Hafen
Kochi

Accompany a Malayali housewife through her hometown of Ernakulam, as she spends a typical day shopping, conversing with neighbors and storekeepers and preparing meals. Your immersion into the local culture will begin as your host Neema browses the stalls at a favorite market. She will explain how she selects the ingredients, which vendors she prefers and how to haggle effectively. You will then hop in an auto trishaw and ride back to Neema’s house to drop off the groceries before heading to the neighborhood beauty salon that she frequents. The hairdressers will be happy to discuss their daily lives in Ernakulam, so feel free to ask questions. Continuing on, you will meet the vicar at Our Lady of Hope, the 17th-century Portuguese-built church where Neema worships. Back at her colonial house, Neema will prepare a sumptuous traditional meal for you from the ingredients that she has hand-picked at the market.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Accompany Neema, a Malayali housewife, on her daily activities through the town of Ernakulam.
• Meet Neema’s friends and neighbors as she shops and drops by her beauty salon.
• Join Neema in the 17th-century church where she worships and meet the vicar.
• Dine in Neema’s home on a sumptuous meal that she has prepared just for you.

Cochin is a seaport built on a series of interconnected islands and peninsulas. The oldest European settlement in India, it is an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and English country village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. On your tour explore exotic Cochin, with its spice-filled markets, lush foliage and pastel houses.

You’ll drive to Mattancherry to visit the Dutch Palace built by the Portuguese in 1557 as a gift for the Maharaja of Cochin in exchange for trading rights. The Palace houses royal costumes, furniture and weapons and a series of murals painted on wooden walls. You’ll also stop in an ancient neighborhood, which was a thriving Jewish community in the late 1500s. The synagogue, built in 1568, is beautifully preserved.

You’ll make a stop at St. Francis Church, built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars. This is India's oldest European-built church, and the original burial site of Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama. Continue to the Chinese Fishing Nets, fishing nets exhibit a mechanical method of catching fish, introduced by Chinese traders from the court of Kublai Khan.

Board a motorized boat to observe the diverse activities of the busy harbor, including local fishing colonies and glimpses of locals going about their daily lives on the assorted islands. Cruise past Gundu, the smallest island in the harbor. See the long narrow peninsula of Bolghatty, famous for the palace built by the Dutch in 1744, and now a resort hotel.

Discover the wonders of Cochin, a picturesque city originally built by the Portuguese. It has one of the finest natural harbors in the world and for centuries was the center of the spice trade. Ancient mariners from the Middle East, China and Europe all left their mark on this beautiful island city.

Driving along the narrow passageway at the water's edge, see the first visual symbol of ancient trade and the age-old shared influences of Cochin - the Chinese Fishing Nets. These cantilevered fishing nets are the icon of Cochin sea trade, and cannot be found anywhere else in India. It is believed Chinese traders brought these huge fishing nets to Cochin from the court of Kublai Khan.

You’ll stop at St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, built in 1503 by Portuguese friars. Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 until 1538 when his remains were taken to Lisbon. His sepulcher can still be seen at the church. A short stop will be made at the Indo-Portuguese Museum, currently housing outstanding examples of the art and architecture of the region.

You’ll pass through the district of Mattancherry, noted for the medieval-style Dutch Palace. A large but modest building with sloping roofs, the palace was built by the Portuguese in 1555 and given to the Raja of Kochi (Cochin). You’ll also stop in an ancient neighborhood, which was a thriving Jewish community in the late 1500s. The synagogue, built in 1568, is beautifully preserved.

Experience the pristine natural beauty, teeming waters and local lifestyle of rural Kerala during this memorable excursion to Kumbalanghi and Kallancherry Island.

Kumbalanghi

Depart the pier for the approximately 30-minute drive west towards Kumbalanghi, a small, six-square-mile (15.5-square-kilometre) island-village surrounded by backwaters and lush green paddy fields. An abundance of mangroves separates land from water, and provides a breeding ground for prawns, crabs, oysters and small fish. A ring of Chinese fishing nets encircling Kumbalanghi bears witness to its rich aquatic life.

Backwater Ride to Kallancherry Island

Upon arrival at the Kumbalanghi Bridge, leave your vehicle, walk across to the jetty and embark your awaiting boat. Ride through the backwaters en route to Kallancherry Island, and see fisherman plying the waters en route. After disembarking your boat at the island, you are served a refreshing welcome drink.

Kallancherry Island Walking Tour

Next, explore village life during a guided walking tour. View weavers at work on coir, watch local ladies weave coconut leaves, and see how traditional Chinese fishing nets operate through a system of weights and levers.

Following your visit, embark a motorised rickshaw for the ride back to your coach, then commence the approximately 30-minute ride back to the pier.

Experience Cochin, old and new, during this half-day sightseeing tour of the picturesque and historic city.

Ernakulam

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Ernakulam. Upon arrival, take a sightseeing tour of the city, whose architecture depicts its cultural diversity and influences. See the colourful markets, shops and temples lining Mahatma Gandhi Road, the main thoroughfare. Along the way, photo stops are made at various landmarks, including the Temple of Lord Shiva. Your sightseeing drive through Ernakulam ends at Fort Cochin.

Historic Cochin

During a guided walking tour of this historic area, note the Chinese fishing nets near the tip of Fort Cochin. These fixed, cantilevered contraptions are mainly used at high tide and operated via a system of counterweights. A stop is then made at St. Francis Church, which is adorned with lovely floor tiles lining the main aisle. Large swinging cloth fans, or punkahs, are suspended above the congregation and manually operated from outside the church.

David Hall

Your tour concludes with a stop at David Hall. A surviving legacy of Dutch colonial rule in these parts, David Hall is a part of three houses built by the Dutch East India Company in the late-17th century. The building has since been renovated and converted into an art gallery. During a refreshment stop at David Hall's café, you can browse through the art gallery. Depending upon the current exhibits, some artwork may be available for sale.

Following your visit, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Known for its mountains, rivers, and Pacific beaches, Kochi Prefecture is also home to one of Japan’s best-preserved feudal castles, a primary destination in this half-day history-focused excursion.

A visit to Kochi Castle

A half-hour coach drive from the port transports you back to 1603, when Kochi Castle was first built. Dominating the horizon from every vantage point, this massive 5-tier landmark retains several original palace gates and all of its architectural majesty despite having endured multiple attacks and restorations over the centuries. The structures in the castle’s honmaru – the virtually impregnable inner ring defending its ruler’s living quarters – house local and historical treasures and are designated Important Cultural Properties. Those who accept the challenge of the steep stairway climb to the top of the main tower are rewarded with jaw-dropping city views. The castle grounds have become a popular public park dotted with photo-worthy statues of the Yamanouchi family.

Katsurahama Beach & The Samurai Hero

After your 90-minute Kochi Castle experience, a scenic drive south provides views of Mt Godai and ends at Katsurahama Beach, a crescent-shaped strand framed by rocky capes and Japanese pines and ranked one of Japan’s 100 Best Beaches. Take some free time to admire unspoiled panoramas along the Pacific shore before rejoining your guide for an easy-paced walk and climb to a bronze monument and small museum commemorating Sakamoto Ryoma, the low-caste samurai swordsman who helped topple the Tokugawa shogunate in the mid-19^th century.

Return to the pier thereafter.

Explore the splendid history, architecture and local lifestyles of Kerala during this scenic, half-day excursion to colourful Cochin.

Cochin

Depart the pier for the short drive to the local market. En route, marvel at the beauty of tropical Cochin, an historic port city nestled between the Arabian Sea and its backwaters, and spread across coconut-covered islands and headlands. Cochin's unique history of foreign influence is reflected in a variety of architectural styles, including fine Colonial houses built by wealthy British traders, Dutch cottages with split farmhouse doors, and narrow streets where dwellings hide behind yellow walls.

Ernakulam, Local Market and Dhobi Khana

Your drive continues through the city of Ernakulam and drive along Mahatma Gandhi Road, the main thoroughfare filled with markets, shops and temples. Upon arrival at the bustling local market, take a guided stroll past colourful shops abounding with fragrant, exotic spices such as betel nuts, ginger, peppercorns, cinnamon, and cardamom. From here, re-board your coach and head to the Dhobi Khana, or local laundry, for a fascinating look at local life in this part of the world, then continue on for a visit to the 'Dutch Palace' located in the Mattancherry area.

Dutch Palace, Jew Town and Ginger House Restaurant

The plain, squat walls surrounding this two-storey structure belie a delightful wooden interior adorned with a remarkable series of murals. In the Royal Bedroom alone are 45 paintings illustrating the Ramayana; every inch of space is covered with rich colour, and painstaking detail. In addition, view an interesting collection of Dutch maps of Old Cochin, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons, and furniture. Afterward, some free time is made available to explore the surrounding area, Jew Town. Here, see a fascinating blend of antique shops, warehouses, spice auction rooms, and other landmarks that serve as a reminder of this once-thriving Jewish community. Following a refreshment stop, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Experience the unique flavours of Kerala during this memorable, half-day cooking excursion with lunch at the home of renowned culinary instructor Nimmy Paul.

Cochin, Kerala

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the home of renowned culinary instructor Nimmy Paul. Author of Kitchens of Kerala, she has been teaching traditional Kerala cooking for the past 15 years. Nimmy is famous in India, the U.S. and Europe, and was the only amateur from among nearly 60 chefs from Asia and India to be invited to the seventh-annual Worlds of Flavour International Conference and Festival in California. She has garnered accolades from R.W. Apple of The New York Times and Greg Drescher of the Culinary Institute of America, as well as cookbook authors Maya Kaimal and Linda Bladholm, and James Beard Award-winners Fred and Linda Griffith.

Local Home of Nimmy Paul, Cooking Demonstration, Lunch or Dinner

Upon arrival at her local home, meet Nimmy and begin your insightful, instructional cooking demonstration. Learn about the world of Kerala cuisine, and the vegetables, meat, seafood, curries, and spices utilised in its preparation. Next, Nimmy teaches you the basics of preparing Kerala cuisine with easy-to-follow recipes. Following her cooking demonstration, you are served a buffet lunch or dinner consisting of the entrees she has prepared. Your meal is accompanied by mineral water (still or sparkling), soft drinks, coffee or tea. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

This half-day outing, exclusive to Silversea’s guests, provides an immersive understanding of Japanese food and cultural traditions.

Arisawa Sake Brewery

Depart the pier for an approximately 30 minutes transfer to Awisawa Sake Brewery. Arisawa Sake Brewery, whose origins date back to 1877, has converted a former brewery building in the city of Kami into a restaurant where a fusion of food, drink and sake games experience awaits you.

Video Presentation of Local Sake Production, Sake Tasting Workshop, Traditional Sake Games

A video presentation provides expert background on the history, making, and preservation of sake – and three different types will be tasted along with a pairing lunch of local Kochi cuisine – typically including assorted sushi (maki, saba, ryukyu, myoga, etc.), tempura with shiso salt, grilled chicken with miso, and various vegetable and bean curd accompaniments. Following lunch,enjoy traditional sake game called Kikunohana with the local staff.

Furafu (flag) Factory

Next, re-board your coach for a short transfer to Furafu Factory. The word "Furafu" is said to have its origin in the Dutch/English word for "flag," and was created based on the image of a large fishing flag. It is set up alongside carp streamers on the Festival in hopes of children's healthy growth. As a birth gift, relatives give the furafu with the family crest and name engraved on them. Upon conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach to return to the pier.

The 40-minute return drive to Kochi pier provides an ideal interval to digest this day’s rich dose of Japanese traditions and flavours;

Departing your ship, you will head to the the Harimayabashi bus terminal which is the base for sightseeing in Kochi City.

Take the longest streetcar in Japan, the Tosaden, from Harimayabashi Station to Kochijo-mae Station.

After savoring the retro atmosphere of the streetcar and getting off, walk first to Kochi Castle, from which you have a great vantage point.

Kochi Castle, the city's most famed landmark, which dominates the view from any vantage point. Built in AD 1600, parts of the massive castle have burned down a few times, and it has undergone several restorations over the years, but it retains its original palace and the integrity of its architectural style. Don't miss the splendid Otemon Gate, remaining as originally constructed.

The beautifully-restored Tsumemon Gate connects the second citadel of the castle to its inner sanctum. Check out the honmaru -- the virtually impregnable ring of defense -- preserved in its original entirety. All of the structures in the honmaru are designated as Japan's Important Cultural Properties and house both local and historical treasures. Back outside, stroll on the castle grounds. This popular public park is dotted with magnificent statues of the Yamanouchi family

The next destination is Hirome Market, the place where Kochi's food gathers. The name comes from the ruins of the residence of Shigeaki Hirome, a retainer of the Tosa Domain. He served four generations of feudal lords during the final days of the Tokugawa shogunate and is said to have been a generous retainer who excelled at utilizing the talents of the samurai.

Even after the Meiji Restoration, when his mansion disappeared, this area was affectionately called "Hirome Yashiki" by the citizens, leading to today's Hirome Market.

The name "Harimayabashi," which we will visit next, is said to have originated when "Harimaya" and "Hitsuya," who were doing business across the Horikawa River in the Edo period, built a private bridge to facilitate the traffic between them.This bridge also appears in the lyrics of the Yosakoi-bushi song of the Kochi Yosakoi Festival.

Here, take the streetcar again, get off at Kochibashi Station, and walk to Kochi Hachimangu.More than 700 years ago, the Lord of Kochi City at that time, Matsoumalu Odakasa, invited the deity from Ishimizu Hachiman Shrine in Kyoto to protect his castle, and the shrine was later relocated. Ebisu Shrine, the patron god of business prosperity and a bronze statue of a horse, which has been regarded as a vehicle of the gods, are not so large, so you can look around the shrine at your leisure.

Discover key Kochi highlights as you explore Makino Botanical Garden perched near the summit of Mt. Godaisan, visit Kochi Castle Museum of History, and behold the grand gates and tower of Kochi Castle.

Makino Botanical Garden

Depart the pier for a short 15-minute transfer to Makino Botanical Garden. Gracing the summit of Mt. Godaisan, this 14-acre park and tropical conservatory showcases 3,000 species of plants and flowers. In addition to housing one of Japan’s most complete botanical collections, the gardens offer dramatic overviews of the city, bay, and rice fields below. Enjoy an approximately 120-minutes of guided and free time to explore its winding paths, passing extensive plantings of orchids, azaleas, and wild endemic varieties discovered and named by Kochi-born Dr. Tomitaro Makino, better known as the "Father of Japanese Botany.” A garden café offers a welcome spot for refreshment and contemplation.

Kochi Castle (photo stop), Kochi Castle Museum of History

Later, a photo stop at Kochi Castle reveals the imposing architecture of the shogunate era in fabulously preserved form. Dating from the 1600s, this sprawling 5-tiered landmark’s donjon (main tower) and splendid Otemon Gate are original. Next, visit Kochi Castle Museum of History, which contains the historical documents of the Tosa feudal clan, with 67,000 items, including National Treasures and important cultural items. Displays, pictures and multi-media exhibits tell the story of Kochi.

Upon conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach for an approximately 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Celebrate Kochi’s unspoiled environs with a day-long adventure to Cape Muroto’s UNESCO Global Geopark, whose rugged beauty is a result of dynamic earthquakes. Then, attain spiritual enlightenment as you peer into the mythical Mikurodo Cave. Next, feel the history at Hotsumisakiji Temple, founded by the revered monk and scholar Kobo Daishi. Top up your full-day experience with a local lunch.

Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark

Located on the top of the Muroto Peninsula, the park not only showcases Kochi's natural beauty, but also its fascinating geological heritage. Muroto is a subduction zone: a place where one section of the earth's crust goes below another. It’s here, where Shikoku collides with the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular coastline, that new land is formed. Long ago, as the plate beneath the Pacific Ocean sank, the land was gradually lifted up by large earthquakes and the rock formations left behind are a beautiful record of how the planet is always changing. A walk on the path offers views of rock formations that were lifted up from the sea floor, subtropical vegetation and underwater caves.

Murotomisaki Light House

At the tip of the cape, you'll find a wonderful white lighthouse, in operation for more than 100 years and the largest headlight in Japan. This beacon can be seen from 35 miles offshore and has safely guided countless ships through these waters. From here, enjoy a short walk along one-mile stretch known as the Ransho Promenade. Breathtakingly beautiful, the unusual cliffs and reefs were created by the relentlessly pounding Pacific Ocean.

Hotsumisakiji Temple

Climb the sloping trail to Hotsumisakiji Temple. Founded by Kobo Daishi in 807, Hotsumisakiji is the 24th temple of the 88 temples of Shikoku Pilgrimage. To commemorate his achievement, Daishi took the name Kukai (meaning 'sky and sea') and built the temple atop the hill at the tip of the cape. Its marble statues of Nyoirin Kannon, Gakko, and Yakushi are considered National Treasures.

Upon conclusion of your day-long tour, return to the pier.

Settle back for a scenic hour coach drive inland from Kochi, lace up your favorite walking shoes, and step out on a guided trek through the spectacular terrain of Nakatsu Gorge and its namesake river, a tributary of the famously blue Niyodo River. Your out-and-back hike covers about 3.2 km (2 mi) and presents a wild landscape ripe with natural beauty.

Seven Lucky Gods

Walking along a gentle walkway that includes steppingstones and idyllic small bridges, traverse a beautiful valley where the stone likenesses of seven deities – Bishamonten, Ebisuten, Benzaiten, Daikokuten, Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Hotei Osho – are enshrined, welcoming visitors to their domain and watching over the changing of the seasons. Keep your eyes peeled for them; some are shyer than others.

Uryu Falls 
Deep into the river valley, the turning point of your expedition is at Uryu Falls. This misty, majestic 20-meter (65 ft) multithreaded cascade, known familiarly as the Dragon Water, is an signature attraction here in the Nakatsu Valley. Once hard to approach, it was shrouded in mystery – today, it’s easily approached via a recently constructed promenade. With luck and the right weather, be rewarded with views of a magnificent rainbow.

Kochi Ice Café, Local Ice Cream, Spectacular Views over Nyodo River

Final stop is made at the casual Kochi Ice Café, offering visitors with a spectacular view of the Niyodo River. The Niyodo River and the surrounding mountains can be seen through the glass windows. Take the opportunity to taste the local ice cream made with ingredients from Kochi Prefecture.

Upon conclusion of your half-day nature adventure, re-board your coach for the approximately 60-minutes drive back to the pier.

Board a motorcoach for the approximately one-hour drive to Ryugado Cave on the slopes of Mt Sampo. Discovered in 1931, Ryugado is one of Japan's three major limestone caverns and is a designated National Treasure. The cave was home to early humans. The limestone caverns feature 20 waterfalls, and stalactites form a maze of shapes echoing the sound of water.

Next visit is Ekingura Museum. In the 1800s, Ekin worked as an official painter of Tosa aristocracy. (Tosa is the local area name in the Edo periods)  However trouble found him, so he left on a long journey without any plan or any specific destination. After a long journey, he reached Akaoka where his aunt lives. Here he created his art in Sake warehouse. Please enjoy and feel the beautifully frightning energy that of Ekingura.

At the completion of your day, enjoy a pleasant ride back to Kochi Port and the ship.

Explore Kochi at your leisure during your half-day (8-hours) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cochin at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cochin at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kochi at your leisure during your half-day (8-hours) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cochin at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cochin at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Experience the traditions and flavours of Cochin during this immersive in this sightseeing excursion.

Cochin, Fort Cochin, Chinese Fishing Nets, Kalaripayattu Performance

Newly-designed especially for our valued guests, your  tour begins with a drive to Fort Cochin. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of this historic area, note the Chinese fishing nets near the tip of Fort Cochin. These fixed, cantilevered contraptions are mainly used at high tide and operated via a system of counterweights. Visit next the St. Francis Church, which is adorned with lovely floor tiles lining the main aisle. Large swinging cloth fans, or punkahs, are suspended above the congregation and manually operated from outside the church.

Proceed to the venue for a Kalaripayattu performance. It is believed that in Sanskrit, the word 'Khaloorika' denotes a place where weapons training is practiced. It is from this term that the word 'Kalari' came into use in Malayalam to mean an institution (gymnasium, dojo, etc.) for imparting knowledge of, and training in, martial arts. The 'Kalari' was the first educational centre in Kerala. From early times until the middle of the 20th century, it was the place for all types of education, and, after the temple, the most important establishment anywhere in Kerala.

Mopilah Lunch

Following the Kalaripayattu performance, proceed to the Taj Malabar hotel for your themed Mopilah lunch. Mopilah's are Muslims from the Malabar region of Kerala, and renowned for their food. After lunch, an approximately 10-minute ride takes you back to the pier.    

Enjoy a unique Tosa Washi paper making expereince and Nyodo River surroundings on this half-day relaxing tour. Next, discover Nagoyachinka Bridge, a one of a kind bridge structure, which is still used as a road for local residents. This 191m-long submerged bridge is the lowest point on the Niyodo River.

Japanese Paper Making, Ino Area

Depart the pier for the approximately 60-minute transfer to Tosa Washi Paper Crafts Village.

The Ino area has a long history of making Tosa Washi and the traditional Japanese paper is highly rated in Japan and overseas for being remarkably thin and strong, thanks to the locally grown paper mulberry and the purity of the water from the Niyodo River. Upon arrival, take the chance to create a one-of-a-kind Japanese paper piece with your hands.

Nyodo River, Nagoyachinka Bridge

Next, proceed to Nagoyachinka Bridge a one of a kind bridge structure, which is still used as a road for local residents. This 191m-long submerged bridge is the lowest point on the Niyodo River. Here, do not miss the chance to make some photo memories of ths unique

On your way back to pier, pass by the Crafts Village to collect your creation. Return to the pier, thereafter.

Discover a unique blend of diverse cultures, traditions and architecture during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion to Cochin.

Fort Cochin & St. Francis Church

Depart the pier for the approximately 30-minute drive to Fort Cochin. Located in a relatively small area along the southern peninsula of the tropical Malabar Coast, the older parts of Fort Cochin are home to an eclectic blend of Medieval Portuguese churches, Dutch buildings, and English country villages. Note the Chinese fishing nets near the tip of Fort Cochin. These fixed, cantilevered contraptions are mainly used at high tide and operated via a system of counterweights.

Next, a visit is made to the St. Francis Church. Also known as the 'Church of South India' it is Cochin's oldest European-built church. A tombstone inside the church marks the place where Vasco da Gama was interred in 1524. His remains were later transferred to Lisbon.

Dutch Palace & Jewish Town

From here, proceed for a visit to the Dutch Palace, built as a gift for the Chochin Rajah in the late-17th century. The upper rooms display fine murals and items once found in the maharajah's household.

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Jewish Town. This area, located next to the Royal Palace in Mattancherry, was presented to the Jews by the Raja of Kochi.

During your visit, some free time is made available to browse the fascinating mix of antique and speciality shops, old houses, warehouses and spice auction rooms before commencing the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.