Highlights of Cochin Group Shore Excursion from Pier

Are you looking for a hassle-free way to explore Cochin within a limited time? Join the Highlights of Cochin Group Shore Excursion from Pier tour and enjoy a stress-free day trip around the highlights of Cochin, accompanied by an English-speaking guide. This tour is an excellent choice for travelers with limited time in Cochin, as it includes port pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

What to Expect

Upon arriving at the Samudrika Cochin International Cruise Terminal, the pickup point, you will meet your driver and English-speaking guide for the day who will take care of you for the duration of the tour. After a brief introduction and necessary formalities, you will board an air-conditioned vehicle and make your way to the highlights of Cochin. Your first stop is the St. Francis Church, a beautiful and historic structure that once hosted the grave of the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama. The church’s stunning architecture, with its classic European features, is an excellent start to your tour. From there, we will move on to the Chinese Fishing Nets area, which is an iconic spot located in Fort Kochi. This spot is a picturesque location, and the catch of the day is always readily available at numerous seafood stalls that surround the area. You will then visit the Santa Cruz Basilica, one of India’s most famous churches, which is renowned for its grand structure and gothic design. The beauty and peaceful ambiance of the Basilica, along with its religious importance, makes it a must-visit destination on this tour. Next on the agenda is the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which is indeed an essential attraction in Cochin. The Palace museum features a unique collection of ancient artifacts and antiques, showcasing a glimpse of the culture and history of the region. We will then visit the Paradesi Synagogue, which is among Cochin’s most historic sites, and undoubtedly a must-visit location. The synagogue, with its intricate architecture and well-maintained interiors, attracts visitors from around the globe. Throughout your tour, you will receive bottled water to stay hydrated.

What’s Included

The tour’s inclusions are as follows: – Port pickup and drop-off – Bottled water – Driver/guide Please note that food and drinks, lunch, and gratuities are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

The pickup point for this tour is Samudrika Cochin International Cruise Terminal, which is located at X786+JCR Indira Gandhi Rd, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682009, India.

Book Your Tour

If you are looking for an easy and hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Cochin, the Highlights of Cochin Group Shore Excursion from Pier tour is an excellent choice. Book the tour here and be sure to have your camera ready to snap some fantastic pictures of the beautiful sights of Cochin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant, multicultural city located in the southwest coast of India. Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Kochi is a popular tourist destination amongst domestic and international travelers alike. In this FAQ, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Kochi, from how to get there, what to see and do, to what to eat and where to stay.

1. How do I get to Kochi?

There are several options for traveling to Kochi:

By air:

The Cochin International Airport is well-connected to major cities across India and the world. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your destination in Kochi.

By train:

Kochi has two main railway stations: Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town. Trains from major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore have direct services to Kochi.

By bus:

Kochi is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other neighboring states through a network of state-run buses, private buses, and luxury coaches.

2. What are the top attractions in Kochi?

Fort Kochi:

Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood in Kochi, known for its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial-era buildings, Chinese fishing nets, and art galleries.

Jew Town:

Jew Town is an eclectic area in Kochi known for its antique shops, spice markets, and Jewish synagogues.

Matancherry Palace:

Matancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a 16th-century palace that showcases Kerala’s traditional architecture and art.

St. Francis Church:

St. Francis Church is one of the oldest European churches in India, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

Marine Drive:

Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade in Kochi that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

3. What are the best things to do in Kochi?

Watch a Kathakali performance:

Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala that showcases elaborate costumes, makeup, and facial expressions. Several venues in Kochi offer Kathakali performances that are a must-see for tourists.

Take a backwater cruise:

The backwaters of Kerala are a unique network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that offer tranquil boat rides. Several tour operators in Kochi offer backwater cruises that are a popular tourist activity.

Visit a spice plantation:

Kerala is known as the “land of spices,” and several plantations near Kochi offer guided tours that showcase how spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon are grown and processed.

Try the local cuisine:

Kerala’s cuisine is renowned for its use of coconut, seafood, and aromatic spices. Several restaurants and street food vendors in Kochi offer authentic Kerala dishes such as appam, puttu, and fish curry.

4. What is the best time to visit Kochi?

The best time to visit Kochi is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. Avoid visiting Kochi during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, as the city experiences heavy rainfall and flooding.

5. What is the local language spoken in Kochi?

The local language spoken in Kochi is Malayalam, but most people also speak English, Hindi, and Tamil.

6. Where can I stay in Kochi?

Kochi offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget guesthouses and homestays. Some popular areas to stay in Kochi include Fort Kochi, Ernakulam, and Marine Drive.

7. How do I get around in Kochi?

Kochi offers several modes of transportation, including public buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and ferries. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi or auto-rickshaw. Kochi also has a metro rail system that connects various parts of the city.

8. Is Kochi a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Kochi is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it’s recommended to take basic precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not carrying valuables in public places.

9. Can I use credit cards in Kochi?

Yes, several shops, restaurants, and hotels in Kochi accept credit cards. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash as well, as some small businesses may not accept credit cards.

10. What should I wear in Kochi?

Kochi has a tropical climate, so light and breathable clothing is recommended. It’s also recommended to dress modestly in public places, especially while visiting religious sites. Carry a pair of comfortable walking shoes, as Kochi’s old streets and alleys can be narrow and difficult to navigate in high heels or sandals.

Book Your Tour Now

Kochi is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Kochi has something to offer for everyone. In this FAQ, we’ve covered everything you need to know about visiting Kochi, from how to get there and what to see and do, to where to stay and what to wear. Use this guide to plan your trip to Kochi and make the most of your time in this vibrant, multicultural city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a bustling city located in the southwestern coast of India. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its exotic beaches, beautiful backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. In this post, we will discuss how you can spend your time as a tourist in Kochi and explore the best sights and activities the city has to offer.

1. Visit Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is a beautiful historical area located on a peninsula in Kochi. The area is home to many colonial-era buildings and is known for its unique blend of Indian and Western architecture. Some of the must-visit places in Fort Kochi include:

Chinese Fishing Nets

The Chinese Fishing Nets are a unique sight and are a must-visit when in Kochi. These nets were introduced to the city by Chinese traders in the 14th century and have since become an iconic symbol of Kochi. You can watch the fishermen use these huge nets for fishing while enjoying the beautiful sunset in the background.

St. Francis Church

St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India and was built in 1503. The church is famous for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. It is also home to the tomb of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is a beautiful church with stunning architecture that dates back to the 16th century. The church is known for its beautiful paintings, stained glass windows, and murals.

2. Explore the Backwaters

The backwaters of Kochi are one of the must-visit places in the city. These backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that are fed by the Arabian Sea. You can take a boat cruise through the backwaters and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. The backwaters are also a great place for birdwatching and fishing.

3. Visit the Hill Palace

The Hill Palace is an archaeological museum located in Tripunithura, a suburb of Kochi. The palace was once the residence of the Maharaja of Kochi and is now a museum that houses a vast collection of artifacts that give an insight into the history and culture of Kochi. Some of the things you can see in the museum include antique furniture, paintings, weapons, and pottery.

4. Go Shopping at Jew Town

Jew Town is a bustling market located in the heart of Kochi. The market is known for its antique shops, spice stores, and handicraft shops. You can find some unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home from this market.

5. Visit the Mattancherry Palace

The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a beautiful palace located in Mattancherry, a suburb of Kochi. The palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch in the 17th century. The palace is known for its stunning murals and beautiful architecture.

6. Enjoy Some Local Cuisine

Kochi is known for its delicious food, and you must try some of the local delicacies when in the city. Some must-try dishes include:

Kerala Style Fish Curry

This is a spicy fish curry that is made using coconut milk and is a popular dish in Kerala.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake that is served with kadala curry, a creamy curry made using black chickpeas.

Appam and Stew

Appam is a pancake-like dish made using fermented rice batter and is served with a creamy stew that is made using coconut milk and vegetables.

Book Your Tour Now

Kochi is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to do and see. Whether you want to explore the historical sights of Fort Kochi, take a boat ride in the backwaters, go shopping at Jew Town, or try some delicious local cuisine, Kochi has something for everyone. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Kochi, and we wish you a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city.