CYCLING HOLIDAYS COAST TO COAST
Overview
Itinerary
Accommodation
Route Map
Gallery
FAQ
Overview
About Tour
This tour will take you through the heart of Southern India from the east coast at Chennai also known as Madras to the west coast at Cochin in Kerala. This unique tour throws in a mixture of the cultural and architectural highlights including the Mahabalipuram Shore temples, the temples at Kumbakonam and Madurai as well as the bungalows and palaces of the Chettinad Chettiars at Karaikudi. We also want you to experience the local fares and cuisine along the way which is as rich and colourful as the temples. As you move on from Tamil Nadu to Kerala, the topography takes a complete u-turn with verdant forests, tea estates, spice farms, coconut groves, rubber plantations, jungles and national parks. Experience the cultural vibrancy of Southern India in full spirit of the land on your cycling tour in South India. We love this tour for the many mystical temples, innumerable smiles of the Dravidian people and stomach loads of lovely food!
OUTLINE ITINERARY – 15 DAYS
| Day | Location | Property | Meal Plan |
| Day 1 | Mahabalipuram | Radisson Blu | Dinner Only |
| Day 2 | Pondicherry | Maison Perumal Cgh | All Meals |
| Day 3 | Karaikkal | The Bungalow On The Beach | All Meals |
| Day 4 | Kumbakonam | Indeco Swamimalai | All Meals |
| Day 5 | Tanjore | Hotel Sangam | All Meals |
| Day 6 | Karaikkudy | Visalam Cgh | All Meals |
| Day 7 | Madurai | Heritage Madurai | All Meals |
| Day 8 | Athoor | Cardamom House | All Meals |
| Day 9 | Athoor | Cardamom House | All Meals |
| Day 10 | Kodaikkanal | The Carlton Kodai | All Meals |
| Day 11 | Palani | Ganapat Grand | All Meals |
| Day 12 | Munnar | Kaivalyam Retreat | All Meals |
| Day 13 | Alleppey | Deluxe Houseboat | All Meals |
| Day 14 | Fort Cochin | Light House | Breakfast Only |
| Day 15 | Depart | Breakfast Only |
Highlights
- Explore the shore temples at Mahabalipuram
- Cycle along the coastal stretch to Pondicherry
- Experience the remnants of colonial French rule
- Cycle along vast stretches of paddy fields
- Experience the art, culture and temples of South India
- Witness the Dravidian culture and lifestyle of South Indian People
- Visit the famous Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Cycle along the countryside bordered with coconut groves and sugarcane fields
- Take in the fresh mountain air and relax in the quietness of the hills
- Cycle along the tea plantations, ghat roads and verdant forests
- Explore the heritage city of Fort Cochin
Inclusions
Accommodation on twin share
Professional tour leader
Mountain bikes (Cannon Dale Trail6)
Meals as indicated (ethnic food)
Refreshment and mineral water during the activity
Back up mini bus for entire tour
Airport pick up & drop
Licenses and govt taxes
Exclusions
Flights.
Travel Insurance.
Tips.
Laundry.
Beverages.
Personal Shopping.
Itinerary
Day 1: Mahabalipuram
On arrival at Annadurai International Airport @ Chennai meet and be greeted by your tour leader & driver. A quick 2 hours transfer takes you to a hotel close to the 7th century Mahabalipuram Shore temples. Here, the architectural highlights of the temples portray events from the scared Hindu book of Mahabharata. These temples were built during the reigns of Narasimhavarman and his successor Rajasimhavarman of the Pallava dynasty. Walk around Mahabalipuram to experience your first temple in South India
Accommodation: Radisson Blu
Meals: Dinner
Activity Distance: Transfer 55KMs
Day 2: Pondicherry
We should leave early today to cycle along the coastal stretch to Pondicherry. The ride today is not exciting but it helps to get used to the warm weather. At Pondy you can not only experience the remnants of colonial French rule but also explore the Tamil culture. Pondy has a native, Tamil Quarter and a French Quarter. You will be booked into a restored heritage bungalow in the French Quarter for the night. Walking around both the quarters gives you a wonderful start to understanding a people who have accepted and taken in cultures from all over the world. Enjoy mouth-watering dishes and laze around with beer at Puducheri or Pondicherry.
Accommodation: Maison Perumal Cgh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 95KMs
Day 3: Karaikal
You will cycle along vast stretches of paddy-fields through the delta of the great Cauvery River passing many villages on the way. Locals thrive on rice cultivation and animal husbandry for a living. The area is considered the granary of South India for its agricultural prowess in cultivating large quantities of paddy. Your destination for today is Karaikal which is a beach destination but one that is not touristy. Relax and rewind in the hotel’s along with local fares for lunch and dinner.
Accommodation: Bungalow ON The Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 100KMs
Day 4: Kumbakonam
Cycling is again past stretches of pay fields and villages continuing your journey through the granary of South India. On arrival at Kumbakonam, experience the pinnacle of cultural vibrancy. Kumbakonam is also known as “the city of temples” and is considered a space of energy grounded in a wildly active environment. With your eyes closed you can see the convergence of all elements created for man’s well being. Art, culture and history sweeps gently but ignites deep thinking. The entire experience could be an adventure, but you got to believe it is the unfurling of a divine mantra. Your hotel for the night is as invigorating as the destination itself.
Accommodation: Hotel Indeco Swamimalai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 65KMs
Day 5: Tanjore
Tanjore or Thanjavur is the next stop and is a town where classical art forms still thrive. A walk through this town will show you the stone sculptures from the 9th and 12th centuries. The Saraswati Mahal Library established in the 1700s has ancient manuscripts on palm leaf, and many works on medicine, and rare treatises. The place is renowned for the Tanjore paintings and this is where it was developed. We will also visit the wonderful Swathi Mahal Palace, the Art Gallery as well as the Brihadeeswara Temple.
Accommodation: Hotel Sangam
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 50KMs
Day 6: Karaikudi
Today we cycle towards Chettinad, famous all over South India for its flavourful Chettinad cuisine. It’s a great place to go cycling as and you continue witnessing the Dravidian culture, its people and their practices. Men in lungi and women draped in saris fill the streets as they go about their daily life. Religion and culture are of utmost importance to the people of Tamil Nadu. Karaikudi is specially known for its traditional mansions some of which have more than a 100 rooms.
Accommodation: Visalam Cgh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 90KMs
Day 7: Madurai
Day 7 takes you to the temple city of Madurai where you will visit the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. Established during the Sangam period, this temple has some beautiful architecture of gods and goddesses. This city is also known for classical carnatic music and classical bharatanatyam dance. The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the 2,500-year-old city of Madurai and is a significant symbol for the Tamil people.
Accommodation: Heritage Madurai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 100KMs
Day 8,9: Athoor
Heading deep into Tamil Nadu you ride to a typical farming village near Dindigul. The countryside you will be cycling into will be sugar cane fields and coconut groves. Athoor is a small village and they have a thriving farming community. Your stay today will be at a humble county home and you can spend the day meeting the farmers, going for walks, and bird watching.
A rest day to relax, meet the locals and watch coconut palm plantation workers on their daily routine. Relax in the calm and quietness of the hills and take in the fresh mountain air after continuous days of cycling in the hot and tough conditions of Tamil Nadu’s plains.
Accommodation: Cardamom House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 60KMs
Day 10: Kodaikanal
The day begins with a challenging 1200 metre uphill cycle to the cooler climes of the hill station town Kodaikanal. There is a long climb to finish this afternoon’s cycling, but we are rewarded with scenic views of the plains below as we end this stunning day.
Accommodation: Carlton Kodai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 95KMs
Day 11: Palani
Our day begins with a 5km downhill ride before we join undulating road for 30-35km. We continue our long, winding cycle downhill away from forest and coffee plantations to the arid plains at a low of 300m. After a stop for lunch we head to Palani, a densely occupied Hindu pilgrim town. In the evening you can visit the Temple (optional extra) where a Golden Chariot Procession takes place. The temple is located on a hilltop which we can reach by cable car. You will have a magnificent view of surrounding villages.
Accommodation: Ganapat Grand
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 65KMs
Day 12: Munnar
We leave Palani and are soon on quiet roads passing through small villages and a landscape of huge monoliths. We cycle on through Indira Gandhi and Chinoor national parks (32 km) to Marayoor. In the Malayalam and Tamil languages “mara” means hidden and “oor” means land. The fresh mountain air and views of mist-clad hills and hamlets make this a beautiful location. There are cave temples and Neolithic stone coffins, sugar cane fields, waterfalls and bamboo forests. It is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandal wood trees. The rare Neelakurinji flower is native to this region.
Accommodation: Kaivalyam Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 50KMs
Day 13: Alleppey
Early breakfast and we’re out for a thrilling 30 kms descent and through the tea and cardamom estates is another attraction. After a quick break we transfer you out of town to Alleppey. A luxury rice-barge moored on the Vembanad Lake awaits our arrival. Festive lunch on boat, music in the background, you’re next in charge steering the boat through vast stretches of blue waters. Coconut palms, temples and villages in the horizon, you have a book out to sketch or write a poem. Amidst a million stars in the night sky, the breeze silently steers you into God’s own waters
Accommodation: House Boat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 30KMs
Day 14: Fort Cochin
This morning you can watch the sun rise from the comfort of the house boat, and enjoy breakfast as we cruise towards Alleppey, disembarking late morning. We begin a coastal ride through shady coconut palms and sleepy fishing villages. We stop for a picnic lunch and you have the opportunity to cool off with a dip in the Arabian Sea. This afternoon we cycle through prawn farms and rice paddies to Cochin on the Malabar Coast.
Accommodation: Old Light House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Cycling 60KMs
Day 15: Cochin International Airport
After a relaxed breakfast your tour leader and driver will assist you to the airport.
Accommodation: Nil
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Transfer 45KMs
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Mahabalipuram
Offering unparalleled views of the Bay of Bengal, the award-winning Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram is just steps from the shore. Set in 44 acres of lush, landscaped gardens, our hotel and resort provides extensive facilities for the ultimate getaway or destination event. After an unforgettable morning on the water, take a short stroll to spend an afternoon at the dramatic archeological sites of Mamallapuram, also called Mahabalipuram.
Maison Perumal Podicherry
Maison Perumal is a period bungalow that we had the privilege to turn into a distinguished boutique hotel. Located in the Tamil quarter of Pondicherry, this 18th-century house exudes a legacy that reflects the French colonial aura of this small seaside town, known for its alluring history, spiritual culture, imaginative crafts, trendy shopping and gourmet food.
Bungalow On The Beach
While most Nagapattinam hotels are born with the beauty and treasures of history, not many have the luxury of housing architectural treasures visible from the verandah outside your room ! The Bungalow on the Beach in Tharangambadi (Tranquebar) is one of the unique honeymoon destinations in India, revitalised by the Neemrana group. An early 14th century Pandya temple on the left and a 17th century Danish fort to the right makes The Bungalow on the Beach one of the most distinctive Nagapattinam hotels.
Indeco Swamimalai
INDeco hotels, Swamimalai is an ideal place to stay at while visiting destinations like Kumbakonam, the Navagraha temples in Kumbakonam and Unesco Monuments in the region. The house of the late Hindu pontiff, Sankaracharya of Kanchi is also a part of this hotel. The hotel is a confluence of leisure, heritage, health, nature, aesthetics, spirituality, fine arts and fun. The inhouse Indian Heritage Museum here is accredited by the American Association of Museums. It is not just a destination but truly a paradise by itself.
Hotel Sangam
Situated amidst the historical temples of Thanjavur, the Sangam Hotel provides 54 luxurious rooms with 3 star amenities. Sangam Hotel in Thanjavur (Tanjore) has a stellar record of service to the wide range of travellers to Thanjavur, including pilgrims, international tourists and those on personal or business trips.
Visalam Cgh
Visalam is a heritage house of rare distinction. It is an endearing symbol of paternal love that equally captures the soul of Chettinad, a region renowned for its palatial homes, fiery cuisine and colourful culture. This CGH Earth experience is a window to the unique ways of life of the prosperous trading community of the Chettiars of Tamil Nadu.
Heritage Madurai
Heritage Madurai rings with historic charm that echoes in every hallway and every room. Lounge by the Olympic-sized temple tank pool, or luxuriate in a plunge pool in your own private villa. Dine under a 200 years old banyan tree, serenaded by bird calls while enjoying the perfect meal prepared by your own personal chef, perfectly tempered to your particular taste buds. Take a leisurely ‘historic’ walk through the corridors where every stone has a story to tell. There is more to Heritage Madurai.
Cardamom House
Cardamom house situated at kamaraj Lake near Athoor, nestling in the unbelievably beautiful foothills of the Western Ghats. It was established in 1996 by British physician Dr. Chris Lucas.
Carlton Kodai
Discover a paradise beside a lake amidst virgin hills at The Carlton, a 5 star hotel in Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu. It is the epitome of beauty, serenity and colonial charm. The Carlton is one of the most famous hotels near Kodaikanal lake and holds the distinction of being one of the best 5-star resorts in Kodaikanal. It is in proximity to major tourist attraction in Kodaikanal, sprawling over acres of space and shimmering by the banks of the lake.
Ganapat Grand
Ganpat Grand Hotel is promoted by Mr. N. Hariharamuthu. It has been over 27 years since Mr. N. Hariharamuthu, with an experience of more than 2 decades in the field of hospitality laid out his vision to provide excellent quality of service to the pilgrims of Palani. His mission is to achieve consistent customer satisfaction and also to develop properties in various pilgrim cities.
Kaivalyam Retreat
Kaivalyam a holistic health retreat in midst of the natural surroundings of tea valleys of Munnar, state of Kerala, India is an ideal place to bring about a harmony of body, mind, and soul. Set amidst a calm, peaceful, and scenic surroundings, Kaivalyam Retreat provides a year-round destination to travelers to indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, Yoga, Meditation along with satvik dining.
House Boat
The houseboats are luxuriously furnished and encompass a thatched protected living room and dining area, and relying on the dimensions some of bedrooms that usually encompass a twin or double beds (with mosquito nets) and a rest room with lavatory and washbasin. As you embark the boat at noon, you may be received within the conventional backwater fashion with garlands and a clean drink of coconut water instantly up from the coconut itself – a simply fresh begin to a remarkable cruise.
Light House Fort Kochi
Chic luxury heritage boutique hotel in Fort Kochi. This is the latest treasure that has been created with great outdoor dining by the sea, one of the only spas that offers both western and traditional treatments in the area, and an infinity pool with great views of the sea and the English style garden. The indoor lounge is fantastic for a relaxing evening. The lighthouse bears witness to many a ship passing by and the ships that sail by seem to walk into the property.
Route Map
Gallery
FAQ
Should I book my vacation in advance ?
It is advisable to book your tour as early as possible. During holiday periods from Oct-March hotels across South India remain full. Please contact us and we would be glad to help with dates and planning.
Do you offer Private Honeymoon Trips ?
Yes. An experience with us has all the ingredients for a perfect honeymoon. Custom made just for you and your dearest spouse. Romantic destinations like Munnar and Marari Beach offer exquisite lodgings and cuisine. And engaging activities—as much or as little, as easy or as challenging, as desired. It’s the ultimate wedding present. Just call us at + 91-9562442992 or email us at [email protected] Buzz us to customize your cycling holiday in India.
Can “India Bicycle Trips\” provide references to make an informed decision ?
Surely. Your tour consultant will be happy to give you contacts of people who have participated in the trip you’re considering.
What kind of fitness level do I need to enjoy a trip ?
A minimum fitness level is required for our Casual and Premium Bicycle trips. In the case of a Shared or Group tour please make sure you have good fitness levels to bike long distance and keep pace with the rest of the group. Day tours require basic biking skills. The concept of traveling on a bi-cycle is to take in the aromas and to see a real world. Join us to experience a real India.
Accommodation / Meals
The properties that we have suggested in the itinerary are standard and premium properties we use and include heritage hotels, Eco-lodges and Plantation Retreats. Indian food is mainly vegetarian and spicy but not hot curry. A typical meal consists of rice, Chappathy, fish, and vegetables. There is an abundance of fresh fruit and fish. Mineral water is widely available and carried on the support vehicle.
Do I have to carry any biking gear ?
All that you need to carry is your camera, tissues, sun-screen and gloves. The leaders transport your luggage between hotels. They’ll also gladly pick up and transport any purchases you make along the way. Necessary accessories will be provided on tour.
Is it safe to ride in India ?
Routes we take you on are routes we’ve biked ourselves over and over again. Activities we’ve planned on these trips are activities we love and those you’d love too. Our routes are safe ! Most often using those through village and back-roads with minimum or zero traffic. India is a safe place and with us you can expect to be a 100% safe and secure. This is our guarantee.
Riding Flexibility ?
We will also be having a back-up vehicle accompanying through-out the tour and therefore, the cycling distance mentioned in the itinerary can be made flexible depending on your interest and fitness level.
Our Bikes / Equipment
Our bikes are fitted with standard flat pedals. If you would like to bring your own pedals, clips and saddle and fit them to our bikes you are welcome to do so. We recommend you wear a helmet on the tour we do not hire helmets so please bring your helmet. We will be taking care of all the bike spares.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of joining our trips that you must be adequately insured. Polices should cover potential risks involved in a mountain cycling holiday. We ask for details of your policy to be provided prior to travel. We recommend that you arrange your travel insurance at the same time as booking your holiday so that you are covered in the event of cancellation.
Vaccinations
There are no compulsory vaccinations for foreign visitors but we strongly recommended that you should contact your doctor at least 3 months prior to travel to obtain these vaccinations and the latest advice to travelers. Expert advice on medication should be sought.
First Aid
Our guides carry a medical kit. We recommend that you bring your own first aid supplies including: a broad spectrum anti-biotic, antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, a cold medication, diarrhea treatment, pain killers, plasters, insect repellent and re-hydration salts.
Tips for Local Guides and Drivers
Tipping is an accepted part of everyday life, and although it is always at your discretion, you will be expected to tip to reward service. £25 for the guide and team at the end of the tour is recommended.
Personal Expenses
Spending money depends on your taste for souvenirs, drinks etc. We estimate that £200 will be more than enough to cover the 14-day tour.
Can I have my own room ?
Our prices are based on double occupancy (two people per room). We will endeavor to find a roommate for those guests who wish to share a room. Please write to us at [email protected] for single occupancy rates.
Do you provide bikes for children ?
We provide bikes for children of all ages. With routes that are safe, bikes of apt size and guides as caring and loving, you couldn’t ask for a more personalized tour.
Can you provide me with references from previous tours ?
Yes. Your Trip Consultant will be happy to give you contacts of people who have participated in the trip you’re considering.
Can I bring my own bike ?
Of course you could get your own bike. Please make sure to bring along necessary tools and spares as we do not guarantee availability of spares for personal bikes.
Is India Bicycle Trips a registered firm ?
India Bicycle Trips is a part of a registered company called ” In Sight Bicycle Trips Pvt Limited ” head quartered in Cochin, Kerala. In-Sight Bicycle Trips Pvt Ltd is a company formed in 2010 and has been successful in offering tours both leisure and active holidays to its guests from all over the world. For any information, please feel free to write to us and we would be glad to clarify.