Kochi, a lively port city on India’s southwest coast, is a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch. Whether you prefer a peaceful boat ride through lush backwaters, a guided walk through historic streets, or a private houseboat experience, Kochi offers options that blend stunning scenery with delicious local cuisine. We love tours like the Cochin: Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise W/ Lunch for its scenic tranquility and authentic village visit, where you can see coconut palm weaving and enjoy a vegetarian countryside meal. These experiences are perfect for travelers wanting to combine food with culture and natural beauty.
Kochi’s versatility shines in its lunch options—ranging from simple village meals to luxurious houseboat feasts. For a comprehensive introduction, a walking tour of Fort Kochi with a local lunch gives you an insider’s view of the city’s diverse influences, while full-day houseboat cruises provide a relaxing way to see Kerala’s iconic backwaters. Below, we explore the top 15 lunch experiences, each offering something special for different tastes and schedules.
1. Cochin: Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise W/ Lunch
This eco-friendly boat cruise takes you through the fabled Kerala backwaters from Fort Cochin on a non-mechanized, covered boat. You’ll see the villages along lush canals, watch coconut palm weaving, and learn about coir making — a craft unique to this region. The highlight is a vegetarian lunch served amidst the countryside, giving you a taste of local spices and flavors. It’s perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, nature-infused experience with cultural insights, all at an affordable price of just $33 per person. With a 4.7/5 rating from 343 reviews, it’s clear visitors value the authenticity and serenity of this trip. The quiet boat ride and village visit make it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a slow-paced, scenic escape.
Bottom Line: A gentle, eco-conscious way to see Kerala’s waterways, enjoy a wholesome vegetarian meal, and observe local life up close without breaking the bank.
2. Walking Tour Of Fortkochi & Local Lunch
For around $34, this 3-hour walking tour is a fantastic way to explore Fort Kochi’s historic streets and vibrant culture. Your local guide will take you past iconic sights like St. Francis Church and the famous Chinese fishing nets, offering insights into the city’s eclectic past. As you stroll through this lively neighborhood, you’ll get a better sense of the multiple influences — Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese — that have left their mark. The tour concludes with a delicious local lunch, giving you a true taste of Kerala’s flavors. Guests consistently rate it a perfect 5/5, noting the intimate small-group experience and the guide’s deep knowledge.
This tour suits travelers who want an immersive, cultural introduction to Kochi, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories behind each site.
Bottom Line: A compact, well-rounded experience perfect for first-time visitors eager to get to know Kochi’s history and cuisine in just a few hours.
3. Private Full-Day Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Tour With Lunch & Pickup From Kochi
This is the quintessential Kerala experience — a private full-day houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom. For about $144, you’ll enjoy a leisurely journey aboard a traditional boat, including snacks, tea, and a full Keralese lunch served onboard. The trip passes small villages, farms, and scenic waterways, giving you a glimpse into rural life. The guide shares insights into Kerala’s history and culture, making this more than just a pretty ride. The private boat and personalized service are what set this tour apart, and with a 5-star rating, it’s clear it delivers quality relaxation and authentic scenery.
It’s ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, all-day escape with excellent food, perfect for couples or small groups wanting privacy and comfort.
Bottom Line: An indulgent, relaxing way to see Kerala’s backwaters, with home-cooked style meals and personalized attention.
4. Cochin Shore Excursion Kerala Houseboat Trip(with Lunch, Pickup &Drop from Pier)
If your cruise dock at Kochi Port, this private shore excursion offers a seamless experience. The tour begins with a pickup from the pier, then takes you on a 7-hour houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters, including stops at Vembanad Lake and Punnamada Lake. The boat is crewed and includes lunch, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Kerala’s waterways without the overnight commitment. Guests praise the easy logistics and the chance to relax while passing lush landscapes, small villages, and waterfowl. With a perfect 5-star rating, this is a stress-free way for cruise travelers to enjoy Kerala’s natural beauty and cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a private, all-inclusive backwater experience tailored to port schedules.
5. Private Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Cruise with Lunch from Kochi
This full-day, private houseboat tour offers an in-depth look at Kerala’s lush paddies and villages. At about $144, it includes door-to-door transfers, a multi-dish South Indian lunch, and a cruise through the picturesque waterways around Alleppey. The boat’s crew and guide will share stories about local life, rice cultivation, and traditional boats. Guests report the experience as “relaxing,” with excellent food served on banana leaves, and the chance to see rural Kerala from an authentic perspective. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, all-inclusive day immersed in nature and culture, with the comfort of private transportation.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, private experience ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, full-day escape with hearty local cuisine.
6. Backwaters Houseboat Cruise in Aleppey with Lunch from Cochin – Private Tour
Starting from $165, this private houseboat cruise takes you from Kochi to Alleppey, where you’ll navigate Kerala’s iconic backwaters. The cruise lasts around 6 hours, with lunch, tea, and snacks served onboard. The vessel is operated by a skilled crew, and the trip passes through villages, paddy fields, coconut groves, and birdlife. Guests often praise the comfortable boat and the opportunity to relax amid stunning scenery. The private nature of the tour makes it ideal for intimate groups or families.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, personalized way to explore Kerala’s backwaters, with excellent food and scenic tranquility.
7. Athirappally & Vazhachal Waterfall Tour with Lunch
For a nature-focused day, this 7-8 hour tour combines a visit to the spectacular Athirappilly Falls and the Vazhachal Forest Reserve. The drive from Kochi includes a chance to see Indian elephants in their habitat. The walk from the top to the base of the falls includes options to trek along mountain slopes and enjoy picturesque views. After exploring the waterfalls, you’ll have lunch at a nearby restaurant. The area is also home to many exotic birds, making it great for wildlife lovers. The tour provides a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Bottom Line: A full-day nature adventure with beautiful waterfalls, wildlife, and local cuisine—all within a scenic drive from Kochi.
8. Hill Palace Museum With Local Style Lunch
This experience combines history with local flavor, offering a visit to Hill Palace Museum, Kerala’s largest archaeological museum. After exploring the 37-acre complex, known for its architecture and rare medicinal plants, you’ll enjoy a local style lunch. The site also features a deer park and prehistoric exhibit. The tour (about 4-6 hours) is perfect for travelers interested in Kerala’s royal past and traditional architecture, with a brief visit to the Chottanikkara Temple afterward. The guided tour ensures you understand the significance of each site and appreciate the region’s heritage.
Bottom Line: A cultural and culinary combo ideal for history enthusiasts seeking an authentic, leisurely day.
9. From Cochin: Day Tour of Alleppey houseboat with Lunch
For a full 10-hour day, this tour offers a deep dive into Kerala’s backwaters with a private houseboat cruise from Cochin. It includes pickup from your hotel or airport, a scenic drive to Alleppey, and a lunch onboard. The cruise explores village life, scenic waterways, and provides plenty of photo opportunities. Guests appreciate the organized logistics and the chance to see Kerala’s countryside without overnight plans. It’s perfect for travelers with a full day to spare who want a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: A detailed, all-day adventure ideal for those eager to see Kerala’s backwaters in depth.
10. Aleppey Houseboat backwater Day Tour with Lunch and pickup
This 8-hour private tour focuses on the serene backwaters of Alleppey with lunch served onboard. Your private driver will pick you up from Kochi and take you to the houseboat, where you’ll drift through the quiet canals and paddy fields. The crew prepares delicious local dishes, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests often note the comfortable boat and the peaceful atmosphere as highlights. It’s perfect for families or friends looking for a laid-back day on Kerala’s water.
Bottom Line: A tranquil, private escape with authentic food and scenic views—great for unwinding in nature.
11. Private Kerala Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise with Lunch from Cochin
This 6.5-hour private tour offers a personalized adventure along Kerala’s backwaters. You’ll hop aboard a traditional houseboat, cruise past villages and lush green landscapes, and enjoy lunch onboard. The tour caters to your interests, with options for standard or deluxe boats, and includes door-to-door transfers. Guests mention the “friendly crew” and the opportunity to learn about local life during the cruise. It’s an excellent choice for those who want an intimate experience with all logistics handled smoothly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a flexible, private backwater cruise with quality cuisine.
12. Alleppey / Alappuzha Houseboat Day Cruise with Lunch: Cochin
This 12-hour day tour from Cochin offers a comprehensive look at Kerala’s backwaters. Starting with pickup from your hotel or cruise terminal, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Alleppey, then board a houseboat for a four-hour cruise with lunch served onboard. The tour emphasizes relaxing on the deck, sightseeing, and appreciating rural Kerala’s beauty. Guests emphasize the well-organized logistics and the chance to immerse in local culture. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of backwater bliss.
Bottom Line: A thorough, relaxing day trip perfect for those who want to combine travel logistics with scenic leisure.
13. Aleppey Backwater Tour with Kerala Traditional Lunch
This half-day backwater tour is designed for travelers who want a taste of Kerala’s waterway magic without staying overnight. It includes relaxing on a renovated rice barge as you watch the countryside slide by, plus a traditional Kerala lunch served on a banana leaf. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with options for a shorter or overnight experience. Guests love the calm atmosphere and the chance to see rural life from the water, combined with authentic local cuisine.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a quick, authentic backwater experience paired with regional dishes.
14. Cochin: Full-day Backwater Tour with Lunch and Evening Tea
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kerala backwaters from Cochin. It includes a traditional lunch, a cruise on an open canoe to see village activities like coir making, and an afternoon tea. The tour is well-suited for those interested in rural crafts and local lifestyle, with opportunities to learn about flora and fauna. The combination of land and water experiences makes it an engaging way to spend a day immersed in Kerala’s waterways.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers craving a deep, varied day with culinary and cultural highlights.
15. Tour of Kochi with Lunch: Kathakali and Dinner With Evening Tour
This evening tour combines sightseeing, cultural performances, and culinary delights. Starting with a city tour of Kochi, it includes visits to Chinese fishing nets and historic sites, topped off with a Kathakali dance performance. The tour ends with a dinner that features Kerala’s traditional dishes. At about $110 per person, it’s ideal for those who want an immersive cultural experience in a day full of sights and flavors. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention and an authentic atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers who want a full evening of sightseeing, performance art, and local cuisine.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Kochi
When selecting among these options, consider your schedule — if you only have a few hours, a walking tour with lunch (Tour #2) is quick and informative. For a full day of relaxation, a private houseboat trip (Tour #3) or (Tour #5) offers immersive scenery and authentic food. Cruise enthusiasts will appreciate the shore excursions (Tour #4) for a hassle-free port experience.
Budget travelers should look at options like the full-day backwater tour (Tour #9), which balances cost with a comprehensive experience. If your interests lean toward nature and waterfalls, the Athirappally & Vazhachal tour (Tour #7) offers a scenic outdoor day with local food.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the private houseboats and full-day excursions, to secure the dates that work best for you. Also, consider the weather — Kerala’s monsoon season (June to September) might influence outdoor activities.
Whatever your preference, Kochi offers a range of delicious, scenic, and culturally rich lunch experiences that will leave you full in both stomach and senses.