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
Pickup included
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.
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Please arrive at the pick up point 30 minutes before departure time.
We may pick up travelers from city center hotels / fixed point wiithin city limits. In case pick up is outside central points extra cost shall applicable subject to distance applicable.
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.