- Cycle through two distinct Indian states
- Sample regional dishes served on a banana leaf
- Cruise on a traditional Keralan houseboat
Southern India Coast to Coast Ride
14 Days
from
15 Days
from
Cycling
Itinerary
Chennai Kochi (Cochin) London London
Depart London
Flights usually depart London in the morning.
Start Chennai; transfer to Pondicherry via the shore temples of Mahabalipuram
We recommend you are at Chennai Airport in time to join the group transfer – see the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information. If not, please be at the Pondicherry hotel for 1pm to meet the group.
From the airport, it’s a 3hr 30min drive to Pondicherry. Those on the group transfer take a break at Mahabalipuram, home to shore temples and rock carvings. Carving in stone is still a living art here and we see stonemasons chipping away along the roadside, practicing skills that have flourished for centuries. On arrival in Pondicherry, we assemble the bikes and explore this former French colony on a 4mi (6km) ride, before an evening briefing about our cycling adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel Atithi (or similar)
Arrive Chennai; transfer to Pondicherry via the shore temples of Mahabalipuram
Those who are on the group flights will land in Chennai early in the morning. Those not on the group flights will need to be at the airport when the group land if they would like to join the group transfer. Once everyone has arrived we will then depart on the 3½ hour drive to Pondicherry with a break at Mahabalipuram which is famous for its shore temples and rock carvings. Carving in stone is still a living art here and we will see stonemasons chipping away along the roadside, practicing skills that have flourished for centuries. On arrival in Pondicherry, we assemble the bikes and explore this former French colony, a short 6km ride, before an evening briefing about our cycling adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel Atithi (or similar)
Circular ride passing the spiritual commune of Auroville. After lunch in the old quarter, the afternoon is free
We take a circular ride to Auroville, a new-age spiritual commune. Founded in 1968 by The Mother and named after her Guru Sri Aurobindo, it promises a more balanced way of living. Revitalised by some earthly fruit juices, we ride the 9mi (15km) back into town, seeing fishing communities and cycling along the promenade, which retains some Gallic charm. Depending on time, lunch may be at Auroville or in Pondicherry, and the rest of the day is free to explore.
Accommodation: Hotel Atithi (or similar)
Pleasant ride along village roads to experience rural life. Afternoon ride to Chidambaram
Starting from our hotel, we ride out of Pondicherry and soon leave the city bustle for quiet backroads, experiencing rural life where simple mud huts contrast with the brightly coloured saris worn by local women. In true Indian style, we stop at a roadside restaurant for a tea break. Back on our bikes, we cycle another 41mi (66km) to Chidambaram. Staying in the grand mansion of the village, we sleep in the extended family villa; with its own temple, it’s almost like stepping back in time.
Accommodation: Lakshmivilas Heritage Resort (or similar)
Riverside ride to the old Nayak capital of Thanjavur; afternoon free to visit the town and Royal Palace
We have a scenic morning ride following quiet roads and tracks alongside the Cauvery River to Thanjavur. A capital between the ninth and 13th centuries, it regained its status under the Nayaks in the 16th century who rebuilt the Royal Palace, Durbar Hall and libraries. After lunch, we take a vehicle transfer to the Thanjavur hotel. Late afternoon, we visit the palace, which houses one of the finest collections of bronze sculptures and stone carvings in southern India, and the vegetable market at Tanjore followed by a visit to the Brihadishwara Temple, one of the largest in India and known locally as the Big Temple.
Accommodation: Hotel Parisutham (or similar)
Long ride through the Tamil Nadu heartland to Chettinad
Leaving the city by the old road, we head into the Tamil Nadu heartland, visiting the oldest clay horse temple en route, to an area renowned for impressive mansions built by wealthy traders known as chettiars. Some of these palatial houses have been converted into boutique hotels, offering a glimpse of the past. The grand interiors of Burmese teak and elaborate plasterwork retain much of the traditional architecture of a bygone age. But it’s from the kitchens, tucked at the rear of the house, that the real flavour of India is found. Chettinad cuisine is as traditional as its buildings; the piquant curries are slow cooked in copper pots over a wood stove to produce unforgettable meals.
Accommodation: Chettinadu Mansion (or similar)
Scenic ride to Madurai, a highlight of any trip to India
We have a scenic ride to Madurai. En route, we pass a rocky outcrop that’s said to be the sacred abode of Lord Murugan, the son of Shiva and also known as Skanda, the most revered god in Tamil Nadu. Staying at Madurai, we avoid the worst of the busy traffic.
Accommodation: JC Residency (or similar)
Free morning to explore Madurai. Transfer to lunch; ride past Indian vineyards; final ascent into the Western Ghats and Thekkady
We have the morning free to explore the old city and Sri Meenakshi Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India and one of the highlights of Tamil Nadu. Here, thousands of huge stone pillars, each adorned with different deities, are said to represent the gods of the Hindu cosmos. A constant flow of worshipers, offering pujas (rituals performed by the temple priests to the various deities) add to the heady atmosphere of incense and camphor smoke, and make this an unforgettable experience of Hindu culture. Blessed, we leave the heat of Madurai for the cool air of the Cardamom Hills. We transfer by vehicle to our lunch stop at Theni. After lunch, we are dropped at Cambam, from where we ride to Kumily. Hidden behind a banana plantation are the vineyards of southern India’s new venture into wine making. These give way to the forested slopes of the Western Ghats and a slow but beautiful ascent up through the rainforest to Thekkady, a small town close to the entrance of Periyar National Park and our accommodation for the next two nights.
Accommodation: Abad Green Forest (or similar)
Free day to relax or visit Periyar National Park
Today is free to relax or go on a trekking or boat safari to the nearby Periyar National Park. Centred around a human-made reservoir, it is possible to see wildlife year-round, although the best time is the dry season (March-May) when elephants graze by the lake shore; if you are very lucky, you may even see a leopard or tiger coming down to quench their thirst.
Accommodation: Abad Green Forest (or similar)
Ride through tea estates; tea factory stop; continue to Vagamon
Riding from the hotel, we cycle through cardamom and tea estates, stopping mid-morning for tea and to visit the local tea factory, learning more about the tea-making process. Refreshed, we continue along hilly tea plantation roads. We have a lunch break at a small roadside restaurant en route to Vagamon, an area of outstanding natural beauty and one of the most scenic roads in Kerala. We end the ride with a superb winding descent on a quiet road and stay at an old plantation bungalow.
Accommodation: Vanilla County Plantation homestay (or similar)
Cycle through rubber and spice plantations to Kottayam
Today we ride through rubber and spice plantations en route to Kottayam, known as the Syrian Christian heartland of Kerala. Here, grand churches dot the landscape and we break at Palai to visit St Thomas Church, its whitewashed facade and distinct gilded ceiling predates its Portuguese renovation. Roads converge into Kottayam, but we avoid the city by following country roads and stop for a lunch break at Erttumanoor town.
Accommodation: Whispering Palms Lake Resort (or similar)
Free morning to explore or relax by the lake; board a houseboat
We have a free morning to relax and enjoy the lake view. Alternatively, ride to the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and then take a sightseeing ride along the lake shore. Midday, we board our houseboats for a stunning backwater cruise. The houseboats, converted rice barges, have a captain, cook and crew; we just sit back, sip long drinks and watch the world pass.
Accommodation: Houseboat
Final ride along the coast road to Fort Kochi
In the middle of the morning, we disembark at Muhamma. Riding along the backroad, we cross over to the coastal road to Arthingal Beach for our first view of the Arabian Sea and, finally, know we’ve cycled across India from coast to coast. We then ride to Fort Kochi for lunch.
Accommodation: The Dutch Bungalow (or similar)
Free day in Fort Kochi
We have a free day to explore Kochi, its bazaars and old harbour area. Warehouses filled with the smell of tea and spices are limewashed bright green, yellow and blue; rickety old bikes and handpainted trucks piled high with goods fill the narrow streets; and food stalls stand on every corner. Further along the road, we come to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. Next to the palace is the synagogue, built in 1568 for the Jewish members of Kochi’s trading communities, adorned with hand-painted tiles from China and elegant Belgian chandeliers, all donations from wealthy merchants. The area around the synagogue is excellent for shopping. For food, try the fish market near the Chinese fishing nets, where you can buy the day’s catch and have it cooked to your taste. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities here.
Accommodation: The Dutch Bungalow (or similar)
End Kochi
The adventure ends today and we begin our return journeys home. Alternatively, if you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Fly to London
If you are on the group flight you will have an early morning transfer to the airport for the flight back to London. Those not flying with the group will leave us at the hotel in Kochi.
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 4 (Moderate/Challenging).
- Average daily distance: 40mi (65km)
- Number of cycling days: 10
- Full vehicle support
Terrain and route: Almost entirely surfaced roads including plenty of quiet backroads with low levels of traffic, but traffic does increase when approaching towns. Road surfaces are mostly good. There is one sustained climb, and some undulating sections with short climbs, but the support vehicle is available if required. Longer days at the beginning of the trip are mostly flat, but always interesting. Most rides are door-to-door, allowing plenty of time in the saddle. Indian roads can be rough in some places with potholes. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing your own pedals and clip-in shoes.
Please note, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn when work is taking place.
Hotels, houseboat and mansions
Most of the hotels are comfortable tourist class. We spend two nights in grand Indian homes; one of these is a palatial wedding mansion built by the Chettis and the other is the family home of a 19th-century plantation owner. The night near Kottayam (Day 9) is usually spent in a homestay. The accommodation here is spread out so some of the group stays in the main house and others in permanent Swiss cottage tents. These each have a raised bed and mattress, an attached veranda and toilet.
Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are really only a couple of months in the year when the weather can get cooler. You can, however, request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
Houseboats are comfortable, the majority of cabins on board are on a twin-share basis, and all cabins have toilet facilities. The houseboats have a communal dining area and are air-conditioned between 8pm and 6am.
Please note, the gas water heaters on all houseboats are open-flued systems, as used in many parts of India. While this complies with Indian law, it does not meet UK standards and therefore we must inform travellers there is a risk (while minimal) of carbon monoxide emissions. We have asked our leaders to install a carbon monoxide alarm, and they have been asked to brief groups to keep their rooms ventilated (ie window open) at night to ensure sufficient air circulation.
Please note, the single supplement does not include the night at Vanilla County Plantation on Day 9 and cannot be guaranteed on the houseboat due to limited rooms.
Trip Experts
Reviews
Add your own reviewGood and not so...
Week one: too much cycling on busy main roads, too much cycling on busy dual carriageways, hotel with rats and mould, rivers dead from raw sewage, endless piles of rubbish, bland countryside. Week two: Kerala, beautiful cycling, much quieter roads, great views.
Most Inspirational Moment
Very friendly locals, an aspirational country clearly highly motivated to embrace education.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent team, faultless.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Skip the first week, find a trip spending more time in Kerala.
Suggestions
Surely quieter roads can be used in week one, I wouldn't head out to cycle 60 miles a day on the A1 during rush hour, so not happy having to do it on holiday.
Cycling though paradise
Loved this trip. Tamil Nadu was lush and the people very friendly. Lots of wildlife. Hindu temple in Madurai was really worth a visit. Food was fantastic. Tamil Nadu and Kerala very different places. Western Ghats forests and tea plantations stunning. Kerala was beautiful. Decent hotels. Good guide and back up team. They could not have been more patient and kind. The cycling at times was challenging. Some days the temperature was 38 with high humidity. The roads were generally very good apart from day 3 which was an awful road. There were a lot of punctures that day. It was for me the hardest day. More like mountain biking. There are some long flat days at the start and some hills in the middle which were actually ok( I did the recommended pre trip training). The days in the hills were the best. I wasn’t mad about the houseboat stay. I’d have been happy with a day boat trip and another night on dry land. I enjoyed every day though (even day 3).
Most Inspirational Moment
I liked the temple in Madurai, the birds, the days we cycled in the Ghats and the tea plantations best. And the food.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shekkar was very knowledgable. All the team were very kind,friendly and helpful.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I wouldn’t bother with taking clip in pedals, too many hazards on the roads to make it safe. Cows buses etc. Cycling in city traffic was scary at first but actually quickly worked out it’s not aggressive like the UK. Everyone gives way for you and no one drives too fast. I would take light weight bike lights. We had a couple of late finishes and really should have had lights. Take plenty of mosquito repellant, especially for long days when you might arrive at dusk. They bite through your cycle shorts. Some long days in the saddle. Worth investing in good cycle shorts. Take your own saddle maybe. Pack light as you can have washing done midway through at one of the 2 night hotel stays. Most places we stopped for lunch had hand washing facilities but wet wipes were handy. Take a water bottle with a mouth piece cover as roads very dusty. They give you plenty of snacks and have electrolytes for your water bottle.
Suggestions
I really enjoyed this trip and wanted to stay longer.
The ideal India experience
This is not a trip for the faint-hearted : but if you are ok in temperatures of 30 degrees and over; you are a keen cyclist, can cycle 100km and cope with frenetic and unruly city traffic; you have an interest in foreign culture and religion ; and you have a strong tolerance of pungent smells this is the trip for you! I went prepared for this…..and thought it was great!
Most Inspirational Moment
Visiting the amazing Hindu temples in Thanjavur after dark, beautifully floodlit, and being fortunate enough to see a performance of traditional dance there.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shekar was a very good leader, always thinking of ways to make our expedition more memorable and more enjoyable. Nothing was too much trouble and the things we did and the places we went to were very interesting.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I found a rear mirror very useful..... partly to ensure that there was always somebody behind me which was good for my morale !...... And partly in navigating the city traffic and knowing when it was bad time to pull out !
Suggestions
I thought cycling in the cities, particularly Pondicherry on the first 3 days, was the scariest cycling I've ever done! But Shekar's confidence was inspiring ..... And I must admit Infectious! If you enjoy an adrenaline buzz, this is an unexpected bonus ! That said, I think it would have been better to 'transfer' out of Pondicherry on the third day and reduce the distance of that 100km ride, coming so early in the trip.
A great holiday
This trip was pretty much exactly what it said on the label. A varied ride through contrasting states. Well organised and well run. No problems and a lot of fun. A good balance of riding and relaxation.
Most Inspirational Moment
Nothing particularly stands out. There were many interesting things to see but for me there was no one inspirational moment. This is not a negative comment - it was all good with no real highs and no lows.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shekar - Excellent. He was organised and always very considerate. He led well and although some minor incidents must have raised his stress levels he coped well. He loved to talk and would use two words when one would do but he was interested in improving his English (which was very good) so as to communicate more efficiently. Sometimes he made up the odd facts, particularly dates, but this was just an amusing characteristic and one would not treat his historical knowledge too seriously.
Advice for Potential Travellers
In our group everyone had done at least one cycling trip with Exodus before. There are some quite long days so I am not sure I would recommend the ride for first timers unless you were already keen cyclists. India is a mad place to cycle but quite safe once you get to grips with the techniques of getting through the crowds as one exits or enters a town or city. It is hot - low 30's C - but this is fine.
Suggestions
Hotels are varied from decent tourist establishments in towns to home-stays in rural areas. The latter are perfectly comfortable and interesting places. Many do not serve alcohol which is a bit of a bore because many, like myself, appreciate a cold beer after a hard hot ride. This is partially overcome by the guide organizing a supply which we could sneak in to our rooms (known as health drinks). This is Ok but arranging to meet in someone's bedroom for an end of day drink is not the same as having a social time in a bar. Some places you cannot be seen to drink in public so that includes no alcohol with meals.
A wonderful holiday
This was our third cycling trip in India and lived up to all expectations. There is a great sense of achievement in cycling Coast to Coast from the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea. It is wonderful cycling through the countryside, villages and towns and seeing and meeting people going about their daily lives.
Most Inspirational Moment
I most enjoyed the friendliness of the people we met. I enjoyed seeing the cottage industries of the coir rope maker and coir mat maker. I love the chaos of India and the heightening of all your senses with all the sights, smells and noises.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader Shakar was excellent. His love for his country was obvious. He introduced us to many 'everyday' people and showed us many places on route. He is friendly and fun and got to know and involve the whole group in the trip. He made sure we were safe throughout the cycle trip. He was ably supported by Bevan, Franklin and Jenni who made sure our water bottles were always full and any issues with our bikes were quickly sorted.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Cycling is a wonderful way to see India. Don't be put off by some of the long distances - the route is generally flat and there are frequent breaks for water, snacks and coffee. Cycling in the towns can be challenging but being in a group helps. Don't think you'll loose any weight as the food is delicious!
Suggestions
As other reviewers have said - this is a wonderful trip - go for it!
Bay of Bengal to Arabian Sea in about 500 smiles
This was such an excellent trip from start to finish. We experienced all types of weather from baking hot sun to cyclonic rain and along the way were constantly amazed by the friendliness and generosity of the local people.
Most Inspirational Moment
Without a doubt the guided tour of the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple where we witnessed Bullock and Elephant in ceremonial costumes in a procession.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shekar was great, organised everything and sorted out a visit to a chemist for me when things got a bit awkward.
Advice for Potential Travellers
You will drink a lot of water whilst cycling so take something to put in it for flavour as it gets a bit dull after a while.
What a fantastic trip!
Wow, what a great trip. I had a fantastic time and I am so glad that I did it. There were so many highlights. To start with the cycling was varied and interesting combining flat, uphill and undulating sections along the way as well as cycling by rivers, along country lanes, a bit of city cycling, cycling through tea plantations and many more. The food was delicious throughout and there was lots of choice. I particularly enjoyed the fresh fish and jumbo prawns in Cochin but there was also a wide variety of tasty curries to choose from along the way. All of the accommodation was relaxing, comfortable and air conditioned/had fans. The amount of different places visited was great too ranging from Hindu temples, Christian churches, tea plantation, spice plantation, bird sanctuary etc. The guides on the trip were exceptional. Abhi, the tour leader, always had a smile on his face and always had an answer for any question that you asked him. He was also very encouraging on the cycling side of things as well as pointing out lots of interesting things along the way. He also made you feel welcome and was very organised. He was great. Franklin, the driver, was also great. He was always there to help with your luggage, fill up your water bottle or offer some food for your trip. He was also encouraging too. I would just like to say a quick thank you to Virginia, Alan and Scott who were my travel companions. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to travel with. They were fun, good to talk to and helped make me feel comfortable while cycling. Thanks. Finally, I would like to say that if you are thinking about doing this trip then just do it as you will have a great time.
Most Inspirational Moment
The most inspirational moment was the day where we were cycling through the tea plantations. I really enjoyed the cycling (including 3000ft of climbing!) and the scenery was spectacular too.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leader Abhi always had a smile on his face and always had an answer for any question that you asked him. He was also very encouraging on the cycling side of things as well as pointing out lots of interesting things along the way. He also made you feel welcome and was very organised. He was interesting to talk to and a great human being.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It got up to nearly 46 degrees when I went on my trip so I would highly recommend wearing a cap/buff or similar under your cycling helmet as it gets so hot on your head otherwise. I would also recommend cycling gloves and padded shorts/underwear as it can get very hot and sticky. Good quality sun cream is essential too.
Suggestions
I would highly recommend going on this trip as it is varied, fun and exceptionally well run.
Wonderful Trip
Just back from a wonderfully exciting ,fulfilling and enjoyable trip across India with a lovely group of people.
Accommodation and food of an exceptionally high standard.
Most Inspirational Moment
Meeting with and seeing how the people of Tamil Nadu get on with life in a manner that seemed to be so bereft of aggression and so gentle while welcoming visitors despite living in the most primitive of conditions. Seeing at close quarters the level of service provided at all of our overnight stays. The cycle through the tea and rubber plantations.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shekar R. and his crew of Keryun, Bevan and were as attentive to our needs as any people could possibly be.Our water bottles were filled before we asked, our bikes were ready and we were minded and cosseted from start to finish. Shekar is very proud of his country and was keen to allow us to experience as much of its culture and people as time would allow. He took every opportunity to allow us to gain extra enjoyment from out trip by seizing opportunities which presented themselves en route such as arranging for us to join a wedding party for lunch...meeting a young schoolgirl to recite poetry and visiting houses benefits . He coped with requests and difficulties in a most efficient and caring manner and ensured that all were included in his plans.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The temperatures during March this year were exceptionally high (up to 45C) but I would advise people to travel for trips in Dec/Jan /Feb if possible. Drink as much water as possible...then some more.
Suggestions
Go for it ..you'll be delighted you did.
AN UNFORGETABLE TRIP LIKE NO OTHER EXPERIENCED
When my husband suggested cycling in India, I was to say more than a bit apprehensive but having returned from this 2 week trip I have to say that I have had one of the best experiences of my life that I could possible ever have. The contrasts when cycling were incredible – from the quiet undulating roads through stunningly beautiful tea plantations in the Western Ghats to super busy streets with buses, tuk-tuks, motor cycles, bicycles and cows to navigate around! The cycling itself was of a reasonable challenge with a few ascents but the bikes provided were of a high standard with good gearing and suspension so absorbing some of the “bumpy roads” making the ride enjoyable and rewarding at the same time. The distances cycled on a daily basis varied and even on the longer days (100 km) these were broken up with food stops/rests so nothing felt overly difficult. The food was another highlight and stopping at local “cafes” which were most definitely not on the usual tourist route a great experience and we tried so many new and delicious delicacies cooked at times on open fires by the most friendly of cooks. The accommodation on the whole was a very pleasant surprise with the standard a lot higher than we expected. All the places provided excellent breakfasts and dinners so the main issue was of NOT putting on weight! Finally, whilst the main focus was to cycle from coast to coast, on each and every day there were different cultural sights / experiences to partake of and so allowed us to see and appreciate this beautiful part of India. If you are thinking of doing a cycle trip that allows you a wealth of new experiences and adventures then do NOT hesitate to do this trip as you will not be disappointed.
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling in Tamil Nadu and when we passed the schools, the children in their beautifully presented uniforms would come rushing to wave to us and smile as we rode past. They made us feel so welcome. Also when we stopped, people were again very welcoming and wanted to have photographs with us and know all about us. The friendliness of the people, who themselves have very little, were so smiley and happy that it made you feel very humble.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our leader Shekar was outstanding! From the moment we met him in Pondicherry to waving us off at Cochin airport, he could not have done more to make this trip so special for our group. He was extremely organised, knowledgeable and listened to what our group wanted and adapted the trip accordingly as he genuinely cared about us having a memorable time in his country. We felt very safe under his direction and he took full control so that when we arrived/departed different places we only had to worry about riding our bikes. He was very friendly and sociable, and worked tirelessly to ensure we had a fantastic trip. In this, he was supported by Abi, Kurian and Franklin and as a team they worked extremely well together so that all of our wants and needs were catered for. Could not ask for any more from any member of this fantastic team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Cycling in India is unlike any other cycling that I have ever done! However, the team looking after us ensured we were safe so listen to what the leader tells you to do and follow any such instructions from the team guiding. On the roads do not hesitate - ride with confidence and you will be fine. Accept that parts of India have real rubbish/pollution problems, but try to see beyond this and in areas like Kerala a real effort is being made to make the region a plastic free zone. Also, embrace every new experience - there are so many - and enjoy every moment of such a trip that will leave everlasting memories.
Suggestions
Indian driving in the towns is best described as "chaotic" with lots of horning beeping and everyone on the road trying to navigate the street at the same time but somehow it works and before long you get used to the horns warning you that another road user is in the vicinity. This trip certainly allowed me to experience sights, sounds, tastes and smells like no other trip and if you are like I was somewhat apprehensive, then I would say to you, "Do It!" and it is something you will remember for the rest of your life.
Indian challenging adventure
From dipping our rear wheels in the Bay of Bengal, travelling through the largely tourist free Tamil Nadu, over the mountains of tea plantations, through fabulous scenery, down into Kerala, and dipping our from wheels into the Arabian Sea, Abi our guide and his team looked after us with cheerfulness and a sense of humour. We ate amazing food often off banana leaves in places you would never venture into as an unaccompanied tourist, and experienced true Indian live at very close quarters. Some demanding cycling, especially on the roads of the crazily busy towns, and some extraordinary sights made an exciting experience. The Indian cookery class and the heritage home stays made the trip even more special.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing how people struggle to scrape a living together but at the same time are happy, smiling and welcoming to visitors, it is very humbling.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Abi was so lovely caring and happy in his work, he seemed to genuinely enjoy meeting new people interacting and helping them experience his country, and was always happy to adapt to our needs.
Advice for Potential Travellers
We suffered no ill effects but we were careful about using regular hand wash and avoiding drinking the water. We ate largely Indian style food avoiding western style meals and ate brilliantly.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Saturday
07 Jan 2024 06 Jan 2024
Saturday Saturday
20 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 2 spaces left!
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,649
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
21 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024
Saturday Saturday
03 Feb 2024 03 Feb 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,649
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
11 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
24 Feb 2024 24 Feb 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,949
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
17 Mar 2024 16 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
30 Mar 2024 30 Mar 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 1 space left!
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,749 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 625
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
31 Mar 2024 30 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
13 Apr 2024 13 Apr 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 4,679 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
29 Sep 2024 28 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,499 £ 3,549 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
13 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
26 Oct 2024 26 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,649 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
20 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
02 Nov 2024 02 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,649 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
10 Nov 2024 09 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
23 Nov 2024 23 Nov 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From £ 2,599 £ 3,649 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
15 Dec 2024 14 Dec 2024
Saturday Saturday
28 Dec 2024 28 Dec 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,649 £ 3,949 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 625
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
12 Jan 2025 11 Jan 2025
Saturday Saturday
25 Jan 2025 25 Jan 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,849 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
19 Jan 2025 18 Jan 2025
Saturday Saturday
01 Feb 2025 01 Feb 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,799 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
02 Feb 2025 01 Feb 2025
Saturday Saturday
15 Feb 2025 15 Feb 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 4,149 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
16 Feb 2025 15 Feb 2025
Saturday Saturday
01 Mar 2025 01 Mar 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,979 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
23 Feb 2025 22 Feb 2025
Saturday Saturday
08 Mar 2025 08 Mar 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,799 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
09 Mar 2025 08 Mar 2025
Saturday Saturday
22 Mar 2025 22 Mar 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,749 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
23 Mar 2025 22 Mar 2025
Saturday Saturday
05 Apr 2025 05 Apr 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,799 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
13 Apr 2025 12 Apr 2025
Saturday Saturday
26 Apr 2025 26 Apr 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 4,049 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesMonday Sunday
29 Sep 2025 28 Sep 2025
Sunday Sunday
12 Oct 2025 12 Oct 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,699 £ 3,799 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
05 Oct 2025 04 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
18 Oct 2025 18 Oct 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 3,899 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
19 Oct 2025 18 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
01 Nov 2025 01 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 3,899 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
26 Oct 2025 25 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
08 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 3,899 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
09 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
22 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 3,899 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
16 Nov 2025 15 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
29 Nov 2025 29 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 3,899 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
30 Nov 2025 29 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
13 Dec 2025 13 Dec 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,799 £ 4,049 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
07 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Saturday Saturday
20 Dec 2025 20 Dec 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 2,849 £ 4,179 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 690
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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