The diverse full-day tours in Kochi get straight to Kerala’s best experiences. The standout Kumbalangi Village Tour lets you experience authentic village life firsthand, complete with fishing demonstrations and local crafts. For water lovers, both the Backwater Punting Boat Cruise and Private Canoe Shikkara Combo offer peaceful rides through palm-fringed waterways – the latter being my personal favorite for its intimate atmosphere and expert local guides. I’m especially fond of the Alleppey day trips, where storytelling guides make the region’s history come alive. The Kochi Shore Excursion efficiently covers all major sites, from Chinese fishing nets to historic churches. Let’s explore these top tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Kumbalangi Village Tour offers a unique exploration of traditional village life near Kochi, with a Kerala-style lunch and entrance fees included.
- Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise provides scenic views of rivers and lagoons, along with a traditional Kerala lunch and cultural insights.
- Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise is a 5-star rated activity that focuses on Kerala’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, with personalized attention from the guide.
- Guided Day Trip to Alleppey by Yo Tours includes a highly trained storyteller/guide, car transportation, entry fees, and an immersive experience in Kerala’s backwater culture.
- Kochi Shore Excursion is a comprehensive exploration of Kochi’s landmarks, with a personalized private guide, entrance fees, transport, and pickup/drop-off services.
Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour
On this full-day Kumbalangi Village Tour, guests will have the chance to enjoy the tranquil rural life of this scenic coastal village near Kochi.
Priced from $77.87 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a delicious Kerala-style lunch with karimeen polichattu, and entrance fees.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this private tour is a unique opportunity to explore the village’s traditional way of life, with a moderate level of physical activity required.
With a 5.0 overall rating based on 14 reviews, this tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance.
Read our full review: Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour Review
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Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise
What better way to take in the serene backwaters of Kochi than a full-day punting boat cruise? The “Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise” offers an excellent opportunity to explore this picturesque region.
Priced from $31.48 per person, the tour includes a traditional Kerala lunch, snacks, and beverages. Guests can enjoy scenic views of rivers and lagoons while learning about the local culture and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
The cruise has a maximum capacity of 20 travelers and starts at 8:30 AM, returning to the meeting point. Although some guests noted concerns about limited information and overcrowding, the tour’s 94% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence suggest an overall positive experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise Review
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Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise
This comprehensive Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise in Kochi offers an immersive experience exploring the serene backwaters.
The 5-star rated activity includes a motorized shikkara or canoe cruise, local breakfast and lunch, and opportunities to experience village life.
Pickup is available upon request, with the tour concluding at the meeting point under the Cheepunkal Bridge.
Rated 5.0 based on 6 reviews, this private tour ensures you’ll have the undivided attention of your guide as you discover Kerala’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
With safety gear and jackets provided, this full-day cruise is an ideal way to enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise Review
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Day Trip to Alleppey With Backwater Experiences (Guided Full Day City Tour)
Embarking on a captivating day trip to Alleppey, this guided full-day city tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the enchanting backwater experiences that Kerala is renowned for.
Operated by Yo Tours, the tour includes a highly trained and friendly storyteller/guide fluent in English and Hindi, as well as car transportation to all destinations, entry fees to historical sites, and local tips and recommendations.
Guests can expect to enjoy snacks throughout the day and benefit from the private nature of the tour, ensuring great conversations exploring religious aspects, beliefs, and local importance.
With a pickup service available within 10 km of Kochi and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a seamless and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Day Trip to Alleppey With Backwater Experiences (Guided Full Day City Tour) Review
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Full Day Private Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion
Travelers on a full-day private Kochi (Cochin) shore excursion can expect a comprehensive exploration of the city’s captivating landmarks and rich heritage.
The tour includes visits to the Dutch Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. A walking tour of Fort Cochin provides an immersive experience of the area’s historical influences.
The tour is personalized with a private guide and includes entrance fees, transportation, and port/hotel pickup and drop-off.
Cruise passengers must provide their ship details, and a dress code applies for certain sites.
Flexibility is ensured through a free cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Kochi (Cochin) Shore Excursion Review
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Private Blackwaters Cruise Full Day Tour With Lunch
Visitors seeking a deeper immersion into Kochi’s natural landscape can embark on a Private Blackwaters Cruise Full Day Tour with Lunch.
This full-day excursion provides a private chauffeur-driven vehicle and local English-speaking guide to explore the picturesque backwaters. Guests will enjoy a traditional lunch onboard a houseboat, with non-alcoholic beverages included.
The tour is available daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Modest dress is required for holy sites, and infants must sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate, though those with serious medical conditions may be unable to join. The price starts from $273 per person, varying by group size.
Read our full review: Private Blackwaters Cruise Full Day Tour With Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
Kochi offers a variety of full-day tours that let visitors explore its diverse attractions. From immersing in the tranquil Kumbalangi Village to cruising the serene backwaters, these tours provide unique experiences. Travelers can choose from private excursions or group outings, allowing them to customize their sightseeing. With so many options, visitors are sure to find the perfect full-day tour to make the most of their time in Kochi.