Enjoy a Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise W/ Lunch in Kochi

Cochin offers a range of experiences from the beaches to cultural and culinary tours. On the off-the-beaten track, an unforgettable experience is a half-day backwater village eco boat cruise with lunch in Kochi. Let’s explore what makes this cruise so special, what to expect while on the cruise, and how to book it.

About the Cruise

This tour takes you by boat on the backwaters of Middle Vembanad Lake for two and a half hours, where you’ll witness local village life and enjoy lunch on the waterfront. You’ll explore surrounding villages and get first-hand experience of local traditions, cultures, and norms. You can also visit the nearby Buddhist sites, with plenty of sightseeing along the way. During the tour, you can also spot several birds and wildlife.

What to Expect

On the half-day backwater village eco boat cruise with lunch in Kochi, you will have a unique chance to witness local culture and customs in a tranquil, traditional setting. You will be able to learn about the area’s trading culture, and have the opportunity to have lunch right on the waterfront. You can also get a firsthand experience of various religious sites, picturesque surroundings, and exotic wildlife.

Your guide will provide plenty of information en route to keep you informed and entertained. Make sure you wear sun protection and bring along insect repellent, since you’ll likely be exposed to the elements. Also, keep in mind that each village has its own customs and behaviors, so you should respect the local people and their way of life.

What’s Included

The half-day backwater village eco boat cruise with lunch in Kochi includes professional guide services, a 2.5 hour boat ride to explore the traditional village life and culture, a waterfront lunch, and transportation to/from your hotel in Cochin/Ernakulam.

On the lunch menu are delicious local dishes, such as diverse vegetarian dishes cooked in traditional Kerala style, different types of fish curries, steamed rice, various rare herbs and spices, pickles, pappads (crispy fried bits) and juices. The food is cooked in hygienic conditions in traditional style kitchen atop a picturesque coconut-covered island in delicate banana leaves cutters.

How to Book

You can easily book your half-day backwater village eco boat cruise with lunch in Kochi on GetYourGuide. All you need to do is select your preferred date and number of people from the activity options, click checkout and follow the instructions on the website. It’s fast and easy!

My Personal Opinion

I had an incredible experience with this activity. The 2.5 hour boat ride allowed me to see villages and witness their cultural mannerisms – something that I don’t get to see everyday. The waterfront lunch was high quality and had plenty of local delicacies that offered me a wonderful taste of Kerala cuisine. The professional guide provided plenty of useful information and was knowledgeable about the surrounding areas and sights. An incredible experience overall that I would highly recommend!

For those looking for an off-the-beaten track adventure, a half-day backwater village eco boat cruise with lunch in Kochi should not be missed! Book your tour on GetYourGuide now for an unforgettable experience!

Insider’s Guide to Kochi: A Perfect Blend of Nature, Culture, and History

Kochi, also called Cochin, is a city located on the southwest coast of India in the state of Kerala. It is a perfect blend of modernity, nature, tradition, and culture. Being the commercial hub of Kerala, Kochi has emerged as a popular tourist destination in India. From its stunning beaches, serene backwaters, historic landmarks, and wildlife sanctuaries to its cosmopolitan culture and delicious cuisine, Kochi has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Local Attractions to Visit

Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is the heart and soul of Kochi and is one of the top attractions for tourists. It is a picturesque coastal region that boasts several colonial-era buildings, narrow streets, and quaint cafes and boutique art galleries. You can take a stroll around the Fort Kochi Beach, visit St Francis Church, the oldest European church in India and then head to the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a famous landmark of Kochi. The best time to visit Fort Kochi is in the evening when the locals come out to walk around the beaches and beautiful landmarks.

Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace is home to a large collection of medieval Indian art, including murals, portraits, paintings, and artifacts. The palace also has a beautiful courtyard and a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the palace, but flash photography is prohibited.

Hill Palace Museum: The Hill Palace Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and features antique furniture, weapons, paintings, and artifacts. The museum is located on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.

Best Dining Spots for Foodies

Kerala is known for its delicious seafood. The city of Kochi offers a wide range of options to indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine. Some of the must-visit dining spots in Kochi are:

Fort House Restaurant: The Fort House Restaurant is situated in a 200-year-old building overlooking the backwaters of Kochi. It is a perfect place for seafood lovers, and they offer a variety of dishes ranging from prawns, crabs, and lobster to other regional delicacies.

Dal Roti: If you are a vegetarian, then Dal Roti is the place to be. This restaurant offers mouth-watering North Indian food, including dal, roti, and paneer-based dishes. The ambience of this place is very homely, and the staff is very friendly.

Kayees Rahmathullah Hotel: This hotel is a hidden gem and is famous among locals for its Biriyani and fish curry. It is a simple restaurant, but the food is flavorful and authentic.

Cultural Experiences to Enjoy

Kathakali Performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form that originates from Kerala. In Kochi, you can experience this art form by attending a live performance. The performance usually lasts for two hours, and the dancers use elaborate makeup and vibrant costumes to portray various characters from Indian mythology.

Ayurvedic Massage: Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic massage, which is said to relieve stress and rejuvenate the body. Several Ayurvedic centers in Kochi offer massages and other therapies.

Local History and Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise: One of the unique experiences that Kochi offers is a half-day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise W/ Lunch. The boat cruise takes you through the serene backwaters and offers a glimpse of the local village life. You get to see the traditional fishermen and the Chinese fishing nets in action. The boat ride is followed by a delicious lunch of traditional Kerala cuisine.

Kashi Art Gallery: If you are an art lover, then Kashi Art Gallery is worth a visit. It is a contemporary art gallery that features works of both established and emerging artists. The gallery also has a small cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a slice of cake while admiring the art.

In conclusion, Kochi is a place that offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and history. From its serene backwaters to its colonial-era buildings, Kochi is full of surprises. Whether you are a foodie, history buff, or adventure seeker, Kochi has something to offer for everyone.