Cycle Southern India - Coast To Coast

Cycle through two distinctively different Indian states
Sample delicious local cuisine including piquant Chettinad curries
A unique opportunity to stay in two different palatial mansions

The two southernmost states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala perfectly depict the contrasting nature of India. Seeing them on two wheels gives us an excellent opportunity to soak up the rich culture and appreciate the different landscapes as we cycle by.

Tamil Nadu sees far fewer visitors than other Indian states, but this is part of the attraction as we follow quiet backroads from the fertile coastal plains in the east to the remarkable hills of the Western Ghats which form the border with Kerala.

Our ride takes us past some of the most impressive sites of southern India, including the former French colony of Pondicherry and the magnificent Meenakshi Temple at Madurai.

After cycling through the cooler highlands and tea estates of the Western Ghats we reach the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, where a relaxing houseboat cruise offers the chance to unwind and reflect on a memorable journey.

What makes this trip responsible?

We have an excellent long-term relationship with the local operator who employs and trains all leaders. We provide refresher training with a focus on Responsible Tourism, so our local leaders can educate our clients locally on helping to preserve the way of life in their area. Many local restaurants and shops are also used to purchase items throughout this trip which benefits the local community.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: India

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Arrive Chennai; transfer to Pondicherry via the shore temples of Mahabalipuram.

Day 3

Circular ride passing the spiritual commune of Auroville. After lunch in the old quarter the afternoon is free.

Day 4

Pleasant ride along village roads to experience the rural life of Southern India. After a short transfer our afternoon ride heads to Kumbakonam, famed for its bronze deity casting.

Day 5

Riverside ride to the 16th Century Nayak's capital of Thanjavur; afternoon free to visit the town and Royal Palace.

Day 6

Long ride through the Tamil Nadu heartland to Chettinad, renowned for it palatial mansions.

Day 7

Scenic backroads ride to Madurai a highlight of any trip to India.

Day 8

Free morning to visit this magnificent temple city. Transfer to lunch then ride past Indian vineyards before a final ascent into the Western Ghats and our night stop at Thekkady.

Day 9

Free day to relax and stroll around this hill station or visit the nearby Periyar National Park.

Day 10

A hilly days ride through the tea estates with a refreshing stop at a tea factory; after lunch ride one of the most scenic roads in Kerala to Vagamon.

Day 11

Cycle through rubber and spice plantations to Kottayam, the Syrian Christian heartland of Kerala.

Day 12

Free morning to explore or relax by the lake before boarding a houseboat for a stunning backwater cruise.

Day 13

Final ride along the coast road to Fort Cochin, stopping at Marari for lunch.

Day 14

Free day in Fort Cochin with its Chinese fishing nets.

Day 15

Fly to London.

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Exodus images from CYCLE SOUTHERN INDIA - COAST TO COAST

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Cyclist overtaking bullock cart, near Pondicherry

Sunset over Chinese Fishing nets in Cochin

Local woman being blessed by elephant, inside Shree Meenakshi Temple, Madurai

Cyclists surrounded by crowd of curious children

Cyclist overtaking bullock cart, near Pondicherry