Fort Kochi & Mattanchery 3-Hour Walking Tour

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ID: GYG48715-65319
Category:
Country: India

Duration: 03:00 hours


Description

Sightseeing tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Walk along its street and explore all the main attractions from the Chinese fishing nets to the Jewish Synagogue.
Start your private walking tour at Fort Kochi visiting Chinese fishing nets, which were introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan in the 14th century. Kochi fishermen still use these 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. The church has a large cemetery that serves as a resting ground for many Portuguese army officials and soldiers. 

Next, see 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, find walls decorated with frescoes, murals, and large paintings depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. 

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.

Finish by wandering around the neighboring Jew Town, a central location for the spice trade, and inhale the aroma of ginger, cardamom, turmeric, and cloves. 

Highlights

  • Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets
  • Admire the Santa Cruz Basilica and St Francis Church
  • Visit the Jewish Synagogue and Mattancherry Dutch Palace

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• The Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace are closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish Holidays
• Tour Departure as per the time selected during the booking
• Please report 5 mins before the departure time
• This tour won't be provided to cruise ship passengers
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Your Hotel/Homestay in the Fort Cochin Area, or cruise ship port.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.