Private Tour
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the Heart of Kochi Through a Local’s Eyes.
Uncover the true essence of Kochi with a private guided tour led by a friendly, English-speaking local born and raised in the city. Dive deep into the vibrant culture, centuries-old heritage, and everyday life of the locals in this immersive experience.
Walk through the soul of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry as you explore iconic landmarks like:
The legendary Chinese Fishing Nets
The historic St. Francis Church, resting place of Vasco da Gama
The serene Dutch Cemetery
The beautifully preserved Dutch(Mattanchery) Palace – an ASI protected museum
The sacred and storied Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town
Along the way, witness the real life of Kochi’s communities – from bustling spice warehouses and traditional dhobi (washing) areas to women-led cooperatives and local craft shops.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to connect with the real Kochi, beyond the tourist trail – with hotel pick-up and an expert local guide included!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Church of Saint Francis
Also called Vasco da gama
Chinese Fishing Nets
Traditional fishing nets
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local Guide
Lunch
Expense of Personal Nature
Entrance fees to jewish Synagogue
Select a pickup point
Cruise Port Pickup
Pickup included
Pickup included
18 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cherie W,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
I was a little hesitant to book this tour being a solo female traveler but I’m so glad I did. It was a great experience and I learned so much!
Connector43764658408,,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our tour was a very enjoyable experience with Biju. He was knowledgeable, patient respectful he made sure we were enjoying ourselves. He brought his local perspective to the tour, which we appreciated immensely. His passion and pride for Kochi was very evident. I would strongly recommend him for any future tours in Kochi.
Kyoko O,,Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
Biju kindly explained various things to me using slow English so that I could better understand the Japanese. It was very nice to tour around Fort Kochi efficiently and safely in a short time. I also had a lot of photos taken. The problem was that I didn't really know where I was going with all of it, probably because of my English.
S6273CXjeanetteb,,May 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic tour and fantastic guide! The tour with Biju feels like you are an old friend visiting a home town for the first time. You get a truly authentic experience and tailored itinerary to your interests. Biju knows the history and culture amazingly well and you can tell he is genuinely interested in making sure you are comfortable and appreciating the beauty. Even in the monsoon rain the tour was special and I came away with so much knowledge and appreciation for Kochi. On a rainy day, Biju made sure I stayed as dry as possible while seeing plenty of Kochi. I can’t recommend this tour enough. Come with an idea of what you are most interesting in seeing because there is so much to explore.
Sraj G,,Apr 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
Biju is a very knowledgeable and professional guide who provides valuable, genuinely interesting information regarding the various sites in Fort Kochi! I highly recommend this tour!!
sayonic2022,,Mar 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did a private car version of the tour and had a wonderful time! Biju was very knowledgeable about the sights and he modified our trip as per our interests and timing. He provided us with many interesting facts about each of the places visited, things we will take away and remember. The car was clean and in very good condition. Definitely recommend the trip for a short insight into Kochi’s history.
esthersH6555QB,,Dec 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
Amazing tour and guide. Dr Francis spoke excellent English and gave us great understanding of the history of Kochi and significance of the buildings while sharing how the locals live. He showed us his home and we met his beautiful 78 year old mother and 3 rescue dogs. We were also introduced to friends while on our walking tour. Such an authentic experience was incredible and the willingness to share his personal life was a highlight of our holiday and something we will never forget. Going to the Womens Co-operative to buy spices, tea and hand made crafts was also a highlight of the tour and our holiday. Such a great initiative and we hope our purchases help improve the lives of local women and families.





Jayne B,,Dec 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our guide Dr Francis was exceptional with his local knowledge. His commitment to his local community and animal welfare made this tour feel very personal and allowed us a glimpse into the local people.


Navigate21834068736,,Nov 24, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great tour with a Biju who grew up and currently lives in Kochi. He speaks excellent English and has a vast knowledge of the city's history. Car with AC was much better than riding in a Tuk Tuk for us. Really enjoyed how he connected the history to the people who currently live in the city. Amazing that 16 different languages are spoken in one city. And people of different ethnic groups and religions all living in harmony together. He even had pictures of the city from growing up to show the changes. Highly recommend.
Mark F,,Oct 1, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
We really enjoyed our tour. Perfect for people who want to understand the many layered history of the Fort Kochin neighbourhoods from the distant to recent past. Biju is a true local and was able to take us to places we would not have been otherwise, that helped to bring the story of this historic place alive. Highly recommend.
Operated by Biju's Tours