Excursion Harbour cruise & kathakali dance tour at Cochin

Experience the splendid beauty, culture and traditions of Cochin during this scenic harbour cruise, and a memorable Kathakali performance at the Taj Malabar Hotel.

Cochin Harbour Cruise

Depart the pier for the brief transfer to the boat jetty of the Taj Malabar Hotel, then embark a small boat for a picturesque ride through the waters of the city. The extensive network of rivers and canals lace together through the coast and interior south of Cochin. For centuries, these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the port towns along the coast.

Glide along shimmering waterways past the Gundu and Vypeen islands. Along the way, see the large, traditional Chinese fishing nets that line the shore of Fort Cochin and are probably the single-most familiar image of Kerala. They cantilever over the harbour, and operate by a system of weights and levers. The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch. Observe rural Kerala lifestyles as your boat drifts past old harbour buildings and private homes. Following your cruise, return to the jetty and disembark your boat.

Kathakali Performance

Next, view a Kathakali performance accompanied by light refreshments. One of the world's oldest forms of theatre; Kathakali originated in the area of south-western India now known as the state of Kerala. During Kathakali, actors depict characters from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Kathakali dance performance is very dramatic, and enacted with elaborate masks and costumes.

This delightful outing concludes with a brief drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Taj Malabar Hotel, Cochin Harbour Cruise, Gundu and Vypeen Islands, Fort Cochin, Kerala, Fishing Nets, Kathakali Dance Performance

Note

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking, with four steps to negotiate at the Taj Malabar Hotel, a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat. Care should be taken when embarking/disembarking the boats; guests must be agile and have good balance to participate. This tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. While the coaches will be air-conditioned, there is no artificial cooling on the motorboats. Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, rubber-soled shoes, and bring sun protection and insect repellent from the ship.