Spend the next two days in southern India’s port of Cochin, in the state of Kerala. Because of the location between China and Europe and the spice trade the port and town have had many foreign powers interested in this area. Since Cochin was an important spice trading center and had easy access to the sea it used to be called “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. Once you have cleared into India, be welcomed with a traditional Kerala shinkari melam, a group of 18 musicians playing traditional instruments.
Setting out from the port, drive through one of India’s most beautiful and tranquil landscapes to visit Alleppey, the “City of Canals” or “Venice of the East”, located south of Cochin between the Arabian Sea and Lake Vembanad, India’s longest lake. Alleppey’s port was opened to foreign trade by the British in the late 18th century to end the Dutch commercial supremacy in Cochin. Board a houseboat and cruise the river, lake and canals, collectively known as “the Backwaters”, and have a look at old colonial warehouses and typical thatched local homes. Brilliant green paddy fields where farming is done below sea level give way to views of village life and glimpses of churches, mosques, and temples. While cruising the “Backwaters” a typical Keralan snack with tea, south Indian coffee, and fruit juices must be served.
After the cruise reach a special location, beautifully illuminated by hundreds of oil lamps giving it an earthly spiritual feel for an exclusive Mohiniyattam performance that must be done by Keralan women in traditional attire. After this exceptional presentation be treated to a special Syrian Christian dinner. The Christians of Kerala are known for their cuisine mixing Indian and European influences.
The following morning board local cruise boats to reach Fort Cochin. In Cochin walk through the Heritage city to see the wonderful array of architectural styles dating back to the Portuguese, British and Dutch periods, before the East India Company took over in 1814. There are Portuguese churches including the oldest Portuguese church in India going back to the year 1503, a Jewish synagogue, as well as mosques and Hindu temples. During the walk visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum and finally the David Hall Gallery. Here a prominent historian talks about the history of Cochin and the spice trade, followed by a Kalaripayattu (martial arts) performance. Following the performance be treated to a special Mopilah lunch catered by a celebrity chef. The Mopilah are Muslims from the Malabar region and are known for their food.
From the gallery take local Tuk-Tuks (open 2-seater taxis) to reach the Mattancheri Palace built by the Raja of Kochi. Visit the Palace, walk to the Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace, and have some spare time to wander around Jew Town, looking at souvenir and antique shops before being taken back to Silver Discoverer by local boats.