How to Plan Your 3 Hour Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Walking Tour in Kochi

Exploring Fort Kochi and Mattancherry on foot is the best way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of Kochi. This 3-hour walking tour takes you through the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry to see iconic historic sites, beautiful murals, and learn about the history and culture of India’s southern state. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your 3 Hour Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Walking Tour and provide all the necessary details to make your experience unforgettable.

Overview of the Tour

The 3-hour Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Walking Tour is a private tour that includes an expert English-speaking local guide. The tour provides Tuk Tuk pick-up and drop-off in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry, as well as a transfer from Fort Kochi to Mattancherry by Rickshaw/ Tuc Tuc which adds to the tour’s authenticity. The tour covers all of the top attractions in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, including the Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace.

What’s included

The tour includes the following services:

• English-speaking local guide
• Tuk Tuk pick-up and drop-off in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry
• Transfer from Fort Kochi to Mattancherry by Rickshaw/ Tuc Tuc
• Drinks

The tour does not include food and drinks or gratuities, so you may want to carry some cash with you.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Carnival Tours & Travels at Princess St Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001 India. If you are not staying in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry, you should make arrangements to get to the meeting point. The tour provides Tuk Tuk pick-up and drop-off in Fort Kochi or Mattancherry, so make sure to inform your guide of your preferred pick-up location.

Tour Highlights

The tour takes you through the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, and you get a chance to see the following iconic sites:

Chinese Fishing Nets

The tour starts at the Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique method of fishing used by the Chinese in Kochi during the 14th century. The nets are still in use today and are a major attraction for visitors.

Jewish Synagogue

The next stop on the tour is the Jewish Synagogue, a historic site of worship that was built in 1568. The Synagogue is an architectural marvel and houses several interesting artefacts that you can see during your visit.

Mattancherry Palace

The tour then takes you to Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. The palace was constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace is known for its exquisite murals that portray scenes out of Hindu scripture.

Tour Duration

The tour is a 3-hour walking tour, and you should be prepared for some light physical activity. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and carry some water with you. The tour guides will take breaks for you to rest and enjoy the surroundings while taking some memorable photos.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the tour is easy, and you can do so by clicking here. It is advisable to book the tour in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons, and to avail of exclusive discounts offered by the third-party company that operates the tour.

Conclusion

The 3 Hour Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Walking Tour is a fantastic way to acquaint yourself with the historical and cultural significance of Kochi. The tour provides an expert guide who takes you through the streets, and provides interesting facts and anecdotes that add to the tour’s experience. This tour is suitable for all ages and levels of physical fitness. Book the tour today and embark on a journey back in time to experience the beauty, history and culture of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kochi – Your Ultimate Guide

If you’re planning a trip to the vibrant city of Kochi, you likely have a few questions. From the best places to eat to the top tourist attractions, this guide will answer all your frequently asked questions about Kochi.

1. What is Kochi famous for?

Kochi is famous for its stunning backwaters, ancient Chinese fishing nets, and historic architecture. The city is also known for its spice trade and as the cultural, commercial, and financial hub of Kerala. Some of the must-visit tourist destinations in Kochi include the Mattancherry Palace, the Jew Town, and the Fort Kochi Beach.

2. What is the ideal time to visit Kochi?

Kochi has a tropical climate and can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kochi is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. The monsoon season, which starts from June and continues until September, can be quite heavy, but it is also the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful rain-washed city.

3. What is the best way to get around Kochi?

Kochi has a well-developed transportation system, and travelers can get around the city easily. Some of the best ways to explore Kochi are:

• Auto-rickshaws and taxis
• Buses
• Cycle and bike rentals
• Ferries and boats

4. What are the top attractions in Kochi?

Kochi has numerous tourist attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some of the most popular tourist spots in Kochi are:

• Chinese Fishing Nets
• The Mattancherry Palace
• St. Francis Church
• The Jewish Synagogue
• The Fort Kochi Beach
• Museum of Kerala History
• The Hill Palace Museum

5. What is the local cuisine of Kochi?

Kerala cuisine is famous for its spicy, savory, and delicious flavors. Kochi boasts of a wide variety of seafood as it is located on the coast. Some of the must-try dishes in Kochi are:

• Appam and stew
• Puttu and Kadala Curry
• Fish Moilee
• Prawns Roast
• Kerala Style Fried Rice

6. Where can I shop in Kochi?

Kochi has a vibrant and lively shopping culture, and travelers can find everything from traditional handicrafts to designer clothing. Some of the best places to shop in Kochi are:

• Lulu Mall
• Mangalavanam Shopping Center
• Maharaja’s College Shopping Complex
• Broadway Shopping Complex
• Jewelry street in Mattancherry

7. What are the nearby destinations that can be visited from Kochi?

Kochi is quite strategically located and offers numerous options for travelers looking for short trips. Some of the popular destinations near Kochi are:

• Alleppey
• Munnar
• Thekkady
• Wayanad
• Kodaikanal
• Ooty

Conclusion

Kochi is a beautiful city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. The vibrant city offers something for every kind of traveler. With this guide, you can plan your trip to Kochi better and make the most out of your visit. Be sure to taste the local cuisine, explore the local culture, and take in the stunning views that Kochi has to offer. Happy traveling!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a beautiful city located in the southern state of Kerala in India. Kochi has a lot to offer its visitors, from its beautiful beaches and backwaters to the rich history and culture of its people. If you’re planning a trip to Kochi, you may be wondering how to spend your time as a tourist. In this guide, we’ll give you a detailed overview of the top things to do and places to visit in Kochi, as well as recommendations for how to make the most of your time.

1. Explore the Fort Kochi Area

Fort Kochi is a popular neighborhood in Kochi, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, art galleries, and popular tourist spots. Here are a few things you can do in this area:

Visit the St. Francis Church

St. Francis Church is one of the oldest churches in India and is located in Fort Kochi. The church is a significant historical monument as it was the burial site of the famous explorer Vasco da Gama, who died in Kochi in 1524.

Walk Along the Beach

Fort Kochi Beach is a beautiful place to take a walk while you enjoy the sea breeze, watch the fishermen working and locals playing games like cricket or football on the beach

Check out the Chinese Fishing Nets

The Chinese fishing nets are located across the street from the beach and are a popular tourist attraction. Originally, the Chinese introduced these nets to Kochi in the 14th century, and now they are part of the area’s heritage.

Visit Kochi Biennale

The Kochi Biennale is an international art exhibition held every two years in Kochi. It is an event that brings together some of the top artists from around the world, showcasing their work in various galleries around Fort Kochi.

2. Visit the Jew Town and Synagogue

Jew Town is located in the heart of Kochi and is a unique neighborhood known for its antique shops and the Paradesi Synagogue:

Shop for Antiques

Jew town has a lot of antique shops that specialize in unique items such as brass lamps, curios, and vintage jewelry.

See the Paradesi Synagogue

Located in Jew Town, this synagogue is the oldest in the Commonwealth of Nations still in use. The synagogue is open to visitors, but you need to wear appropriate clothing.

3. Take a Trip to the Backwaters

Kochi is well known for its mesmerizing backwaters – a network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lagoons that extend along the coast of Kerala. Here are a few things you can do to experience the backwaters:

Take a Houseboat Cruise

One of the best ways to explore the backwaters is by taking a houseboat cruise. It’s a unique experience where visitors get to witness the calm and serene life next to the backwaters.

Visit Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village

The Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village is a tiny village located on the outskirts of Kochi. The village is known for its mangrove forests, fish farming and paddy fields. Visitors can explore a range of activities such as canoeing, fishing, bird watching while learning about local customs, handicrafts, and coir making.

4. Go to the Beach

Kochi has some beautiful beaches with white sand and clear turquoise waters. Here are some of the top beaches in Kochi:

Cherai Beach

Cherai beach is a beautiful beach located around 20km from Kochi. It is known for its crystal-clear water and the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming or just lounging around.

Munambam Beach

Munambam beach is known as a local fisherman’s beach, where you can see fishermen working hard and various fish species being unloaded in local fish markets. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, eating seafood while enjoying the sea breeze.

5. Experience Kochi Cuisine

Kochi is famous for its unique cuisine, which is a blend of Indian, Portuguese, and Dutch influences. Here are some recommendations:

Try the Seafood

Kochi is famous for its seafood, with local specialties including Karimeen Pollichathu, which is a fish species cooked in banana leaves along with flavorful aromatic Indian spices.

Drink Local Tea

Kerala is famous for producing some of the best tea in the world. Visitors can visit local tea shops and taste the rich and flavorful tea.

Have a Sadya

A Sadya dish is native to Kerala, and it is served on a banana leaf with yummy and flavorful curries, beans, pickles, papadam, and many other delicious vegetarian sides.

Conclusion

Kochi is a superb tourist destination offering a unique mix of natural beauty, history, culture, and art. Make sure you experience Fort Kochi, the Jew Town, and Synagogue, the backwaters, beautiful beaches, and local cuisine. Kochi is a city that provides much to discover, and you are never going to feel bored. Plan your trip to Kochi now and create beautiful lifelong memories.