Kumbalangi is a model fishing village and tourism spot located in the south-west of Kochi and it is surrounded by the backwaters of Vembanad lake. The major attraction of Kumbalangi are the fishing activities and the Chinese fishing nets cover the whole island. The land here is separated from the water by a wide array of mangroves and this provides a breeding ground for many small fish as well as prawns and oysters. Kumbalangi offers you an inside peek into the rural life of the villagers and it is a must see destination as it has been transformed to an eco-tourism village, making it a first of its kind in the country. Enjoy the engaging activities of the villagers as they prepare coconut milk punch, weave rugs, catch crabs and fish, and also process shellfish and coconut fibres. You can also witness some unique sights such as ola medayal (making roof coverings using special coconut leaves) and making fishing nets. You will have a delicious lunch with local specialties in an open-air area where you can suck in the cool air. Kumbalangi tour village would be incomplete without a Kolkali performance, a local traditional dance in which the dancers move in a circle. Afterwards, you will drive to Cochin for Cochin Tour Heritage.
Cochin Tour Heritage begins with a visit to the Dutch Palace (which will be closed on Fridays) which was built by the Portuguese, but was later renovated by the Dutch, and hence the name. It was presented to the Cochin Raja in 1555 and since then the glory of the Palace has spread owing to its murals instilled in the traditions of Hindu Temple Art. You will next visit the Jewish Synagogue (which will be closed on Friday noon and Saturday). It was built in 1568 A.D and the Synagogue still stands as a testimony for communal harmony. You can also see some of The Great Scrolls of Old Testament and a number of copper plates inscribed in the Hebrew Script still preserved in the Synagogue. Afterwards, we move to visit St. Francis Church. It is believed to be the oldest European Church built by the Portuguese in 1510 A.D. After the death of Vasco-Da-Gama, the Portuguese explorer, he was buried here in this church and fourteen years later, his remains were taken to Portugal. You are allowed to enter the church but only barefoot. You will also witness the various methods used by the local fishermen to catch fish and you will also be able to see the Chinese fishing nets. Afterwards, you will be taken back to the port.