Kerala’s bustling port city of Kochi packs incredible value into its shore excursions, with options starting at just $27.50.
The real gems here are the peaceful backwater cruises on traditional houseboats, where you’ll glide past local life while enjoying authentic Kerala cuisine.
History buffs shouldn’t miss the heritage walks through the Jewish Quarter and ancient spice bazaars, where centuries of trading history come alive.
The best part? Every tour can be customized to your interests, and local guides provide excellent cultural context.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile excursions for your time in Kochi.
Key Points
- Backwater tours are a popular shore excursion in Kochi, offering scenic cruises on traditional wooden houseboats and the opportunity to experience Kerala’s renowned backwaters.
- Cultural and heritage tours provide an immersive experience, showcasing Kochi’s historic synagogues, markets, and other cultural gems.
- Private and customized shore excursions allow for a more personalized experience, with the flexibility to visit multiple historical sites and explore the city at your own pace.
- Group shore excursions offer a cost-effective option, with roundtrip transportation, guided tours, and meals included, catering to a maximum of 15 travelers.
- Along With backwaters and cultural experiences, some shore excursions in Kochi also incorporate tuk-tuk rides and local industry visits for a well-rounded exploration.
Cochin Shore Excursion From Cochin Pier
One of the most popular shore excursions from the Cochin Pier is the Cochin Shore Excursion with Lijo Jose. Priced from ₹2,277 per person, this 7-hour tour allows guests to explore Kerala’s backwaters, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and discover Fort Cochin.
Travelers will board a traditional wooden houseboat and cruise through palm-shaded canals, lagoons, and rustic villages, enjoying scenic views and an on-board buffet lunch.
Pickup from Cochin hotels or the cruise terminal is included, along with round-trip coach transport and all entrance fees.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours and the option to reserve now and pay later, this shore excursion is a convenient and immersive way to experience the highlights of Kochi.
Read our full review: Cochin Shore Excursion From Cochin Pier Review
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Backwaters and Tuk-Tuk Shore Excursion From Cruise Port (Feb )
This shore excursion from Kochi’s cruise port offers travelers a delightful combination of a one-hour backwater cruise and an engaging tuk-tuk tour, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks.
Provided by Bijus Tours, the 93% recommended tour includes round-trip transportation and highlights such as the Chinese Fishing Nets, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, and Mattancherry Palace.
Travelers will enjoy a knowledgeable local guide, bottled water, and the chance to enjoy Kochi’s rich culture.
While the backwater tour may be less rural than expected, the overall experience is praised for its safety, personalization, and the guides’ efforts to enhance the tour.
Priced from $55, this shore excursion offers a well-rounded introduction to Kochi.
Read our full review: Backwaters and Tuk-Tuk Shore Excursion From Cruise Port (Feb ) Review
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Shore Excursion on Kerala Backwaters From Kochi Port
Travelers visiting Kochi’s cruise port can enjoy the serene Kerala Backwaters through a shore excursion that showcases this iconic natural wonder.
Offered by Carnival Tours Kochi, the 4-hour experience includes a bus ride to the houseboat pier, a backwater cruise, and a Keralan lunch on board. Guests can admire the Chinese fishing nets and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Though the long bus rides may be a drawback, the tour receives positive reviews for its knowledgeable guides, tasty food, and overall unique experience.
Priced from €82.04 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and flexible reservations, making it an attractive option for cruise passengers.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion on Kerala Backwaters From Kochi Port Review
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Kochi Shore Excursion- Private Day Tour of Heritage and Backwaters
Carnival Tours Kochi offers a private day tour that allows cruise passengers to explore Kochi’s rich heritage and the serene Kerala Backwaters.
The 5-star rated tour includes a 2-hour backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat, visits to historic sites like Fort Kochi and St. Francis Church, and a delightful Kerala lunch prepared on board.
Priced at $212.50 per person, the tour provides round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all meals and tips.
Travelers praise the attentive crew, excellent food, and knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer describing the private houseboat experience as “fantastic.”
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this shore excursion is an excellent way to explore Kochi’s highlights.
Read our full review: Kochi Shore Excursion- Private Day Tour of Heritage and Backwaters Review
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Kochi Offbeat Shore Excursion-4 Hour Old Kochi Heritage Tour With Private Guide
Although Kochi is renowned for its iconic Chinese fishing nets and colonial-era architecture, this 4-hour Offbeat Shore Excursion takes travelers on a captivating journey through the city’s lesser-known cultural gems.
The small-group tour, limited to 12 people, showcases key sites like the St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church and the Abode of Snakes.
Participants can witness traditional Kolam painting, try their hand at coconut dehusking, and get henna applied.
With free hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees included, and a professional English-speaking guide, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience for cruise travelers seeking an offbeat Kochi adventure.
Read our full review: Kochi Offbeat Shore Excursion-4 Hour Old Kochi Heritage Tour With Private Guide Review
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Group Shore Excursion From Cochin Port
For cruise passengers docking at the Cochin Port, the Group Shore Excursion from Cochin Port offers an enriching opportunity to enjoy the vibrant culture and captivating natural landscapes of the region.
Rated 5.0 from 8 reviews, this excursion includes roundtrip transportation, bottled water, buffet lunch or tea/coffee/snacks, and a guided tour through the Kerala backwaters on traditional houseboats.
Guests can explore local attractions, sample authentic cuisine, and spot unique wildlife, all while benefiting from the expertise of professional and friendly guides.
At just $27.50 per person, this shore excursion provides excellent value and an unforgettable experience for visitors to Kochi.
Read our full review: Group Shore Excursion From Cochin Port Review
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Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion From Cruise Terminal
Travelers docking at the Cochin Port can embark on the Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion from Cruise Terminal, a private tour that showcases the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region.
Rated 4.5 stars, the tour offers a wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly experience, with pickups from the cruise terminal.
Inclusions like local authentic meals, beverages, and air-conditioned transportation ensure a comfortable and memorable day.
Reviewers praise the tour’s timely pickup, excellent service, and freshly cooked lunch.
Most travelers can participate in this excursion, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive Kochi experience during their cruise stopover.
Read our full review: Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion From Cruise Terminal Review
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Mumbai: Shore Excursion
Mumbai’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks make it an alluring destination for cruise visitors.
The Mumbai Shore Excursion is a 7-hour tour that offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s local industries, attractions, and people. Highlights include the historic Crawford Market, the magnificent CST Station, the unique Dhobi Ghat, and the renowned Gateway of India.
Guests can also experience a local train ride and visit the Girgaum Iskcon Temple. The tour includes transportation, guide services, entrance fees, and lunch.
While reviews praise the convenience and transportation, some note language barriers and a rushed itinerary. At ₹2,636 per person, the excursion may be pricey, but it provides an immersive look into Mumbai’s diverse urban landscape.
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Mumbai Shore Excursion
The Mumbai Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive 7-hour tour that showcases the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks. Priced at $125 per person, the tour provides an insider’s perspective on Mumbai’s financial capital, delving into the roots of Indian Christianity and visiting churches built by St. Thomas the Apostle.
Highlights include the Gateway of India, Colaba, Oval Maidan, and Kala Ghoda. Visitors can also explore the Indian Christian Historical Museum, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, and the famous Crawford Market.
The tour includes chauffeur-driven transport, all entrance fees, a knowledgeable guide, and refreshments. With a 4/5 overall rating and high value for money, this shore excursion offers a well-rounded introduction to Mumbai’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Mumbai: Shore Excursion Review
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Private Shore Excursion to Jewish Heritage of Kochi Pick and Drop
Kochi, a vibrant port city on the southwest coast of India, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich Jewish heritage.
This private shore excursion allows travelers to explore the city’s historic synagogues, vibrant markets, and picturesque spice warehouses. The tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and a knowledgeable driver/guide to bring the city’s Jewish legacy to life.
Lunch is provided, and the tour can accommodate up to 15 travelers. With a lowest price guarantee and overall 5-star rating, this excursion is an excellent way for cruise passengers to enjoy Kochi’s unique cultural tapestry.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion to Jewish Heritage of Kochi Pick and Drop Review
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Celebrity Millenium Cochin Shore Excursion
This Celebrity Millennium Cochin Shore Excursion offers cruise passengers a comprehensive exploration of Kochi’s captivating Jewish heritage. Priced from $95.00 and limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience with a professional guide.
Highlights include pickup and drop-off at the Cochin Port Authority, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and all taxes and fees covered. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate.
Participants will enjoy bottled water and have the option to add food and drinks. With a free cancellation policy and a 5-star review rating, this shore excursion is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Kochi.
Read our full review: Celebrity Millenium Cochin Shore Excursion Review
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Cochin Shore Excursion Kerala Houseboat Trip(With Lunch, Pickup &Drop From Pier)
A captivating 5-hour Kerala houseboat cruise awaits travelers on this Cochin Shore Excursion.
Departing from Kochi, the private tour takes guests on a scenic journey through the backwaters, with a private vehicle transporting them to and from the pier.
Included are bottled water, snacks, lunch, and afternoon tea served on the houseboat, as well as the option to purchase alcoholic drinks.
With 100% of travelers recommending this experience, it’s an ideal way to take in Kerala’s tranquil waterways.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a child rate available when sharing with two adults.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and there are flexible pickup options from hotels, airports, or the port.
Read our full review: Cochin Shore Excursion Kerala Houseboat Trip(With Lunch, Pickup &Drop From Pier) Review
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Full Day Private Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion
Travelers can embark on a comprehensive full-day private shore excursion in Kochi, formerly known as Cochin.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from the cruise port, hotel, or airport, along with transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle and the services of a professional local guide.
Highlights include visiting the Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.
After a lunch stop, the tour continues with a 2-hour walking tour of Fort Cochin, exploring the historical influences and picturesque streets.
The tour concludes with drop-off at the starting point.
Advance booking is recommended, and COVID-19 vaccination is required.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion Review
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Essentials Shore Excursion for Cruisers to Kochi. Pick & Drop
For cruisers docking at Kochi, an essential shore excursion offers the opportunity to explore the city’s highlights.
This tour includes a backwater cruise by houseboat or a sightseeing tour of Kochi, covering rural backwaters and iconic sites like the Chinese fishing nets.
Transport aligns with the ship’s arrival and departure, providing convenience.
The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and gratuities. Travelers can opt for souvenir photos.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Prices vary by group size, and a Lowest Price Guarantee is provided with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Essentials Shore Excursion for Cruisers to Kochi. Pick & Drop Review
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The Sum Up
Kochi offers a diverse range of shore excursions for cruise passengers. From exploring the backwaters and heritage sites to taking a tuk-tuk tour, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in a private day tour or a group excursion, Kochi’s shore activities provide an immersive experience of the region’s culture and natural beauty. With so many options, cruisers are sure to find the perfect shore excursion to make the most of their time in this vibrant Indian city.