Day 1: Kochi (D)
Meet your trip leader at the hotel post-lunch at 13:00 hrs, and head out to see Fort Kochi by bike.
One of the foremost trading hubs on the western coast of India, Fort Kochi drew colonial interest with its aromatic spices. Along with traders from China, Portugal, Arabs, and Holland came a cocktail of religions, cultural practices, and diverse food. Kerala owes its cosmopolitan vibe to the traders who braved the seas to come to this land.
In the evening, we convene over dinner at a seaside restaurant known for its seafood and Indian delicacies.
Day 2: Alleppey (B, L, D)
A classic coastal ride along a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach on one side and serene backwaters on the other. See the birdlife in action with egrets, cormorants, herons, kites, kingfishers, ducks, and many more species. We make a short stop to see the art of making traditional boats, locally called “Kettuvallom”. These wooden boats are made for both the backwaters and sea.
We may also see coconuts split and sun-dried outdoors. These dried coconuts are later pressed in nearby oil mills to make coconut oil. From curries to Ayurvedic oils, coconut products are essential to daily life here.
Other common sights: people collecting clams by diving into the backwaters, small village fish markets and auction centres, women carrying fish door-to-door, fishermen returning from sea, and Christian churches every few kilometers.
We continue cycling through fishing villages, lush coconut groves, and abundant fish farms.
The ride finishes at your hotel in Alleppey.
Day 3: Vagamon (B, L, D)
From the below-sea-level villages of Alleppey to the hill station of Vagamon, the landscape transforms from rice fields and lakes to rubber plantations and valleys.
We take a one-hour vehicle transfer to the cycling start point. A hilly ride follows, with both dips and steep climbs, but the shade of plantations helps make the challenge easier. The last 15 km is uphill all the way to the hotel.
Vagamon is an enchanting hill station where you can relax or indulge in outdoor activities such as easy hikes or nature trails.
Day 4: Thekkady (B, L, D)
This is a beautiful ride - from the tea gardens of Vagamon to the Cardamom Hills of Thekkady, passing coffee plantations along the way. It’s the last day in the hills and another rewarding challenge.
The birdlife is abundant, with mynas, parakeets and drongos calling and darting between trees.
Thekkady and its surroundings are renowned for forests and spice plantations. The queen of spices, cardamom, is native to these hills.
Day 5: Madurai (B, L, D)
We take in spectacular views of the Western Ghats before descending into the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu.
Cycling through villages with banana plantations, vegetable farms, vineyards and windmills, we reach the town of Theni. Post-ride, we transfer about two hours by vehicle to Madurai.
Madurai is one of South India’s oldest cities and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries. This is where Mahatma Gandhi decided, in 1921, to wear khadi (homespun cloth), and the tradition remains strong here today.
Day 6: Chettinad (B, L, D)
It is best to visit the main temple early in the morning when it is less busy. Meenakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati. The temple forms the heart and lifeline of the 2,500-year-old city of Madurai and has 14 magnificent gopurams, including two gilded towers.
We then ride to Chettinad, famous for its cuisine, architecture and temples. Look forward to your stay at Chettinad Mansion, a more-than-100-year-old palatial home in Kanadukathan village.
Day 7: Chettinad (B, L, D)
Today is at leisure and you may plan your own activities.
Chettinad is home to the Chettiar community, a wealthy merchant class from Tamil Nadu. With palatial houses that hosted celebrations and rituals, the village reflects its glorious past. Many of these 18th-century mansions were built with materials imported from East Asia and Europe.
Chettinad cuisine is known as one of India’s most aromatic and spiciest regional cuisines. The freshly-ground masalas give it its distinct character. At the Mansion, you can learn to cook Chettinad dishes with the local Aachi (elder lady).
Aathangudy village, around 10 km away, is famous for its handmade tiles. More than a hundred small-scale tile workshops operate here, all by hand.
Chettinad cotton textiles are still woven on traditional handlooms. A short walk from the Mansion leads to one such workshop.
Day 8: Thanjavur (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we ride into the adjoining temple village of Thanjavur. The UNESCO-listed Brihadishwara Temple is the highlight here, along with the large Maratha palace complex. Thanjavur is dotted with beautiful living temples.
This region is also known for Thanjavur dolls and Thanjavur paintings.
Day 9: Kumbakonam (B, L, D)
Today is a classic ride through small villages, with rice fields on one side and the Kaveri River on the other.
Kumbakonam dates back to a historically significant period and was ruled by many powerful dynasties including the Cholas, Pallavas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar Empire and others. It became especially prominent between the 7th and 9th centuries. Under British rule it was nicknamed the “Cambridge of South India”.
Kumbakonam is renowned for its temples, with over 180 within the town limits and several thousand in the surrounding area - earning it the title “City of Temples”.
Day 10: Pondicherry (B, L, D)
The ride to Pondicherry is long but not difficult, with flat roads and coastal winds. You’ll pass fishing villages and salt plains. Formerly a French colony, Pondicherry is a charming seaside town with cobblestone boulevards, French-style architecture, bright cafés, and the famous Aurobindo Ashram.
In the evening, explore the old town. Walk along Goubert Avenue, where the sea breeze gathers locals and visitors alike.
Day 11: Pondicherry (B)
Today’s ride is optional. You may enjoy your own plans or ride with us to Auroville.
Auroville is a unique township envisioned as a universal community beyond nationality, politics, and religion. It now includes over 80 settlements and ~1800 residents across 20 km.
You can visit the Visitor Centre, enjoy the cafés, or learn about its philosophy. You can also try surfing in the mild waves or do a beginner scuba dip.
Day 12: Mahabalipuram (B, L, D)
After breakfast, enjoy a gorgeous coastal ride to Mahabalipuram along the East Coast Road. You may detour into secluded beaches for a quick dip. Cycling is easy with no climbs, but proper hydration is crucial due to humidity.
Mahabalipuram is famous for its ancient rock carvings, especially the Shore Temple. It was once the Pallava rulers’ second capital and seaport. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with monuments from the 7th to 9th century. As you enter the village, you’ll see artisans chiseling stone sculptures.
Day 13: Chennai (B, L)
Mahabalipuram is a small town easily explored on foot. It wakes to the sound of sculptors shaping granite into artworks, many of which make excellent souvenirs. Explore the lighthouse and temples.
Later we transfer to Chennai. If time permits, explore the city - where traditional culture meets modern lifestyle. Visit the Mylapore temple district to see pilgrims and bustling colourful streets.
Day 14: Departure (B)
Please make arrangements according to your onward travel schedule.
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