India - Kerala & Tropical India Cycling (14 days)

Southern India is a magical place: beautiful landscapes, fascinating towns and villages, long white beaches and superb food, an excellent place to explore by bike. In the cool heights of the Western Ghats the sanctuaries at Bandipur and Mudumalai hide wild elephants, tigers and leopards in the jungle and bamboo forests.

We cycle round old forts and up to religious rock shrines as well as through colourful villages where rural life has remained little-changed for centuries. Further south, in Kerala, Hinduism has produced some of India's most elaborately decorated temples. A relaxing boat trip on the quiet backwaters here offers a change of pace from the bicycles, before the final coastal ride to Varkala and a chance to laze on the beach and reflect on an unforgettable experience of rural India.

Day 1: Start Mysore.
Day 2: Ride to Srirangapatnam ruins; return to Mysore; afternoon explore the city including the Maharaja Palace.
Day 3: Cycle on the back roads to Mysore plateau and Bandipur N.P. via Nanjangud.
Day 4: Morning free or optional visit to Bandipur, afternoon ride to Mudumalai N.P.
Day 5: Optional ascent to Ooty Hill Station (13km climb), former summer capital of the Raj; free afternoon to explore the town.
Day 6: Western Ghats descent through tea plantations; transfer to Guruvayoor in tropical Kerala.
Day 7: Circular ride on rural roads to visit elephants from the temple, return to Guruvayoor; evening free to wander round this atmospheric town.
Day 8: Cycle along coastal roads lined with coconut-palms; ferry to Fort Cochin.
Day 9: Free in Cochin to explore the bazaars and the old harbour.
Day 10: Cycle past old Portuguese houses; continue to Vambanad Lake and Alleppey; overnight in traditional Kerala house.
Day 11: Explore Alleppey town before backwater boat trip; overnight on lovely Kerala houseboat.
Day 12: Cliff-top ride to laid-back Varkala.
Day 13: Free to relax on the beach and eat the wonderful seafood.
Day 14: End Varkala.

Operated by Exodus Travel (MIK)

Departures: August to March

Contact us for more information, current costs and to make a booking on this small group adventure