Pickup from Fort Kochi early we surprise you to a spot north-east, a hamlet called ‘Cherukunnam’. This little village is interspersed with canals in all directions. We bike along one of these canal bund roads amid lush green paddy fields, numerous coconut trees and lonely villages leading you to the Edamalayar forests. The Edamalayar forests and the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary are famed for the many species of birds. The birds, the air and the calm breeze boost and rejuvenate your body & mind. Spread around an area of 25 sq km, this sanctuary has more than 200 varieties of birds including the large falcon, grey jungle fowl, white breasted water hen, hornbill etc. Another attraction we head to is the Bhoothathankettu; a scenic dam site. A myth connected with the origin of this place says that this natural fortification of forests and hills was built by Bhoothams (spirit/ghosts) overnight, hence the name Bhoothathankettu (fort of the spirits). Through this extraordinary experience, you will stay at exquisite resorts/camps basking in the natural and effortless splendor of Kerala. Kayaking and Plantation walks followed by exquisite food on an Indian platter.

Your tour today starts at a spot right outside old Munnar after a refreshing cup of the area’s famous tea. Not too far-away you’re already getting to know why we rave about Munnar. It’s green, green and it’s green. Only if we had names of the thousand different greens you could notice! Small rivulets, light drizzles, strong winds, mist clad hills and the highest peak in South-India are all a part of your experience today. Past Mattupatty dam famous for its “Neelakurinji” blue flowers that blooms once in 12 years (next show in 2018) and the rare mountain goats called Nilgiri Thar.

After breakfast, we will start cycling towards Lock Heart Gap, to enjoy the scenic viewpoint Bison Valley. From here, you’ll enjoy the downhill all the way before turning in to reach your camp at Suryanelli atop a hill. Past Chinnakanal and you’re off the road and off your bike to click away with the colourful, all-smiles tea pickers of Munnar. Be sure to check out the stars and the amazing food at the camp. The camp can be cold at night – please carry any essentials such as sweaters and gloves.

After a hot cup of tea and a late breakfast, you are back on the saddle for the last ride through the country-side. Biking on routes less travelled and on those out of the tourist circuit, the experience is going to be hard to forget. Your trip ends with lunch offering the best fruits Munnar produces, all sourced from the local market. A Cab transfer takes you back to the plains of Kochi and it is the end of a power packed cycling holiday in rural India.