Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival at Kochi
Arrival at Kochi. Meet & assist at the airport and transfer to Fort Kochi. Kochi, situated on the outlet of a superb inland waterway to the Ocean, the port city of Cochin has been an important maritime entrepot trading with the Arabian and Mediterranean regions on the one hand and China & South East Asia on the other. The wealth of its trade has attracted a heterogeneous mix of peoples. Christians came here in the 2nd century, Jews and Muslims followed - all to trade, settle and inter-marry until the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch and English. All have left their mark on this bustling city known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" and trading still in tea, coffee, rubber, cardamom and pepper. You can certainly take a short walk down the Fort Cochin area if you don’t wish to spend the entire afternoon in your hotel. O/N -Dutch Bungalow - https://www.abadhotels.com/dutch-bungalow-fort-kochi/ Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 2
The Lowland Forests of Thattekkad
Today you will be riding towards one of the best birds watching destinations in India – the lowland forests of Thattekkad with over 275 species of birds, 76 species of butterflies 30 species of reptiles, besides wildlife such as elephants, Sambar deer, wild Dogs, civet Cat among others. Your stay would be at the Hornbill camp set along the shores of the river Periyar opposite the sanctuary. After a traditional lunch at the common gazebo overlooking the river, you will get an opportunity to go through to the rain forests on the opposite side of the river. The lush rain forest also harbors endemic birds like the brilliantly colorful Malabar Parakeets & the Malabar Trogons. After your return, there is a walk planned through the local village to see how the farming community lives amidst their plantations of rubber, coconuts & various spices like pepper and ginger. The villages are friendly places and you will be welcomed in their midst. O/N Hornbill Camp - https://www.amritara.co.in/amritara-horn-bill-camp Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling distance: 55 km
Day 3
Thattekkad – Chtithirapuram – 60 Km
Your ride today is first big challenge – riding from 300’ to above 3600’. You will be riding along the side of the river Periyar, through forests, spice plantations, countryside of pineapple plantations & rubber estates. At Neriamangalam, you will start the ride uphill through narrow mountain roads with deep chasms on its side, wilderness interspersed with lakes, spice growing villages and narrow rivulets and deep canyons, till we reach the foothills of the Western Ghats. O/N The Leaf – https://www.theleafmunnar.com/ Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling distance: 60 kms
Day 4
Chithirapuram – Bodimettu – 45 Km
Cycle to Bodimettu on the border between Kerala & Tamilnadu. Old settler colonies, villages, spice farms and lakes dot the landscape as you climb towards the tea estates at Poopara. The magnificent Anaerangal lake is the background to today’s ride as you check in to a resort set overlooking the Western Ghats. O/N Shola Crown - https://sholacrown.com/ Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling distance: 45 kms
Day 5
Bodimettu – Athoor – 95 Km
Riding forward, we leave the mountains behind us and cycle down towards the great plains of Tamilnadu. Our destination is the small village on the banks of the Kamaraj Lake, near Dindigul. The scenic ride will be passing through coconut groves, sugar cane fields, small villages and towns. The village of Athoor is itself very small and is home to a thriving farming community. Here we will stay at a beautiful country home and spend the day in the village meeting the local farmers, going on walks & bird watching. O/N Cardamom House Cardamom House – Family Home Stay Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling distance: 95 kms
Day 6 & 7
Madhurai
Today we will cycle to the great city of Madurai. We will spend an additional day to discover this ancient city & will visit the Madurai Meenakshi temple in the afternoon. Established in the Sangam period of the pre Christian era, this bustling town in Tamil Nadu is famous for ancient temple - the Meenakshi Temple. During that time the town was planned around the temple in the shape of a lotus. The beautiful architecture of some of the temples that can be seen today is attributed to this history - the architectural genius of the Meenakshi temple, the multi colored gopurams of the other temples, classical Carnatic music and bharatnatyam (a classical dance born in the temples of South). After visiting the temple & surrounding market with a guide, it is time for us to tuck into some excellent traditional vegetarian fare. Accommodation: Heritage Madurai http://www.heritagemadurai.com/ Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling Distance: 70 kms
Day 8
Madurai – Chettinad – 90 Km
We will take the ride through the countryside to the famed Chettiar village. Chettinad is well known for its local cuisine, architecture, and religious temples. "Chettinad" also means a social caste specialising in the preparation of food. Chettinads are considered master chefs, and Chettinad cuisine is one of the spiciest and the most aromatic in India. This small town is also famed for its houses – large, colourful and with rooms numbering more than 100! This is also great countryside for cycling through the fascinating Tamil countryside with its great swathes of farmlands, rural farming communities, temples and massive Chettinad Mansions. But what truly makes the stay here is the wonderfully delicious Chettinad cuisine & maybe a chance to learn the secrets of this fascinating culinary art. Accommodation: Visalam http://www.cghearth.com/visalam Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling Distance: 90 kms
Day 9
Chettinad – Tanjore – 80 Km
Our next destination is the town where classical arts still thrive – Thanjavur. Today also we will make a transfer after our ride through the villages and countryside of rural Tamilnadu with its vast rice growing areas of the Cauvery River Delta and the coconut plantations. All over India, towns derive their names from mythology and legends and this gives the town a distinct romantic touch. Thanjavur is no exception, as the legend goes the town was named when Tanjan- an asura, a demon, was granted his last request before he was slain – to have a city named after him. Walk through this bustling town where splendid bronze and stone sculptures from the 9th and 12th centuries are found. Stroll through the Saraswati Mahal Library established in the 1700s containing ancient manuscripts on palm leaf, works on medicine and plenty of rare treatises. Ruled at one point by the greatest Chola king, Raja Raja Chola and Nayaks and Marathas at later times, Thanjavur is also where the Tanjore style of painting was developed. This unique style of portraying mythological figures is characterized by the figure having round bodies and almond-shaped eyes. Richly ornamented in gold and jewels these vividly colourful paintings remind you of the vibrant colours around the town. Krishna is the deity depicted here, keeping his complexion as white, rather than the traditional blue. We will visit the Brihadeeswara temple, the wonderful Palace and Art Gallery. Accommodation: Manthra Koodam https://www.cghearth.com/mantra-koodam Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling Distance: 80 kms
Day 10
Tanjore – Tranquibar – 90 Km
Today’s ride passes through the delta of the great Cauvery river with long stretches of rice cultivation which makes this area the true granary of South India. We will reach the coast today at Tranquibar – known as Thiranganbadi locally – a centre of Dutch conquest and trade during the eighteenth century. Accommodation: Bungalow on the Beach http://bungalow-on-the-beach.neemranahotels.com/ Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner Cycling Distance: 90 kms
Day 11
Tranquibar – Pondicherry – 120 Km
Another ride along the coast and we will be at Pondicherry – the erstwhile French enclave. Here we can cycle around this last remnant of colonial France and visit both the French quarter & the ‘native’ quarter, where we stay at the well-appointed restored heritage bungalow. Accommodation: Maison de Perumal http://cghearth.com/maison-perumal Meal Plan: Breakfast Cycling Distance: 120 kms
Day 12 & 13
Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – 90 Km
The final ride takes us along the East Coast all the way to the famed temple town of Mahabalipuram – a UNESCO Heritage area. We can take a ride around to see the architectural wonders and see the life of the people here. The temples of Mamallapuram, portraying events described in the Mahabharata, built largely during the reigns of Narasimhavarman and his successor Rajasimhavarman, showcase the movement from rock-cut architecture to structural building. The mandapa or pavilions and the rathas or shrines shaped as temple chariots are hewn from the granite rock face, while the famed Shore Temple, erected half a century later, is built from dressed stone. The Shore Temple includes many bas-reliefs, including one 100 ft. long and 45 ft. high, carved out of granite. Accommodation: Ideal Beach Resort https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-resort-mamallapuram-temple-bay Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 14
Mahabalipuram – Chennai – Drop to Airport
We wake up to bid adieu to our newly made friends with promises and hopes that we will cross paths in the future. Following breakfast, we drive out to the airport and take the flight out to your destination Transfer: Mahabalipuram to Chennai Airport Drive distance : 55 Km Meal Plan: Breakfast
Inclusion
-
13 nights’ accommodation on twin sharing at all hotels
-
Meals mentioned in the itinerary
-
Expert cycle mechanic during the excursion
-
Back up AC vehicle for whole excursion and Cycle carrier
-
Sightseeing tours
-
Service in English speaking Guide during sightseeing
-
Fruits / snacks / mineral water throughout the biking day
-
Toll, Airport pick up drop and parking charges
-
All Government taxes
-
Bicycle (Cannondale/Giant/ Trek- Helmet/ Gel padded seat on request)
-
Assistance on arrival and departure at each destination
-
Drivers & Guide allowance, parking
-
Permits & permission to enter forest & monuments
Exclusion
-
Domestic and worldwide flight ticket
-
Expenses of nature like tipping, laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, camera, video fee at monuments, medical expenses, etc…
-
Visa cost
-
Travel Insurance
-
Tip to the driver and Guide at the end of the trip
-
Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions
-
Camera fees to be paid directly in the monuments/park
-
Cost incurred in case of hospitalization, evacuation etc.
WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING, SO IT’S BETTER TO BRING YOURS
-
Clothes enough for 13 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
-
Footwear
-
Cycling shorts
-
T Shirts • Socks
-
Neck warmer
-
Gloves
-
Sun glass
Cost (Euro 2050)
2 – 3 Pax - euro 2050, 4 – 5 Pax - euro 1675, 6 – 8 Pax - euro 1550
NOTE: To access the group rate for 2-3, 4-5, and 6-8 participants, it is required that bookings be made as a cohesive group. For individual bookings, the cost per person is set at 2050 euros.
1, A minimum of two adults is required to operate the trip.
2, In order to qualify for the child discount, a child must share a room with at least two adults. 06 -11 Years euro 1200 (Sharing Parent Room). 12 year onwards consider as adult
3, Peak Period Supplement (10 Dec to 15 Jan): euro 250
4, Peak Period Supplement (Aug) euro 75
OPTIONAL:
The applicable rate for a single supplement is euro 650
BIKES
We have a fleet of modern, hybrid bicycles that are included in the cost of your tour.. Saddles are wide and comfy gel cushioning and spring. You need to bring your own clip-in pedals if you prefer these. You also have the option to bring your own bike seat/saddle. Which our mechanic will fit for you.
Guides throughout the Journey
During the riding days, we offer a professional guide to lead the ride as well as a backup vehicle. The person in charge will move your luggage to the new location. In bigger groups, two guides may be present, one in front and one behind the group. The guide makes sure that transportation, lodging, meals, and luggage transfers all go according to plan. This individual also takes care of our visitors' safety, general well-being, and bike maintenance while keeping a careful eye on traffic conditions and any updates to the route. Please be aware that the support vehicle typically stays with the riding group all day long, offering complete mechanical assistance and backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m not a good cyclist. Can I join 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.
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.
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.
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 personalize 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.
Should I tip and how much?
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.
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 find difficult to ride any point you can hop on our back up vehicle
Must I purchase travel insurance?
Yes, before you leave your home country, we strongly advise purchasing extensive travel insurance.
About the Ride
Spice farms, friendly villages, coconut groves, rubber plantations, coffee and tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, the great temples of Madurai & Tanjore, the beaches at Tranquibar along the East coast, the former French enclave of Pondicherry & the exquisite rock carvings at Mahabalipuram are on offer for you during the next two weeks while you travel through the heart of Southern India Coast to Coast. This is an ideal way to go off the usual touristy trails and meet the people and places that make up this culturally vibrant region. Your journey will also take you to great temples, remote villages and wildlife areas.
You will also discover the rugged mountains of the Western Ghats, known as the crucible of endemism and one of the earth’s 36 bio-diversity centers on this incredible ride. The ride through the mountains passes through high altitude rain forests, tribal villages, farm lands, spice plantations and tea gardens. During this journey, we have taken care to avoid noisy touristy hotels. Your stay will be at exclusive and well-appointed eco-lodges, luxury tented camp, nature themed resorts, heritage hotels at scenic locations.
Touring with B T A-
In order to give you a surreal experience during the tour, Bike and Trek 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 resorts are lifestyle Resorts /luxury Eco Resorts and heritage properties. Our value is primarily based totally on dual sharing. For individuals who wishes single occupation room, we provide single occupation room with extra cost.
TERRAIN
This itinerary allows for average daily distance of approximately 50-70 km. This is designed to enjoy the cycling through rural life and meet people of Kerala and Tamilnadu. The vehicle will accompany and en-route make stop for bottled water and fruits juices for the cyclist. A nice way of sharing different experienced on the way.
The Bike support vehicle will always travel behind the last cyclist. If you wish to take a break from riding than wait at the side of the road and support vehicle will pick you up.
WEATHER
November to mid-February is the best time to cycle in South India. Average temperature ranges from max 28 degree and minimum 20 degree. The sun is not so intense and the nights are pleasant, perfect for cycling. Please bring a sun hat, sun cream and sun glasses. The morning and evenings are generally cool and mild; however, January and late December can be very pleasant. Please bring a thin cardigan. There will be humidity and little or no rain can be expected.
TRANSPORTATION / SUPPORT VEHICLE
All transportation included the cost. We offer backup vehicle throughout the biking trip. The vehicle may be used to hold your 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. As experts who have enough experience traveling via south Indian 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 traditional outfit is greater traditional. We recommend you to save you very brief shorts / skirts and confined tops / tank tops while viewing small non-city places, temples, mosques or different sacred sites as this could restrict your access.
-
Water resistant jacket
-
Thin cardigan and Sweaters
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.
A typical day on the trip: You will ride for about 5-6 hours 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.
Overview
TOUR TYPE: Guided
REGION: Kerala / Tamilnadu (India)
GRADE: Moderate
DURATION: 14 days / 13 nights
RIDING DISTANCE: 800 Km
GROUP SIZE: 4 – 12 People (Minimum requirement – 4 people)
BASE CAMP: Kochi (Kerala)
SEASON: November, December, January, February
SERVICE FROM : Cochin – Mahabalipuram
MEALS: Meals veg + Non-veg (As per Itinerary)
STAY: Hotels / Resorts
AIRPORT: Cochin Airport
Rail Head: Cochin
Key Highlights
-
Staying at some of the best boutique hotels & lodges in South India
-
13 Breakfasts, 9 dinners. Light noon refreshments on cycling days
-
High Altitude rain forests & grasslands holding great bio-diversity
-
Lakes & cardamom forests, Spice-growing villages & Tribal kudis (villages)
-
Temples at Madurai & Tanjore & Rock temples of Mahabalipuram
Eligibility
-
Rider should be able to ride 4-5 hours
-
The participant has to be in the good physical condition
-
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 minute)
-
Should not have liver and kidney issues
-
Should not have diabetics Mellitus, Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, High BP
-
No pacemaker implant
-
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