Excursion Tracing the kochi dynasty tour at Cochin

Your journey today takes you through the story of the Cochin Royal Family.

Cochin Royal Family, Hill Palace

One amongst three major royal dynasties of Kerala, the Cochin Royal Family played a significant role in shaping Kerala's history, both past and present. Your base for this learning is the Hill Palace - once the last seat of power of the Kings of Kochi, it is now Kerala's first heritage museum. Constructed in 1865, it was the official residence of the erstwhile rulers. Built in traditional Kerala-style, which is more restrained than palaces in northern India, it comprises of 49 buildings with 52 acres of terraced land surrounding it.

Residential Quarters

As you walk past murals, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts and belongings of the royal family your anecdotist will regale you with fascinating tales associated with them. This trail will explore the origin of the royals, rise and fall in their fortunes under Europeans and their eventual merger with the Indian Union. Learn about their role in developing the modern city of Kochi and their contributions in the field of art, culture, language, education and medicine. As it's taking place in any other city deep-rooted in heritage, you'll learn of the unfortunate and alarming pace at which both the royal family and the city are losing their heritage.

Family Private Residence, Refreshment

Move next to the residential quarters of the royal family. Radiating around the family temple it showcases some of the best in traditional and colonial architecture. Your trail ends with a visit to the extremely modest private residence of some of the present-day members. Enjoy an informal interaction and some light refreshments with them.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Cochin, Hill Palace, Hill Palace Museum, Residential Quarters, Residence of a royal family member, lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 0.94 miles (about 1.5 kilometres), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 120 steps at Hill Palace Museum, 20 steps at family residence. Walking in Jew Town is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Anticipate crowds and waiting times at the sites visited. We thank you for your patience. Keep your belongings close-at-hand. Photography is prohibited inside the Hill Palace Museum. Shoes, handbags, cameras and mobile phones are prohibited inside Hill Palace Museum. Guests will be provided a locker at the museum entrance for their belongings. The tour will be led by an expert on the subject and not a licensed guide. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.