous Jewish synagogue. Also some real life of people working in spice warehouses, washing areas, womens co-operatives etc. Tour is Inclusive of your Entrance tickets and Pick up and Drop Off from Hotel only.  

Inclusions: Local guide, Driver, Bottled water, Private tour, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Transport by air-conditioned car / minivan, Entry Fees

Exclusions: Lunch, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By 57priyankap

Mr Shaji was an excellent guide. He took me to all the places. He was a gracious guide. I was very happy with the service provided.

2. Backwaters of Kerala

My Tour Advisor
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Backwaters of Kerala Cochin - Munnar - Periyar - Alleppey - Kumarakom Kerala, God’s own country welcoming you with its years long history and natural and biodiversial atmosphere. A journey that touches the most beautiful places in the most prosperous state of India, situated between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. The landscape full of waterways, canals and lagoons is home to a great variety of animals to admire, during the excursion aboard houseboats, better known as Kettuvallams. Highlights of The Tour: All Inclusive Tour - Hotels / Transport / Guides / Monument Entrances/Backwater Chinese Fishing Net at Cochin Tea Museum in Munnar Spice Plantation in Periyar Jeep Safari in Mountains of Periyar Night Stay in Kettuvalam at Alleppey. Including the Lunch and Dinner on board Relax in Kumarakom and take optional Ayurvedic Massage. More Value for Your Money.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, A well maintained air conditioned vehicle , Local English Speaking Tour Guide , Entrance fees, Stay in Houseboat, Jeep Safari in Periyar, 2 Bottle of water per passenger per day

Exclusions: International flights & Insurance , anything not mentioned in the tour or in inclusions., Tipping to Tour Guides, Drivers etc.

Reviewed By ilmakhan12

The hospitality and service provided by My Tour Advisor was outstanding. I really enjoyed this tour. MTA was the best decision I made for our trip. The trip was well planned and the hotels chosen were good and comfortable. Thanks MTA

3. Kochi Village Life Experience tour - The Real Tour of Kochi !

Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala, India Biju's Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Experience the real life of village people, their various livelihood etc .During this tour you will travel either in Airconditioned Cab/ van or in Local tuk tuk to visit various villages. You will get the benefit of a driver / local driver who will take you to different village womens co-operatives and even their houses where they will be running small scale industries for their  daily living. You can Experience different methods of fishing using chinese fishing nets, casting of fish, fish farms etc. In kerala most of the  people use Coconut oil for cooking, you will experience the various process of making coconut oil. Also to womens cooperative to watch the spinning of coconut fibres for making natural coir ropes, which are widely used for making floor mats, door mats etc. We will also experience the art of making hand made fishing boats. It will be a life time experience for all those who want to explore real village. ( Not for Cruise Passengers)

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Driver/ Local Expert, Bottled water, Private tour, Transport by air-conditioned car/ van and Tuk Tuk (Dependson the options), TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By 57priyankap

Mr Shaji was an excellent guide. He took me to all the places. He was a gracious guide. I was very happy with the service provided.

4. Cochin Heritage Tour

Cochin Port Trust, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682009, India globes travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Private guided tour takes you through the historic twin towns of Fort cochin & Mattancherry, a glimpse into Kochi’s rich history and heritage, showcasing the mixed Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences that make the city unique you will conclude your tour with the iconic Chinese fishing nets.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, All activities, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Bottled water

Exclusions: Lunch, Tips to guide and driver

Reviewed By PavlH

We were met at our hotel by our guide for the day and he was waiting for us as we arrived at the front of the hotel. The car and driver were good - the traffic was busy as it was rush hour and there is a lot of roadworks to build a new bridge between North and South Goa. Some places of interest were pointed out an route and the stops we made were interesting. We enjoyed the day, including lunch at the Spice Farm where we had a buffet including fish, chicken and vegetable curries. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and answered any questions we had. An enjoyable experience.

5. God's Own Country - KERALA (8 Days private trip)

BOUT INDIA TOURS
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 6 reviews

A very thoughtfully prepared itinerary with nice comfortable hotels & transportation. The accommodation offered are a mix of 4 star hotels, boutique homestay & private AC houseboat. This trip covers some of the best experiences of Kerala - tea plantations (Munnar), national park (Periyar), rural life (Kumarakom) & houseboat stay at the world famous backwaters of Alleppey. Lots of the activities are included like guided jungle walk, Bamboo rafting, kayaking, guided village tour, Kalaripayattu martial arts show and Kathakali classical dance show. It will be a short and comprehensive experience of the best of Kerala.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, 07 nights’ stay on double sharing at the 4 star hotels, homestay & private AC houseboat., Transfers & Sightseeing as per itinerary on a private AC car with driver (at your disposal), Entrance passes for Munnar tea museum, Kathkali Show & kalaripayattu martial art show., Guided walking trip of Cochin and Munnar.

Exclusions: tips and gratuities

Reviewed By vikas_solanki_it

I have been two times in Goa, but this was the best experience I ever had in any of my trips. Thanks to Bout India for arranging such a great experience. Now I can say Goa is much more than just Beach, Babes and beer. We had amazing time. Arambol and Calangute beach are must place to visit.

6. Cochin Heritage Tour By Foot And Tuk-tuk

Cochin Port, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682003, India globes travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 3 reviews

Explore the untainted Kochi in a local way through this private guided Tuk Tuk tour. The main attraction of this tour is the travel in Tuk Tuk (auto-rickshaw) to visit the major landmarks like St.Francis church, the Dutch Palace, the Jain temple and many such tourist sites. Experience the rural life of the people by visiting some of the local places like Dhobi Khana (the local washing area), Ginger ware house (where spices are dried and packed), and also some cooperatives undertaken by women such as spice making, candle making and incense making. Explore the quaint streets of this city on foot lasting for approximately 2 hours which is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Feast your eyes to the Chinese fishing nets, the Dutch cemetery, the Nehru Children’s Park, the beautiful old-styled homes in Bishop’s House road and a refreshing stroll through the seaside beach. This walking expedition reaches its climax by having tea or coffee from a local cafe.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions:

Reviewed By PavlH

We were met at our hotel by our guide for the day and he was waiting for us as we arrived at the front of the hotel. The car and driver were good - the traffic was busy as it was rush hour and there is a lot of roadworks to build a new bridge between North and South Goa. Some places of interest were pointed out an route and the stops we made were interesting. We enjoyed the day, including lunch at the Spice Farm where we had a buffet including fish, chicken and vegetable curries. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and answered any questions we had. An enjoyable experience.

7. Kochi private Tuk-Tuk (Auto Rickhaw) Tour

Cochinvillagetour
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 5 reviews

Fantastic local experience for a whole day sight seeing trip at your own pace. Friendly tuk-tuk driver and visit many local attractions.

Inclusions: Private transportation

Exclusions:

Reviewed By ISSYMACKELLAR

Amazing service-shareef is wonderful, highly recommend!! His tuk tuk is also very comfy and wonderfully decorated.

8. Fort Kochi Tuk-Tuk Tour

Pack Your Passport
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Take a private tuk-tuk tour with our good friend Fredi around Fort Kochi to visit the historical sites of Santa Cruz Cathedral, Paradesi Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Ceremony, Matancherry Palace and more! Along the way, you'll visit secret spice shops, local cafes to try some of the local delights, fish, fruit and veg markets, antique shops, Hindu temples, local communities and so much more! Fredi is a local and knows Fort Kochi like the back of his hand! You'll get an experience like no other when booking a tour with our dear friend Fredi. Note: Snacks and chai/coffee is included in the price of this tour.

Inclusions: Coffee and/or Tea, Snacks, Private transportation

Exclusions:

Reviewed By nad_lou30

Ella & Bejoy organised a fantastic trip for me. I was travelling on my own & enjoyed an Ayurvedic retreat in Cherai and boutique hotel stay in Varkala plus time in FK. Very efficient, helpful and friendly. Highly recommended!

9. Walking Tour Of Fortkochi

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Fort Kochi, Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001, India Day in Cochin
Excellent
88%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 8 reviews

Fort Cochin is marked for one of the earliest establishments of foreign trade in Kerala. The heritage walk is an awesome 1.5 km on foot, which takes us back to the 1500’s when the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English was busy trading the wealth. The island provided them a very wonderful place to trade and refresh. The heritage walk meets us at different monuments which reminds us of these historical landmarks.  We will also visit Fort Kochi’s seaside promenade, and get a glimpse of daily life in Kochi.  The walk lasts 2 hours and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Inclusions: Tea / Coffee, Bottled water, Local guide

Exclusions: Transport, Tips & Personal expenses, Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, Lunch, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions

Reviewed By wantsomeblues

Vijesh is a very caring and cool guide. He helped us to buy souvenirs and took care of my stomache pain by getting me some good tea. In between sightseeing spots he provided us with interesting information on the Indian culture and politics. Highly recommended!

10. Kerala Private 4-Day Tour with Accommodation

Indus Holidays
Excellent
80%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.8 based on 10 reviews

Kerala Private 4 day tour package takes you on a short break to Munnar and backwaters. The package includes stay at hand-picked resorts in Munnar and Alleppey. We have also included Village life experience and houseboat cruise in the package. This is an ideal getaway in Kerala.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, 3-Night Accommodation

Exclusions: Charges for activities and entry tickets not included. Guests will have to pay the same locally, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Gratuities, Entry / admission - Kundala dam lake (Boating - INR 100/- onwards per head) , Entry / admission - Matupetty dam (INR 10/- per person), Entry / admission - Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park (INR 125/- per person), Entry / admission - Rose Garden (INR 20/- per person), Entry / admission - Kannan Devan Tea Museum (INR 75/- per person), Entry / admission - Echo Point (INR 30/- per adult)

Reviewed By shveta M

We had planned the Himachal trip with Indus Holidays as we had a prior experience of them. The resorts provided were really good with the spacious room and delicious food. The view from the rooms ,of the mountains and the snow clad peaks was awesome. For the first time while traveling with Indus , we had some minor issues with the resort in Dalhousie. However they were immediately sorted by timely intervention of Ms. Disha from Indus. We were in a dilemma, to travel or not as the Covid cases were increasing. However, the entire team provided us a great support. Ms. Disha, travel coordinator and the driver Mr. Sandip, were really helpful in guiding us regarding the different covid restrictions imposed in different states. Mr. Sandip took us on different roads and managed the timings for visiting the memorable places as we had to face curfew, Bharat bund and the 2 days taxi strike. We could have the delicious local food , as he made us visit the local joints. Amritsar is worth visiting with the divine Golden temple looking different during day and night. The trip was every penny worth and again a wonderful experience with Indus Holidays. Looking forward for a next trip with Indus.

TAGS

Share on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterShare on LinkedInPin on PinterestShare on Google+Email this to someoneShare on VkontakteBookmark

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.