Discover Kerala Ride

OVERVIEW

TOUR TYPE : Guided

REGION : Kerala (India)

GRADE  : Easy to Moderate

DURATION : 9 days / 8 nights

RIDING DISTANCE : 285 Km

GROUP SIZE : 12 – 15 People (Minimum requirement – 7 people)

EXPERIENCE : Regular Riders

SUITABLE FOR : 15 + Years

FITNESS : Cover 6 Km of distance in 30 min without stress

BASE CAMP : Cochin

SEASON : November, December, January, February

SERVICE FROM : Cochin – Cochin (All Inclusive)

MEALS  : Meals veg + Non-veg (As per Itinerary)

STAY : Hotels / Resorts

AIRPORT : Cochin (Nedumbassery airport)

Rail Head : Ernakulam

ABOUT THE TRIP

You will take a bike trip across rural Kerala, India, and see backwaters, canals, coastlines, forests, spice plantations, rubber plantations, unique wildlife, and other beautiful landscapes along the way.

After seeing this exotic country, we believe that everyone ought to be acquainted with Kerala! It is now one of Asia's most sought-after tourist attractions thanks to its distinctive topographical characteristics. Kerala was chosen as one of the thirteen paradises on earth by National Geographic Traveller.

This journey covers practically every facet of Kerala's ecological and cultural splendour that captivates visitors.

Touring with T R A-

In order to give you a surreal experience during the tour, Trek and Ride Adventure have planned the itineraries and routes meticulously. We have allocated enough time to be spent in each place, so that you don’t miss the breath-taking locales and the finest amenities each place has to offer.

When you choose to tour with us, you can be assured of an unforgettable experience! Around 95% of our tracks are paved country road tracks, mostly on small hills for your safety and comfort.

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation is obtainable in any respect locations. Most of the resortsare lifestyle Resorts /luxury and Eco Resorts. Our value are primarily based totally on dual sharing. For individuals who wishes single occupation room, we provide single occupation room with extra cost.

TERRAIN

The panoramais mainly flatland, villages streets besides

WEATHER

Mostly dry relies upon on which month of the year you'retravelling

TRANSPORTATION / SUPPORT VEHICLE

All transportation included the cost. We offer backup vehicle throughout the  biking trip. The vehicle may be used to holdyour baggage’s and yourself as required.

FOOD

We believe that eating local is not just a lot of fun but also are of those important elements of the destination experience- Very much a part of the adventure as they say! So, be flexible and prepared to savour and enjoy the varied and wonderful food of the world. Meals included and excluded are clearly specified on the detailed itinerary. When meals are included you will need to adhere to timings as these meals are usually at local restaurants. When meals are not included, your trip leader will be happy to make restaurant recommendations of favourite places frequented by the locals. Choice of vegetarian food can sometimes be limited and repetitive. Though special food, including vegetarian, child meals etc., can never be guaranteed. We do our best to accommodate your requests. On guided trips, please ensure you inform your leader if you are a vegetarian.

CLOTHING

We recommend cycling shorts, dry fit T-shirts or cycling jerseys, and firm footwear. Loose fitting dresses or flip-flops are unsuitable for a cycling tour. You don’t have to carry extra clothes during the rainy season, carry only a rain jacket.

Your safety is our priority. We advise our guests to wear a helmet at all times during the cycling part of the trip. You should be aware that due to its geographical location, Kerala can be hot at times. As experts who have enough experience traveling via Kerala roads, we recommend our riders to apply a nice coat of sunscreen lotion. For added protection, you can use sun sleeves for your arms and buff headwear for your neck.

· In India, the traditionaloutfit is greater traditional. We recommend you to save you very brief shorts / skirts and confinedtops / tank tops while viewing small non-city places, temples, mosques or different sacred sites as this could restrictyour access.

· Water resistant jacket

· Thin cardigan

PRECAUTIONS

· Bring all of the crucial medications. Do now no longer ignore

· Consume quite a few liquids. Don’t drink faucet water. Use handiest bottled water that's constantly stored in the vehicle

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips and all details of your insurance policy including the policy number must be received by us prior to the start of your trip. We are unable to send you your travel certificate / Vouchers unless we receive them.

Money to Carry

Keep with you sufficient Indian Rupees in cash, money exchange or your international card.

Personal gear

People with particular requirements are advised to bring their own Bicycles, pedals, shoes, saddle, helmet and cycling clothes.

Typical day on the trip

You will ride for about 5-6hours through the villages and towns in the itinerary while also exploring the quaint lifestyle and the culture while you ride. The evenings are free for leisure activities and sightseeing.

Medical facilities available

There are medical facilities (First Aid) available but we suggest carrying your own first aid kit and personal medicines as well. Also consult with the family Doctor before coming on our tour.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR

· Visit Fort Kochi

· The Muziris ancient port

· Lowland woodland is a habitat for a variety of animals, including elephants, birds, butterflies, and reptiles.

· Observing birds in Thattekkad

· River Periyar

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE

Do check out our detailed itinerary for an in-depth look at all the marvels that awaits you on our Gods Own Country Bicycle Tours.

· Rider should be able to ride 4-5 hours

· Anyone above 15 years of age.

· The participant has to be in the good physical condition and possess the energy to accomplish 6 km in 30 min without feeling rushed.

· Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60-90 per second)

· Blood pressure reading must be between (Diastolic 75-85, Systolic 100-130 Hg)

· Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 – 20 breaths per minuite)

· Should not have liver and kidney issues

· Should not have diabetics Mellitus, Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, High BP

· No pacemaker implant

· Experience: Regular riders, Any multi day trek or hiking, marathon runners

· Riders below 15 years should have a company of a parent / guardian

· Riders between 15-18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/ Guardian

DEPARTURE DATE

DECEMBER 7 - DECEMBER 15

COST : Euro 1100

Our Discover Kerala cycling tour costs 1100 euros from Cochin to Cochin. This covers all lodging, internal transportation, and all meals consumed during the trekking period.

Flights to and from India will be the sole additional expense

· The tour will be operated with a minimum of 7 adults

· To enjoy the child discount, a child should share a room with two adults

· Single Supplement euro 600

· Bike Hire: euro 150.

INCLUDES

• Hotel Twin sharing basis

• Meals mentioned in the itinerary

• Expert cycle mechanic during the excursion

• Back up AC vehicle for whole excursion

• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary visit at Thattekad

• Overnight Premium Luxury House Boat stay

• Fruits / snacks / mineral water throughout the biking day

• Toll, Airport pick up drop and parking charges

• Government taxes

EXCLUDES

• Domestic and worldwide flight ticket

• Visa cost

• Still / Video digital digicam fees

• Tips and gratitude

• Travel Insurance

• Alcoholic beverages

WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING, SO IT’S BETTER TO BRING YOURS

· Clothes enough for 12 days

· Rain proof Jacket

· Hydration bag if you prefer

· Medicine – If you are on medication

· Personal hygiene kit like – Tissue, tooth paste & brush, soap, shaving kit etc…

· Zip lock for water proofing for your gadgets

· Mobile phone & Camera

· Sun block

· • Water bottle

· • Bike shoes

· • Helmet

· • Footwear

· • Cycling shorts

· • T Shirts • Socks

· • Neck warmer

· • Gloves

· • Sun glass

CANCELLATION POLICY

Our cancellation policy is extremely flexible. Please see the details below, as a family- owned business, we appreciate your support of our company and partners in the adventure travel industry by reserving a tour with us.

Payment Terms

The prices quoted are for payment through our website via our payment gateway providers, Bank transfer or cash payable in Granada, Spain

The tour price is payable to “Trek and Ride Adventure”, Spain 45 days prior to departure, failure to pay by that date “Trek and Ride Adventure” to cancel your booking without notice and without refund of the deposit if deemed necessary. Prices are quoted in Euros for all trips, the booking date may be up to 3 months before departure.

Cancellation Policy

If it became necessary to cancel your tour, you must notify “Trek and Ride Adventure”, immediately in writing. once we receive your notice, cancellation will take effect. Please note that the following charges will apply to cancellation

· If cancellation take place more than 45 days prior to departure, your full deposit will be returned except a processing charge & Admin expenses (Admin expenses, Actual Bank transfer charges)

· If cancellation take place 30 days before the start date of the activity departure, 30 % of the tour price will be fortified

· if cancellation takes place less than 30 days and 15 days prior to departure 50 %of the tour price will be fortified

· Cancellation between 15 days and 1 day before the start date of the tour or no show on the start day of the tour unfortunately no refund – 100% of the tour price will be fortified

· The tour prices quoted as a package

· No partial refunds or credit will be given for service not used

· We recommend that you obtain travel insurance upon booking.

Please Note:

If you book a “Trek and Ride Adventure”, Trek or Expedition (Not applicable for Bicycle Tours, Voluntourism, Yoga Meditation program) and then wish to cancel, you will receive a full credit on your payments for a future trip on towards one of your already scheduled 2023 departures. You will need to let us know by 45 days before your trip, so that we have the opportunity to re-sell spaces and give staff and guides time to plan. Also, if you can’t make a trip within 45-day period because of travel restrictions that affect your ability to make the trip, we will give a full credit of payment towards a future trip.

In the rare event that “Trek and Ride Adventure” calls off/Cancel a trek / Expedition / Yoga Meditation program or Voluntourism (Not applicable for Bicycle Tours) :

We almost never call off/ cancel our tours. But in the rare event that we call off/ cancel a Tour because of force majeure OR natural calamities (Continuous rain or snow, snowstorms, thunderstorms, floods, landslides, earthquake or any other natural calamity that prevents us from conducting an activity safely OR unexpected situation like political unrest, local riots, pandemic, lockdowns, government orders OR any other issues that affect the safety of the whole group “Trek and Ride Adventure” will transfer the Tour to another location or issue a voucher on any of our activities over the next one year.

Important Note 1: If your entire group is forced to abandon the activity after you have reached/crossed the first day of the ride (could be due to weather/sudden unforeseen circumstances), we will not issue a voucher.

Important Note 2 : We do not issue vouchers to those who you discontinued a ride. This can happen when your ride leader sends you down due to any of the reasons

· Lack of fitness

· Non-maintenance of turn-around time

· Altitude sickness

· Blood Pressure

· Any health issues

· Found breaking rules of the ride

· Quit the ride on your own due to personal reasons

Vouchers are given only when the whole team’s ride is cancelled / called off by “Trek and Ride Adventure”.

Custom Trip Cancellation policy:

Our standard cancellation policy do not apply for customized or Bespoke trips, and will be communicated on a per project basis.

Changes of Reservation:

There is no legal right to make changes with respect to the date of the journey and destination after concluding the contract. If changes of reservations are possible “Trek and Ride Adventure” agrees to them.

Court of Jurisdiction:

“Trek and Ride Adventure” is registered under the name “TREK AND RIDE ADVENTURE” Sole Trader, with the Spanish Government company registration act. The conditions and terms are subject to Spanish law and to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Spanish courts. Any complaints or grievances you may communicate to sbfrancis@trekandrideadventure.com with in 2 weeks of completion of the trip, otherwise it won’t be validated.

Liability for Theft – Bicycle Rental:

The lessee is also to the lessor for theft or any other loss of the bicycle. In the event of theft or loss, the lessee is liable up to the amount of the company current price on the lessor’s sales list. The rent paid by the lessee caused the damage intentionally or through gross negligence.

Minimum Number of Participants:

All offered trips will take place at a minimum number of 7 participants, if this number is not reached, “Trek and Ride Adventure” may cancel the trip until 14 days before its starting date.

How to Cancel your Tours:

In case, you wish to cancel your tour, follow these steps:

· Write an e mail to info@trekandrideadventure.com

· After you have cancelled your tour, if you have opted for a refund, the refund amount will land in the same account that you have made the payment, from. If any Bank charges applicable that amount will be deducted

IMPORTANT LINK

· TREK PREPERATION DOCUMENT (Read Only, not downloadable)

· WALKING AND HIKING FITNESS GUIDE (Read Only, not downloadable)

· TREK PREPERATION DOCUMENT (Read Only, not downloadable)

· DISCLAIMER AND DECLARATION (Downloadable)

· LIABILITY (Downloadable)

· MEDICAL DISCLAIMER FORM (Down Loadable)

· PARENTS DISCLAIMER (Downloadable)

· TERMS AND CONDITION (Read Only, not downloadable)

· CANCELLATION POLICY (Read only, not downloadable)

What documents should I bring on my trek?

There are 3-4 documents that you must mandatorily carry on your ride without these, you will not be allowed to ride.

1. Original and photocopy of government photo identity card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.

2. Disclaimer certificate- This is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully and sign it. This must be handed over to your Ride Leader during the registration at the base camp.

3. Medical certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part must be filled by a practicing doctor, the second part must be filled by you. Without the medical certificate, the forest department will not issue permission for your ride, it is also a recruitment by Trek and Ride Adventure.

4. COVID -19 Related Certificates: As the government regulations for COVID are changing very frequently. We suggest you stay updated and carry the required documents accordingly. You can also get in touch with our team for the latest updates.

Passport Requirements

All travelers require a passport, generally this should be valid for six months after the date of your schedule return home. Requirements change often and other regulations may apply. So be sure to check with the nearest embassy of the country you need to visit.

Please note that for overseas trips, we will require your passport details prior to accepting your booking, furthermore, if you renew your passport after you have booked, it is important you advise us of the new details as soon as possible and you may be required to take your old passport with you to maintain the validity of the trip.

Visas

Obtaining any visa that are required is your responsibility, details of current visa requirements for the country you are visiting or for transiting destinations are given on your invoice. Visa regulations can, and do, change, sometimes at short notice, but where we become aware of changes to regulations we will notify you. We cannot be held responsible for mistakes by embassies or third parties, sudden changes to regulations or actions of border officials which are beyond our control

Indian Online Visa link: India Visa Online (indianvisaonline.gov.in)

Purchasing travel Insurance

It is essential condition of joining with Trek and Ride Adventure trip that you have an adequate and valid travel insurance policy for the full duration of your trip to cover the cost of medical treatment, cancellation and curtailment and the activities included in our tours (Including the high-altitude Bicycle rides)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. I am not a skilled rider. Can I join you on your tour?

We want more and more people to start utilising bikes for everything from commuting to work to taking leisurely outings, as we are an organisation headed by dedicated bike connoisseurs. Our adventures are therefore created so that the general public may enjoy the tour. To make it easier for you, we'll ride at a relaxed pace. Our trips are classified to help you understand the degree of fitness expected. Take part in one of TRA’s worldwide trips if you're searching for an adrenaline rush.

2. Do you bike during the summer months?

Cycling is enjoyable in almost any weather, even in the heat. Our tour guides will make a little alteration to the itinerary so you can avoid the intense afternoon sun. To make the journey satisfying for you, we'll include extra water stops and pay close attention to your necessities.

3. Do you go cycling when it rains?

Yes, cycling in the rain is perfectly pleasant. To keep you warm and dry along the trip, our staff will give you a poncho. Additionally, we will add mudguards to every bike so that you may easily ride over any terrain. We will arrange for a backup until the situation is clear or halt for breaks if the rain is making it difficult to navigate.

4. I have a tight dietary regimen. Will you be able to cook me a certain meal?

We genuinely like making you feel at home. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation so that we may ensure appropriate food preparations for you.

5. Will it be possible to personalise a tour?

We may tweak the trip if your group is seeking something more thrilling and daring. For additional information, get in touch with one of our amiable representatives.

6. How much should I tip?

In India, leaving a gratuity has become customary. You should donate as much as you feel is appropriate in light of your financial situation, the services you get, and your subjective assessment of those services.

7. How do you define backup?

We have a lot of local expertise because we've had ample experience leading amazing trips in Kerala. If you like to take a break from the ride you can hop on our back up vehicle

8. Must I purchase travel insurance?

Yes, before you leave your home country, we strongly advise purchasing extensive travel insurance.

Schedule: Create a timetable that is unique to you. Remember that it should be enjoyable. Feel free to change your workout routine based on your own preferences, daily schedule, and physical condition. Plan your lengthy rides during the week if your schedule prevents you from exercising on the weekends. Always consult with your doctor before beginning a new workout regimen.

Speed: You'll note that our training programme is time-based. We make no mention of speed. Everyone should ride their bike at their own pace throughout their preparation, just like they do on our trips. More significant than distance travelled or speed is "time in the saddle."

Pace: As you ride your bike, try to maintain a steady tempo. Through the whole pedal stroke, rotate your feet equally and smoothly. Utilize your tools wisely. adjusting up or down to maintain a steady pace as the terrain changes. Pedalling fast and smoothly in an easy gear is gentler on your knees than pedalling slowly and firmly in a hard gear.

Hills: As you bike more hills, your strength will increase. Along with helping you practise shifting and boosting your confidence, they also improve your muscles. Hilly terrain need not be feared. You may spin more comfortably and efficiently while using less energy if you learn to downshift to a lower gear at the bottom of the hill. Recognize and appreciate the slower pace that hills enable. Pay attention to the sounds that are only audible when the wind isn't blowing in your ears. The rhythm of your breathing may be quite relaxing.

Stretching: The optimum regimen involves stretching once you have cycled for 10 to 15 minutes and once again at the culmination of your session. Stretching your neck and leg muscles is important.

Spinning: Cycling indoors on spinning cycles is a great alternative to cycling outside. Instead of pushing yourself to ride a bike in the pouring rain or during a blizzard, join your local fitness centre and attend a gym session. Always remember to enjoy your workouts.

Weight training: It's a fantastic idea to simultaneously develop your muscles and increase your aerobic capacity. In addition to your weekly bike rides, think about doing weightlifting twice a week. To prevent damage while beginning weight training, start with very light weights. Make sure you get adequate instruction on using the equipment and procedure from a qualified specialist.

Cross-training: Feel free to incorporate cross-training into one of your weekly workouts. Take an aerobics class, go for a run, play tennis, or go on a walk. You'll be less likely to become hurt, bored, or burned out from your workouts if you vary it up.

Intervals: It's a good idea to incorporate some intervals in your routine in addition to some hilly terrain. Intervals are brief bursts of high extension followed by recovery periods. Try cycling as hard as you can to the next tree or up a hill after 15 minutes of gentle riding to warm up. Once you reach the peak, reduce your speed until you have revived. After a few minutes of doing this, resume your cycle at a leisurely speed to help you cool off. Interval training is a great approach to building strength and speed.

Advanced training: You should double or triple your training weeks if you have signed up for one of our more challenging trips, such as one of our cross-country excursions. To enhance endurance, gradually increase your weekly miles. Try to ride for two or three straight days for six hours. You'll probably appreciate the tour more if you're in better shape before it. You may always ride in the van for a portion of the tour if you're not as fit as you'd want to be. You'll be in excellent form for your next vacation by the end of the week.

HAPPY CYCLING! AND KEEP THOSE PEDALS SPINNING!