Itinerary:
India - Kerala Cycling Holiday

Kerala & Tamil Nadu

Day 1: Trivandrum

redspokes Kerala and Tamil Nadu cycling tour commencing in Trivandrum. Upon your arrival, regardless of the time, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a group briefing, followed by bike assembly for a scenic 15km ride to Kovalam Beach, immersing yourself in the coastal charm. Take in the breathtaking views, relax on the sandy shores, and embrace the vibrant local culture. Anticipate the journey ahead with a blend of excitement and relaxation.

Cycling Distance: 15km
Accommodation: Hotel (D)

Day 2: Trivandrum to Madurai

There is time this morning to wander along the beach here amongst the fisherman as they sell their catch of the day before we take a train to Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The journey will give us an insight into South Indian daily life. We travel along dense palm tree-lined track, with views from your carriage of village women tending to their washing and men playing cards outside brightly painted houses. Our bicycles will be transported by road.

Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 3: Madurai to Maglamkhumu

We begin the day with an early morning visit to the magnificent Meenakshi temple. After breakfast at our hotel and a short vehicle transfer to Nilakottai where our cycling begins through the rural villages of Tamil Nadu. We will stop for a packed lunch then continue riding along an old narrow road which rises from the plains as we cycle up into the hills enjoying views across semi-desert land interspersed with lush green palm plantations.

Cycling Distance: 35.5km (22 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,450m (4,757ft)
Cycling Descent: 326m (1,070ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 4: Maglamkhumu to Kodaikanal

Today redspokes Kerala and Tamil Nadu tour continues with a stunning ride to the cooler climate in the hill station town of Kodaikanal. There is a long climb over 1200m; we pass the 60m high Silver Cascade falls right beside the road on this afternoon's ride. Our exertions will be rewarded with dramatic scenic views of the plains below as we end the day.

Cycling Distance: 48km (30 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,394m (4,573ft)
Cycling Descent: 810m (2,657ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 5: Kodaikanal Rest Day

You have the chance to relax in pleasant surroundings today after yesterday's cycle or go walking. Known as 'the princess of hill stations' Kodaikanal has beautiful views, forested areas and waterfalls. You can take a boat ride on the man-made star shaped lake.

Conclude your day with a visit to the local markets, sampling delicious homemade chocolates and picking up handcrafted souvenirs, adding a touch of local charm to your rejuvenating day in this enchanting hill station.

Altitude: 2,133m (6,998ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Day 6: Kodaikanal to Palani

Our day begins with a 15km undulating ride before we cycle a continuous 40km downhill. We continue our long, winding cycle downhill away from forest and coffee plantations to the arid plains at a low of 300 metres. Just outside Palani town we will have lunch at a local restaurant. Palani is a famous and densely occupied Hindu pilgrim town.

Cycling Distance: 61km (38 miles)
Cycling Climb: 350m (1,148ft)
Cycling Descent: 2,326m (7,631ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7: Palani to Marayoor

Today we cycle through Indira Gandhi National Park and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to Marayoor. Be prepared to encounter the rich biodiversity of the region, including spotted deer, langurs, and various species of vibrant birds. The refreshing air, lush greenery, and occasional panoramic views make each turn an opportunity for awe and appreciation.

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.

Cycling Distance: 75m (46.5 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,046m ( 3,432ft)
Cycling Descent: 383m (1,256ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8: Marayoor to Chinnakanal

As you pedal away from Marayoor, surrounded by the lush expanse of sugarcane fields and the ancient dolmens that dot the region, you'll experience the unique blend of nature and history.

Cycling through the winding roads, the fragrance of sandalwood forests and the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats unfold, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey. As you ascend towards Chinnakanal, the cool mountain air and the gurgling sounds of nearby streams accompany you, creating a refreshing ambiance.

Marvel at the tea plantations that carpet the hillsides, showcasing the vibrant green hues synonymous with the region. The undulating terrain presents a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents, offering a thrilling experience for cycling enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a nature enthusiast yearning for scenic beauty, todays cycle ride promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Kerala's mesmerising landscapes.

Cycling Distance: 55km (34 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,580m (5,184ft)
Altitude Gain: 1,014m (3,415ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 9: Chinnakanal to Thekkady

Todays route takes you through winding roads that wind their way through lush forests, spice plantations, and charming villages. The air is infused with the scent of spices, providing a sensory delight as you pedal through the aromatic landscapes.

Cycling through this undulating terrain, you'll encounter challenging ascents and thrilling descents, each turn revealing panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The journey offers glimpses of wildlife and birdlife, adding a touch of adventure to your ride.

Approaching Thekkady, the landscape transforms into dense forests and the promise of Periyar National Park, renowned for its wildlife and pristine beauty. As you reach Thekkady, the vibrant marketplaces and the welcoming aroma of local cuisine provide a perfect conclusion to a great cycling day.

Cycling Distance: 90km (56 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,480m (4,856ft)
Down/Descent: 2,120m (6,955ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 10: Thekkady - Rest Day

Non-cycling day. After a leisurely breakfast you have to opportunity to explore Periyar National Park, a beautiful area of lush evergreen and deciduous forest serving as home to various animals such as deer, elephants, sambar, Nilgiri Langurs. There is a watch tower within the park that offers wonderful views of the surrounding area. You could take a guided tour of a spice plantations. You might want to visit nearby town Kumily and take a walk through the market where you will find spiced chocolates, spiced preserves, specialty teas and coffee, or have a rejuvenating ayurvedic massage.

Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Day 11: Thekkady to Vagamon Village

The first 25km of our journey is along well surfaced rolling road through tea plantations. We can stop along the way to visit a plantation. After lunch, on our route towards Vagamon village, we follow quiet twisting back roads through moorland, complete with dry stone walls. The area bears an uncanny resemblance to a British moorland, with the exception that the bushes are tea plants rather than gorse.

Cycling Distance: 53km (33 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,055m (3,461ft)
Down/Descent: 840m (2,756ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 12: Vagamon Village to the Inland Waterways

We enjoy a morning of easy riding as we cycle from Vagamon to the Inland Waterways passing through quaint rubber plantations. We will board houseboats

locally known as "kettuvallams," at lunch time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings.

As you gently glide along the intricate network of canals, lagoons, and serene water bodies, the lush greenery on either side creates a breathtaking panorama. Tall coconut palms sway in the gentle breeze, and vibrant water lilies adorn the water's surface, reflecting the vibrant hues of the Kerala landscape.

The houseboat, crafted in the traditional style with wooden planks and coconut fiber ropes, provides a comfortable and leisurely vantage point to witness the daily life along the backwaters. Local villages line the shores, offering glimpses into the unhurried pace of rural Kerala, where fishermen cast their nets and women wash clothes by the water's edge.

As night descends, the houseboat provides a cozy haven. Enjoy the gentle lull of the water as you retire to comfortable sleeping quarters, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Stargazing from the open deck, with the reflection of moonlight on the water, completes this enchanting experience.

Cycling Distance: 89km (55 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 639m (2,096ft)
Down/Descent: 1,727m (5,666ft)
Accommodation: Houseboat (B,L,D)

Day 13: Alleppey to Cochin

We disembark at Alleppey late morning and begin a ride through shady coconut palms and sleepy agricultural areas inundated by the backwaters making this one of the only areas where rice paddys grow below sea level. We take a break from cycling, stopping for a picnic lunch you have the opportunity to cool off with a dip in the Arabian Sea. This afternoon we cycle a coastal route through fishing villages to reach Cochin on the Malabar Coast. The town is an intriguing mix of Indian and Chinese influences with fading remains of British and Portuguese architecture. You can visit the Dutch Palace and the 400 year old synagogue or explore spice warehouses and antique shops. There is also an interesting folk lore museum.

Cycle Distance: 60km (37 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 497m (1,630ft)
Down/Descent: 460m (1,509ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)