After a peaceful night aboard your Alleppey houseboat, you’ll awaken to the soothing sound of water gently lapping against the hull and birds calling from the nearby coconut trees. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style breakfast served hot by the houseboat crew – usually featuring local delicacies like appam with vegetable stew, puttu, or idiyappam with curry, along with fresh fruits and chai.
By 9:00 AM, it's time to disembark from the houseboat and bid farewell to the backwaters as your driver meets you for the next leg of your journey — a 2.5-hour scenic drive (approx. 90 km) to Kochi (Cochin), Kerala’s bustling port city that beautifully blends colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and modern living.
As you arrive in Kochi, you’ll be checked into your hotel for a short rest before heading out to explore one of the most fascinating cities on the Malabar Coast.
Kochi Sightseeing Highlights
Fort Kochi
Step into a world where time seems to slow down. Fort Kochi is a charming coastal town known for its cobblestone streets, Portuguese-era buildings, and peaceful ambiance. The fusion of Dutch, Portuguese, British, and local Kerala influences creates a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in India.
✝️ St. Francis Church
Your first stop is St. Francis Church, built in 1503 — the oldest European church in India. It was once the burial site of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, whose remains were later taken to Lisbon. The simplicity and historical importance of this church make it a must-visit.
Chinese Fishing Nets
Just a short stroll away are the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, or Cheenavala – massive cantilevered fishing nets introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. Watch local fishermen operate these ancient mechanisms, especially around sunset, when the golden light creates a surreal silhouette. This is one of Kochi’s most photographed scenes.
Mattancherry & Jewish Synagogue
Head toward Mattancherry, the cultural melting pot of Kochi. Explore the Paradesi Synagogue – the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, built in 1568. Its beautiful Belgian chandeliers, hand-painted Chinese tiles, and scrolls of the Old Testament are truly mesmerizing. (Note: closed on Fridays, Saturdays & Jewish holidays)
Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace)
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century building is home to beautifully preserved Kerala murals, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and historical exhibits about the Cochin Royal Family. It’s a great place to understand Kerala’s unique matrilineal history and local traditions.
Leisure & Shopping
Marine Drive
In the evening, stroll along Marine Drive, a peaceful seaside promenade that offers lovely views of the backwaters and harbor. It’s popular with locals and perfect for watching ferries, sipping on coconut water, or enjoying street snacks like roasted peanuts and local ice cream.
Lulu Mall (Optional)
If time permits and you’d like a more modern shopping experience, you can visit Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in India. It houses a wide range of branded stores, Kerala handicrafts, souvenirs, and an impressive food court — perfect for picking up last-minute gifts.
Optional: Seafood Dinner at a Waterfront Café
Kochi is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of seaside restaurants and cafés near Fort Kochi or Marine Drive where you can enjoy dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), prawns roast, or Malabar crab curry, along with a stunning sunset view.
Return to Hotel
After an enriching day exploring Kochi’s cultural and coastal highlights, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight stay in Kochi.