Excursion Ancient treasures & traditions of cochin tour at Cochin

Discover the many influences of explorers on the ancient port city of Cochin during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Cochin, Chinese Fishing Nets, Special Viewing and Demonstration

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to a local village to visit the large, graceful Chinese Fishing Nets, probably the single most familiar image of Kerala. The nets are said to have originated during the reign of Kublai Khan. Zheng He, explorer and fleet admiral from China's early-Ming Dynasty, brought them to this area. They cantilever over the harbour, and operate by a system of weights and levers. The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch. During your visit, a special viewing and demonstration has been arranged by a local expert to learn more about this unique and fascinating system, still in use even after hundreds of years.

Fort Cochin, Historic Buildings, Church of St. Francis

Next, re-board your coach and proceed to Fort Cochin, site of Cochin's historic buildings. The main influence is that of the Portuguese and Alfonzo de Albuquerque from 1500. Albuquerque arrived with six ships bearing settlers and five friars, and built the first European church in India. Visit the Church of St. Francis, its simple style enhanced only by the handsome floor tiles that line the main aisle. The church reflects Dutch and Portuguese influences, and is, in fact, an architectural marvel. This is also where the famous explorer, Vasco da Gama, was originally buried. Your guide briefly talks about Vasco da Gama, who actually came to India 50 years after Zheng He.

Brunton Boatyard, Kalaripavattu Demonstration, Mattancherry, Paradesi Synagogue, Jew Town

Leaving Fort Cochin, re-board your coach and head to the Brunton Boatyard Hotel, a restored period building, for a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, the oldest martial art form in the world. Believed to be a synergy of art, science and medicine, the practice originated 3,000 years ago in the state of Kerala and is thought to be connected to Chinese Kung Fu. Kalaripavattu is characterised by the use of weapons such as short sticks, spears, daggers, swords and shields; performances have a distinctive, rhythmic quality to them, and are mesmerizing to watch. Afterward, head to Mattancherry for a stop at the Paradesi Synagogue, followed by some free time at your leisure in Jew Town. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Cochin, Chinese Fishing Nets and Kalaripavattu Demonstrations, Fort Cochin, Church of St. Francis, Brunton Boatyard, Paradesi Synagogue, Jew Town, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.53 miles (about 0.85 kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, two steps at the St. Francis Church, three steps at Paradesi Synagogue and six steps at the Brunton Boatyard Hotel. Walking in Jew Town is at the discretion of each guest; guests should carry local currency for purchases. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the church and synagogue; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must remove their shoes at St. Francis Church if they plan on walking down the central, tiled aisle. A thick pair of socks is suggested, as the ground may be hot. If mass is taking place at the St. Francis Church, the guide cannot provide narration inside. The performance area at Brunton Boatyard is open and air-cooled. Expect busy streets, crowds, traffic, lines, and waiting times at the sites visited. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Photography/videography is prohibited inside the Paradesi Synagogue. Coaches, guides and equipment are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. The tour sequence may vary.