“A memorable cycling tour”
16 Day Coast to Coast Guided Cycling Tour in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, South India
Chennai, India
Cycling Tour in India
For a thorough cycling exploration and cultural experience of South India, they propose their Tamil Nadu - Kerala Cycling Tour. Spanning two weeks and covering a wide swathe of peninsular India from Chennai to Kochi, this cycling holiday tour is tailor-made for the traveler and biker looking to discover South India at ease, with regular pit stops at exotic beaches and luxury houseboat.
Key information
- Trip type: Guided
- Lodging: Point to point
- Starts in: Chennai
- Ends in: Kochi
- Total Distance: Approximately 790 kms / 491 miles
- Type of bike: Trek bikes
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Site Mahabalipuram and Thanjavur
- Cycling along the Cardamom Hills Reserve in Kerala
- Professional cycling guide and local experts
- Cycle through Munnar Tea Garden
- Bikes for complete tour (cycling part only - trek bikes)
- Expert cycle mechanic throughout the tour
- Canoe ride in Kumarakom + Periyar boat ride
- 15 nights in hotel based on twin sharing + daily breakfast and lunch
Skill level
- Intermediate
13 days with instruction
Group size: 2-8 participants
Accommodation
Accommodation is offered at all locations. Most of the hotels are culture resort, eco resorts and family run hotels - all with a common line of quality in service. The costs are based on 'twin-sharing' foundation. For those who want single room, they offer single room, but at extra cost.
Program
About the Experience
You start off in Chennai and waste no time in heading to the city of temples, Mahabalipuram. There, you get to see hundreds of religious monuments dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries and marvel at some of the exquisite rock carvings and temples constructed in the shape of chariots. There can be no better cultural primer for their South India biking holiday trip than this.
You no sooner get over the temple run than they treat you to the most intriguing potpourri of Indian and French culture in Pondicherry before taking you for the South India rural experience in Thanjavur, famously called the ‘Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu’, and then to the places beyond. You pedal past the paddy fields, coconut groves, and cashew crops. You share the road with oxcarts and witness village life at close quarters. You visit many more ancient temples and see local customs and try out the local cuisine with its characteristic blend of pungent spices.
Cycling in Kerala is a relatively different experience. Here, you enter the mountainous foothills of the Western Ghats and cycle through what is called the ‘Cardamom Hills’. Nature lovers will appreciate the daylong excursion, including cycling through the tea garden of Munnar, two nights at Munnar to visit Tea Museum and enjoy cycling through Munnar Tea Garden. A whole day is also reserved for the famed backwaters of Alleppey, where you board a houseboat. Finally, the Kerala cycling trip ends on a high at Marari beach.
CYCLING IN INDIA has drawn a chockfull itinerary to give you the best South India biking/cycling holiday tour. All through the trip you get to explore places at your own pace rather than mechanically following the tour guide’s lead. They provide you comfortable accommodation and keep you company every step of the way on the road. Biking is easy for the most part of this tour, save for some ascents in the hilly areas of Kodaikonal and Munnar. Please note that they will always have back up vehicle.
Transportation / Support Vehicles
All transport is involved in the cost. They provide backup vehicle at all times during cycling trip. The vehicle can be used to boat your baggage and yourself as required.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Chennai - Mahabalipuram (No Cycling)
- Mahabalipuram Temple
You arrive in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu. The driver or team leader meets you at the airport and drives you away from the hustle and bustle of Chennai to the historic town of Mahabalipuram.
Located on a strip of land about 56 kms (a one-and-a-half-hour drive) south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram is renowned for a number of religious monuments dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries. Due to its location and topography, this town has been an important centre of sea trade for millennia.
Its location and topography have made it a significant hub for maritime trade for centuries. The first day in Mahabalipuram is a day of leisure and rejuvenation as you relax at a comfortable hotel. You'll be introduced to the biking team and have the opportunity to meet other cyclists in the group. If you choose, you can take a short ride around the town to try out your bicycle. The dinner and accommodation will be at the hotel or you can go out for dinner in the city restaurant.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast
- Hotel: Chariot Beach Resort / Mamalla Beach Resort
Day 2: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry
- Distance: 90 kms / 56 miles
After a day of ease, you buckle up for a long haul as you leave Mahabalipuram and bike southwards to the union territory of Pondicherry, also called Puducherry. The route takes you along the south-eastern coastline of Tamil Nadu, through many small fishing villages, paddy fields, and palm groves. The road is mostly tarmac and makes for a pretty smooth and enjoyable ride.
You stop by at a highway restaurant for lunch and press on for Pondicherry. As you approach the town, its rich colonial heritage becomes all too apparent in the architecture of the buildings. You check into a hotel and rest awhile before stepping out for a short city tour.
Pondicherry, city tour can glimpse the French Quarter, which boasts stunning colonial buildings, trendy boutiques, and lively cafes. Moreover, visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, which fosters spiritual development and inner stability, is also a must-see. Moving forward south, tourists can visit Paradise Beach and Serenity Beach, famous for their clear waters and golden sands.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel, Lunch in Midway or Picnic Lunch
- Hotel: Anandha Inn
Day 3: Pondicherry - Karaikal
- Distance: 100 kms / 62 miles
On the third day, you will be cycling through the delta region of the great Cauvery River, which is home to many villages where the locals make their living through rice cultivation and animal husbandry. This area is known for its expertise in cultivating large quantities of paddy and is often called the granary of South India. The coastal track between Pondicherry and Karaikal offers many sightseeing attractions for travellers. Beginning from Pondicherry, sightseers can glimpse the French Quarter, which boasts stunning colonial buildings, trendy boutiques, and lively cafes.
Moving forward south, tourists can visit Paradise Beach and Serenity Beach, famous for their clear waters and golden sands. Besides, Karaikal is known for its quaint town vibe, and sightseers can explore its numerous temples and churches, including the magnificent Nithya Kalyana Perumal temple. So your destination for the day is Karaikal, which is a beautiful beach location that tourists do not overrun. You can relax in your hotel and enjoy the local cuisine for dinner.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel, Lunch in Midway or Picnic Lunch
- Hotel: Bungalow on The Beach / Coconut Alley
Day 4: Karaikal – Kumbakonam
- Distance: 65 - 70 kms / 41 - 43.5 miles
On day four, you will continue cycling past vast stretches of paddy fields and villages, exploring the heart of South India's granary. Your destination is Kumbakonam, also known as the "city of temples." This vibrant city is a hub of cultural activity and is believed to be a powerful energy source. With its rich history, art, and culture, Kumbakonam is a place of deep reflection and exploration. Your hotel for the night is as refreshing as the destination, promising to make your stay unforgettable.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel, Lunch in Midway or Picnic Lunch
- Hotel: Hotel IndecoSwamimalai
Day 5: Kumbakonam - Tanjore
- Distance: 50 kms / 31.1 miles
Kerala Cycling Tour
The next destination is Tanjore, a town where classical art forms continue to thrive. Stroll around town and appreciate the 9th and 12th-century stone sculptures on display. The Saraswati Mahal Library, founded in the 1700s, houses ancient manuscripts on palm leaves, medical works, and rare treatises.
The stretch between Kumbakonam and Tanjore is home to some of the most majestic sightseeing attractions in the area. One of the most well-known temples in the area is the Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple, in Tanjore. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its spectacular architecture and lofty vimana (temple tower), which rises to over 200 feet. In addition, Tanjore is famous for its Tanjore paintings, which were developed in the area. You will also visit the Swathi Mahal Palace, Art Gallery, and Brihadeeswara Temple.
- Meal Plan: Hotel breakfast and dinner, lunch at a midway stop, or picnic lunch
- Hotel: Hotel Sangam
Day 6: Tanjore - Karaikudi (Chettinad)
- Distance: 90 kms / 56 miles
Today, you will cycle to Chettinad, renowned throughout South India for its delectable Chettinad cuisine. It's an excellent spot for cycling, where you can experience the Dravidian culture, people, and customs. You'll see men in lungis and women draped in saris going about their everyday lives on the bustling streets.
You will also explore the lively markets and bustling lanes of Karaikudi, known for its exceptional Chettinad delicacies and magnificent handicrafts. Other prominent sights in the area include the Thanjavur Royal Palace, the Saraswathi Mahal Library, and the Athangudi tile factory, where visitors can glimpse the classic art of tile making. Religion and culture are highly valued in Tamil Nadu. Karaikudi is known for its traditional mansions, some of which have over a hundred rooms.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel, Lunch in Midway or Picnic Lunch
- Hotel: The Bangala
Day 7: Karaikudi - Madurai
- Distance: 100 kms / 62 miles
On day 7, you will head to Madurai, the temple city, and visit the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. This temple was established during the Sangam period and featured stunning architecture of gods and goddesses. Madurai is also renowned for classical Carnatic music and Bharatnatyam dance. The temple is the soul of the 2,500-year-old city of Madurai and a significant symbol for the Tamil people.
As you head towards Madurai, you'll come across the Thirumayam Fort, a historic monument that dates back to the 17th century. The fort offers stunning scenic panoramas of the surrounding terrain and is ideal for photography enthusiasts. Another prevalent attraction near Madurai is the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, an ancient temple devoted to Lord Murugan.
Other prominent attractions in Madurai comprise the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a 17th-century palace that combines Islamic and Dravidian styles, and the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which houses an array of artefacts and exhibits related to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at hotel
- Hotel: Heritage Madurai / JC Residency
Day 8: Madurai (Rest Day)
Today is the day 8 of the South India cycle tour and they have kept this free to explore beautiful temple of Madurai and the local market and will enjoy lunch in local rest and evening free to rest at hotel
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner at hotel, Lunch in City.
- Hotel: Heritage Madurai / JC Residency
Day 9: Madurai - Athoor
- Distance: 60 kms / 37.1 miles
On Day 9, the cycling tour ventures into Tamil Nadu, heading to a typical farming village near Dindigul. The scenic countryside will be filled with sugar cane fields and coconut groves, and Athoor is known for its flourishing farming community.
Travellers can relax and soak in the peaceful ambience of the village by staying at a humble county home, meeting local farmers, taking walks, and watching the coconut palm plantation workers in their daily routines. It's a much-needed break from the challenging cycling conditions in Tamil Nadu's plains, offering a chance to enjoy the fresh mountain air and calmness of the hills.
Other prominent attractions in Madurai comprise the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, a 17th-century palace that combines Islamic and Dravidian styles, and the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which houses an array of artefacts and exhibits related to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi. On the other hand, Athoor is a serene hill station located in the Western Ghats that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at Hotel, Lunch in midway.
- Hotel: Cardimom House
Day 10: Athoor - Bodimettu
- Distance: 50 kms / 31.1 miles
Embarking on a cycling journey from Athoor to Bodimettu is a venture into the heart of the Western Ghats, known for their biodiversity and scenic beauty. The route covers approximately 50 kilometers of diverse terrain, ranging from the verdant landscapes surrounding Athoor to the higher altitudes leading to Bodimettu.
Bodimettu, situated at an elevation of around 1,500 meters, is a popular hill station in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India. It serves as a gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
The cycling route offers cyclists a chance to traverse through tea plantations, dense forests, and meandering roads, providing a glimpse into the rich ecological diversity of the region. Upon reaching Bodimettu, cyclists are greeted by the tranquil beauty of the Meghamalai range and the refreshing climate.
The hill station is known for its panoramic views, making it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The journey not only tests one's cycling prowess but also offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural splendor of the Western Ghats.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at Hotel, lunch in midway.
- Hotel: Shola Crown Resort
Day 11: Bodimettu - Munnar
- Distance: 50 kms / 31.1 miles
Cycling through tea plantation along Anaerangal dam and Lockhart gap, enroute Tea Factory Visit, it will be easy ride of approx. 50kms through tea plantation, wherever you will see, you will see greenery and peace.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel, Lunch in midway.
- Hotel: The Leaf / Abad Copper Castle
Day 12: Munnar
- Distance: 50 kms / 31.1 miles
On the twelfth day of the trip, you will be exploring Munnar. You have the option of sightseeing the tea plantation by car, cycling to Munnar town and the tea garden, which will cover a distance of approximately 50 km, or resting at the hotel in the morning.
They recommend a thrilling high-altitude mountain cycling expedition to Munnar for those who are up for an adventure. This ride will take you through quiet yet exhilarating back roads, with stunning views of the high edge, sloppy mountain and lush jungle scenery.
Munnar boasts some of the best roads for cycling in South India, so be sure to take advantage of the opportunity. Before embarking on this adventure, ensure you are well-rested and have enough energy, as the ride requires significant grit and endurance. Take pleasure in cycling around the magnificent landscape of Munnar and allow the excitement to take over you completely.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast and dinner at hotel, lunch in midway.
- Hotel: The Leaf / Abad Copper Castle
Day 13: Munnar - Alleppey
- Distance: 40 kms / 25 miles
On day thirteen, you will have an early breakfast and embark on a thrilling 30 km descent through the tea and cardamom estates. You will take a quick break before being transferred out of town to Alleppey. There, you can enjoy a festive lunch on a luxury rice barge moored on the Vembanad Lake. With music in the background, you will steer the boat through vast stretches of blue waters, surrounded by coconut palms, temples, and villages on the horizon. You can even take the opportunity to sketch or write a poem while gazing at the million stars in the night sky. Let the breeze silently steer you into God's own waters.
- Meal Plan : Breakfast at hotel, Lunch and dinner at Houseboat.
- Hotel: Premium Houseboat
Day 14: Alleppey - Marari
- Distance: 40 kms / 25 miles
After breakfast at 09:00, you'll embark on a scenic bike ride through vast stretches of land. You'll bid farewell to your captain and crew and head to a local establishment to learn the traditional way of making coir (coconut fiber). Cycling along narrow paths that weave through temples and villages, you'll arrive at Mararikulam, a charming fishing village by the beach.
National Geography rated this beach as one of the top five Hammock Beaches. Interestingly, this region has the highest number of bicycle riders, and you may even encounter others joining you on the journey. After a sweaty ride, you'll arrive in time for lunch and be ready to relax on Marari Beach in Mararikulam.
The beach reflects the soul of the local fisherfolk in simple and apparent ways. The visitor bungalows are designed to replicate their homes, while their cuisine embodies the cooking techniques of these people, whose lifestyles and sensibilities are shaped by the oceans. Please note that the cycling tour will end in Marari, and they will drop you off at your pre-booked Marari hotel.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast at hotel, lunch in midway.
- Hotel: Abad Turtle Marari Beach Resort / Azure Tide Beach Resort
Day 15: Marari
You will have a free day to enjoy the beach. Overnight stay at the resort. There will be no cycling on this day.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast Only.
- Hotel: Abad Turtle Marari Beach Resort / Azure Tide Beach Resort
Day 16: Marari - Kochi Airport Drop
Well, here comes an end to this unforgettable cycling tour! Your tour guide and driver will help you get to the airport following an enjoyable breakfast.
They hope you will enjoy this fabulous cycling tour with them for 16 days.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast Only
Bike Hire
Includes Tour Cost. You may bring your own bikes, but in this case let them know in advance. Other equipment provided: Pedals, helmet, water bottles.
Included excursions
- Canoe ride in Kumarakom
- Periyar boat ride
Location
The tour will take you to Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry - Karaikal - Kumbakonam- Tanjore - Karaikudi (Chettinad) - Madurai - Athoor - Bodimet - Munnar - Alleppey - Marari - Kochi.
Food
Food is a very essential part of these trips. They make sure that the meals they offer are delicious, unless you ask for dull meals. You are also permitted the choice of veggie or non-vegetarian meals.
They suggest that you consume only the canned standard water. Please make sure that the container is enclosed.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
The following drinks are included:
- Water
What's included
- Bikes for complete tour (cycling part only - trek bikes)
- Expert cycle mechanic throughout the tour
- Back up AC vehicle for complete tour
- Canoe ride in Kumarakom
- Overnight houseboat stay
- Periyar boat ride
- All road and transport taxes
- Driver allowance
- Toll and parking charges
- 5% government taxes
- Unlimited water during cycling (only cycling part)
- Fresh fruits / snacks (only cycling part)
- Lunch in midway restaurant / city restaurant or pack lunch
- All meals
- 15 nights in hotel based on twin sharing
What's not included
- Flights
- Airport transfers
- Monument or sightseeing entry fees
- Still / video camera fees
- Tips and gratitude
- Travel insurance
- Any hard and soft drink
How to get there
Recommended Airports
MAA
Chennai International Airport
40 km
Transfer not provided
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
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