Cycle Kerala & Tropical India - Exodus Adventure Travels - India

Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

4.7Based on

Carbon neutral

14 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants

14 peopleMaximum group size

16 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Mysore, India

Ends

Varkala, India

Highlights

Discover idyllic southern India by bike, the most immersive way to experience the friendly people and incredible landscapes

Challenge yourself to climb the fabled hairpins of Ooty

Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional rice barge – a classic experience in South India!

Search for monkeys and elephants on a 4x4 safari in Bandipur National Park

Finish at the beach, relaxing in the old hippie trail town of Varkala

Itinerary

Ready to cycle through the lush heart of southern India? Cycle Kerala & Tropical India is a challenging 14-day bicycle tour tailored for experienced travelers who crave both adventure and cultural immersion. Ride from the cool heights of the Western Ghats to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, conquer the famous Ooty hairpin bends, and unwind with off-the-bike experiences like a houseboat stay and a Bandipur National Park safari. The trip concludes in Varkala, where you can relax on the beach after your cycling triumphs. The highlight: exhilarating rides paired with authentic local experiences, all under the support and guidance of expert tour leaders.

day 1 - Adventure starts in Mysore

The adventure begins in Mysore. We usually meet at lunchtime after hotel check-in for a short post-lunch walk around the markets. Late this afternoon we have a bicycle briefing and fitting so that any necessary adjustments and safety checks can be made.

Around 6pm, we gather as a group to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead over a welcome meeting. Your tour leader then arranges a group dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Want more time in Mysore? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative

Meals:Lunch, Dinner

day 2 - Ride to Srirangapatnam ruins; return to Mysore; afternoon to explore the city including the Maharaja Palace

We start with a leisurely morning ride to Srirangapatna, the ruins of Tipu Sultan’s capital, which were destroyed by the British in 1799 during their final battle to secure control of southern India. The fortress stands on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River; once over the bridge, we cycle around the old ramparts, enter Tipu Sultan’s Mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple before riding back to Mysore for lunch.

For lunch, you get your first taste of thali, the southern Indian meal of rice and multiple small curries on a plate, or the typical south Indian masala dosa, a thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter.

In the afternoon, we have a guided tour around Mysore Palace. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the official residence of the Wodeyars, the former royal family of Mysore, which ruled the princely state of Mysore for more than seven centuries. The decor is stunning, if a little bit over the top, and the former maharaja is still in residence in his private quarters.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 3 - Cycle the backroads of Mysore Plateau to Chamarajanagar

We leave the hotel and cycle out of Mysore town up to Chamundi Hill to view the 16.5ft (5m) rock carving of Nandi, Shiva’s celestial bull. There are also good views over the whole of Mysore. We then cycle back down the hill and continue along the quiet backroads, along with the children riding a bike or bus to school. We also share the road with herds of white oxen and women in colourful saris carrying waterpots on their heads.

Our ride takes us through the backroads to a quaint little village where we stop to enjoy a picnic lunch. After a comfortable lunch, some rehydration and rest, we continue to Chamarajanagar. We should arrive at our hotel in Chamarajanagar by late afternoon to relax by the pool or enjoy a cold drink.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

day 4 - Cycle on the backroads to Bandipur National Park

After breakfast, we ride along the villages outside the forest areas to witness village life and continue along the backroads to the outskirts of Bandipur Sanctuary.

We should arrive at our hotel in Bandipur National Park in time for lunch. In the late afternoon, we take a 4×4 safari in the park to see lots of peacocks, spotted deer and monkeys, with the chance to see wild elephants, Indian bison, and, at certain times of the year, the elusive tiger.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

day 5 - Optional ascent to Ooty; free afternoon to explore

Today is the highlight of the trip for some, ascending 4,104ft (1,251m) to Ooty (Ootacamund), a resort town in the Nilgiri Hills and the former summer capital of the Raj.

After an early breakfast, we take local transportation to Kalhatty, a small village on the way up. Due to cycling restrictions to mitigate animal-human conflict, we start our ride just outside the forest area, from the 20th hairpin of the 36 bends. It’s a very steep ride up with stunning vistas at every turn; we have plenty of photo opportunities along the way, which double as rest stops. Reaching the top is a huge achievement and we should all take a moment or two to bathe in our success!

Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed morning and journey up the hill in the support vehicle. After tea and cake at the top, we have an undulating ride into Ooty.

Ooty is called the Queen of the Hill Stations and, although it is now a busy little town, there is lots to see and do. Originally occupied by the tribal Todas, the area came under the East India Company at the end of the 18th century. The British introduced tea, and the hillsides around Ooty are covered in tea gardens.

Arriving late morning, we take lunch in our hotel. The afternoon is free to explore town and sample the local cardamom tea. Both the Botanical Gardens and the Rose Gardens are a short walk from our hotel. In town, there are many shops selling locally grown tea and oils and homemade chocolate.

Upgrade your room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

day 6 - Western Ghats descent through tea plantations; transfer to Guruvayoor in tropical Kerala

After breakfast, we have a stunning ride across the rolling Nilgiri Hills, the backdrop for many Bollywood movies, before starting the dramatic descent, dropping 6,560ft (2,000m) through the hills and tea-covered slopes of the Western Ghats. The ride offers fantastic views over the hills below and there are spectacular viewpoints. After 34mi (54km), we reach Gadalur, a typical Indian town with one long high street selling everything, with shop fronts covered in colourful adverts and cheap children’s toys. We have a tea break here before heading towards Kerala with the final 12.5mi (20km) descent through tropical rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes to our end point at a typical Keralan roadside restaurant.

The bikes are loaded as we enjoy lunch and then transfer (3hr 30min) to Guruvayoor to avoid busy roads. Please note that although the road is not very busy the road surface today is probably the worst of the trip. There are many potholes and the road surface is not even. Please take care and concentrate while cycling.

Arriving in Guruvayoor, we have time to relax before wandering into town to sample delicious Keralan street food and have an evening stroll outside the temple, which comes alive at night. It is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala and the fourth-largest temple in India. The town is filled with devotees dressed in traditional Keralan costume, who come here in their thousands to offer rice, flowers and gold to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 7 - Ride past Guruvayoor Temple; continue to Cherai beach

Today, we cycle by the Shree Krishna Temple. A little further is another religious centre, Palayur Church, one of the oldest churches in India and founded by Saint Thomas the Apostle, who landed in India in 52 CE.

From here, we head towards the coast, cycling along country roads lined with mango and coconut trees. There are plenty of photo opportunities as we observe traditional life. Later, crossing bridges, we cycle onto Vypin Island, arriving at Cherai Beach early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to enjoy this stunning location and swim in the Indian Ocean. Cherai is known for mouth-watering fresh seafood, so for dinner, you could try jhinga kachcia aam kari, a speciality dish from Kerala made with green mango and prawns simmered in coconut milk and spices.

Upgrade your room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 8 - Cycle along coastal roads lined with coconut palms; ferry to Fort Kochi

We set off from our beach location towards the port city of Kochi (formerly Cochin), cycling south and passing through small fishing communities where colourful boats are hauled up along the sands. Turning inland, we see grand houses built with the remittance money from the Gulf States workforce, plus older houses constructed during the British colonial period. Please note, the traffic levels are high for the last 5mi (8km) as we arrive at the main road to board the ferry to the Fort Kochi neighbourhood. This has a unique place in Indian history, and to soak up the atmosphere we spend the next two nights here. After hotel check-in, we wander down to one of the restaurants in the old harbour area for lunch. Those wishing to visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum should do so today, as it is closed on Mondays.

Upgrade your room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 9 - Free day in Kochi to explore the bazaars and the old harbour

Today is a free day to explore Kochi with its bazaars and old harbour area. The Portuguese established a base here, followed by the Dutch, who were forced to hand it over to the British in 1841. A potpourri of Indian and international communities, it is now the bustling commercial capital of Kerala and consists of several islands connected by ferries. Most of the major sights are close by in the neighbouring areas of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Warehouses that smell of tea and spices are lime-washed bright green, yellow and blue; rickety old bikes and hand-painted trucks piled high with goods fill the narrow streets and food stalls stand on every corner.

St Francis Church is close to the hotel. Built by the Portuguese in 1503, it is the burial place of explorer Vasco da Gama and his tomb is inside the church. Further along, you come to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568, it was gifted to the Maharaja of Kochi before the Dutch took it over. Close to the palace is Jewtown and the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 for the Jewish members of the Kochi trading communities, it is adorned with hand-painted tiles from China and elegant Belgian chandeliers, all donations from wealthy merchants. The area around the synagogue, Jew Street, is a heritage zone with many antique and handicraft shops and is excellent for shopping.

For a culinary experience, try the fish market near the Chinese fishing nets, where you can buy the day’s catch and have it cooked to your taste. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities here.

Upgrade your room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

day 10 - Cycle past old Portuguese houses; continue to Muhamma

Riding from Fort Kochi, we pass 500-year-old Portuguese villas, a striking contrast to the tiny fisherman huts dotted along the beach road. Many of these fishing villages are Christian; at the coastal town of Arthunkal, the old stone church dominates the surroundings and is best viewed from the shade of a coconut tree while we have a tea break.

Continuing along the coast road, we head to Muhamma, the start point for backwater trips, and spend the night in a lakeside resort. The tranquil gardens are as relaxing as the Ayurvedic massage and treatments on offer to guests. In the afternoon and early evening, relax on the veranda as backwater life unfurls before you.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

day 11 - Explore Muhamma town before backwater boat trip; overnight on Keralan houseboat

After a lie-in, enjoy an optional 13.5mi (22km) bike ride to explore the village or relax. Around midday, we board a backwater houseboat for an unforgettable trip to Trikunnapuzha. These converted rice barges have two-berth cabins and come with their own cook. With our bikes stacked on the side of the boat, you won’t see the saddle for another 19 hours, so just relax and watch the world pass.

Vessels of all sizes use the lakes and canals that make up this fascinating network of waterways. On one side of the canal, vast paddy fields of iridescent green stretch as far as the eye can see; on the other are fishing nets and coconut trees. As the sun begins to set, the boats are moored together and we gather on deck for sundowners.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

day 12 - Ride to laidback Varkala

We have breakfast on the houseboats as they move from their overnight mooring point to our disembarkation point. Here we meet the support vehicle and set off along a quiet coastal road, passing by Amrithanadamayi Ashram, better known as the Hugging Mama Ashram, a spiritual retreat overlooking the backwaters.

We then join the main road to Quillon and have lunch at a seaside guesthouse: the fish is bought fresh from the market and cooked in mild spice and served with poratta, a favourite Keralan bread. After lunch, we are back on quiet roads for the last 18.5mi (30km) to Varkala, a small laid-back community with coffee bars and yoga schools perched along the clifftop. We spend the next two nights here.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 13 - Free to relax on the beach and try delicious seafood

Today is free to relax and enjoy the beachside location. There are several beach shack restaurants for lunch, serving excellent seafood. Try the tandoori dishes, the clay ovens give a more authentic taste to breads and curries. The last night’s meal is generally at the hotel with a fusion of all your favourite Keralan dishes.

Meals:Breakfast

day 14 - Adventure ends in Varkala

The adventure comes to an end today. Those catching the group transfer to the airport will usually have a very early departure this morning. For everyone else, the trip ends after breakfast.

If you’d like a little longer to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Meals:Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation, All accommodation: 4 Superior nights (hotel), 8 Classic nights (7 hotel, 1 houseboat), 1 Simple night (jungle lodge)

Meals

All breakfasts, 10 lunches and five dinners

Transport

All transport and listed activitiesGroup arrival and departure transfers availableImmersive itinerary with all transport and listed activities

Guide

Tour leader throughout, Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure

Others

Local bike hireAll breakfasts, 10 lunches and five dinnersGroup arrival and departure transfers availableLocal bike hire of a fully serviced Proformance (touring/hybrid) bike

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

4.7

based on 127 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 120+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 820 customer reviews from

&quot;&quot;

Very prompt and excellent service.

2 days ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Cycle Kerala & Tropical India that you might like.

Southern India Coast to Coast Ride

4.8(52 reviews)

Pedal from the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea on the 'Southern India Coast to Coast Ride,' a challenging 14-day bicycle tour crafted for experienced travelers seeking an active and immersive experience. Journey through Tamil Nadu’s tranquil backroads and vibrant temples, then ascend into the lush tea estates of the Western Ghats before unwinding in Kerala’s serene backwaters. With highlights like Pondicherry’s French colonial charm and Madurai’s awe-inspiring Sri Meenakshi Temple, this trip’s USP lies in its unique route—offering rare access to lesser-visited regions and the chance to see southern India’s dramatic contrasts from the saddle.

14 days

Spice Trails of Kerala

4.8(72 reviews)

Venture deep into southern India on the Spice Trails of Kerala—a moderate trekking and hiking tour designed for experienced travelers seeking a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Over 15 days, traverse the lush Western Ghats, from the colonial charm of Munnar to the vibrant temples of Madurai. Scale Meesapulimala’s lofty peak, trek through spice and tea plantations, and cross into Tamil Nadu’s dramatic landscapes. Highlights include spotting wildlife in Periyar Sanctuary, a serene houseboat cruise along Kerala’s backwaters, and exploring historic Kochi’s storied port. What sets this trip apart is its harmonious mix of natural beauty, authentic local encounters, and active exploration. For those ready to walk, discover, and connect with the essence of southern India, this journey offers a truly rewarding adventure.

15 days

Cycling Through Rajasthan

4.5(44 reviews)

Imagine pedaling past majestic forts and colorful palaces—this is the essence of the 'Cycling Through Rajasthan' tour package. Beginning and ending in New Delhi, this 15-day guided bicycle tour invites experienced travelers and seniors to uncover the heart of Rajasthan, aptly named the Land of Kings. The journey weaves through iconic destinations like Sariska National Park, the spiritual town of Pushkar, and the vibrant Pink City of Jaipur, offering a perfect blend of cycling adventure and cultural immersion. Highlights include exploring the imposing Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, admiring the tranquil lakeside palace in Udaipur, and savoring the spectacle of the Taj Mahal at sunset—a breathtaking finale to the tour. Special departures in October 2025 and November 2026 coincide with the lively Pushkar Fair, featuring an alternate itinerary for those seeking an even richer cultural experience. Led by an expert tour leader, this trip balances moderate physical activity with ample opportunities for rest and exploration, making it ideal for those who appreciate both active travel and the chance to dive deep into local heritage. The unique selling point: a rare opportunity to see Rajasthan’s legendary landmarks by bike, providing unparalleled access and an intimate connection with the region’s vibrant culture.

15 days

Trek Darjeeling, Sikkim & the Singalila Ridge

4.8(37 reviews)

Tucked in a corner of the beautiful Indian Himalaya mountains are Sikkim and Darjeeling. In recent years, Sikkim has become more accessible for those looking to explore its unique beauty. Journey from the plains of India to Gantok, the capital of Sikkim, and onto the delightful Martam village. From here, we travel through beautiful tea plantations to Darjeeling, with its colonial hill station and Unesco World Heritage toy train. Trekking up to and along the Singalila Ridge, which divides India and Nepal, we move through thick forests of rhododendron and are rewarded with views of the great Himalaya peaks. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, dominates the horizon and on a clear day we see majestic Makalu, Lhotse and Everest.

15 days

Highlights of North India

Taj Mahal, Delhi, Rajasthan, Rishikesh, and Haridwar—this North India tour package brings together the region’s most iconic experiences and hidden cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in the romantic allure of the Taj Mahal, savor Delhi’s dynamic city life, and step back in time amidst Rajasthan’s regal forts and palaces. Explore Jhansi’s storied strongholds and Khajuraho’s intricately carved temples—masterpieces dedicated to deities such as Lord Vishnu, Shiva, and the Jain tirthankaras, many recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Further enriching this journey, the itinerary leads you to the spiritual heart of India: Haridwar, a sacred city where centuries-old rituals unfold on the banks of the Ganges, and Rishikesh, famous for its yoga retreats, meditation ashrams, and a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Tailored for seniors and families, this tour’s welcoming pace ensures comfort and accessibility, allowing everyone to delve deeply into the region’s cultural and religious heritage. The unique selling point is its seamless integration of spiritual exploration, architectural marvels, and opportunities for both relaxation and adventure—making it a truly comprehensive North Indian experience.

12 days

Search for Snow Leopards with Valerie Parkinson

4.8(22 reviews)

Imagine searching for one of the world’s most elusive big cats amid the snowy wilds of Ladakh. The "Search for Snow Leopards with Valerie Parkinson" tour offers a 14-day wildlife quest for those drawn to rare and remote encounters. Starting and ending in New Delhi, with time spent in Rumbak and Leh, this moderate-activity trip is led by Valerie Parkinson, a Himalayan trekking specialist with a lifetime of mountaineering and cultural expertise. As you scan rugged valleys for snow leopards and other high-altitude fauna, you’ll also visit isolated Buddhist communities and experience unique local festivals (itinerary varies by departure). All accommodation, meals, and transport are included, ensuring comfort in challenging terrain. The unique selling point? Exclusive expert leadership and the chance to witness rare wildlife in the spiritual heart of the Himalaya—a true pilgrimage for nature lovers.

14 days

North India Adventure

4.5(2 reviews)

Explore the vibrant diversity of Rajasthan on the North India Adventure, a 15-day small group bicycle tour starting and ending in New Delhi. Visit the walled cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Jaipur, before a leisurely four-day cycle ride across tranquil village roads. The journey includes a camel safari near Jaisalmer, wildlife spotting at Sariska and Bharatpur sanctuaries, and a memorable finale at the magnificent Taj Mahal. With flat terrain, relaxed cycling days, and a backup vehicle, this tour is ideal for experienced travelers and active seniors seeking both comfort and adventure. The trip’s standout feature is its unique blend of urban heritage and rural exploration—allowing guests to experience India’s history, culture, and natural beauty from the saddle and beyond.

15 days

Keep Exploring India

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights