Morning pick-up from Cochin Hotel and proceed for sightseeing tour visiting the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is one of the finest examples of the Kerala style of architecture interspersed with colonial influences. Located at around 12 km from Ernakulam, it was built around 1545 C.E. by the Portuguese as a present to King Veera Kerala Verme of the Kochi dynasty. It came to be known as the Dutch Place as it underwent major repairs at the hands of the Dutch. It is famous for its long and spacious halls, along with its central courtyard. It is also the home of the deity of the royal family, Pazhayannur Bhgavathy (the Deity of Pazhayannur). (Note: Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays)

Paradesi Synagogue The Cochin Jewish Synagogue was constructed in 1568 by Samuel Castile, David Belila, and Joseph Levi for the Malabari Jewish community, which mainly migrated from the Middle East and Europe. (Note: Paradesi Synagogue is closed on Fridays).

Chinese fishing nets They are a part of the city’s cultural heritage. The Chinese fishing nets have not only been vital for the livelihood of local fishermen but have also become a symbol of Kochi’s cultural identity. They have become iconic structures that attract tourists from around the world. The Chinese fishing nets have become a very popular tourist attraction. Their size and elegant construction are photogenic, and the slow rhythm of their operation is quite hypnotic. In addition, catches can be purchased individually and need to be taken only a short distance to a street entrepreneur who will cook them.

The ST. Francis Church The legendary Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama was buried in the St. Francis Church in the year 1524. Even though his remains were later taken to Portugal, the church still have the burial spot and tombstone inside, which attracts more number of visitors to this historic church. After visit The ST. Francis Church we will lunch (optional) at a good restaurant (1:30Pm to 2:30PM). After lunch, we will go Kerala Kathakali Centre.

NOTE: This place is not visited when pickup from Cochi Cruise Terminal. Kerala Kathakali Centre is optional. It is a form of art that evolved from many socio-religious theatrical forms that existed in the ancient times of south India. Chakiarkoothu, Koodiyattam, Krishnattam, and Ramanattam are a few ritual performing arts of Kerala that exert a direct influence on Kathakali in its form and technique. The ancient martial arts of Kerala also have an influence on this dance form.