About this experience
During the excursion, you will learn what sets this region apart from other Indian states. Explore three styles of local architecture, visit the atmospheric Matancherry quarter and the oldest synagogue of the British Commonwealth, uncover the secrets of Tamil laundry, visit the temple where Vasco da Gama rested, and watch a traditional Kathakali show.
What to Expect
The Amazing History of Kerala
You will hear the story of the state that developed separately from other regions of India. Learn how from the beginning of the era, seafaring traders from different countries formed a bright cultural-religious mosaic, bringing Christianity, Judaism, and later Islam to the Malabar coast. I will tell you what information has been preserved about the times before Vasco da Gama and how the era of the Great Age of Discovery with the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch, and English influenced the further development of Cochin and its appearance.
Folklore Museum
In my opinion, this is the most interesting museum in Cochin! On each of the three floors of the building, you will get acquainted with the typical architecture of South, North, and Central Kerala. You will also see a collection of several thousand ancient exhibits, the oldest of which is 4,000 years old: household items, elements of authentic interior, and works of traditional art, including theatrical attributes.
Atmospheric Matancherry
In this district of Cochin, you will visit the 16th-century Dutch Palace, which now houses a museum with paintings of the city's rulers and ancient frescoes from Indian epics. Walking through the Jewish Quarter, where Kashmiris skillfully trade, you will immerse yourself in the special atmosphere of streets with ancient doors, wooden shutters, and graffiti. And at the oldest functioning synagogue in the British Commonwealth - the Paradesi - we will talk about the early stages of the settlement of Jews in India.
Other must-see places in Cochin
Then I will take you to the picturesque public laundry Dhobi Khana, where I will tell you about the special technology by which Tamils have been washing clothes for 300 years. At the seafood market - next to the famous complex of Chinese fishing nets - you can try delicious grilled fish. You will walk through the ancient streets of Fort Cochin, visit the Basilica of Santa Cruz, the Dutch cemetery, and the oldest Catholic temple in India - the Church of St. Francis, where Vasco da Gama rested for several years. And finally, you will watch a traditional Kerala Kathakali performance - a mix of dance and theater.
Organizational Details
What is included in the price and what is not
- Transfer by air-conditioned car is included in the cost of the excursion
- Additional expenses: lunch, personal expenses, and entrance tickets to museums: synagogue - 10 rupees, Dutch Palace - 10 rupees, Folklore Museum - 200 rupees, Kathakali show - 350 rupees
- I can also conduct a tour for a larger number of participants. The cost and details can be clarified in correspondence with the guide.
Other program details
- After the Folklore Museum, at your request, I will take you to a large supermarket
- The evening performance lasts from 17:00 to 19:00
- I will conduct the tour for you or another guide from my team
