Cycling in Kerala
Kerala is a wonderful part of India and this trip takes in some fantastic cycling with amazing scenery.
The holiday starts and finishes in Cochin taking in the hill stations and tea plantations of Munnar, the cardomom fields of Thodupuzha and the backwaters of Kumarakom, with a daily mileage of around 60km and some longish ascents (and descents!) and plenty of stops for refreshments and photographs, this moderately challenging trip is suitable for all regular cyclists.
Accommodation is in some lovely hotels and, on the backwaters, a houseboat. As we make the return journey towards Cochin we will be cycling along the Old Beach Road, an experience definitely not to be missed.
The weather will be pleasantly warm, around 23 to 25 degrees, providing a perfect remedy to the British winter.
India High Places began in India in 1987 when our very first trip set off to trek in the Garhwal Himalayas in north India. We have gradually widened our destinations and now also go to Ladakh, Sikkim as well as Kerala. If you are looking for an authentic and active holiday in India, we are the specialists. Moreover we hold India in great respect and have a deep regard for the land and its peoples.
To travel with High Places and our sister company Pedal Nation Cycle Tours will disprove many of the myths you might hold and leave you with a sense of wonder and incredulity. There is a life force in India, which we may already have lost in the west. You must come and see for yourself.
There are 14 major languages in India and around 200 minor languages and dialects. Malayalam is the spoken language in Kerala. It came as a shock to discover that our hard-learnt Hindi was virtually useless here. English is often spoken but is not as widespread as in other parts of India.
Highlights
- Cycle through Western Ghat Mountains
- Tea gardens
- Cycle along the backwater lagoons
- Overnight in Houseboat
Accommodation
On this trip, all of the places we stay are friendly and with character, and in diverse locations. For example we will be staying in a comfortable guesthouse in Munnar and later on in the tour on a beautifully crafted kettuvallam (houseboat) on the backwaters.
All accommodation is double or twin share unless a single supplement has been confirmed.
Meals
Breakfast is included throughout the trip; on some days lunch and dinner is included. This allows you the option of trying a wide range of local restaurants which is very much part of the adventure. Cuisine in Kerala is delicious. Vegetables and fish spiced with pepper, turmeric, cardamom and ginger, tempered with coconut milk and yoghurts make for many memorable meals during the trip.
And the masala dosas!!
In the Tour Plan, (B, L, D) refers to meals included in the trip cost i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Flights
Flights costs are not included in the tour, however we are happy to give you advice or book your flights for you.
Tour Plan
The route of this tour is flexible and should be seen as a guide only. Local conditions, weather or fitness could lead to changes in our daily plans. All times and distances are approximate.
Download the Kerala Itinerary
- Destination
- Depart fromThattekad, India (via Cochin International Airport)
- Return fromCochin, India
- Road surfacesMostly flat with a couple of hilly days at the start. Tarmac, off road (conditions can vary).
- Bike TypeMountain bike
- IncludedCycling in KeralaAccommodationLunchCycling guideVehicle supportBaggage transferBike hireAirport transfers
- Not IncludedEvening meals (unless specified)GPX filesTravel to start & from finishInternational flightsTravel insuranceVisas
Arrive in Cochin (Kochi: population 602,000)
Thattekad to Munnar
Munnar: Western Ghats panoramic views - Tea plantations and Top Station
Munnar to Thodupuzha
Kerala’s Wetland on the House Boat at Kumarakom
Cycle amongst the fishermen and farmers in Kerala Backwaters
Coastal town of Alleypey – Evening visit local village
Alleppey to Cochin
Departure Day
TOUR DATES
Friday 12th to Sunday 21st February 2021 |
£1390 per person |
Spaces Available |
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Friday 8th to Sunday 17th October 2021 |
£1290 per person |
Spaces Available |
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Friday 11th to Sunday 20th February 2022 |
£1390 per person |
Spaces Available |
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