Ernakulam

A Kerala Village Backwater Tour offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to explore the serene backwaters while gaining cultural insights into traditional village life. Hop onto a traditional boat and make your way to a nearby village where your boat will be parked near a canal. Watch locals tap coconut trees for making ‘toddy’, a local drink and then try your luck at making a rope with coir fibres under the watchful guidance of locals.  Then visit a traditional village house where your host will walk you through heritage dishes and serve you a small snack with fresh, tender coconut water.  This is a 4-hour tour and a must do for cultural aficionados. 

The Athirappilly Falls, often called the ‘Niagara Falls of India’, are nestled in the lush Sholayar forest, 78 km from Kochi. Falling from a height of almost 80 feet, they make for a breath-taking sight especially during the rains, when the roar of the waters is in full force. The Vazhachal Falls lie close by and together, they make for a visual treat. With opportunities for trekking and spotting birds, this is a nature lovers paradise. 

Spend a day waltzing through all that this vibrant neighbourhood has to offer. Visit the beautiful and colourful Jew Town and indulge in some shopping in its quaint alleyways, pay your respects at the Paradesi Synagogue that was built in 1568, and the St Francis Church, India’s first European Church. Do not miss the Mattancherry Palace known for its exquisite murals of Hindu epics and the Santa Cruz Basilica, one of the oldest churches in India. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on Fort Kochi Beach and feast your eyes on a sunset with the Chinese Fishing Nets forming the perfect backdrop.  Immerse yourself in the local art scene at David Hall Art Gallery and tuck into delicious food at one of the many quaint cafes on Princess Street.