4 h

Group

About this activity

We will pick you up Kochi Port Ships Berth and transfer to Fort Kochi to visit the Chinese Fishing Nets.

Chinese Fishing Nets were 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 (Dhobi Khanna)

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.

(The Jewish synagogue is closed on Fridays/Saturdays and all Jewish holidays. The Dutch palace is closed on Fridays.)

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Included

Port pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Local English-speaking guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Not included

Food and drinks
Lunch
Gratuities

Additional

Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
Not wheelchair accessible
Departure as Per the Departure Time selected during Booking: Please report 10 mins before Departure Time
Staff/guide will be waiting for you at the ship's berth holding a VIATOR Signboard with Blue Umbrella.
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. Otherwise, you may risk being refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
A small amount of walking is involved.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Note: Jewish Synagogue/Dutch Palace will be closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Jewish Holidays and Jewish Passover days.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 999 travelers