Cycling Tours South India
Being an expert cyclist, if you have always been dreaming of a trail that will take you through the luscious landscapes, scenic countryside, and picturesque beaches then look no further and start reading this overview. Here, we are introducing you a 9 to 10 days cycling expedition in South India. This route, from Bangalore to Thirvanthampuram, is popular among cyclists, whether in search of adventure or simply to visit the rolling tea estates and murky forest that punctuates the route. This South India tour will deliver endless surprises at every turn.
There's something unique about cycling in South India as life runs here at a very slow pace as compared to rest of the India: our movement is harmonious with nature, and thus it is soothing. Covering two important states of South India, Karnataka and Kerala, the trail kicks off from Bangalore and reaches the climax in Thiruvananthapuram. During the journey, you will come across the landscapes of regions like Parambikulam, Marayoor, Kanthalloor, Kundala, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Muhamma, Kottayam and Kovalam. Much of the route is on smooth bike paths or small roads, making this tranquil bike tour.
Whether you like to visit new places for a cup of tea or wish to discover ancient architectural gems on your two wheels or if you prefer to climb the vast, epic mountain sites, this legendary cycle tour to South India will not disappoint you. See below for complete itinerary.
Day 01): Bangalore
Board a flight from your respective cities to reach Bangalore. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a hotel for overnight stay and dinner.
Day 02): Bangalore Cochin - Parambikulam
Next day, board an early morning flight to Cochin. Upon arrival in Cochin, you will embark on a seven hours drive to Parambikulam via Sholayar Forest and Valparai Tea estates. During the journey, you will uncover the hidden gems of the Western Ghats. Check in a hotel at Parambikulam for overnight stay and dinner.
Day 03): Parambikulam - Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary - Marayoor
Post breakfast, get ready for a drive to Marayoor via Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. After reaching the first forest check post, you will start cycling for 30 km to reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary via offbeat villages of Tamil Nadu and paddy fields. Afer cycling for around 5 km in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, you will paddle further for 16 km to reach Marayoor. Overnight stay and dinner at Marayoorcampsite.
Day 04): Marayoor - Kanthalloor - Kundala - Munnar
Post breakfast, start cycling toward Kanthalloor by passing through rocky and rugged trails. Further, you will visit the Kundala dam via Mannavon Chola National Park. During the journey, you will see the view of the stunning plantation which marks the beginning of Munnar landscapes. Dinner and overnight stay at Munnar tent/hotel.
Day 05): Munnar to Devikulam to Kailasapara
Initially, you will cycle for 62 km till you reach Kailasapara via Devikulam. The trail will take you through the plantations of tea, coffee, pepper and tea. Today's campsite will be scenic as you will camping on the 1500 acres of land amid cardamom and spices farms. Overnight at camp.
Day 06): Kailasapara - Nedumkandam - Periyar
Post breakfast, start cycling towards Periyar by crossing Nedumkandam. Dinner and overnight stay in Periyar.
Day 07): Periyar - Kuttikanam - Elapara - Wagamon - Teekoy
On the seventh day, you will be passing through the dramatic landscapes of Kerala. At one point you might spot tea estates while on others ar countryside. Overnight stay and dinner at Teekoy.
Day 08): Teekoy to Kottyam to Kumarakom to Muhamma
Early Morning, after breakfast, start cycling towards Kumarakom, by passing through the tea estates, rubber plantations and countryside. Upon arrival in Kumarakom, you will further paddle to reach Muhamma (about 24kms). After reaching Muhamma, we will start travelling towards Muhamma, which will be the finishing point of our expedition. Dinner and overnight stay at Kovalam.
Day 09): Kovalam
Today, you can choose either to relax in the hotel or can go for a sightseeing tour to Kovalam. Overnight dinner and stay at Kovalam.
Day 10): Kovalam - Trivendrum Departure
After a farewell dinner, transfer to Trivendrum International airport to board a flight to your home country.