One Day Itinerary for Fort Kochi, Mattancherry

  1. 9:00 AM: Fort Kochi Beach
    5 minutes (1.0 km) from Fort Kochi Chinese Fishing Nets

    Start your day of exploring with a visit to the picturesque Fort Kochi Beach. This beautiful beach is famous for its tranquil environment and rows of gigantic Chinese fishing nets. Take a stroll to the nearby Chinese Fishing Nets, which date back over 500 years. Watch the fishermen in action as they use these ancient fishing techniques that have been passed down from generations.

  2. 11:00 AM: Dutch Palace
    15 minutes (4.2 km) from Fort Kochi Beach

    Next up is a visit to the Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Kochi in the 16th century. The palace is known for its beautiful murals that depict scenes from the Ramayana and other ancient Hindu texts.

  3. 12:30 PM: Jew Town
    10 minutes (2.8 km) from Dutch Palace

    Jew Town is a historic neighborhood in Mattancherry and is known for its plethora of antique shops and spice markets. Take a stroll through the streets and enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas. Be sure to visit the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.

  4. 2:30 PM: Lunch at Pepper House Cafe
    5 minutes (0.5 km) from Jew Town

    Enjoy a delicious lunch at Pepper House Cafe located in the beautiful Pepper House Museum. The museum is housed in a 19th-century colonial villa and features contemporary art exhibitions and art pieces from the Cochin Royal Family's collection.

  5. 4:00 PM: St. Francis Church
    10 minutes (2.3 km) from Pepper House Cafe

    St. Francis Church is one of the oldest European churches in India. This 16th-century church was built by the Portuguese and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. The church has been home to several famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama, whose tomb is located here.

  6. 5:00 PM: Chinese Fishing Nets at Vasco da Gama Square
    5 minutes (1.4 km) from St. Francis Church

    End the day by returning to the Fort Kochi Beach and enjoying the stunning view of the sunset. Watch the Chinese fishing nets come alive in the evening as the fishermen try to bring up their last catch of the day.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Fort Kochi Beach (Free)
  • Dutch Palace (1 hour, INR 5 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners)
  • Jew Town (1.5 hours, Free)
  • Lunch at Pepper House Cafe (1.5 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • St. Francis Church (30 minutes, INR 5 for Indians, INR 20 for foreigners)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 610 (excluding transportation expenses)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Hill Palace Museum in Tripunithura, the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, or the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, a beautiful church known for its gothic architecture. If you're short on time, consider skipping Jew Town and heading straight to lunch to save some time.

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