As you arrive at Cochin International Airport, you will be welcomed by our tour agent who will help you with hassle-free transfer to your hotel. Complete check-in formalities at the hotel and take your time to settle down there. Your Kerala Tour gives you an ideal opportunity to delight in wonderful sightseeing of Cochin. Your day trip starts with marveling at the unique Chinese Fishing Nets. The design of these Fishing Nets is unique. It is a truly spellbinding experience to watch these majestic nets being suspended in mid-air and row upon row.
Next, set your foot into Fort Cochin. It is steeped in the history and culture of all who have occupied it through the ages. Also, its essence and roots are unique in its diversity. It was built in 1503 and stands as the testimony of the strategic alliance between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Portuguese Monarch.
Thereafter, visit Mattancherry Palace, also called as Dutch Palace. It is a Portuguese palace but now a museum which displays paraphernalia belonging to the Kings of Kochi, irreplaceable artifacts, and embellishments. It is built in the typical Kerala style mansions that are reserved for the nobility. This is followed by a trip to the St. Francis Church which finely exhibits Portuguese architecture and contains the gravestone of the famous explorer, Vasco-da-Gama. It is popular for its simplicity. Afterward, go to Dutch Cemetery, well-known for its imperial voyagers and inhabitants who left their homelands centuries ago to proliferate and expand their own empire. It is one such symbol of Dutch occupation and consist of one hundred tombs in the cemetery.
Your next stop is at Jewish Synagogue which is the oldest active synagogue. It was built by Spanish – speaking Jews in 1567 and also called as "Paradesi". It has splendid sculptures such as beautiful chandeliers, rare antiques, brass-railed pulpit, clock tower, Chinese hand-painted tiles, etc. Now, head towards Hill Palace. It is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and situated on a hill. Built in 1865, the palace has served as the imperial administrative office and official residence of Maharaja of Cochin. The complex has a heritage museum, archaeological museum, a pre-historic park, a deer park and a children's park that are perfect for outdoor photography.
After that, go to Bolghatty Palace, a former palace or quaint mansion which was built by Dutch traders. After independence, this property was converted into a heritage hotel that includes a 9-hole golf course, swimming pool, ayurvedic center. Add to it, mesmerizing Kathakali performance that is held here daily. In the evening, take a walk along Marine Drive. This place is a picturesque promenade that overlooks serene backwaters. Spectators are left amused with amazing sunset views here. This fantastic place always remains thronged with tourists.
It is time for shopping. So head straightaway to Lulu Shopping Mall which is one of the biggest malls in the Indian sub-continent. There are many outlets for the people such as food courts, jewelry shops, footwear shops, sportswear shops, fashion accessories stores, etc. The mall can occupy 1, 00,000 people at a time.
At the end of the day, you will see the Kathakali Dance Show. It is a classical dance form or indigenous Kerala art and has become the icon of this state. This dance involves bright costumes, elaborate makeup, intricate body, hand, eye, and even facial movements.
Later, come back to the hotel and snuggle down in your bed for a relaxing overnight stay.
