Despite being less visited compared to the north, South India is no less exciting and vibrant. Its astonishingly diverse scenery, architecture, culture and the people are a pleasure to experience. This fascinating bicycle journey through India’s tropical south is a perfect holiday for biking enthusiasts and trekkers alike.
At the southern tip of India the state of Kerala, and to its north, the state of Karnataka, encapsulate everything that is magical about this tropical region; traditional towns, a mix of mountainous and coastal landscape, endless white-sand beaches and sensational south Indian cuisine. Starting out from Mysore and ending up in Trivandrum, this easy-paced cycling holiday provides a great way to explore this colourful part of India. Heading south, the ride passes through the cool heights of the Western Ghats where the sanctuaries at Bandipur and Mudumalai rear wild elephants, tigers and leopards in their jungles and bamboo forests.
After crossing the hill-station of Ooty at 2240 metres in the Nilgiri Hills, a rolling hill-country ride and amazing descent takes us into Kerala, where we cycle round old forts and religious rock shrines as well as through colourful villages where rural life has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Heading south again, we spend a day in the old port of Kochi and enjoy a homestay and an overnight houseboat cruise on the ‘backwaters’, the vast network of channels and lakes, before the final coastal ride to Varkala for a chance to laze on the beach and reflect on an unforgettable experience of rural India.
Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
Arrive at the international airport of Bangalore. Transfer to hotel in Mysore. Afternoon visit the central bazaar and the magnificent Maharaja's Palace. Late afternoon reassemble bikes. Overnight Hotel
Morning leisurely ride to Srirangapatna. Visit Tipu Sultan’s palace and Ranganatha Swamy Temple. Cycle up the Chamundi Hill to see Shiva’s 5-metre high bull, Nandi. (40kms) Overnight Hotel
Riding through many villages reach Nanjangud and visit the impressive Srikanteshwara Temple. Afternoon, a jeep safari in the Bandipur National Park. Overnight Hotel
Morning another optional safari. Early afternoon ride to the adjacent, Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu. Afternoon free. Evening optional visit to nearby orphanage. (33 kms) Overnight Hotel
Mudumalai N.P to Ooty Hill station (Cycling 25 kms) Today cycle from Madumalai to the hill-station of Ootacamund (2240m). Afternoon is free to explore the town. Overnight Hotel
Today cycle through Nilgiri Hills to Guruvayur on the coast to avoid a section with busier roads. Ride all the way to the hotel. (85 kms). Overnight Hotel
Today ride to Chavakkad Beach and through Thrissur district to Sri Krishna Temple at Guruvayur. Watch evening puja, - a gorgeous spectacle to watch and enjoy. (55 kms) Overnight Hotel
Cycle to Cochin. Stop on the way at some beach to relax and have lunch. Ride further to Kochi. Take a ferry before arriving at the hotel. (85 kms) Overnight Hotel
Free day to explore the town of Cochin. Afternoon visit to Mattancherry Palace, synagogue and the Chinese fishing nets. Afternoon free. Overnight Hotel
Ride along the main road all the way to Alleppey. Arrive at traditional Keralan house near Alleppey for overnight stay. Overnight Homestay
After breakfast explore the town on bicycles or on foot. In the afternoon board a boat for afternoon cruise and overnight stay. Overnight Houseboat
This morning after breakfast leave the boat and ride support vehicle to begin final leg of the cycling tour along the coast road. Stop over for lunch and continue our ride to Varkala. Overnight Hotel
Today is a free day to relax on the beach or to explore Varkala further. Overnight Hotel
Today there is a departure transfer to the International Airport at Trivandrum.
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
Suitable for families with young children
Highest Point (Max altitude)
Fitness Grade
5-7 hours activity per day with steep uphill and downhill sections or high passes. Some days at high altitudes, good level of physical fitness recommended.
With a dedicated focus on active, experiential tours and exciting new destinations, ACTIVE INDIA specialises in active, outdoor adventures, cultural discovery and wildlife tours across India for families, small groups and independent travellers.
Enjoy complete flexibility in planning and booking your tours with Active India for a truly personalised India holiday that fits your budget and requirements.
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