Fort Kochi walking tour helps you experience the influence of multiple cultures, including Dutch, Portuguese, British, Chinese, and Jewish. This guided walk starts at the Chinese fishing nets and covers Santa cruz basilica, St Francis church, Dutch cemetery, Fort Kochi beach and colourful spice markets.
Chinese fishing nets, known locally as Cheena vala, are a distinctive feature of Kochi, Kerala, and serve as a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage. These nets were introduced by Chinese traders during the 14th century, specifically attributed to the explorer Zheng He, and have since become iconic landmarks in Fort Kochi These iconic nets are a symbol of Fort Kochi and offer a glimpse into traditional fishing practices.
The history of Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica begins with the arrival of Portuguese missionaries along with the second Portuguese fleet under Pedro Álvares Cabral on 24 December 1500. It is a historic Roman Catholic church and is one of the eight Basilicas in India.
The church’s history dates back to 1503. It owes its origin to the Portuguese Franciscan Friars, who reached Kochi along with Pedro Alvarez Cabral. The church, made of wood and mud, was situated in the middle of the fort that had been constructed by the Portuguese with the permission of the erstwhile Cochin Raja and it was dedicated to St Bartholomew
You will make your own way to the meeting points