Old Cochin
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Port
Cochin, India
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$60
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Depart the pier for your scenic drive to Fort Cochin, one of the three urban regions that constitute present day Kochi City. The architectural style of the buildings and the town layout make Fort Cochin distinct from other cities and towns of Kerala. Since it was under the control of the Portuguese, Dutch and British at different points of time, the region still bears the influence of European design.
Walk down tree-lined streets to the Chinese fishing nets, brought from the court of Kublai Khan by a Chinese explorer. These cantilevered fishing nets are the symbol of the Cochin sea trade, and are not found anywhere else in India.
Continue to St Francis Church, the oldest church built by Europeans in India, and the original location of Vasco da Gama's grave.
Re-board the coach now for the drive to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. Originally built by the Portuguese, the building is now a museum with exhibits recording the history, traditions and culture of the area. The simple, high exterior walls give no hint of the exquisite collection of murals inspired by the great Hindu epics found within.
A short walk leads to Jew Town where you have free time to explore on your own. Discover the fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses, and spice markets here before returning to the pier.
Please note:
Photography is not allowed at the Dutch Palace. This relatively easy walking tour covers approximately one mile and involves a number of steps at the Dutch Palace. Shoes must be removed when walking on the tiled aisle at St Francis Church. Wear sunscreen. There are no suitable restroom stops on this tour -- the only available restroom is at some shops in Fort Cochin and may be basic.