- Discover idyllic southern India by bike, the most immersive way to experience the friendly people and incredible landscapes
- Challenge yourself to climb the fabled hairpins of Ooty
- Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional rice barge – a classic experience in South India!
- Search for monkeys and elephants on a 4x4 safari in Bandipur National Park
- Finish at the beach, relaxing in the old hippie trail town of Varkala
Cycle Kerala & Tropical India
Offer:
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14 Days
Excluding Flights From
15 Days
from
Cycling
Activity Level
Moderate & Challenging
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level
Classic
Itinerary
Mysore Varkala
Depart London
Flights usually depart London in the morning.
Start Mysore
The adventure begins in Mysore. After checking into our hotel, we have a short introductory briefing and time to relax (we may have to wait until around noon if rooms are not ready). We meet at lunchtime and have a short post-lunch walk around the markets. In the late afternoon, we have a bike briefing and fitting in the hotel courtyard. In the evening, we have a full trip briefing before an optional group dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Sandesh The Prince (or similar)
Ride to Srirangapatnam ruins; return to Mysore; afternoon to explore the city including the Maharaja Palace
We start with a leisurely morning ride to Srirangapatna, the ruins of Tipu Sultan’s capital, which were destroyed by the British in 1799 during their final battle to secure control of southern India. The fortress stands on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River; once over the bridge, we cycle around the old ramparts, enter Tipu Sultan’s Mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple before riding back to Mysore for lunch.
For lunch, you get your first taste of thali, the southern Indian meal of rice and multiple small curries on a plate, or the typical south Indian masala dosa, a thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter.
In the afternoon, we have a guided tour around Mysore Palace. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the official residence of the Wodeyars, the former royal family of Mysore, which ruled the princely state of Mysore for more than seven centuries. The decor is stunning, if a little bit over the top, and the former maharaja is still in residence in his private quarters.
Accommodation: Hotel Sandesh The Prince (or similar)
Cycle the backroads of Mysore Plateau to Chamarajanagar
We leave the hotel and cycle out of Mysore town up to Chamundi Hill to view the 16.5ft (5m) rock carving of Nandi, Shiva’s celestial bull. There are also good views over the whole of Mysore. We then cycle back down the hill and continue along the quiet backroads, along with the children riding a bike or bus to school. We also share the road with herds of white oxen and women in colourful saris carrying waterpots on their heads.
Our ride takes us through the backroads to a quaint little village where we stop to enjoy a picnic lunch. After a comfortable lunch, some rehydration and rest, we continue to Chamarajanagar. We should arrive at our hotel in Chamarajanagar by late afternoon to relax by the pool or enjoy a cold drink.
Accommodation: Nijaguna Resort (or similar)
Cycle on the backroads to Bandipur National Park
After breakfast, we ride along the villages outside the forest areas to witness village life and continue along the backroads to the outskirts of Bandipur Sanctuary.
We should arrive at our hotel in Bandipur National Park in time for lunch. In the late afternoon, we take a 4×4 safari in the park to see lots of peacocks, spotted deer and monkeys, with the chance to see wild elephants, Indian bison, and, at certain times of the year, the elusive tiger.
Accommodation: Bandipur Safari Lodge (or similar)
Optional ascent to Ooty; free afternoon to explore
Today is the highlight of the trip for some, ascending 4,104ft (1,251m) to Ooty (Ootacamund), a resort town in the Nilgiri Hills and the former summer capital of the Raj.
After an early breakfast, we take local transportation to Kalhatty, a small village on the way up. Due to cycling restrictions to mitigate animal-human conflict, we start our ride just outside the forest area, from the 20th hairpin of the 36 bends. It’s a very steep ride up with stunning vistas at every turn; we have plenty of photo opportunities along the way, which double as rest stops. Reaching the top is a huge achievement and we should all take a moment or two to bathe in our success!
Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed morning and journey up the hill in the support vehicle. After tea and cake at the top, we have an undulating ride into Ooty.
Ooty is called the Queen of the Hill Stations and, although it is now a busy little town, there is lots to see and do. Originally occupied by the tribal Todas, the area came under the East India Company at the end of the 18th century. The British introduced tea, and the hillsides around Ooty are covered in tea gardens.
Arriving late morning, we take lunch in our hotel. The afternoon is free to explore town and sample the local cardamom tea. Both the Botanical Gardens and the Rose Gardens are a short walk from our hotel. In town, there are many shops selling locally grown tea and oils and homemade chocolate.
Accommodation: Fortune Resort Sullivan Court (or similar)
Western Ghats descent through tea plantations; transfer to Guruvayoor in tropical Kerala
After breakfast, we have a stunning ride across the rolling Nilgiri Hills, the backdrop for many Bollywood movies, before starting the dramatic descent, dropping 6,560ft (2,000m) through the hills and tea-covered slopes of the Western Ghats. The ride offers fantastic views over the hills below and there are spectacular viewpoints. After 34mi (54km), we reach Gadalur, a typical Indian town with one long high street selling everything, with shop fronts covered in colourful adverts and cheap children’s toys. We have a tea break here before heading towards Kerala with the final 12.5mi (20km) descent through tropical rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes to our end point at a typical Keralan roadside restaurant.
The bikes are loaded as we enjoy lunch and then transfer (3hr 30min) to Guruvayoor to avoid busy roads. Please note that although the road is not very busy the road surface today is probably the worst of the trip. There are many potholes and the road surface is not even. Please take care and concentrate while cycling.
Arriving in Guruvayoor, we have time to relax before wandering into town to sample delicious Keralan street food and have an evening stroll outside the temple, which comes alive at night. It is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala and the fourth-largest temple in India. The town is filled with devotees dressed in traditional Keralan costume, who come here in their thousands to offer rice, flowers and gold to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Accommodation: Sopanam Heritage (or similar)
Ride past Guruvayoor Temple; continue to Cherai beach
Today, we cycle by the Shree Krishna Temple. A little further is another religious centre, Palayur Church, one of the oldest churches in India and founded by Saint Thomas the Apostle, who landed in India in 52 CE.
From here, we head towards the coast, cycling along country roads lined with mango and coconut trees. There are plenty of photo opportunities as we observe traditional life. Later, crossing bridges, we cycle onto Vypin Island, arriving at Cherai Beach early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to enjoy this stunning location and swim in the Indian Ocean. Cherai is known for mouth-watering fresh seafood, so for dinner, you could try jhinga kachcia aam kari, a speciality dish from Kerala made with green mango and prawns simmered in coconut milk and spices.
Accommodation: Sea Lagoon Health Resort (or similar)
Cycle along coastal roads lined with coconut palms; ferry to Fort Kochi
We set off from our beach location towards the port city of Kochi (formerly Cochin), cycling south and passing through small fishing communities where colourful boats are hauled up along the sands. Turning inland, we see grand houses built with the remittance money from the Gulf States workforce, plus older houses constructed during the British colonial period. Please note, the traffic levels are high for the last 5mi (8km) as we arrive at the main road to board the ferry to the Fort Kochi neighbourhood. This has a unique place in Indian history, and to soak up the atmosphere we spend the next two nights here. After hotel check-in, we wander down to one of the restaurants in the old harbour area for lunch. Those wishing to visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum should do so today, as it is closed on Mondays.
Accommodation: The Dutch Bungalow (or similar)
Free day in Kochi to explore the bazaars and the old harbour
Today is a free day to explore Kochi with its bazaars and old harbour area. The Portuguese established a base here, followed by the Dutch, who were forced to hand it over to the British in 1841. A potpourri of Indian and international communities, it is now the bustling commercial capital of Kerala and consists of several islands connected by ferries. Most of the major sights are close by in the neighbouring areas of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Warehouses that smell of tea and spices are lime-washed bright green, yellow and blue; rickety old bikes and hand-painted trucks piled high with goods fill the narrow streets and food stalls stand on every corner.
St Francis Church is close to the hotel. Built by the Portuguese in 1503, it is the burial place of explorer Vasco da Gama and his tomb is inside the church. Further along, you come to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568, it was gifted to the Maharaja of Kochi before the Dutch took it over. Close to the palace is Jewtown and the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 for the Jewish members of the Kochi trading communities, it is adorned with hand-painted tiles from China and elegant Belgian chandeliers, all donations from wealthy merchants. The area around the synagogue, Jew Street, is a heritage zone with many antique and handicraft shops and is excellent for shopping.
For a culinary experience, 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)
Cycle past old Portuguese houses; continue to Muhamma
Riding from Fort Kochi, we pass 500-year-old Portuguese villas, a striking contrast to the tiny fisherman huts dotted along the beach road. Many of these fishing villages are Christian; at the coastal town of Arthunkal, the old stone church dominates the surroundings and is best viewed from the shade of a coconut tree while we have a tea break.
Continuing along the coast road, we head to Muhamma, the start point for backwater trips, and spend the night in a lakeside resort. The tranquil gardens are as relaxing as the Ayurvedic massage and treatments on offer to guests. In the afternoon and early evening, relax on the veranda as backwater life unfurls before you.
Accommodation: Deshadan Backwater Resort (or similar)
Explore Muhamma town before backwater boat trip; overnight on Keralan houseboat
After a lie-in, enjoy an optional 13.5mi (22km) bike ride to explore the village or relax. Around midday, we board a backwater houseboat for an unforgettable trip to Trikunnapuzha. These converted rice barges have two-berth cabins and come with their own cook. With our bikes stacked on the side of the boat, you won’t see the saddle for another 19 hours, so just relax and watch the world pass.
Vessels of all sizes use the lakes and canals that make up this fascinating network of waterways. On one side of the canal, vast paddy fields of iridescent green stretch as far as the eye can see; on the other are fishing nets and coconut trees. As the sun begins to set, the boats are moored together and we gather on deck for sundowners.
Accommodation: Overnight houseboat
Ride to laidback Varkala
We have breakfast on the houseboats as they move from their overnight mooring point to our disembarkation point. Here we meet the support vehicle and set off along a quiet coastal road, passing by Amrithanadamayi Ashram, better known as the Hugging Mama Ashram, a spiritual retreat overlooking the backwaters.
We then join the main road to Quillon and have lunch at a seaside guesthouse: the fish is bought fresh from the market and cooked in mild spice and served with poratta, a favourite Keralan bread. After lunch, we are back on quiet roads for the last 18.5mi (30km) to Varkala, a small laid-back community with coffee bars and yoga schools perched along the clifftop. We spend the next two nights here.
Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)
Free to relax on the beach and try delicious seafood
Today is free to relax and enjoy the beachside location. There are several beach shack restaurants for lunch, serving excellent seafood. Try the tandoori dishes, the clay ovens give a more authentic taste to breads and curries. The last night’s meal is generally at the hotel with a fusion of all your favourite Keralan dishes.
Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)
End Varkala
The adventure comes to an end today. Those catching the group transfer to the airport will have a very early departure this morning. For everyone else, the trip ends after breakfast.
If you’d like a little longer to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This cycling adventure is classified Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is ideal if you’re a competent cyclist, ideally with at least one or two cycling trips under your belt. The temperature and humidity can be challenging but we schedule plenty of water and comfort breaks. A support vehicle, which can take a maximum of five passengers with bikes, is available if you wish to take a break from cycling.
- 10 days of cycling (including one optional ride)
- Average 34mi (55km) per day with vehicle support
E-bikes: E-bikes are available on this trip for an additional cost and subject to availability. Read our e-bike fact sheet for more information on the e-bikes available for this cycling adventure.
Route: We aim to cycle door-to-door for most of the route, with only a few transfers needed due to longer distances, national park restrictions and busier roads. The cycling is mainly on surfaced roads with a few rough, potholed sections. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing your own pedals and clip-in shoes. Day 3 is the longest ride day at 56mi (90km), mostly on good roads with some gentle undulation.
Terrain and traffic: This is a good all-round trip with plenty of flat riding, lots of downhill and a challenging climb. We mainly follow backroads with little traffic, but traffic does increase when approaching towns. The roads can be busy and you must be a confident rider who has cycled in traffic before. Tour leaders will brief you on the rules of the road; please listen carefully and follow the instructions.
Sights and monuments: Please note, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published, so it is impossible to forewarn our clients of when work will be taking place.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Sandesh The Prince, No. 3, Nazarbad Main Road, Mysore, 570010, Karnataka, India
Phone: +91 821 243 6777
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today, check-in is usually from midday
Airport: Bangalore Airport (BLR)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately four hours’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport to the start hotel costs approximately 7,500 Indian rupees (US$90). On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Trivandrum Airport (TRV) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Mysore
Location end: Varkala
Hotels, lodge and houseboat
The accommodation on this trip includes 11 nights in hotels, one night in a safari lodge and one night on a houseboat. The accommodations typically used are found on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the places we stay on this trip.
Bandipur: Bandipur Safari Lodge (night 4)
With an enviable position close to the national park entrance, Bandipur Safari Lodge is ideally placed for our adventures. We can be one of the first groups to take a game drive in the park, beating some of the crowds. The accommodation itself includes 22 rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant and campfire setting.
Ooty: Fortune Resort Sullivan Court (night 5)
Named for John Sullivan, who founded Ooty in 1821, this 67-room resort has a scenic spot in the Nilgiri Hills. Food and drink options include the multi-cuisine Pavilion Restaurant and Selbourne’s Bar, where you can gather with the group over a wine, beer or mocktail. It’s also well located, close to the Botanical Gardens and Rose Gardens.
Trikunnapuzha: Traditional houseboat (night 11)
No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. They are comfortable and unique. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader will be available.
Worth knowing
- Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cooler. You can request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please ask your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
Trip Experts
Safi Hyder
Expert Leader: India
Shibu TA
Expert Leader: India
Sarah Puttnam
Product Manager Asia
Robyn Lewis
Polar Sales Consultant
Emma Garrick
Senior Product Manager Asia
Reviews
Add your own reviewCaptivating Kerala
Surprisingly beautiful, challenging and hospitable.
Most Inspirational Moment
Inspiring moments happen every day
Thoughts on Group Leader
Head and shoulders above my expectations
Advice for Potential Travellers
Go for it!
Real India on wheels
Our first cycling adventure with Exodus (after a great various activity tour to Vietnam last year) and this tour was just perfect for my husband and I as we love being active. However we still enjoyed the free days to explore and the sightseeing too. We had a great group and excellent guides. It was also our first trip to India and we felt as though we saw the real India, especially in the first week. The people were so friendly and they never stopped smiling and waving at us. The bikes were very good quality and suited to the mixed terrain. The hotels were generally of a good standard although a couple not so much but appreciate that it’s not always easy to find suitable accommodation in certain areas.
Most Inspirational Moment
For both of us it would be the impromptu visit to a junior school. The staff and children were so happy and made us very welcome. My husband would say the cycle up Ooty was his favourite ride but mine was the ride across the rolling Nilgiri Hills and the dramatic descent through the hills and tea-covered slopes of the Western Ghats and tropical rainforest on day 6. Also seeing a tiger in Bandipur National Park.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi our group leader along with Vineeth and Arun were all excellent guides. They kept us safe through some busy areas and fed and watered to keep up our energy levels, as well as being friendly and spoke excellent English. We enjoyed the food at all the cafes and restaurants safi took us too and my favourite was the seafood one by the sea on our last ride.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Some of the road surfaces and speed bumps are horrendous, traffic manic in the cities and the heat makes even the flat rides tiring but keep hydrated, follow the guide, take care and you will love it.
A Feast for the Senses
This trip is certainly an insight into real India, we definitely felt we were in at the deep-end! We’ve previously cycled in Vietnam and Sri Lanka with Exodus and this trip was very different. Our previous holidays included a lot of information about the abundant flora, fauna and history of the countries, this trip not so much. However, it is very interesting to cycle through the villages and towns to see how the people are living and the people were very friendly towards us.
Don’t under-estimate he climb up Ooty Hill, it’s an unrelenting slog, but well worth the pain for the sense of pride at the top and the lovely stop at the Highland Cafe.
Some people in the group had asked for electric bikes and 2 of them were small-wheeled and, in my opinion, looked quite poor and not up to the job. However, our non-electric bikes were absolutely fine.
The roads are very busy and we had some sections cycling on the highway so I would say that this isn’t cycling for the faint-hearted. However, our guide was excellent at keeping the group together through the ‘dodgy’ bits! The cycling for the first few days does include a fair few hills so don’t expect it to be flat! Also, some of the road surfaces can be a bit rough, or even non-existent in some places, so don’t forget your padded cycling shorts!
Eating out is very cheap in the south and we had some delicious food. Also as far as I’m aware no-one in our group suffered with any tummy upsets.
In the main, the hotels were good. We had a couple which were a bit basic, but our guide explained that this was because there wasn’t anything else in the area, but other hotels were excellent so it’s swings and roundabouts.
All in all, a very good trip and we definitely feel like we’ve seen real, incredible, India.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing a tiger in Bandipur National Park! One day our guide asked if we'd like to visit a little school and we had such a lovely visit. The children were absolutely delightful. Getting to the top of Ooty Hill!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi was a great leader and dealt with all this trip threw at him magnificently. Unfortunately, there were a few accidents which caused him to have to think on his feet but he never faltered and everything worked out very smoothly. He certainly earned his money on this trip! Vineeth and Arun also deserve a mention because they too were brilliant. The three of them worked tirelessly to ensure we were looked after extremely well.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The roads are busy and rough in places. The weather is hot. Don't under-estimate the hills!
Exciting Introduction to India
India is an over-the-top experience for all the senses, bright colours, constant noise, strong flavours, heat and cold. The cycle routes provided a wonderful opportunity to explore a wide variety of landscapes and lifestyles — farmland, plantations, villages and small cities. We experienced the busyness of the traffic and the quiet of the beaches. Shibu was a wonderful guide who answered all our questions and explained the economic activities of the backwaters of Kerala. The challenges of this route include the heat and humidity combined with the long distances in the coastal section of the trip, and the demands of intense traffic conditions and poor roads on some days. The climb up Ooti is challenging, but accounts for only 90 minutes of one day. I used an e-bike for the first time on this trip and it would have been helpful except that it was so poorly fitted.
Most Inspirational Moment
The long descent from the hills to the coast, dropping 2000 metres through tea plantations, eucalyptus plantations, jungle, and bamboo forest (elephant crossing zone!!) with outstanding vistas at every turn was absolutely exhilarating! The circle ride around the backwaters to see how the locals live was really interesting.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Shibu was very helpful and personable. Rintu, the assistant guide and Shihan, the driver were also great.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The driving style in India is very different from North America or European practices. Be prepared for noise and apparent chaos.
WOW what a great vacation
I loved every minute of the trip it was exactly what I hoped for
Most Inspirational Moment
The way everyone in India was friendly ,the churches, the beaches everything
Thoughts on Group Leader
he was most informative on the region
Exodus alway met expectation
Have done the trip during last Christmas/new year time. Totally enjoyed. I made a video for the trip: https://youtu.be/7xvF7soVxfw?si=4SniSHVWDryz8NLN
for those who is interested.
Most Inspirational Moment
There is some big hills to attack
Thoughts on Group Leader
5 stars
India cycling
This was an excellent trip with 14 other people I did not know who are now friends, we had three guides Safi, Sandeep and Dipkin, Safi was our cycle leader, Dipkin cycle as well and bike mechanic and Sandeep our van driver and water man. We had daily briefings and how to navigate roads where to eat, our guides were knowledgable with local envionmental information such as trees, fruits and temples overall a really good trip, with some challneging cycling which was great
Most Inspirational Moment
Climbing Hooty cycling and completing this as well as the back waters boat and good distances covered as well as teh safari I saw a tiger and other fab wildife teh only thing was the safari guides good have made it more interesting with some commentary but overall good it was lovely to see animals being protected and the echo emaphisis although India has a long way to go they have states taht are plastic free and look after the wildife its a sjhame about teh street dogs as there is a problem with that as dogs are pregant and no way to stop this but India and this trip has been fab
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi was very good he gave us a daily briefing the only thing I would say is taht he needed to be a bit clearer with instructions, and keep up with the female members to check welfare as a few times men would come close to us on mopeds, which he needed to be more aware abaout, apart from taht he was excellent friendly nice and had local knowldge the trip was brillent thanks to Safi and his team
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book this trip if you like a challenge cycling and also to see hardly any tourists you see the real india with teh villages and friendly people I havve not been to India before and will definatley book another trip the accommodation was good teh food teh cycling and you had time to socialise and shop for gifts etc with our leader telling us what a good price would be for tuc tuks and shops etc in a nutshell I loved this trip
A trip offering a rich variety of experiences
Was quite nervous about going as it was my first trip to India. Once we arrived, I realised my nerves were unfounded. Our leader Safi and his two assistants Dipin and Sanjeed were all amazing. Everything was organised beautifully. They led the rides expertly, and made sure that we had a varied and authentic experience of India. The Indian people were fantastic – friendly, curious, helpful. And the children … wow! Lovely.
Most Inspirational Moment
Getting to the top of the hairpins at Ooty on a bike was a major personal achievement. However, there was so much to choose from - temples, holy rivers, stunning landscapes, amazing food, the warm ocean, three states, all very different, tuk tuk rides, seeing elephants and a leopard in Bandipur. Seeing a monitor lizard. And the backwaters cruise is stunning.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi was amazing, as were Dipin and Sanjeed. They were brilliant. Can't praise them enough.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't count on the ATMs, they don't always work and are only available in the bigger places. Safer to take cash to exchange as this gives you more options. Take plenty of hand sanitiser and use it. Only drink filtered or bottled water and drink in cans or bottles. We took chlorine tablets just in case, but only used them to keep our water bottles clean overnight.
So colourful!
I did this trip in Nov 2019 and did a review but cannot see any reviews from our trip for some reason. This was an amazing trip, so much to see, stop, photograph and take in the views and scenery. Tamil Nadu, tiger reserve (only saw elephants but that was great) we had a great guides and a fab group. I was definitely taken with the whole cycle trips to see more of the real country and life going on. Ooty hill was an amazing achievement for me though a lot of swear words kept me going! The Ooty train trip was great too. The colours, smells, madness of the traffic all terrific memories. Eating a typical Karelian meal from banana leaves in a local house was the best food. Vegetarians very well catered for and I wasn’t ill like many of the others in the group.
Most Inspirational Moment
Loved it all but cycling up Ooty hill I guess. Also loved the overnight boat trip.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Fantastic, couldn’t be more helpful
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do it!
Tropical India
I loved the holiday, the people, the food, the adventures however, I think whoever put the description of the holiday together needs to go on the tour and rename it. There is a lot more cycling on main roads and highways than I expected. We didn’t get to experience the tea plantations. We simply sped past them. The Tropical bit didn’t occur until the final few days.
Most Inspirational Moment
Definitely seeing a tiger stalking a baby elephant. We watched it for about an hour. The Granny and mummy elephants were so close to us and it was amazing to watch them protect their baby. Getting a Tuk Tuk to drive us round Kochin. The Jewish quarter is just lovely. The houseboat experience was fun. Loved sitting back playing Name that Tune with our new cycling buddies and chilling out.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Safi was great. Always there with a big smile and he was brilliant at keeping us together which is not an easy task in India! And of course, Dipin with his very positive encouragement at the back and Sandeep who didn’t say a lot but always turned up with the van in time for us to top up our water bottles.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be aware, the traffic and noise is crazy. If there is a gap in the traffic, it will soon be filled with scooters! You will acclimatise but it is so different from the western world!
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Saturday
21 Sep 2025 20 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
04 Oct 2025 04 Oct 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3825Now USD 3325Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3825Now USD 3325Saving USD 500 Book with USD 831 deposit Book with USD 831 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
05 Oct 2025 04 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
18 Oct 2025 18 Oct 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Limited) Only 4 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3825Now USD 3325Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3825Now USD 3325Saving USD 500 Book with USD 831 deposit Book with USD 831 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
19 Oct 2025 18 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
01 Nov 2025 01 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Book with USD 812 deposit Book with USD 812 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
26 Oct 2025 25 Oct 2025
Saturday Saturday
08 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 3 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Book with USD 812 deposit Book with USD 812 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 3 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
02 Nov 2025 01 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
15 Nov 2025 15 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Book with USD 812 deposit Book with USD 812 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
09 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
22 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
23 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Saturday Saturday
06 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price USD 3825
Optional Single Supplement
+USD 915
Available upon Request
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
07 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Saturday Saturday
20 Dec 2025 20 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Usually USD 3750Now USD 3250Saving USD 500 Book with USD 812 deposit Book with USD 812 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 915
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
11 Jan 2026 10 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
24 Jan 2026 24 Jan 2026
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 1 space left!
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
18 Jan 2026 17 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
31 Jan 2026 31 Jan 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3748Now USD 3450Saving USD 298 Usually USD 3748Now Saving USD 298 Book with USD 862 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
25 Jan 2026 24 Jan 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Feb 2026 07 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
08 Feb 2026 07 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Feb 2026 21 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3748Now USD 3450Saving USD 298 Usually USD 3748Now Saving USD 298 Book with USD 862 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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 Feb 2026 14 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
28 Feb 2026 28 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3748Now USD 3450Saving USD 298 Usually USD 3748Now Saving USD 298 Book with USD 862 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
22 Feb 2026 21 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Mar 2026 07 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 3748Now USD 3450Saving USD 298 Usually USD 3748Now Saving USD 298 Book with USD 862 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
01 Mar 2026 28 Feb 2026
Saturday Saturday
14 Mar 2026 14 Mar 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
08 Mar 2026 07 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Mar 2026 21 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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 Mar 2026 14 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
28 Mar 2026 28 Mar 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
29 Mar 2026 28 Mar 2026
Saturday Saturday
11 Apr 2026 11 Apr 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
05 Apr 2026 04 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
18 Apr 2026 18 Apr 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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 Apr 2026 11 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
25 Apr 2026 25 Apr 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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 Sep 2026 19 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
03 Oct 2026 03 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3750 Book with USD 937 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
04 Oct 2026 03 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
17 Oct 2026 17 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
18 Oct 2026 17 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
31 Oct 2026 31 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
25 Oct 2026 24 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
07 Nov 2026 07 Nov 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
01 Nov 2026 31 Oct 2026
Saturday Saturday
14 Nov 2026 14 Nov 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
08 Nov 2026 07 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
21 Nov 2026 21 Nov 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
22 Nov 2026 21 Nov 2026
Saturday Saturday
05 Dec 2026 05 Dec 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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
06 Dec 2026 05 Dec 2026
Saturday Saturday
19 Dec 2026 19 Dec 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 3900 Book with USD 975 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1005
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 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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Cycle Kerala & Tropical India
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