Kerala,South India & Goa Tour
Cycling Tour of the Magical Backwaters in Kerala
Kochi • Thattekad • Munnar • Periyar • Vagamon • Kumarakom • Alleppey • Cochin
10 Days / 9 Nights
Pedalling across the breezy coastline of India sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? Cyclomania in India brings that dream to life with a thoughtfully designed cycling tour through Kerala’s magical backwaters . Over 10 unforgettable days, you’ll ride through lush hills, spice-scented plantations, and palm-fringed lagoons while enjoying close encounters with wildlife, village life, and timeless architecture.
This is the ideal trip for travellers who love nature and culture in equal measure. From birdwatching in Thattekad to cruising Alleppey’s serene canals, and from the tea gardens of Munnar to the tranquil shores of Kumarakom, every moment is a postcard.
Tour Snapshot
- Route Highlights: Kochi • Thattekad • Munnar • Periyar • Vagamon • Kumarakom • Alleppey • Cochin
- Daily Riding: 0–80 km with support vehicle available anytime
- Terrain: Urban roads, countryside lanes, rainforest descents, coastal flats, and challenging mountain climbs (36 hairpin bends to Ooty)
- Best Season: October to March
- Bikes: Mountain bikes (sizes 13–21), helmets, pedals, bottles
- Meals: Breakfast daily + most lunches and dinners
- Stays: Comfortable hotels/resorts (twin-share)
- Support: Cycling guide, first-aid kit, backup AC vehicle
- Flex: Bring your own bike (tell us in advance)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive at Cochin International Airport where our guides greet you and transfer you to a hotel in Fort Kochi. After lunch and introductions, collect and test your bikes. Explore the heritage lanes lined with Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture. Visit St. Francis Church, the burial site of Vasco da Gama, stroll the Jewish markets, and watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets at sunset.
Accommodation: Hotel Arches or similar
Meals: Dinner | Cycling: None
Pedal 60 km northeast through coconut plantations and tropical forests to Thattekad, home to the renowned Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Spot exotic birds like Indian Pitta, blue kingfisher, and emerald dove—or simply enjoy the tranquil village life.
Accommodation: Birds Lagoon or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 60 km
Cycling route map link:View Map
A challenging 50 km climb leads to the misty tea plantations of Munnar, set 1,500 m above sea level. The first 15 km is easy; from Neriamangalam, the uphill ride begins. Capture endless vistas of the Western Ghats and rolling valleys.
Accommodation: The Leaf or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 50 km
Cycling route map link:View Map
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing: explore Eravikulam National Park (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr) and the ancient rock paintings and dolmens of Marayoor’s sandalwood forests.
Accommodation: The Leaf or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: None
Cycle 100 km through rolling hills, tea and cardamom plantations, and cloud-laden viewpoints like Lockhart Gap. Stop at Anaerangal Lake before reaching Periyar, famous for its tiger reserve and spice plantations. Optional wildlife safari included.
Accommodation: Mountain Courtyard / Wild Corridor or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 100 km
Begin with gentle descents through Kuttikanam to Vagamon, a quiet hill station with misty tea gardens, pine forests, and panoramic spots like Kurisumala Monastery.
Accommodation: Vagamon Heights / Summer or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 50 km
Cycling route map link:View Map
Descend from pine-clad hills to the backwaters of Kumarakom. En route, stop at Kottayam to admire ancient churches like St. Mary’s Orthodox Church. In Kumarakom, enjoy a village walk and sample authentic Kerala cuisine.
Accommodation: Lake Song or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 50 km
Cycling route map link: View Map
A short 40 km ride brings you to Alleppey, where you board a private houseboat for a serene cruise through palm-fringed canals and lagoons. Relax as you watch village life and glowing sunsets over Kerala’s famous backwaters.
Accommodation: Premium Houseboat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 40 km
Cycling route map link: View Map
Cycle 30 km through Vembanad Lake, Kuppappuram, and Chennamkary. Visit Chavara Shrine with its 250-year-old beacon and enjoy village encounters among paddy fields and coconut groves.
Accommodation: Kadavil Lakeshore Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Cycling: 30 km
End the tour with an optional 40 km ride back to Cochin or take a comfortable drive to Cochin International Airport for departure.
Meals: Breakfast | Cycling: Optional
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Mountain bike hire (sizes 13–21) with helmet, pedals, and water bottles
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Accommodation in boutique hotels, eco-resorts, and premium houseboats (twin share)
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All meals as per itinerary (Breakfast & Dinner daily; packed or mid-way lunches)
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Expert cycling guide and mechanic; full backup AC vehicle
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All road taxes, tolls, parking, driver and guide allowances
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First-aid kit and unlimited drinking water
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International and domestic flights
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Personal insurance, tips, beverages, laundry, telephone bills
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Optional sightseeing and expenses not mentioned under inclusions
Accommodation
Comfortable culture/eco/family-run stays with consistent service. Prices are twin-share; single rooms available at extra cost.
Terrain
Coastal flats, rolling hillocks and village streets; occasional rough patches and heat exposure—start early, hydrate often.
Climate
Warm and humid. Monsoon (July–August) brings heavy rain; October–March is best for riding with cooler mornings.
Transport & Support
All transfers included. Backup vehicle carries luggage, spares, water and offers lifts whenever you’d like a break from riding.
Food & Water
Fresh, flavorful meals with vegetarian or non-vegetarian options. Drink only sealed bottled/filtered water—provided during rides and transfers.
Health & Etiquette
Areas are malaria-free. Dress modestly for churches/temples and rural areas. Avoid raw street ice and unsealed water.
What to Bring
- Cycling gloves, padded shorts, bike shoes
- Light breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses, SPF 35+ sunscreen, mosquito repellent
- Light waterproof, small personal OTC kit
- Optional personal bike gear (pedals, saddle, helmet)
Money, Shopping & Admin
ATMs in towns; carry cash for small shops and beach shacks. Guides don’t take commissions unless requested. Exchange rates: check xe.com. No separate Indian airport departure taxes (subject to change).
Ready to Ride?
Fill the form below to reserve your spot or request itinerary changes. Pedal into a journey where every turn reveals South India’s natural beauty and living heritage.