Why choose this Kochi tour ?
Muziris was an ancient seaport on the Malabar Coast located in the present day South Indian state of Kerala. It was an important trading post of South India that had trade links with the Phoenicians, the Persians, the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans. Its history can be traced back to the 1st century B.C. Spices, semi-precious stones, ivory, chinese silks and tortoise shells were some of the products that were exported from here. The exact location of Muziris is not yet known although it is speculated to be around 18 miles from Cochin in the present day town of Kodungallur and the village of Pattanam. On this day-excursion from Cochin explore some of the historical sites near the ancient port of Muziris.
Highlights:
• Chendamangalam handloom weaving factory
• Paliam Nalukettu Museum
• Cheraman Juma Masjid, the first mosque in India
Make the most of your Kochi adventure
What makes Day Excursion to the secrets of Muziris from Cochin with Lunch a unique experience ?
You will be picked up from your hotel in Cochin in the morning. Your first stop will be at the Pattanam archaeological site where excavations carried out for the search of the port of Muziris revealed the existence of an indigenous population in the 1st century B.C. that continued to thrive till the 10th century A.D. Spend some time looking at the artifacts that were recovered from these excavations.
Next drive to St. Thomas Church in the town of Kodungallur. This is the oldest church of Kerala and is believed to be located at the site where St. Thomas the Apostle landed in 52 A.D. and built his first church for spreading Christianity in India. Today it is a major pilgrimage centre for Christians around the world.
Next visit the spice market of Paravur that is located on the banks of the backwaters. A vibrant market even today, it is not difficult to visualize goods being unloaded from the traditional boats called ‘vanchis’ and brought to the market. This market is close to the Jewish quarter of the town. Visit the Paravur Synagogue that was built in 1615 and is amongst the biggest surviving synagogues in Kerala.
Your next stop will be at Chendamangalam handloom factory where the traditional weaving techniques are still kept alive by a women’s cooperative. Today most of the traditional looms of the state have been forced to shut down in the face of competition from modern textiles. Located nearby is a 175 year old Synagogue that has been recently restored. The intricate artwork of the altar here is a sight to behold.
Stop at a nearby local restaurant for lunch (beverage excluded). Enjoy a typical South Indian meal with rice, papaddam, rasam, vegetables and chutneys. After lunch visit the Sree Venugopala Krishna Swamy temple, a popular Hindu temple of the area.
Drive next to the Paliam complex and visit Paliam Nalukettu, a 400 years old mansion that is built in an unique mixture of Kerala and Dutch architectural styles. Today the mansion houses a history and lifestyle museum that displays the heirlooms of the Paliam family that can trace its lineage back to a thousand years.
Drive through the Kottapuram market. The market was a trade center that bears the stamp of both local and foreign influences. This market operates from 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Drive on to Kottapuram Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1523 . Situated strategically at the point where the river Periyar joins the Arabian Sea, the Fort was able to control sea traffic to the interior of the Malabar coast.
Your last stop will be the Cheraman Juma Masjid, the first mosque in India that was built in 629 A.D. Today people of all religions visit this mosque.
At the end of the tour you will be driven back to Cochin and dropped off at your hotel.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A dress code is required for visiting temples and mosques. Sleeveless tops and shorts are not permitted.
- Remove footwear outside the temple. Socks are fine, you can keep wearing them.
- A moderate amount of walking is involved.
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- Paliam Nalukettu Museum is closed on Mondays. Chendamangalam handloom factory remains closed on Sundays & national holidays.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
- 1-8 Traveler
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Pickup included
Day Excursion to the secrets of Muziris from Cochin with Lunch Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Private English speaking guide
- 02 bottles of mineral water per person
- Lunch (beverage excluded)
- Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Not Included
- Food & drinks, unless specified
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Special Instructions:
- This Tour is Provided by SITA World Tours.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Kolkata.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 8 Travelers is accepted for booking.
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 – 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
